Liquid helium is odorless, colorless, non-corrosive,
extremely cold and non-flammable. In ordinary conditions, helium does not react
with other elements or compounds. As helium has non-corrosive properties,
special materials of construction are not required. However, materials that are
used must fit with the low temperature of liquid helium. Pipes and vessels must
be chosen and designed to withstand the temperature and pressure involved in
transportation and use.
How is liquid helium manufactured?
The maximum amount of helium is retrieved from natural gas
through a cryogenic separation process. Usually, the volume of helium is less
than 1% in natural gas. Helium is acquired, refined and liquefied. Then, the liquid helium is typically shipped
from the production sources to storage and transfer facilities. Tankers,
carrying liquid helium contain an annular space that is insulated with vacuum, multilayer
insulation, and nitrogen shielding. This design of tanker reduces the heat
leakage, and vaporization of liquid helium while being transported.
What are the uses of liquid helium?
The exceedingly low temperature of liquid helium is used to
preserve the magnet’s superconducting properties in applications like NMR
spectroscopy, MRI, and other physics research. The most important application
for gaseous helium is for inert shielding gas in laser welding and metal arc.
Helium is used in these purposes to provide a protective atmosphere in the
production of reactive metals like zirconium and titanium. The gaseous form of
helium is utilized as a coolant in the course of drawing optical fibers, as a
leak detection gas in a wide range of industries and as a carrier gas for
chromatography. As helium is lighter than air, it is used to inflate balloons
and airships.
Different industries can now manage their own liquid helium
consumption and conservation with MVS Engineering systems. MVS Engineering
liquid helium plants enable the user to liquefy helium from any room
temperature source. The company offers on-site gas plants tailored according to
customer’s needs which makes MVS generators highly suitable and cost-effective
for the user. To know more about MVS plants, visit their website at www.mvsengg.com
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