Cryoroom Project Management
Managing a Cryoroom project for installation at a medical or scientific facility can be a daunting task with a range of potential obstacles to consider. Air Products Cryoroom Design and Project Management services are here to help you through this complex process.
As one of the leading supplier of gases, tanks and liquid nitrogen freezers, our experts are here to ensure that your Cryoroom project meets all of the necessary legal and safety requirements, as well as performing at optimum efficiency, saving you time, money and effort.
When designing a Cryoroom it is important to consider the following -
- Legislation: There are a number of BCGA (British Compressed Gas Association) regulations covering the design of Cryorooms and the location of tanks. Air Products expertise means that you can be assured that your installation meets all the legal requirements of these regulations.
- Location and Layout: The ideal location is on the ground floor, against an external wall, this will simplify ventilation, reduce losses during the re-fill process, shorten the pipeline for liquid nitrogen delivery and reduce costs. Alternative arrangements can be made if required.
- Current and future requirements: How big is your Cryoroom and will it require further expansion in the next 1-3 years? Which liquid nitrogen freezers will you be using, and how many?
- Choosing the right equipment: You will need to consider the application for your Cryoroom in terms of what is being stored and identifying the size and nature of the units (liquid or vapour). Some designs are more efficient in their use of liquid nitrogen. A more efficient unit can provide greatly improved security for your samples, whilst significantly reducing liquid nitrogen consumption.
- Siting of the freezers: Will the freezers be placed near external or internal walls and how far from the liquid nitrogen delivery point will they be situated in line with current requirements.
- Room materials: Both flooring and door material are important factors for a Cryoroom due to potential spillages and also controlled access.
- Pipework: Many Cryoroom installations utilise a Super Insulated Vacuum (SIVL) to ensure highly efficient and reliable liquid nitrogen transfer.
- Filling options: For multiple liquid nitrogen freezer installations, daisy-chaining the units so that they all fill together or sequentially can reduce your liquid nitrogen consumption.
- Liquid Nitrogen Tank Capacity: Depending on the amount of liquid nitrogen required, typical storage capacity should be 2 weeks consumption plus a minimum of 30%. Consider fixed outdoor storage tanks, pressure requirements and clearance for vehicle access.
- Extraction systems: Sufficient extraction systems are required to safely vent gases outside and should run at all times.
- Oxygen monitoring: Nitrogen has the potential to cause reduced oxygen levels, meaning that correct oxygen monitoring with regular maintenance is essential.
- Security of access: The security of a Cryoroom is very important, protecting valuable samples and equipment. Usually card or code access systems are used to ensure the security of the cryoroom however there must also be well defined routes of escape in the case of emergency.
- Control System: Common control panels are available which may be used to manage all electronic inputs (for example, local exhaust ventilation, atmospheric monitoring, door securing, as well as information on the supply tank, distribution system and freezers, etc.).
How Air Products can help
Air Products Cryoroom Design and Project Management services offer comprehensive advice throughout the entire project process from initial consultation to final installation.
More information on our comprehensive range of gases, equipment and cryoroom services can be found on our website Air Products Life Science.
Contact us today to speak to an expert or book a consultation below.
