Product loss is a number one concern in cryogenics, and is easily preventable with the right hose. While traditional cryogenic hoses do have some insulation (typically foam or polymer insulation), heat leak is still a problem.
On average, a cryogenic operation loses approximately 10-15% of its product with each transfer. If an operation is filling 20 dewars daily, this can add up to $50,000 in lost revenue annually.
In contrast, vacuum jacketed hoses offer superior thermal insulation, resulting in huge savings in product and cost.
Reliable thermal insulation
While they look similar to other stainless hoses on the outside, vacuum jacketed hoses actually consist of an inner and outer hose. The insulated inner chamber pulls a vacuum, which significantly reduces heat transfer. As a result, cryogenic liquids remain at the right temperature during transfer.
Essentially stops boil-off
Vacuum jacketing drastically minimizes evaporation (also referred to as boil-off) by practically eliminating any heat leak into the hose, effectively stopping evaporative product loss entirely. That translates into direct cost savings by reducing waste.
Eliminates condensation and frost
Traditional cryogenic hoses are often coated in condensation or frost because of the dramatic temperature and humidity difference between the surrounding air and the cryogenic fluids. Condensation can drip and puddle, resulting in an unsafe work environment and even mold growth over prolonged periods of time.
Maintains a safe surface temperature
A frosted-over cryogenic hose should never be grabbed or touched bare-handed, as frostbite or cold burns can occur. Because vacuum jacketed hoses do not build up a layer of frost, the external hose temperature is safe to handle without gloves.
Increased efficiency
Minimizing heat transfer not only preserves cryogenic product, it also guarantees that cryogenic liquid arrives at its end usage point at the right temperature and in the right state, making the entire operation more efficient as a whole.
Fewer maintenance concerns
Made of stainless steel, vacuum jacketed hoses are durable and long-lasting. Since they don’t condensate or frost, corrosion isn’t a big concern, leading to a much longer service life. Regular hose inspection is always important, as is paying close attention to the date codes, but vacuum jacketed hoses should have far fewer maintenance concerns.
Incredible flexibility
Vacuum jacketed hoses are designed with flexibility in mind, and have an impressive bend radius despite their double-walled composition. This makes routing and installation much easier in more complex systems, as opposed to more rigid vacuum-insulated options.
Ratermann is your reliable hose provider
Our solutions experts can help you find the right hose for any application. You can also put your specifications into our online Hose Builder Tool to create the perfect hose solution.
Download our free guide for more on vacuum jacketed hose solutions.
Learn more about hoses in our Flexible Hoses 101 series:
Flexible Hoses 101 Part 1: Understanding the Basics
Flexible Hoses 101 Part 2: The Right Hose for the Right Application
Flexible Hoses 101 Part 3: Maintenance & Troubleshooting