Cryogenic fluid transfer systems require high performance insulation to ensure a safe working environment and proper containment of materials. Insufficient insulation results in extreme temperature exposure, energy inefficiencies, and material waste due to cryogenic boil-off.
Working on a high temperature application? Learn about selecting the right performance level for high temp vacuum jacketed hoses →
The cryogenic industry depends on vacuum jacketed hoses to safely and efficiently transfer ultra-low temperature fluids including liquid nitrogen, helium, oxygen, and hydrogen. Vacuum jacketed hoses provide a thermally insulated conduit for cryogens to pass from one place to another while the vacuum barrier prevents the ingress of heat.
Two performance levels for Insulon vacuum jacketed hose
Some vacuum jacketed hose applications prioritize flexibility and a lightweight design. Other applications benefit from a heavier, less flexible option that instead delivers more powerful thermal insulation.
To achieve the thermal and mechanical goals of each application, Insulon vacuum jacketed hoses are available in two performance levels: Standard and MLI. This article provides a guide to selecting the right performance level for your cryogenic system. If you have any questions, please contact us.
Standard Performance
Standard Insulon hose are engineered to be as compact, lightweight, and flexible as possible. They consist of an inner and outer corrugated stainless-steel tube with an ultra-deep Insulon vacuum barrier in between. The vacuum barrier provides thermal insulation by minimizing convective and conductive heat transfer.
MLI (High Performance)
Insulon Hose with MLI are engineered for maximum thermal insulation performance. They include high-density multi-layer insulation (MLI) inside the vacuum space. While Standard hose reduces convective and conductive heat transfer, MLI also minimizes radiation to protect against all three types of heat transfer.
Comparing Features
Both types of hoses (Standard and MLI) are available in the same inner hose sizes (1/4″ ID, 3/8″ ID, 1/2″ ID, 3/4″ ID, and 1″ ID) and lengths (up to 20 meters). They both operate in the same temperature range (-270 to 815 Celsius) and have stainless steel 316 wetted and external surfaces. They are both available in low- and high-pressure options and are compatible with a range of end fittings.