Detailed explanation of liquid nitrogen tank safety: how to prevent leakage and damage?

As the core equipment for storing and transporting liquid nitrogen, the safety of liquid nitrogen tanks is crucial. The temperature of liquid nitrogen is extremely low (-196 ℃), and improper operation or equipment damage may lead to safety hazards such as leakage, frostbite, low-temperature explosion, or reduced oxygen concentration. Therefore, effective measures must be taken to prevent leakage and damage when using liquid nitrogen tanks to ensure the long-term safe operation of the equipment.

1. Prevent liquid nitrogen leakage
Regularly check the sealing system: The sealing cover, valve, and interface of the liquid nitrogen tank are potential leakage points. Before use, check whether the sealing is good to avoid liquid nitrogen leakage due to aging or damage.

Prevent valve failure: Some liquid nitrogen tanks are equipped with pressure relief valves to prevent internal gas expansion from causing explosions. If the valve is blocked or damaged, it may cause overpressure leakage, so regular maintenance should be carried out.

Control storage environment: The liquid nitrogen tank should be stored in a well ventilated area and should not be used in a closed space to prevent a decrease in oxygen concentration after liquid nitrogen evaporation, which may cause suffocation hazards.

2. Prevent damage to the liquid nitrogen tank
Avoid severe collisions and drops: The liquid nitrogen tank adopts a double-layer vacuum insulation design. If subjected to strong impacts or drops, it may cause the inner liner to rupture or the vacuum layer to be damaged, affecting the insulation performance and even causing liquid nitrogen leakage.

Prevent frosting and cracking: If there is abnormal frosting or condensation on the outer surface of the tank, it may indicate a failure of the vacuum layer. At this point, the use should be immediately stopped and checked or replaced.

Proper handling and storage: Use specialized brackets or carts to transport liquid nitrogen tanks, avoiding severe shaking. Meanwhile, the liquid nitrogen tank should be stored on a dry, cool, and stable ground to avoid tipping or sliding.

3. Safety operation standards
Wear protective equipment: When operating liquid nitrogen tanks, wear antifreeze gloves, protective goggles, and long sleeved clothing to avoid direct skin contact with liquid nitrogen and prevent frostbite.

Avoid closed storage: After evaporation, liquid nitrogen will quickly diffuse into gaseous nitrogen, causing a decrease in local oxygen concentration. Therefore, the storage area must maintain good ventilation to prevent the risk of hypoxia.

Be cautious when adding liquid nitrogen: When adding liquid nitrogen, specialized equipment should be used to avoid pouring too quickly or overflowing, and to prevent damage to the tank or injury to personnel due to low-temperature impact.

conclusion
The safety management of liquid nitrogen tanks involves multiple aspects such as sealing inspection, equipment maintenance, correct handling and storage, and safety operation standards. By regular inspection, reasonable storage, and standardized use, liquid nitrogen leakage and equipment damage can be effectively prevented, ensuring the safe and stable operation of liquid nitrogen tanks in scientific research, medical, industrial and other fields.