Liquid Nitrogen Tank Operation Training: An Advanced Guide from Novice to Expert

25-Mar-25


Liquid nitrogen tank is a commonly used low-temperature storage equipment in laboratory, medical and industrial fields. Proper operation can not only ensure sample safety, but also extend the service life of the equipment. This guide will take you from basic operations to advanced skills, gradually mastering the usage of liquid nitrogen tanks.

 

1、 Beginner's Guide: Basic Operations
First use inspection

Check the appearance of the liquid nitrogen tank for dents, damage, or rust.

Confirm that the vacuum sealing is good (it can be judged by whether the tank body is frosted, and if the outer wall is frosted, the vacuum may fail).

Ensure that the supporting tools (buckets, liquid nitrogen pumps, etc.) are complete.

 

Liquid nitrogen filling

Wear antifreeze gloves and goggles to avoid frostbite caused by liquid nitrogen splashing.

Slowly inject liquid nitrogen to avoid violent boiling and splashing.

For the first filling, it is recommended to let it sit for 1-2 hours until the tank can adapt to low temperatures before formal use.

 

Sample access

Use specialized baskets or tweezers to pick up and place samples, avoiding manual operation.

Access actions should be fast to reduce liquid nitrogen evaporation and sample exposure time.

 

2、 Advanced Skills: Efficient Management and Maintenance

Liquid nitrogen level monitoring

Regularly check the remaining liquid nitrogen level (recommended at least once a week) to avoid sample damage caused by liquid nitrogen depletion.

Real time monitoring can be achieved using a liquid nitrogen ruler or electronic liquid level alarm.

Reduce the volatilization of liquid nitrogen

Try to minimize the number of times the lid is opened and shorten the opening time.

Choose liquid nitrogen tanks with lock caps or better vacuum sealing to reduce evaporation rates.

Long term storage optimization

Samples should be classified and stored with clear markings to avoid repeated searching.

If long-term storage is required, it is recommended to choose liquid nitrogen tanks with high vacuum insulation performance to reduce the frequency of fluid replenishment.

 

3、 Expert level operation: troubleshooting and safety emergency response


Common problem handling

Frost formation on the tank: It may be due to the failure of the vacuum layer, and the manufacturer needs to be contacted for maintenance.

Valve leakage: Check if the sealing ring is aging and replace it in a timely manner.

 

Emergency Management

Liquid nitrogen leakage: Immediately ventilate to avoid inhaling high concentration nitrogen gas that may cause suffocation.

Frostbite treatment: Quickly soak the injured area in warm water (around 40 ℃), and seek medical attention in severe cases.

 

Regular maintenance

Check the vacuum degree and sealing every six months.

Perform professional maintenance once a year to ensure the best condition of the equipment.

 

4、 Summary
Mastering the correct operation of liquid nitrogen tanks can not only improve experimental efficiency, but also ensure the safety of personnel and samples. From novice to expert, the key lies in standardized operation, regular maintenance, and emergency preparedness. If you have more complex usage requirements, please feel free to consult professional technicians!