Liquid Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon Tanks

Liquid Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon Tanks are the invisible yet indispensable cornerstones of modern industry. In a wide spectrum ranging from healthcare services to the aerospace industry, from food processing to the most sensitive electronics manufacturing, these cryogenic liquids and the high-tech tanks that enable their storage form the foundation of innovation, efficiency, and safety. The ability to keep substances in a liquid state at incredibly low temperatures near absolute zero, such as −196°C, is a technological revolution that fundamentally changes industrial processes. In this highly specialized and critical field, Cryotanx is positioned not just as an equipment supplier, but as an expert partner that produces comprehensive, safe, and efficient solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses. This report deeply examines the world of liquid nitrogen, oxygen, and argon, the science and technology behind the tanks that house them, and the strategic importance of choosing the right solution for your business.

Cryogenic gases, meaning substances that are normally in a gaseous state but have been liquefied by being extremely cooled, are the unsung heroes of the industrial world. Liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen, and liquid argon, each with its own unique physical and chemical properties, undertake critical roles in countless applications across different sectors. Understanding the properties of these gases, their production processes, and their place in the industry is the first step in comprehending why such special tanks are required for their storage and management.

Liquid nitrogen is perhaps the most versatile cryogenic liquid used in industrial applications. This versatility stems from its two fundamental properties: its extraordinary cooling capacity and its chemically almost completely non-reactive (inert) nature. These two features make it invaluable as both a coolant and a protective agent.

Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic gas that makes up approximately 78% of the air we breathe. Its most remarkable feature is having an extremely low boiling point of −196°C (−320°F or 77 K) at atmospheric pressure. Its melting point is around −210°C. This extreme cold allows liquid nitrogen to rapidly absorb the heat of any substance it comes into contact with, giving it immense cooling power. When it transitions from a liquid to a gas state, its volume expands approximately 700 times; this characteristic must be carefully managed in terms of pressure in closed systems. Chemically, nitrogen is considered an inert, or non-reactive, gas. Under normal conditions, it does not easily react with other elements. This inertness makes it ideal for creating a protective atmosphere in sensitive industrial environments where oxidation (rusting or spoilage) is not desired.

Production Process:

Liquid nitrogen is commercially produced in cryogenic air separation plants. This process is based on fundamental physics principles. Air taken from the atmosphere is first filtered to remove impurities such as dust, moisture, and carbon dioxide. Then, it is compressed under high pressure and cooled. When this process is repeated multiple times, the air liquefies. The liquefied air is sent to a giant distillation column. In this column, the main components of air—nitrogen (boiling point −196°C), argon (boiling point −186°C), and oxygen (boiling point −183°C)—are separated by taking advantage of their different boiling points. Nitrogen, having the lowest boiling point, is separated as a gas from the top of the column and is then re-condensed, collected as liquid nitrogen (LN2), and stored in specially designed Cryotanx cryogenic tanks.

The applications of liquid nitrogen are extremely broad, reflecting its properties:

• Food Sector: The food industry is one of the largest users of liquid nitrogen. It is used in the “flash freezing” process for foods. In this method, foods are frozen in seconds by being immersed in or sprayed with liquid nitrogen. This rapid freezing prevents the formation of large ice crystals in food cells, thus preserving the product’s texture, taste, and nutritional value much better than traditional freezing methods. It is ideal, especially for delicate products like meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, in processed meat products (like salami, sausages), it improves product quality and shelf life by increasing water-holding capacity and preventing lipid oxidation. In packaged foods, gaseous nitrogen displaces the oxygen inside the package, slowing oxidative spoilage and preserving the product’s freshness.
• Medicine and Biology: In the medical world, liquid nitrogen plays a vital role in the long-term storage of living biological materials through a process called “cryopreservation.” Blood, stem cells, sperm, eggs, and other tissue samples can be stored indefinitely in liquid nitrogen tanks for future use. In dermatology, it is used in a method called “cryotherapy” or “cryosurgery” to destroy unwanted tissues such as warts, moles, and some cancerous skin lesions by freezing them.
• Metallurgy and Manufacturing: In metal processing, liquid nitrogen is used as both a coolant and a protective agent. It is used in the “cryogenic hardening” process to increase the hardness and durability of some metal alloys. In high-precision processes like laser cutting, it is sprayed as an assist gas to cool the cutting zone and achieve a smooth cut surface. In the welding of stainless steel pipes, it fills the inside of the pipe with an inert atmosphere during welding to prevent oxidation and improve weld quality.
• Electronics: The production of high-tech electronic components (transistors, diodes, integrated circuits) requires an extremely clean and controlled environment. Even the slightest oxidation during production can degrade the component’s performance or cause it to fail completely. Nitrogen fills the furnaces and production chambers in these sensitive processes, creating an oxygen-free, or inert, atmosphere and eliminating this risk.
• Agriculture: Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant life. Liquid nitrogen-based fertilizers efficiently deliver nitrogen, which is critical for plant growth, chlorophyll production (necessary for photosynthesis), and protein synthesis, to the soil or directly onto leaves. These fertilizers are absorbed more quickly by plants than solid fertilizers and provide a more uniform distribution, thereby increasing agricultural yield and product quality.
• Other Areas: Nitrogen’s inert and moisture-free nature makes it ideal for inflating aircraft and racing car tires. The oxygen and moisture in normal air can cause corrosion on the metal rims inside the tire and lead to pressure fluctuations at high speeds. Nitrogen eliminates these risks. It is also widely used in the oil and gas industry for purging, testing, and inerting pipelines (protecting against explosion risks).

Liquid oxygen presents a dichotomy by its very nature: on one hand, it is the fundamental element that supports life; on the other, it is a powerful oxidizer that fuels industrial combustion processes. This dual character makes it one of the most strategic cryogenic liquids in both medicine and industry.

Oxygen (O2), which makes up approximately 21% of the atmosphere, is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas under normal conditions. When cryogenically liquefied, it takes on a pale blue color and has a boiling point of −183°C (−297°F). Oxygen’s most important chemical property is that it is reactive and oxidizing. Although not directly flammable itself, it strongly supports and accelerates combustion reactions. This property allows a fuel to burn at much higher temperatures and more efficiently. However, this is also the fundamental reason why the storage and use of oxygen require the highest level of safety measures.

When liquid oxygen is mentioned, it is vital to understand the critical difference between medical and industrial use. Although these two products have the same chemical formula, they are completely different in terms of purity, production, and filling standards.

• Medical Oxygen: It is produced for human respiration and has an extremely high purity rate. The production and filling processes are audited by authorized institutions, such as the Ministry of Health, and are subject to very strict protocols to eliminate any risk of pollution or contamination. Medical oxygen tanks and cylinders are used only for this purpose and are never filled with any other gas.
• Industrial Oxygen: It is designed for industrial processes such as welding, cutting, and chemical production. Its purity levels may not meet medical standards and it may contain impurities that could be harmful to human health. The filling and storage procedures are focused on industrial needs.
• Cryo Tanx operates with an awareness of this vital distinction, ensuring its customers select the oxygen and storage solution with the correct purity and standards according to their field of application.

The reactive nature of liquid oxygen offers it a wide range of applications:

• • Healthcare Sector: Oxygen is one of the fundamental pillars of medicine. It is given as a supplement to patients in conditions such as pulmonary insufficiency, COPD, heart diseases, or during surgical operations along with anesthesia. Central gas systems in hospitals are generally fed from large liquid oxygen tanks. Additionally, smaller, portable liquid oxygen systems are available for patients receiving long-term oxygen therapy at home.

• Metallurgy and Industry: The iron and steel industry is the largest industrial oxygen consumer. In blast furnaces, oxygen injection ensures that unwanted elements like carbon are burned off more efficiently and removed from the steel (refining), accelerating the production process. In the cutting and welding of metals with methods like oxy-acetylene, it enables the fuel gas to reach much higher temperatures, facilitating clean and fast operations.
• Water Treatment and Environment: In wastewater treatment plants, oxygen is injected into aeration basins to accelerate the activity of beneficial bacteria that break down organic matter in the water. This process increases treatment efficiency. In drinking water facilities, oxygen is used for ozone (O3) production; ozone is a powerful agent for disinfecting water.
• Aerospace: Liquid oxygen (LOX) is the most common oxidizer used in rocket engines. When combined with fuels like liquid hydrogen or kerosene, it creates an extremely energetic combustion reaction that produces the immense thrust needed to carry spacecraft into orbit.
• Chemistry and Energy: In the production of many chemicals, oxygen is used to accelerate reactions and increase yield. For example, it is a fundamental component in the production of nitric acid and ethylene oxide. In energy production, it increases combustion efficiency in coal gasification or natural gas power plants, allowing more energy to be produced with less fuel and reducing emissions.

Argon is a member of the noble gas family in the periodic table and carries all the characteristic properties of this family: colorless, odorless, and most importantly, extremely non-reactive. This absolute inertness makes argon the ultimate protective shield in the most sensitive and demanding industrial processes.

Physical and Chemical Properties:

Argon, found in the atmosphere at approximately 0.9%, is about 1.4 times heavier than air.14 This property makes it easy for it to displace air in environments where it is used, sinking and forming a protective layer.

Its boiling point is −186°C, which is between nitrogen (−196°C) and oxygen (−183°C). However, argon’s real strength lies in its chemical structure. Because its electron shell is completely full, it has almost no tendency to form bonds or react with other elements. It maintains its chemical stability even at the thousands of degrees of a welding arc. This property makes it an even more reliable inert gas than nitrogen, because nitrogen can react with some metals at very high temperatures to form nitrides.

The need to create a protective atmosphere in industrial applications often requires a choice between nitrogen and argon gases. Although both gases offer inert properties, the fundamental differences between them play a decisive role in the process efficiency and final product quality. When making this choice, technical parameters such as process temperature, the reactivity of the metal being processed, and the required purity level must be carefully evaluated, beyond just cost. For example, argon is indispensable thanks to its absolute chemical stability when working at extremely high temperatures, such as in TIG welding, or with reactive metals like titanium, whereas nitrogen may offer a more economical alternative for more general-purpose applications. This situation transforms the role of expert suppliers like Cryotanx from just a product seller to a consultancy that offers the most suitable gas solution specific to the customer’s process.

Industrial Applications:

Argon’s absolute inertness makes it indispensable for high-value and sensitive applications:

• Welding and Metal Fabrication: Argon is the cornerstone of high-quality welding processes. Especially in TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding methods, it forms a gas shield that protects the weld zone from oxygen, moisture, and other impurities in the atmosphere. This shield prevents the molten metal from oxidizing, becoming porous, or weakening. The result is a smooth, clean, and mechanically much stronger weld seam. The use of argon is mandatory when welding reactive metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium.
• Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing: High-tech manufacturing processes are extremely demanding regarding gas purity. The rise of the semiconductor industry has transformed the concept of “just gas supply” into “guaranteed purity gas supply.” During the growth of semiconductor crystals like silicon and germanium, even the slightest impurity can disrupt the crystal structure and cause the final product (the chip) to fail. Argon provides an ultra-pure and completely non-reactive environment in the furnaces where these crystals are grown, eliminating this risk. This also changes the role of cryogenic tanks; they are no longer just storage vessels, but critical systems that protect the gas’s purity from the production point to the point of use.
• Steel and Metal Production: In the production of high-quality and special alloy steels, argon is used to cut off the molten metal’s contact with the atmosphere. Passing argon gas through the molten steel (argon degassing) helps remove dissolved gases and unwanted impurities from the metal, thus obtaining a cleaner and more durable steel. In the production of metals like titanium that react instantly with air, the entire process is carried out under an argon atmosphere.
• Lighting: In traditional incandescent light bulbs, argon gas is filled in to slow the evaporation of the tungsten filament that glows at high temperatures. This significantly extends the bulb’s life. In fluorescent lamps, it helps the electric current pass through the gas to create UV light. Argon is also used in the construction of gas lasers that glow with a distinctive blue-green color.
• Other Areas: Argon’s low thermal conductivity makes it an excellent insulation material. The space between the two glass panes of modern, energy-efficient double-glazed windows is filled with argon gas to reduce heat transfer, which prevents heat loss in buildings in winter and heat gain in summer. In food packaging (Modified Atmosphere Packaging – MAP), it replaces oxygen to prevent oxidative spoilage of foods and extend shelf life. It is also used in archives where priceless historical documents or artworks are stored, in systems that flood the area with argon gas to suffocate the oxygen and extinguish a fire, instead of damaging methods like water or chemical foam, in the event of a fire.

Liquid Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon Tanks are high-engineering marvels that enable the safe and efficient storage and use of cryogenic liquids on an industrial scale. To see these tanks as simple vessels is to ignore the complex thermodynamic and material science principles behind them. A cryogenic tank is far from being a passive storage tool; it is a dynamic system that constantly fights against heat ingress from the outside and precisely manages the pressure and phase (liquid-to-gas transition) of the liquid inside. The performance of this system depends not only on the quality of the metal it is made from but also on the effectiveness of its insulation technology and how intelligently its control mechanisms are designed. Each component of the tanks offered by Cryotanx is carefully designed to ensure maximum safety, minimum product loss, and a long operational life.

The primary task of a cryogenic tank is to effectively insulate the extremely cold liquid inside it from the much warmer external environment. The design developed to accomplish this task is the product of decades of engineering accumulation and is based on a few fundamental principles.

The most fundamental structural feature of cryogenic storage tanks is that they consist of two nested vessels. This structure is also generally known as the “thermos” or “Dewar flask” principle.

• • Inner Tank (Pressure Vessel): This is the main vessel that directly contains the cryogenic liquid (e.g., liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen, or liquid argon) and is designed to withstand the pressure resulting from the liquid’s evaporation.

• • Outer Tank (Jacket): This is the outer vessel that completely surrounds the inner tank and provides structural integrity. The primary function of the outer tank is to create and maintain a vacuum space between itself and the inner tank.

• This “tank within a tank” design is the first and most important step in preventing heat transfer.

Heat is transferred from one medium to another by three basic mechanisms: conduction (direct contact between solids), convection (movement of liquids or gases), and radiation (electromagnetic waves). The purpose of a cryogenic tank is to prevent all three of these mechanisms as much as possible. This is where the vacuum comes in. The air in the space between the inner tank and the outer tank is almost completely evacuated using powerful vacuum pumps.

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• Preventing Conduction and Convection: When the air molecules that would conduct or carry heat are removed from the environment, the heat transfer mechanisms of conduction and convection are almost completely eliminated. The ambient temperature on the surface of the outer tank cannot reach the inner tank through this molecular void.
• Preventing Radiation: A vacuum alone cannot stop heat transfer via radiation. However, additional insulation materials are used to reduce this effect.

Additional insulation materials used in conjunction with the vacuum minimize the last remaining heat leaks:

• Perlite: One of the most commonly used insulation materials is perlite, an expanded volcanic rock. These small, porous granules, filled into the vacuum space between the two walls, create an effective barrier to block heat transfer by radiation and to restrict the movement of remaining gas molecules.
• Super Insulation (Multi-Layer Insulation – MLI): Super insulation is used in applications requiring higher efficiency and lower evaporation rates (e.g., long-term storage or transport tanks). This technology consists of numerous thin, reflective aluminum foil layers placed in the vacuum space. Each layer reflects heat radiating onto it, thus blocking heat transfer by radiation extremely effectively.

No matter how well a cryogenic tank is insulated, there will always be some amount of heat leak. This heat causes the liquid inside to slowly boil and evaporate (boil-off). This evaporation continuously increases the pressure inside the tank. Smart systems are available to manage this pressure and use the product efficiently:

• • Pressure Building Circuit: To prevent the pressure from dropping while drawing liquid from the tank, a small amount of liquid is taken from the bottom of the tank, passed through a vaporizer called a “pressure building coil,” and turned into gas. This gas is then directed back to the gas space at the top of the tank, ensuring the internal tank pressure remains at the desired operating level.

• Economizer Circuit: If no product is drawn from the tank for a period, the pressure continues to rise due to the heat leak. Before the pressure reaches the level set for the safety valve, the “economizer regulator” activates. This smart valve directs the excess gas pressure accumulated at the top of the tank directly to the use line, instead of venting it to the atmosphere through the safety valve. This way, the gas that would normally be wasted is used in the process. This is a critical feature, especially found in Cryotanx tanks, which provides significant cost savings to the customer.

The safety and durability of a cryogenic tank are directly related to the correct material selection and strict adherence to internationally accepted manufacturing standards. This is not just a preference, but also a legal requirement and a matter of engineering ethics.

Ordinary materials cannot withstand the harsh conditions of cryogenic temperatures. For example, normal carbon steel becomes “brittle” below approximately −30°C and becomes extremely susceptible to impacts, capable of shattering like glass. Therefore, special materials are used in the manufacturing of cryogenic tanks:

• Inner Tank Material: Since the inner tank is in direct contact with the cryogenic liquid, it must be made from a material that can maintain its mechanical properties, especially its ductility (impact absorption capability), at this extreme cold. The most common material used for this purpose is austenitic stainless steel (e.g., 304, 304L, or 316L grade). These steels retain their toughness even at low temperatures and exhibit excellent resistance to corrosion.
• Outer Tank Material: Since the outer tank is not exposed to cryogenic temperatures, it is usually manufactured from carbon steel, which is more economical and provides high structural strength. However, stainless steel may also be preferred for the outer tank, especially in cases where there is a high risk of corrosion or aesthetic requirements.

Since cryogenic tanks are equipment that store hazardous materials under high pressure, their design, manufacturing, testing, and certification are subject to strict rules. Cryo Tanx adopts these global standards not as an obligation, but as a mark of quality to guarantee the safety and quality of its products. For an engineer or plant manager, these standards are proof of the product’s reliability, meticulousness, and global compliance.

• PED (2014/68/EU): The European Union’s Pressure Equipment Directive sets the essential safety requirements for all pressure vessels sold in the European market.
• EN Standards: European standards define the technical details for specific products. EN 13458 is the main standard for static cryogenic tanks, while EN 13530 is the main standard for transportable cryogenic tanks.
• ASME Code: This code, published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, is considered the gold standard for pressure vessels, especially in North America and many other regions.
• ADR / RID / IMDG: These are the regulations concerning the international transport of dangerous goods by road, rail, and sea, respectively. It is mandatory for transport tanks to comply with these codes.

Every step of the manufacturing process is meticulously controlled to ensure the final product’s quality and safety. Welding processes are the most critical stage for the tank’s integrity and are performed only by certified welders according to special procedures. Various non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as radiographic (X-ray), ultrasonic, and penetrant testing, are applied to ensure the welds are flawless. After manufacturing is complete, each tank is subjected to hydrostatic or pneumatic tests at a pressure above its design pressure to verify its tightness and strength.

The following table clearly summarizes the technical specifications and standards that potential buyers encounter when evaluating offers from different manufacturers. This demonstrates Cryotanx‘s transparency and commitment to the highest global standards at a single glance, giving assurance that the product to be purchased is an internationally approved, safe, and high-quality engineered product.

Industrial gas supply is a strategic decision that has a direct impact on a business’s operational efficiency, cost structure, and production quality. Choosing the right storage and supply solution not only meets an immediate need but also supports the business’s future growth potential. Various options are available, from traditional high-pressure cylinders to modern Microbulk and Bulk systems. Cryotanx not only supplies the tanks but also acts as a solution partner, helping its customers analyze their operational needs to determine the most efficient and economical solution. This section discusses the critical factors and compares the supply models that will guide businesses in making the right decision.

Choosing the right cryogenic tank solution begins with a comprehensive needs analysis. This analysis clearly outlines the business’s current and future requirements, ensuring the investment is properly sized. The basic criteria to consider are:

• Consumption Analysis: The most fundamental question is, “How much gas do you need?” This is measured by two main metrics:
  • Total Monthly Consumption (Volume): The total amount of gas the business consumes in a month (usually expressed in cubic meters or liters). This plays a key role in determining the minimum capacity of the storage tank. The tank capacity should be chosen to cover at least a few weeks’ consumption, considering safety stock and delivery frequency.
  • Instantaneous Maximum Flow Rate (Debit): The maximum gas flow rate required when the process is operating at its peak (usually expressed in m³/hour). For example, the flow rate required when multiple laser cutting machines are operating simultaneously will be much higher than when only one machine is running. The tank and its associated vaporizer must have the capacity to meet this instantaneous demand to prevent pressure drops in the process and a decline in production quality.
• Pressure Requirements: Every industrial application has a different working pressure requirement. For example, laboratory applications usually operate at low pressure, while laser cutting or some chemical reactions may require much higher pressures. Cryogenic tanks are typically designed for different pressure levels ranging from 5 bar to 37 bar. Choosing a tank that meets the maximum pressure required by the process can reduce costs by eliminating the need for additional pressure-boosting equipment.
• Storage Type: Does the need require the gas to be stored statically in a single facility, or does it need to be transported between different locations?
  • Static Storage Tanks: These are vertical or horizontal tanks permanently installed at a production facility. They are the standard solution for businesses with a continuous and predictable gas need.
  • Transport Tanks (Semi-Trailers, ISO Containers): These are mobile tanks designed to transport gas from production plants to distribution centers or large consumers. These tanks are mounted on special chassis in compliance with international dangerous goods transport regulations like ADR.
• Site and Layout Conditions: Cryogenic tank installation requires careful site planning.
  • Physical Space: The dimensions of the area where the tank will be installed can determine whether the tank will be vertical or horizontal. Vertical tanks are often preferred in facilities with limited space as they occupy less ground area.
  • Accessibility: It is critical that the tank is installed in a location where the cryogenic tanker truck that will fill it can easily approach and maneuver. This ensures that filling operations are carried out safely and quickly.
  • Safety Distances: Cryogenic tanks, especially oxygen tanks, must be installed at specific safety distances away from flammable and combustible materials, buildings, property lines, and high-traffic areas. These distances are determined by local and national fire and safety regulations.
• Material and Gas Compatibility: The type of gas to be stored determines the material and cleaning standards for the tank and its fittings. It is especially necessary for tanks that will store liquid oxygen and all piping systems to be completely free of oil, grease, and other hydrocarbons. This process is called “cleaning for oxygen service” and is a vital safety step to prevent oxygen from reacting violently and causing an explosion upon contact with such substances.

The gas supply needs of businesses vary according to their size and consumption profiles. There are three main supply models for these needs.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of these models ensures the best strategic decision is made.

• High-Pressure Cylinders: This is the most traditional gas supply method. Gas is filled into steel or aluminum cylinders under high pressure and delivered to the business. It can be a suitable starting solution for small workshops or laboratories with low or intermittent gas consumption. However, as the business grows, the inefficiencies and “hidden costs” of this system begin to emerge. These costs include the labor time spent on constantly changing cylinders, cylinder rental and storage fees, order and inventory management, the risk of work accidents during manual handling, and interruptions experienced when a cylinder runs out during production. Furthermore, as the pressure drops, not all the gas inside the cylinder can be used, and some product is wasted.
• Microbulk Systems: Microbulk is a modern and efficient solution that fills the gap between high-pressure cylinders and large bulk tanks. In this system, a vacuum-insulated, stainless steel cryogenic tank (also known as a Perma-Cyl) with a capacity between 500 and 5,000 liters is installed at the business’s site. This tank is filled on-site quickly by specially designed smaller tanker trucks, just like a fuel delivery. The business does not need to change, handle, or store cylinders. A business’s transition from cylinders to Microbulk is not a simple spending decision, but an “investment threshold” analysis. This is the point where the hidden costs of cylinder use (labor, production downtime, gas loss, safety risks) become insignificant compared to the efficiency and savings provided by the Microbulk system. If cylinders are being changed frequently, gas costs are rising, and storage space is becoming a problem, then that business is “mature” for the transition to a Microbulk system. Cryotanx rationalizes this transition decision by presenting customers with a Return on Investment (ROI) analysis, turning abstract benefits into concrete numbers.
• Bulk Systems: This system is designed for large industrial facilities with very high and continuous gas consumption (iron and steel plants, large chemical plants, food processing complexes, etc.). It includes giant-capacity static storage tanks ranging from 5,000 liters to 50,000 liters and more. Gas is delivered to the facility by large tanker semi-trailers. Bulk systems offer the lowest unit gas cost, maximum supply security, and near-zero labor costs. These systems are usually installed along with long-term supply contracts and are proactively managed by the gas supplier through remote monitoring with telemetry systems.

The following comparison table is designed to help a business owner or plant manager evaluate which supply model is most suitable in light of their own operational realities. This table frames the decision as a matter of efficiency and strategy, rather than just cost.

In facilities where cryogenic liquids are stored and used, safety is not an option, but an absolute necessity. Liquid nitrogen, oxygen, argon tanks and related systems inherently involve serious risks such as extreme cold, high pressure, and potential atmospheric hazards. Managing these risks is vital for both legal compliance and, most importantly, the safety of employees and the operational integrity of the facility. Cryotanx not only manufactures safe tanks but also aims to build a comprehensive safety culture by informing its customers about the correct use, maintenance, and periodic inspections of these tanks. Safety should be seen not as a cost item, but as a value proposition that protects business continuity and brand reputation.

Cryogenic tanks are classified as “pressure vessels” within the scope of legislation in force in Turkey because they operate under high pressure. This situation makes their regular inspection and maintenance a legal obligation.

• • Legal Framework and Responsibility: In Turkey, the “Occupational Health and Safety Law” No. 6331 and the “Regulation on Health and Safety Conditions in the Use of Work Equipment” issued based on this law, clearly define the principles for the periodic control of pressure vessels. According to this regulation, the responsibility for having the periodic control of the cryogenic tank done rests directly with the employer. Neglecting these controls can lead to legal sanctions, as well as serious legal and criminal consequences in the event of a possible accident.
  • Control Frequency and Competence: The regulation and related standards (e.g., TS EN ISO 21009-2, TS EN 14197-3) stipulate that periodic controls of cryogenic tanks must be carried out at least once a year, unless a specific period is specified in the standards. These controls are not ordinary maintenance procedures and can only be performed by mechanical engineers, mechatronics engineers, relevant technical teachers, or mechanical technicians/higher technicians who are authorized in this field and registered in the Ekipnet system.

• 1. 1. Visual Inspection: The outer surface of the tank should be regularly inspected visually. Check for any dents, depressions, deep scratches, or signs of corrosion. Especially, excessive icing or “sweating” (a cold spot) seen on a specific point of the tank may be a sign that the vacuum insulation in that area is failing and should be reported immediately to an expert service.
     2. Monitoring Pressure Gauges: The manometer on the tank should be checked daily to monitor whether the pressure is within the normal operating range. An abnormally fast pressure increase or decrease may indicate a problem.
     3. Checking Safety Valves and Connections: It must be ensured that the outlets of the safety valves and rupture discs, which are the tank’s protection mechanism against overpressure, are open and not blocked by any ice, dirt, or obstruction. The outlets of these valves should be directed to a safe area where personnel are not present.
     4. Leak Check: All valve, flange, and pipe connections should be checked for leaks visually and, if necessary, with soapy water foam. Icing seen on lines through which the cryogenic liquid passes, in particular, may be a sign of a leak.Routine Checks to be Performed by the User (Daily/Weekly Maintenance List): In addition to legal periodic controls, there are also simple but critical checks that tank operators and facility maintenance personnel should perform regularly. This proactive approach ensures that small problems are detected before they grow:
  1. Environmental Orderliness and Cleanliness: The area around the tank must always be kept clean, tidy, and dry. Flammable, combustible, or corrosive materials should not be stored around or under the tank. Water accumulation, especially where the base of the tank is in direct contact with concrete or the ground, should be prevented as it can lead to corrosion.
  2. Drain Valve (Blow-down): The drain valve at the lowest point of the tank should be opened periodically to discharge any moisture or debris that may have accumulated inside.
• Vacuum Integrity and Re-evaluation: The vacuum, which is the heart of the cryogenic tank’s insulation performance, can deteriorate over time due to very small leaks. Vacuum loss manifests as excessive icing on the tank’s outer surface, a much faster pressure rise than normal, and increased evaporation (boil-off) losses. This situation not only leads to product loss, increasing costs, but also poses a safety risk. When vacuum degradation is detected, this situation cannot be repaired by the user. Re-establishing the tank’s vacuum (vacuum re-evaluation) is a process that requires special equipment and expertise and must be performed by an authorized service such as Cryotanx.

Working with cryogenic liquids requires a full awareness of visible and invisible dangers. The biggest risks are those that cannot be detected by the senses, as they often stem from odorless and colorless gases. Therefore, strict safety procedures and the use of correct personal protective equipment (PPE) are non-negotiable.

• Basic Hazards and Precautions:
  • • Extreme Cold (Cryogenic Burn): Even a single drop of liquid nitrogen, oxygen, or argon, upon contact with the skin, causes cold burns that lead to immediate freezing and serious tissue damage. Not only the liquid itself, but also metal surfaces, valves, and pipes cooled by it are equally dangerous. Therefore, one must never touch these liquids or equipment with bare hands.
    • Asphyxiation Risk: This is the most insidious and deadly danger. When liquid nitrogen and liquid argon evaporate, they displace the oxygen in the enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces they are in. Since nitrogen and argon gases are odorless and colorless, it is not noticeable when the oxygen level in the environment has dropped to a dangerous level. Even a few breaths can lead to loss of consciousness and death. Therefore, areas where cryogenic tanks are located must always be well-ventilated, and before entering confined spaces, the oxygen level in the atmosphere must be measured with a gas detector.
    • Oxygen Enrichment and Fire Risk: Liquid oxygen poses the exact opposite danger of the other two gases. In the event of a leak, it increases the oxygen concentration in the environment above the normal level of 21%. In an oxygen-enriched atmosphere, materials that are normally non-flammable or difficult to ignite (e.g., clothes, asphalt, wood) can ignite easily and burn extremely violently. The contact of hydrocarbons such as oil, grease, or solvents with liquid oxygen can cause a spontaneous explosion. Therefore, smoking, welding, or having any ignition source around oxygen systems and tanks is strictly prohibited. Equipment must never be handled with oily hands or oily tools.

   

  • High-Pressure Risk: A small volume of a cryogenic liquid creates a gas volume hundreds of times larger when it evaporates. If this expansion occurs in a closed system (e.g., behind a valve left closed), a massive pressure build-up occurs. This pressure can rupture pipelines or the tank itself, causing a violent explosion.²⁵ Therefore, it is a critical design rule that every isolatable section in the system must have its own pressure relief device.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When performing any operation with cryogenic liquids (filling, draining, sampling), the use of the following PPE is mandatory:
  • • Cryogenic Gloves: Specially insulated, loose-fitting, and easily removable gloves that provide protection against liquid splashes.
    • Face Shield and/or Safety Goggles: A face shield that fully protects the face and eyes from potential splashes provides the best protection.

   

  • Protective Clothing: Clothing that completely covers the body, such as long trousers with cuffs over the shoes, long-sleeved shirts, and a lab coat.
  • Closed-toed Shoes: Sturdy, non-perforated shoes that will prevent liquid from entering the foot.
• Emergency Procedures: Every facility must have written and rehearsed procedures for potential emergencies related to cryogenic liquids (leaks, spills, personal contact). These procedures should clearly define alarm systems, evacuation routes, the location of emergency valves, first aid measures, and how to notify emergency response teams (fire department, ambulance). Cryotanx provides consultancy support to its customers in establishing these emergency procedures and training the relevant personnel as part of the tank installation. This is part of a commitment to creating a safe operational environment, beyond just providing equipment.

Throughout this comprehensive report, it has been detailed how liquid nitrogen, oxygen, and argon are critical elements forming the basis of modern industry, and the sophisticated technology behind the storage of these valuable resources. From food processing to medical applications, from metal fabrication to electronics manufacturing, the possibilities offered by these cryogenic liquids are almost limitless. However, to fully benefit from these possibilities requires having the right technology, the right expertise, and most importantly, the right partner. Liquid Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon Tanks are not just storage vessels; they are strategic assets that directly affect a business’s efficiency, safety, and profitability.

At this point, Cryotanx offers a value proposition far beyond that of a standard supplier:

• Engineering Excellence: Every tank offered by Cryotanx is designed and manufactured in accordance with the highest international safety and quality standards (PED, ASME, EN). Special materials resistant to cryogenic temperatures, superior vacuum insulation technology, and smart pressure control systems are combined to provide minimum product loss, maximum operational efficiency, and many years of trouble-free service. This is not just a product, but an engineering guarantee.
• Consultative Approach: We don’t just “sell tanks”; we “design solutions” for your business’s specific needs. Our expert team analyzes all variables, from your gas consumption profile and facility conditions to your pressure requirements and future growth targets. We decide together with you whether you need a Microbulk system to escape the hidden costs of high-pressure cylinders or a Bulk facility for your high-volume operations. Our goal is not to sell you the most expensive option, but the one that is right and most efficient for you.
• Comprehensive Support and Service Partnership: Your relationship with Cryotanx does not end with the delivery of the tank; on the contrary, it begins at that point. We are by your side throughout the entire life cycle, from site discovery and project planning, to professional installation and commissioning; from legally required periodic inspections to emergency service interventions; from training your personnel on safe operation to maintaining your tank’s vacuum performance. This is a predictable and reliable service partnership, rather than a one-time transaction.
• Tangible Return on Investment (ROI): The investment in a Cryotanx solution is not a cost, but an investment in profitability. When factors such as lower unit gas costs compared to traditional cylinder systems, the elimination of wasted residual gas, the zeroing of labor time spent on cylinder changing and management, and the prevention of production interruptions are combined, Cryotanx tanks pay for themselves in a short time and begin to provide your business with a tangible financial advantage.

Contact Cryotanx experts today to increase your process efficiency, maximize your operational safety, and make a solid investment in your industrial future. Let’s unlock your business’s potential together.