Thermo Scientific™ CryoExtra™ High-Efficiency Liquid Nitrogen Storage Tank

Overview

The Thermo Scientific™ CryoExtra™ High-Efficiency Liquid Nitrogen Storage Tank is an engineered cryogenic storage solution designed for long-term, ultra-low-temperature preservation of biological specimens—including cells, tissues, embryos, and nucleic acids—in either liquid-phase or vapor-phase configurations. Utilizing passive vacuum insulation combined with active microprocessor-controlled liquid nitrogen (LN₂) level management, the system maintains stable thermal environments between –150 °C and –196 °C, minimizing thermal gradients and ensuring sample integrity across the entire storage volume. Its dual-phase capability enables users to select optimal storage conditions based on biosafety requirements, regulatory expectations (e.g., ISO 13485-compliant biobanking), and risk mitigation strategies for cross-contamination. The stainless steel construction, CE marking, and UL listing confirm compliance with international electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards applicable to laboratory-grade refrigeration equipment.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based LN₂ level control with real-time temperature monitoring and configurable high/low temperature alarms
• Large backlit LED display showing internal temperature, LN₂ level, and system status
• Dual-mode operation: supports both liquid-phase immersion and vapor-phase storage (–150 °C to –196 °C)
• Ergonomic design including foldable step platform and integrated work surface for safe, efficient handling during vapor-phase access
• Secure locking lid with tamper-resistant mechanism to prevent unauthorized access and maintain sample chain-of-custody
• Vacuum-insulated stainless steel chamber with optimized neck geometry (63.5 cm inner diameter) to reduce boil-off and improve fill efficiency
• Standardized 0.5-inch 45° flared inlet port and 1.8 m stainless steel flexible LN₂ delivery hose included
• Compatible with Thermo Scientific™ CryoExtra™ vertical and horizontal cryobox racks, stackable frames, and motorized lift systems for scalable inventory organization

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CryoExtra™ system accommodates standard 2 mL cryovials, 0.5 mL straws, cryobags, and multi-well plates when used with certified accessories. Its vapor-phase configuration meets institutional biosafety requirements for human tissue banking under CAP and AABB guidelines, while liquid-phase operation supports high-integrity storage for reference standards and master cell banks per ICH Q5D and USP <1043>. The unit’s temperature uniformity profile (< ±3 °C across the storage zone) and documented LN₂ consumption rate support GLP/GMP-aligned validation protocols. All electrical components comply with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment safety, and firmware logs meet audit-trail requirements under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with Thermo Fisher’s SampleManager LIMS platform.

Software & Data Management

While the CryoExtra™ operates as a standalone cryogenic appliance, its analog temperature and LN₂ level signals are compatible with third-party building management systems (BMS) via 4–20 mA output (optional interface module). When paired with Thermo Fisher’s optional CryoConnect™ data logger, users gain secure cloud-based remote monitoring, customizable alert thresholds (SMS/email), and exportable CSV reports for temperature excursions and refilling events. Audit logs include timestamps, operator ID (via RFID badge integration), and system event codes—enabling traceability aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and CLIA quality system standards.

Applications

• Biobanking and clinical specimen repositories requiring long-term stability at ≤ –150 °C
• Stem cell and regenerative medicine laboratories managing sensitive primary cultures
• Pharmaceutical R&D facilities storing monoclonal antibody cell lines and viral vector master stocks
• Academic core facilities supporting high-throughput cryopreservation workflows
• Veterinary and agricultural biobanks preserving genetic material from endangered species or elite breeding stock
• Contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) validating cold-chain continuity for ATMPs

FAQ

What LN₂ supply pressure is required for automatic refilling?
A regulated 22 psi low-pressure LN₂ source is mandatory; high-pressure dewars or bulk tanks require appropriate pressure-reducing regulators.
Can the CryoExtra™ be validated for GMP use?
Yes—its repeatable thermal performance, documented calibration traceability (NIST-traceable sensors), and electronic log capabilities support IQ/OQ/PQ execution per ASTM E2875 and EU Annex 15.
Is vapor-phase storage temperature uniformity verified across the full volume?
Yes—Thermo Fisher provides a factory-generated temperature mapping report (per ISO 14644-3) demonstrating ≤ ±3 °C deviation at 9 spatial locations within the vapor zone.
Are replacement parts and service kits available globally?
All consumables—including vacuum seal gaskets, level sensor assemblies, and controller modules—are stocked through Thermo Fisher’s regional service centers in North America, EMEA, and APAC.
Does the system support integration with existing LIMS or ELN platforms?
Via optional CryoConnect™ gateway, it delivers structured JSON telemetry to common middleware (e.g., LabVantage, Benchling) using HTTPS RESTful APIs compliant with HL7 FHIR standards.