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Invented in the 1970s, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a common medical diagnostic tool. If you’re involved in the installation of an MRI machine, it is imperative to understand the rare but catastrophic scenario of an MRI quench — a loss of superconductivity of the machine’s magnet. Should a quench occur, the magnet will boil off the liquid helium in the machine and convert it into a -452°F gas. The gas cloud will violently expel from the system, and if it is not properly vented outside, it can displace the oxygen in the scan room, causing asphyxiation, hypothermia, ruptured eardrums and even death. The CryoDuct MRISW single-wall quench vent offers four significant advantages over any other system, delivering the ultimate in safety, performance, reliability and cost-efficiency.

1. Factory Prefabrication

Field-fabricated quench vent systems typically require significant labor and time to design, fabricate and install. Modifications and lengthy reworks often occur and can further increase the time and cost of labor and materials. In addition, field-welded systems are prone to human error. Inconsistent installation techniques and materials can reduce performance and increase risk.

The CryoDuct MRISW single-wall quench vent is the first prefabricated quench vent system, and it was specifically designed to eliminate these challenges. Each unit is prefabricated, precision-engineered and custom-designed in our U.S. factory to meet MRI manufacturer vent requirements and to fit in tight spaces. Prefabrication allows meticulous streamlining and control over every aspect of production, guaranteeing consistent quality, strength, durability and reliability — all at a more affordable price point.

2. Zero-Leak Gaskets

A helium gas leak during an MRI quench can be catastrophic to patients and medical staff.

To ensure leak-free performance, CryoDuct MRISW single-wall quench vent systems are made with an innovative gasket specifically engineered for cryogenic temperatures. It is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a highly durable material known for exceptional chemical resistance, low friction, extreme temperature tolerance and excellent longevity. The gasket is compressed when the flanges are connected, creating an airtight, uniform seal across each flange’s surface, ensuring the system remains fully sealed under extreme high and low temperatures.

3. Bolt-Together Design

Using on-site welding and sealant to join quench vent segments is sufficient for some manufacturers. But with the lethal risk of escaping cryogenic gas, coupled with the potential for human error, it’s not a chance we’re willing to take.

CryoDuct’s Cryogenic Process Piping (CPR) bolt-together joint connection is specifically designed to ensure zero-leak certainty under positive or negative pressure. No additional sealant or on-site welding is required on any connection for a consistent, efficient, safe and dependable installation every time.

4. Extreme Structural Integrity

In the event of an MRI quench, the liquid helium within the superconducting magnet will boil into a gas and expand approximately 700 times in volume, creating a significant rise in pressure. The pressure can be so high that it can prevent the door from being opened, trapping patients and staff members inside. It will also test the limits of a quench vent’s structural support.

The CryoDuct MRISW single-wall quench vent can withstand this extreme environment without structural degradation. All components, from heavy-gauge, non-magnetic grade 304 stainless steel to a pressure-rated support system that includes plates, hangers and full rings, as well as bellows and termination components, are designed for maximum safety and performance.

CryoDuct was created by a team of experienced engineers and venting professionals from The Schebler Company, the global leader in fabricating high-quality products, components and sub-assemblies. To see how the CryoDuct MRISW single-wall quench vent can improve the safety, performance, reliability and cost-efficiency of your new or existing MRI installation, talk to our specialists.