 |
|
|
|
|
| |
Helium Quench Pipe Systems
These form a crucial, safety critical part of any MRI scanner installation. In an emergency the liquid helium used in the scanner can be vented directly to the atmosphere; a process that can be a violent and traumatic one as demonstrated here*.
It is therefore paramount the quench pipe system is properly engineered and installed if events such as occurred at the beginning and seen here slowed down, are to be avoided.
* Event commences 24 seconds from start
|
|
 |
|
|
Ready to connect |
Cryogenic Temperatures |
|
EEP provides a complete quench pipe design and installation service. When this is undertaken in parallel with the MRI room’s detailed design and installation, then practical matters such as the interface connections between the quench pipe and the MRI room, become much simplified.
At EEP we are well versed with the cryogenic engineering practices necessary to cope with the physical impact on the quench pipe system that a helium discharge produces. Here the temperature of the pipework will cycle from ambient to that of liquid helium at minus 269oC (4o Kelvin) within seconds.
Quench systems are safety critical installations and as such EEP does not:
- Butt weld cryogenic sections
- Apply stringent installation standards
- Have strict procedures regarding materials selection
Within an MRI room we can also provide Low Pressure Helium Extraction to purge the room of any low level build up of helium gas resulting from potential leakage that can occur when the scanner’s cooling system is being topped up with helium.
|
|
|
|
|
Helium extract duct fan |
|
|
For more information see FAQ ‘Helium Quench pipe systems’.
top of page |
|
|
