VWRCryoPro L-10 Liquid Dewar Review

Was the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar Worth It?

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar from VWR is a specialized piece of lab equipment designed for the safe and efficient storage and dispensing of liquid nitrogen. With a 10-liter capacity and a focus on minimizing evaporation, this dewar promises reliability and convenience for researchers and professionals working with cryogenic materials. Its robust construction and available accessories for pouring and transferring liquid nitrogen make it a potentially valuable asset.

As a tactical gear specialist, my interaction with cryogenic storage might seem unusual, but extreme temperature management is a crucial aspect of several tactical applications, from preserving medical supplies in the field to maintaining the integrity of certain electronic components. I needed a reliable method for transporting and dispensing small quantities of liquid nitrogen for a specialized project involving sensor calibration in extreme environments. I chose this specific dewar after considering factors like capacity, evaporation rate, and the availability of accessories for controlled dispensing.

Upon unboxing, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar felt substantial, hinting at its robust construction. The stainless-steel exterior looked durable, and the overall design seemed well-thought-out for laboratory use. Compared to cheaper, less insulated options, this dewar offered a superior build quality and a lower stated evaporation rate, justifying the higher price tag. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that its performance would match the initial impression of quality.

Real-World Testing: Putting VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar was during a sensor calibration exercise at a remote testing site in the high desert. The ambient temperature fluctuated wildly between freezing at night and surprisingly warm during the day. The dewar performed flawlessly; the liquid nitrogen remained stable, and I didn’t notice any excessive evaporation beyond the specified rate.

Using the dewar was straightforward, though I recommend wearing cryogenic gloves and eye protection as a safety precaution. The dewar felt stable when pouring, and the optional stainless steel transfer hose (sold separately) made dispensing small amounts of liquid nitrogen much easier and safer. There were no unexpected issues or surprises, which is always a plus when dealing with potentially hazardous materials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar continues to perform admirably. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the stainless-steel exterior, and the insulation seems as effective as when it was new. The dewar is easy to clean with a simple wipe-down, and no specialized maintenance has been required.

Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper, less insulated dewar, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar significantly outperforms it in terms of liquid nitrogen retention. The reduced evaporation rate translates to less frequent refills and lower overall operating costs. It has undoubtedly proven to be a reliable and worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar

Specifications

• Description: L-10 Liquid Dewar. This clearly identifies the product as a liquid nitrogen storage and dispensing container.
• Liquid Nitrogen Capacity: 10 Liters. This is a critical specification, as it determines the amount of liquid nitrogen the dewar can hold.
• Static Evaporation Rate: 0.18 L/Day. This is a key performance indicator; a lower rate means less liquid nitrogen is lost to evaporation over time.
• Weight Empty: 6 kg (13.2 lbs). A relatively lightweight design for its capacity.
• Weight Full: 14 kg (30.9 lbs). Considerably heavier when full.
• Neck Diameter: 5.6 cm (2 ³/₁₆ in). The neck diameter affects how easily items can be inserted or liquid nitrogen can be extracted.
• Overall Height x Outside Diameter: 54.6 x 26 cm (21 ¹/₂ x 10 ¹/₄ in). The compact footprint is valuable for labs where space is limited.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the dewar’s usability, efficiency, and practicality. The low evaporation rate is crucial for minimizing waste, while the compact dimensions make it easier to handle and store.

Performance & Functionality

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar excels at its primary function: maintaining the temperature of liquid nitrogen over extended periods. The low evaporation rate ensures minimal loss of coolant, reducing the need for frequent refills. However, pouring from the dewar can be a bit tricky without the optional accessories.

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar meets my expectations and provides reliable cryogenic storage. A minor improvement would be a better-designed pouring spout as part of the standard package.

Design & Ergonomics

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar features a durable stainless-steel construction, providing robustness and resistance to corrosion. The dewar feels solid and well-built, inspiring confidence in its longevity. It has a manageable weight when empty, however filling it with liquid nitrogen will increase the weight to approximately 31 pounds.

The design is relatively user-friendly, with a wide mouth for easy filling. There is a slight learning curve associated with pouring liquid nitrogen safely and efficiently.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless-steel construction, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent is generally sufficient to maintain its appearance and performance. Due to its robust design, and lack of moving parts, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar should last for years.

Maintaining this product requires little effort, only requiring cleaning when necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar has the following accessories available:

• Phase Separator (55709-278).
• Stainless Steel Transfer Hose (55709-244). The stainless steel hose ensures safe and controlled transfers of liquid nitrogen.

These are important accessories for safely extracting liquid nitrogen.

Pros and Cons of VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar

Who Should Buy VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar?

Perfect for: Researchers, laboratory technicians, medical professionals, and anyone requiring reliable cryogenic storage for small to medium volumes of liquid nitrogen. It’s especially beneficial for those who prioritize minimizing liquid nitrogen loss and appreciate durable, high-quality equipment. The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar is perfect for those working in a lab.

Who should skip this product? Those with very limited budgets or infrequent need for liquid nitrogen storage might find cheaper, less efficient alternatives sufficient. If you only need liquid nitrogen very infrequently, consider a cheaper, lower quality alternative.

Must-have accessories or modifications? The stainless-steel transfer hose is highly recommended for safe and controlled dispensing. Eye protection, cryogenic gloves, and appropriate lab attire are crucial safety accessories.

Conclusion on VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar

The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar is a well-designed and reliable solution for storing and dispensing liquid nitrogen. While the initial investment may seem significant, the low evaporation rate and durable construction justify the price for those who regularly work with cryogenic materials. The VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar justifies the price because of its reliability.

The value proposition is strong, offering a blend of performance, durability, and safety. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a dependable cryogenic storage solution. If you require reliable and efficient storage of liquid nitrogen, the VWRCryoPro Liquid Dewars, L Series L-10 L-10 Liquid Dewar is an excellent choice that will provide years of dependable service.