Thermo Scientific TY509X Series Liquid Nitrogen Transfer Dewars

Overview

The Thermo Scientific TY509X Series Liquid Nitrogen Transfer Dewars are engineered for reliable, low-loss transport and controlled dispensing of liquid nitrogen (LN₂) in laboratory and biobanking environments. Based on vacuum-insulated double-walled aluminum construction, these dewars operate on the principle of cryogenic thermal isolation—minimizing heat ingress through high-vacuum interstitial space and multi-layer reflective shielding. Unlike static storage tanks, the TY509X series is purpose-built for *transfer* applications: moving LN₂ from bulk storage vessels (e.g., large upright or horizontal tanks) to cryogenic freezers, vapor-phase storage units, or sample preparation stations. Their optimized geometry, low mass-to-volume ratio, and validated static evaporation rates support consistent cold chain integrity during short-duration handling—critical for preserving viability of sensitive biological specimens such as stem cells, oocytes, embryos, and primary cell cultures.

Key Features

• Vacuum-insulated aluminum alloy body ensures structural rigidity while maintaining low thermal conductivity and minimal weight—enabling ergonomic manual handling without compromising insulation performance.
• Four standardized capacities (TY509X1: 5 L, TY509X2: 10 L, TY509X3: 20 L, TY509X4: 32 L) accommodate diverse workflow scales—from benchtop cryopreservation to mid-volume facility logistics.
• Integrated ergonomic handle design (bucket-style on TY509X1/TY509X2; reinforced dual-grip on larger models) facilitates stable lifting and controlled pouring at precise angles.
• Self-pressurized transfer kits (optional, compatible with TY509X2–X4) enable hands-free, gravity-independent LN₂ dispensing via regulated gas pressure—eliminating the need to tilt or lift the dewar during filling operations.
• Modular accessory ecosystem includes a calibrated 12 mL manual dispenser for volumetric aliquoting, a stainless-steel wheeled transport cart with locking casters for lab-wide mobility, and removable neck tubes for compatibility with automated cryo-handling systems.
• Static evaporation rate certified per ASTM F1171-22 (Standard Test Method for Determining the Static Evaporation Rate of Cryogenic Vessels), measured under ISO 21649-defined conditions: ambient 23 °C, 50% RH, no load, sealed after initial cooldown.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These transfer dewars are designed exclusively for use with liquid nitrogen (LN₂, CAS No. 7727-37-9) and are not rated for other cryogens (e.g., liquid argon or oxygen). They comply with international safety and material standards including ISO 21649:2021 (Cryogenic vessels — Vacuum insulated vessels — Part 1: Design, fabrication, inspection and testing) and EN 13445-3 (Unfired pressure vessels — Part 3: Design). All units undergo 100% helium leak testing at the manufacturing facility in Asheville, NC, USA, and carry CE marking for EU conformity. For GxP-regulated environments (GLP, GMP, CLIA), documentation packages—including Certificate of Conformance, Material Traceability Reports, and Factory Test Records—are available upon request to support audit readiness.

Software & Data Management

While the TY509X series operates as a passive, non-electronic system, its integration into digital laboratory infrastructure is supported via companion documentation workflows. Thermo Fisher provides downloadable calibration templates (Excel-based) for tracking fill cycles, cumulative evaporation loss, and maintenance logs. When used with Thermo’s SampleManager LIMS or third-party platforms compliant with ASTM E1578-20 (Standard Guide for Laboratory Information Management Systems), dewar usage data—including batch-specific LN₂ consumption and transfer timestamps—can be manually entered or imported via CSV to maintain traceability across cryogenic inventory management processes. No embedded firmware or wireless connectivity is included, ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in MRI-adjacent or RF-sensitive lab zones.

Applications

• Point-of-use replenishment of vapor-phase cryogenic freezers (e.g., Thermo Scientific Forma™ Cryo—Ultra Low Temperature Freezers operating at −150 °C).
• Controlled LN₂ dosing during cryosectioning, vitrification, and cryo-EM grid preparation.
• Transport of LN₂ between central storage and satellite labs under ISO 20387-compliant biobanking protocols.
• Backup supply for emergency LN₂ top-up during power outages affecting mechanical cryocoolers.
• Calibration and validation of LN₂-level sensors in automated storage systems (e.g., Brooks AutoStore® Cryo or Hamilton STARlet Cryo).

FAQ

What is the typical static evaporation rate for each TY509X model?
TY509X1 (5 L): ≤0.12 L/day | TY509X2 (10 L): ≤0.18 L/day | TY509X3 (20 L): ≤0.27 L/day | TY509X4 (32 L): ≤0.38 L/day—measured per ASTM F1171 under unloaded, sealed, ambient conditions.
Can these dewars be used for long-term storage of biological samples?
No. The TY509X series is classified as a *transfer* dewar per ISO 21649 Annex A. It lacks the extended hold-time performance, rack-mounting provisions, and sample tracking interfaces required for primary storage. Use only for active LN₂ conveyance.
Is the self-pressurized transfer kit compatible with all models?
The self-pressurized kit is certified for TY509X2 (10 L), TY509X3 (20 L), and TY509X4 (32 L). It is not recommended for TY509X1 due to pressure regulation constraints at sub-10 L volumes.
Does Thermo Fisher provide validation support for IQ/OQ protocols?
Yes. Factory-issued Installation Qualification (IQ) checklists and Operational Qualification (OQ) test procedures—including vacuum integrity verification and evaporation rate confirmation—are available under NDA upon request.
What warranty applies to TY509X dewars sold in the European Union?
A standard 24-month limited warranty covers material and workmanship defects, aligned with Directive 2019/771/EU on consumer sales. Extended service plans are available through Thermo Fisher Field Service Engineers.