0% found this document useful (0 votes)

295 views77 pages

Liquid Nitrogen Safety

Uploaded by

mech_sahil

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

Available Formats

Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

0% found this document useful (0 votes)

295 views77 pages

Liquid Nitrogen Safety

Uploaded by

mech_sahil

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

Available Formats

Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

You are on page 1/ 77

Safe Handling and Use of

Liquid Nitrogen

 2006 Americana Safety Associates, Inc.

Safe Handling and Use of
Liquid Nitrogen
This awareness training is intended for
laboratory users of Liquid Nitrogen.
The training covers Oxygen Deficiency,
Handling of Liquid Nitrogen, Personal
Protective Equipment, Emergencies, and Trouble
Shooting.
All new and current laboratory personnel should
review this information and refer to it
periodically.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Topics to be Covered - Agenda

Physical and Chemical Properties of

Nitrogen
Characteristics of Cryogenic Nitrogen and
associated Hazards
Handling Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid Cylinder Construction
Filling Cryogenic Dewars
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
Topics to be Covered - Agenda

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safely Moving Liquid Cylinders
Emergencies
Transport
Trouble Shooting

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Manufacture of Liquid Gases

Normal air is cooled.

As the temperature drops, the gases will
drop out separately, according to their
boiling points. Liquid nitrogen will drop
out at –320 F (-196 C)
The liquified gas is collected.
The liquid boils violently in trying to get
back to its normal gaseous state.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Characteristics of Nitrogen

78% of Atmosphere
Colorless, Odorless, Tasteless and Nontoxic
Boils at -320 degrees Fahrenheit (-196 C)
Non-Flammable
WILL NOT SUPPORT LIFE
Gas is slightly lighter than air
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 6
Oxygen Deficiency

Liquid nitrogen, when returned to the

gaseous state, can displace oxygen from the
air and can create an oxygen-deficient
atmosphere under the right conditions.
It may be prudent to install oxygen
monitors in areas where liquid nitrogen is
stored and ventilation is minimal.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 7
Characteristics of Oxygen
Normal Concentrations:
– The normal oxygen concentration in air is about
21% by volume. This provides for a safe
working environment with respect to the
oxygen required to support life.
– Oxygen concentration below 19.5% is
considered an oxygen deficient environment.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 8
Characteristics of Oxygen Deficiency

Physiological Effects:
– Asphyxia develops slowly as the oxygen
content of air is gradually reduced from 21%.
– The victim will not be aware of a problem and
generally will not recognize the symptoms of
gradual asphyxia from decreasing oxygen
levels.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 9
Characteristics of Oxygen Deficiency

Oxygen Deficiency Precautions:

– All cryogenic liquids should be used and stored
in well-ventilated areas.
– High concentrations of nitrogen reduce the
breathable oxygen in the air.
– Filling between containers, leaking valves, and
liquid tank venting are some examples that
could lead to an oxygen deficient atmosphere.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Characteristics of
Cryogenic Liquid Nitrogen

Primary Hazards
– Asphyxiation
– Potential for rupture of containers, pipelines, or
systems. When liquid or even cold vapor is
trapped between valves there is the potential to
cause a pressure buildup to a point of violent
rupture to a container or piping. (Reliable
pressure relief devices are used to prevent this)
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Liquid Nitrogen Facts

Boiling Point -320 °F (-196 °C)

Volume Expansion Rate = 696

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 1
Comparison to Other
Liquified (Cryogenic) Gases

Gas N2 O2 Ar H2 He

BP, °F -320 -297 -303 -423 -452

BP, °C -196 -183 -186 -253 -268

Volume
Expansion 696 860 696 850 745

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 1
Example

1 cubic foot of liquid nitrogen will expand

to 696 cubic feet of 100% gaseous nitrogen
at 70° F.
The nitrogen gas can displace the oxygen in
the area, leading to asphyxiation.
This is why cryogenic liquids should always
be stored in well-ventilated spaces.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Characteristics of
Cryogenic Liquid Nitrogen

Will not support combustion

Will not support life

Is non-magnetic as a liquid

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 1
Handling Liquid Nitrogen

Always read the container label prior to use.

Cryogenic liquid containers must always be
stored in the upright position.
Cryogenic liquids should not be handled in open
pail-type containers or in unapproved dewars.
Transfer of liquid into warm lines or containers
must be done slowly to prevent thermal shock and
possible buildup of pressure.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Handling Liquid Nitrogen

Precautions:
– Always wear safety equipment, including
heavy loose fitting leather or cryogenic gloves,
and eye and face protection.
– High concentrations of escaping gas should not
be allowed to collect in an enclosed area.
– Avoid prolonged breathing of cryogenic liquid
vapors .
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Handling Liquid Nitrogen

Avoid rough handling of liquid

containers.
A cold outside jacket indicates a
loss of vacuum. Contact your
supervisor or the vendor.
Liquid cylinders should only be
moved with proper handling
equipment.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 1
Handling Liquid Nitrogen

Prior to use, ensure the fittings on the regulator

match the fittings on the liquid container
Never use adaptors
Never attempt to change or remove any fittings

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 1
Containers for Holding Liquid
Nitrogen After Dispensing

Thermos® bottles are approved containers

Use only containers specially designed to
hold liquid nitrogen. Check with the
manufacturer of the container to ensure it is
approved for holding liquid nitrogen.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 2
Different Types of Liquid Cylinders

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 2
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(aka Liquid Cylinders)

Advantages:
Contain large volumes of gas
Provides a source of Cryogenic Liquids which can
be easily handled
Two general types:
Low Pressure: For dispensing of liquid only.
High Pressure: For dispensing of liquid and gas
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Construction of Liquid Containers

Liquid containers are

made somewhat like
Thermos® bottles with
a vacuum space and
special insulation, but
they are not Thermos
bottles®

Annular Space
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Construction of Liquid Container

Even with the vacuum and insulation, heat

leaks in to the cylinder causing the
cryogenic liquid to vaporize and build
pressure.
The vaporization rate will depend on several
factors including the product itself, ambient
temperature, condition of the cylinder’s
vacuum, etc.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(Liquid Cylinders)

Not dewars!
Dewars are open, non-pressurized and
manufacturer approved vessels for holding
cryogenic liquids.
A regular Thermos® bottle is not an
approved cryogenic container!!

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 2
Pressure Relief Devices

The liquid-to-gas conversion

rate is about 2.3% per day
under perfect conditions, so
the actual vaporization rate
experienced can vary.
If gas product is not used,
pressure will build until it is
released by a control valve.
Note that this is a high
pressure container, with the
gauge marked for 350 psig.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Pressure Relief Devices

Hearing a slight hiss from a liquid cylinder

is usually the normal operation of its
pressure relief device.
Liquid cylinders should always be stored
and used in areas with appropriate natural
or mechanical ventilation.
Never adjust, block, plug or attempt to
repair anything on a liquid cylinder.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Pressure Relief Device Formula

4L 292 = 350 safety

4L 200 = 235 safety
Pressure relief devices are prescribed based
on the following formula for vacuum-
insulated cylinders.
– (Cylinder service pressure X 1.25) – 15psi =
Maximum Pressure Relief Device Rating.
Example (200x1.25) – 15psi = 235psi
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 2
Liquid-to-Gas Conversion

Since liquid is converted to gas at about

2.3% per day even under ideal container
conditions, if the liquid is not used
regularly, the vessel will be empty in a
certain amount of time.
It is important to estimate your use so the
liquid will not be wasted.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
Storage in Cold Rooms

Contrary to popular belief, storage of liquid

containers in cold rooms will not slow down the
liquid to gas conversion.
Storage in cold rooms can actually create an
oxygen deficient atmosphere if the room does not
have adequate ventilation to remove the nitrogen
gas generated.
If there is a concern regarding oxygen deficiency in
these areas, oxygen deficiency alarms should be
installed in these areas.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(Liquid Cylinders)
Always check the type of container that is being
delivered or before use.
One lab had ordered low pressure and received
high pressure by mistake. The lab personnel
assumed it was low pressure and began to use it.
This could have resulted in an unsafe condition.
Low pressure has an operating pressure of 22
psig!!!
High pressure operates at 230 psig or above.
Always check the pressure gauge to determine
2006 Americana
the typeSafety
of container.
Associates, Inc. 3
Liquid Containers are always
inspected by the Vendor
before and after filling
Items that are usually checked by the
vendor before filling a liquid cylinder

Visual Inspection
Valve Inspection
Pressure relief valve inspection
Safety burst / rupture disc
inspection
Vacuum casing burst / rupture disk
inspection
Tare weight
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
Items that are usually checked by the
vendor after filling a liquid cylinder
DOT-4L markings

Vent valve

Gross weight

Net weight

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 3
Content Gauge on Liquid Cylinders

The container contents gauge is a float-type

liquid level sensor that indicates the level of
the liquid.
The gauge is an indication of approximate
container content, and should not be used for
judging the weight of the container.

Containers are always filled by Weight!

2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 3
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(Liquid Cylinders)

Make sure you know the type of container

that is used by your lab!!
Low pressure is used only for the delivery
of LIQUID, not gas
It’s operating pressure is 22 psig

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 3
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(Liquid Cylinders)

Caution Signs should

be posted in the area
warning that liquid
nitrogen is being
stored and used.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 3
Cryogenic Liquid Containers
(Liquid Cylinders)

Head pressure
Results when heat leaks into the container;
The safety valve will periodically release this
pressure;
If the safety valve malfunctions, a backup disk
will rupture and relieve the pressure; and
The rupture of the backup disk will produce a loud
sound and may release a large quantity of liquid
and gas. Evacuation of the area is required to
2006 Americana
preventSafety
asphyxiation.
Associates, Inc. 4
Low Pressure Liquid
Container Components

Liquid Withdrawal Valve:

– Liquid is withdrawn through this valve
Pressure Gauge:
– Displays internal pressure of the container
Contents Gauge:
– A float-type liquid level gauge-indicates approximate
level of liquid

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 4
Low Pressure Liquid
Container Components

Vent Valve
– Primarily used in the fill process to vent the
vapor space while filling. Can be used to vent
unwanted pressure during storage and use.
Pressure Relief Devices (2)
– Protect vessel from over-pressurization
Re-seating spring-loaded relief valve releases at 22 psig
Burst disk rated to protect the inner vessel
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 4
Low Pressure Liquid
Container Components

Outlet Restraints
– These are to prevent the dangerous practice of changing
outlet connections at user sites. These restraints may be
twist ties, wire, or other.
– Removal of these restraints will void all product
warranties!!
– Changing outlet connections is an extremely dangerous
practice and can result in serious injury or death if an
incompatible product is introduced into a user’s system.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Warning !

Never plug, restrict, or remove any relief device.

Never attempt to cap or seal a venting relief
device in any way.
Ice or frost buildup on a pressure relief valve can
be removed with a damp cloth. (Wear proper
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when
removing the frost.)

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Moving Liquid Cylinders
Liquid cylinders range in different
weights and sizes. They are heavy
and cumbersome, especially when
filled with liquid nitrogen.
They may require two people to
handle in order to do so safely.
Containers can cause crushing
injury to the feet. Wear proper
shoes. Tennis shoes and open toed
shoes are not proper foot
protection!!

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Moving Liquid Cylinders
Never try to roll liquid
cylinders by using the
Liquid Level Gauge tube.
Note the proper stance
and use of the cylinder’s
halo ring for moving.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Moving Liquid Cylinders

Always use the specially

designed cylinder cart
when moving liquid
cylinders.
If the cart has a height
adjustment for different
cylinders, be sure it’s
adjusted to the proper
height.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 4
Transport

Use the specially designed

and designated handcart
Do not roll, either
vertically or horizontally
Push, Don’t Pull
If the container tips over,
let it go

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 4
Elevator Transport

Use freight elevator if possible.

If a passenger elevator is used, it should be locked
out to all other users.
Do not transport a liquid container at any time in
an elevator with any other personnel in the car
unless they have a supplied air respirator.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 5
Emergencies

If there is a large spill or rupture of a container,

call 911, warn others in building.
Evacuate! There may be oxygen deficiency in
the area of the spill.
If there is injury to the body from liquid nitrogen,
seek immediate medical assistance.

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 5
Emergencies

If liquid is splashed in the eyes, flush with

water for at least 15 minutes. Seek
immediate medical attention. Call 911
Skin contact may cause frostbite and burns.
Soak affected part in tepid water and seek
immediate medical attention. Call 911
Skin contact is a medical emergency. Lack
of prompt medical attention may result in
amputation.
2006 Americana Safety Call 911
Associates, Inc. 5
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
for Cryogenics
If you fill cryogenic liquids, the possibility of
cryogenic liquid coming in contact with the skin is
reduced with the use of proper Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE).
– Full Face Shield with safety glasses
– Heavy, Loose Fitting leather or Cryogenic Gloves
– Long Sleeve Shirt, or Arm Protection
– Pants should be cuff-less
– Do not tuck pants into shoes, boots.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Liquid Withdrawal

Caution!
– Always wear a full face shield, goggles, leather or
cryogenic gloves, safety shoes, and aprons when
transferring liquid.
– Ensure that the liquid cannot collect in pants cuffs or
travel down into shoes. Do not tuck cuffs into pants!
Cuff gloves over sleeves.
– Transfer of liquids at pressures higher than 22 psig into
open vessels such as small dewars can lead to excessive
splashing. This could result in injury from freezing of
the body part.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Operation

Caution!
– Before use, always confirm that the
Compressed Gas Association (CGA) fittings are
appropriate for the product identified on the
cylinder label.
– If a mismatch appears, do not attempt to use the
container.
– If help is needed, ask your supervisor or
supplier.
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Liquid Withdrawal

Ensure that withdrawal hose

is equipped with a phase
separator to prevent
splashing. Check with
supervisor or supplier.

Never dispense liquid into

an unapproved container,
such as a Thermos® bottle.
It will Safety
2006 Americana shatter!
Associates, Inc. 5
Other Liquified Gases

Helium
BP – 452 F (-268 C)
Oxygen
BP – 297 F (-183 C)
Hydrogen
BP – 423 F (-253 C)
Argon
BP – 303 F (-253 C)

Use Only in Well Ventilated Areas!

2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Liquid Helium

Super cold at - 452 F (- 268 C)

Special container needed for more insulation
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) extremely
important
Like Liquid Nitrogen, an inert gas
Will not support life or combustion
Asphyxiation potential same as Liquid Nitrogen

2006 Americana Safety

Associates, Inc. 5
Liquid Oxygen

Not as cold as liquid nitrogen

Incompatible with flammable, organic, and
combustible materials.
Avoid contact with heat, sparks, and flame.
NO SMOKING OR OPEN FLAMES signs should
be posted in areas that use liquid oxygen
Highest volume expansion rate of the Liquid
Gases (860)
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 5
Liquid Hydrogen

Super cold at - 423 F (- 253 C)

Hydrogen gas is explosive.
Do not use near open flames or other
sources of ignition.
Asphyxiation potential same as Liquid
Nitrogen
Second Highest Expansion Rate of the
Liquid Gases (850)
2006 Americana Safety
Associates, Inc. 6
Liquid Argon