Thermo Fisher Locator Series Liquid Nitrogen Cryogenic Storage Tanks
| Brand | Thermo Fisher |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer | Thermo Fisher Scientific |
| Product Type | Imported |
| Model Numbers | CY50935 (Locator Jr.), CY509105 (Locator 4 & Locator 8) |
| Price Range | USD $2,500 – $6,200 (FOB US port, ex-works pricing) |
Overview
The Thermo Fisher Locator Series liquid nitrogen cryogenic storage tanks are engineered for long-term, ultra-low-temperature biological sample preservation at ≤ −180 °C. Designed using high-vacuum insulated double-walled stainless steel construction, these tanks employ advanced cryostatic thermal management principles to minimize heat ingress and liquid nitrogen (LN₂) boil-off. Unlike conventional dewars relying solely on foam or perlite insulation, the Locator Series integrates a proprietary narrow-neck geometry with multi-layer reflective vacuum jacketing—reducing radial and axial conductive/convective losses while maintaining optimal vapor-phase temperature stability. This architecture ensures consistent cryogenic conditions even when LN₂ levels fall below 5 cm (2″), eliminating thermal gradients that compromise sample integrity during extended static storage. The system operates in both liquid-phase and vapor-phase modes, with vapor-phase operation recommended for long-term archival storage of sensitive cell lines, stem cells, oocytes, and genomic material per ISO 20387:2018 and AABB standards.
Key Features
- Ultra-low evaporation rates: 0.6–0.99 L/day across models (measured per ASTM F2166-22 under controlled ambient conditions)
- Narrow-neck aperture design with optimized neck-length-to-diameter ratio to suppress convective heat transfer
- Integrated ultrasonic liquid level sensor (optional CN509X-series modules) providing real-time LED readout and dual-stage alarm: visual/audible alert at ≤2.5 cm LN₂ depth; secondary notification upon cumulative loss exceeding 15% of nominal fill volume
- Stainless steel indexed rack system with position-matched labeling—each rack supports Thermo Scientific™ Nalgene™ cryoboxes (1.2 mL and 2.0 mL formats), enabling traceable, GLP-compliant inventory mapping
- Three-tiered physical security: recessed rotary latch with keyed lock mechanism, tamper-evident seal groove, and optional RFID-enabled access log module (sold separately)
- Modular compatibility with Thermo Scientific CryoClaw™ cryogenic forceps (part AY509X19) for glove-compatible, low-contamination sample retrieval
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Locator Series is validated for storage of primary human tissues, PBMCs, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and cryopreserved embryos per FDA 21 CFR Part 1271 and EMA Guideline on Human Cell-Based Medicinal Products. All models comply with ISO 13485:2016 (medical device QMS) and meet CE marking requirements under EU Directive 2014/68/EU (PED) for pressure equipment. Vapor-phase operation maintains uniform temperature distribution (±0.5 °C across 95% of storage volume, per internal IQ/OQ protocol). Racks accommodate standard 10 × 10 grid Nalgene cryoboxes (100 vials/box); maximum capacity assumes use of 2.0 mL internally threaded cryovials meeting ISO 18362-2:2021 specifications. Not intended for direct immersion of non-LN₂-rated plastics or non-validated biobanking containers.
Software & Data Management
While the base hardware operates independently, optional CN509X-series ultrasonic monitors support analog 4–20 mA output and RS-485 Modbus RTU interface for integration into centralized laboratory infrastructure management systems (LIMS). Logged data—including LN₂ level timestamps, alarm events, and cumulative boil-off volume—can be exported as CSV for audit trails compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic records/signatures) when paired with validated third-party SCADA platforms. Thermo Fisher provides IQ/OQ documentation packages and calibration certificates traceable to NIST standards upon request. Firmware updates are delivered via secure USB interface with cryptographic signature verification.
Applications
- Long-term biobank storage of clinical-grade hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs)
- Vapor-phase archival of CRISPR-edited cell lines requiring strict thermal history control
- Regulatory-compliant backup storage for GMP-manufactured viral vectors (AAV, lentivirus)
- Multi-site sample logistics hubs supporting ISO 20387-accredited biobanks
- Academic core facilities managing >10,000 cryovial inventories with barcode-scanned rack-level tracking
FAQ
What is the difference between liquid-phase and vapor-phase storage in Locator tanks?
Liquid-phase immersion provides immediate thermal equilibration but increases contamination risk and mechanical stress on vials. Vapor-phase operation—enabled by the Locator’s stable temperature gradient—maintains ≤−180 °C at rack level while eliminating direct contact with LN₂, aligning with ISBER Best Practices.
Can I retrofit an older Locator Jr. with the CN509X3 ultrasonic monitor?
Yes—CN509X3 (120 V) and CN509X1 (220 V) are field-installable on all CY50935 units manufactured after Q3 2019. Installation requires no tank evacuation and is performed using the factory-supplied mounting bracket and sealed feedthrough conduit.
Is the stainless steel rack system autoclavable?
No. Racks are passivated per ASTM A967 but not designed for repeated steam sterilization. Recommended decontamination: 70% ethanol wipe followed by UV-C exposure (254 nm, 30 min).
Does Thermo Fisher provide validation support for GxP environments?
Yes—comprehensive IQ/OQ documentation, traceable calibration reports, and URS-aligned test protocols are available under Thermo Fisher’s Validation Services Agreement (VSA-LOC-01).
