Liquid Helium for MRI/MNR Machines

What is Helium?
Helium is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic gas with high chemical inertness. It does not participate in chemical reactions and has the lowest boiling point of all elements at -269°C. Helium is the second lightest element after hydrogen.

Basic Principles of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is one of the most advanced medical imaging techniques. It uses large magnets to generate a strong magnetic field. This field, combined with radio waves, emits and receives signals based on the movement of hydrogen atoms within the body. These signals are then collected and processed by a computer system to produce detailed images of the scanned object or area inside the magnetic field.

Structure of an MRI Machine

Operating Process of an MRI Machine:

How Strong is the Magnetic Field in an MRI Machine?

The magnetic field in an MRI machine is measured in Tesla (T) or Gauss (G), with the following relationships:

  • 1 Tesla = 10,000 Gauss

For comparison:

  • The Earth’s magnetic field: 0.25 – 0.65 Gauss
  • A refrigerator magnet: 100 Gauss
  • An industrial electromagnet (used in ports or construction sites to lift containers): 1 Tesla — strong enough to lift metal rolls weighing tens of tons.

MRI Magnetic Field Strengths

MRI machines generate significantly stronger magnetic fields:

  • Typical MRI systems operate with fields ranging from 0.35 Tesla to 7 Tesla.
  • The most commonly used MRI systems in hospitals are:
    • 1.5 Tesla MRI systems: Ideal for general diagnostic imaging.
    • 3 Tesla MRI systems: Provide higher resolution and faster imaging, particularly useful for brain, spine, and vascular imaging.

The powerful magnetic fields in MRI systems are critical for capturing high-resolution images but require strict safety protocols to prevent accidents involving metal objects.

The Role of Liquid Helium in MRI Machines

Liquid helium, with the lowest boiling point of all elements at -269°C, is the ideal coolant for superconducting magnets used in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) systems. This ultra-low temperature allows the magnets to maintain their superconducting state, ensuring the continuous and reliable operation of MRI/NMR machines.

Key Benefits of Liquid Helium in MRI Machines

  1. Efficient Cooling: Ensures the superconducting magnets stay operational by eliminating electrical resistance.
  2. Continuous Operation: Keeps MRI/NMR systems running without interruptions, which is critical for patient diagnostics.

VI NA Industrial Gases: Leading Liquid Helium Supplier in Vietnam

VI NA Industrial Gases, as the exclusive agent of Air Products, specializes in supplying liquid helium and providing refilling services for MRI and NMR systems.

Our Services

  • Nationwide Coverage: Leading supplier of liquid helium to hospitals across Vietnam.
  • Trusted by Top Brands: Refilling services for MRI systems from global manufacturers, including: GE (USA), Philips (Netherlands), Siemens (Germany), Toshiba (Japan),Hitachi (Japan)

Choose VI NA Industrial Gases for high-quality liquid helium and professional services to ensure the optimal performance of your MRI machines.

Contact VI NA Industrial Gases for Expert Consultation on Industrial Gases, Helium, Liquid Helium, and MRI/NMR Refilling Services