
Lake Shore Model 340 Temperature Controller User’s Manual
Installation
3-3
3.1.5 Handling Liquid Helium and Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid Helium (LHe) and liquid nitrogen (LN
2
) may be used in conjunction with the Model 340. Although not
explosive, the following paragraphs provide safety considerations in the handling of LHe and LN
2
.
3.1.5.1 Properties
LHe and LN
2
are colorless, odorless, and tasteless gases. Gaseous nitrogen makes up about 78% of Earth’s
atmosphere, while helium comprises only about 5 ppm. Most helium is recovered from natural gas deposits.
Once collected and isolated, the gases liquefy when properly cooled. A quick comparison between LHe and
LN
2
is provided in Table 3-1.
Table 3-1. Comparison of Liquid Helium to Liquid Nitrogen
PROPERTY LIQUID
HELIUM LIQUID
NITROGEN
Boiling Point @1 atm, in K
Thermal Conductivity (Gas), w/cm–K
Latent Heat of Vaporization, Btu/liter
Liquid Density, pounds/liter
4.2
0.083
2.4
0.275
77.35
0.013
152
0.78
3.1.5.2
Handling Cryogenic Storage Dewars
All cryogenic containers (dewars) must be operated in accordance with
instructions from the manufacturer. Safety instructions are normally posted on
the side of each dewar. Cryogenic dewars must be kept in a well-ventilated
place where they are protected from the weather and away from any sources
of heat. A typical cryogenic dewar is shown in Figure 3-1.
3.1.5.3
Liquid Helium and Nitrogen Safety Precautions
Transferring LHe and LN
2
and operation of the storage dewar controls should
be in accordance with instructions from the manufacturer/supplier. During this
transfer, it is important that all safety precautions written on the storage dewar
and recommended by the manufacturer be followed.
WARNING
l
Liquid helium and liquid nitrogen are potential asphyxiants and can
cause rapid suffocation without warning. Store and use in area with
adequate ventilation. DO NOT vent container in confined spaces. DO
NOT enter confined spaces where gas may be present unless area
has been well ventilated. If inhaled, remove to fresh air. If not
breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give
oxygen. Get medical help.
l
Liquid helium and liquid nitrogen can cause severe frostbite to the
eyes or skin. DO NOT touch frosted pipes or valves. In case of
frostbite, consult a physician at once. If a physician is not readily
available, warm the affected areas with water that is near body
temperature.
The two most important safety aspects to consider when handling LHe and LN
2
are adequate ventilation and
eye and skin protection. Although helium and nitrogen gases are non-toxic, they are dangerous in that they
replace the air in a normal breathing atmosphere. Liquid products are of an even greater threat since a small
amount of liquid evaporates to create a large amount of gas. Therefore, it is imperative that cryogenic dewars
be stored, transfers accomplished, and systems operated in open and well ventilated areas.
Persons transferring LHe and LN
2
should make every effort to protect eyes and skin from accidental contact
with liquid or the cold gas issuing from it. Protect your eyes with full face shield or chemical splash goggles.
Safety glasses (even with side shields) are not adequate. Always wear special cryogenic gloves (Tempshield
Cryo-Gloves
®
or equivalent) when handling anything that is, or may have been, in contact with the liquid or
cold gas, or with cold pipes or equipment. Long sleeve shirts and cuffless trousers that are of sufficient length
to prevent liquid from entering the shoes are recommended.
NON-
MAGNETIC
KEEP
UPRIGHT
LIQUID
HELIUM
NON-
FLAMMABLE
Figure 3-1. Typical
Cryogenic Storage Dewar