Helium is a vital resource for maintaining the functionality of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machines, as it is essential for cooling the superconducting magnets that power these systems. However, the global helium supply is increasingly under strain, with rising prices and periodic shortages impacting industries that rely heavily on this noble gas. For MRI facilities, efficient helium management has become an essential factor in ensuring operational continuity and cost control. At VES, we understand these challenges and offer an advanced solution: the PURE Helium Recovery System. This innovative system is designed to help MRI facilities optimise their helium usage, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
The Importance of Helium in MRI Systems
MRI machines rely on superconducting magnets that must be kept at extremely low temperatures, typically around -269°C. Liquid helium, one of the coldest substances available, is the coolant of choice to maintain these temperatures. Unfortunately, helium is not only expensive but also a finite resource, with global supplies dwindling. As demand continues to increase across various industries—such as healthcare, aerospace, and technology—the cost of helium has surged, making efficient usage essential for MRI facilities.
In most MRI systems, helium is used in a closed-loop system where the gas is continually cycled to maintain the superconducting magnets. However, during maintenance procedures or system breakdowns, helium may be vented to the atmosphere, resulting in significant losses. Even in normal operation, a small amount of helium can evaporate and escape. Without an efficient recovery system in place, MRI facilities face the ongoing expense of purchasing new helium to replace these losses. This is where the VES PURE System comes into play, providing an effective helium recovery solution that can dramatically improve the operational efficiency of MRI facilities.
The PURE System: How It Works
The PURE Helium Recovery System is designed to recover, purify, and recycle helium that would otherwise be lost during the operation or maintenance of MRI machines. This is particularly valuable during venting, which typically happens during magnet quenches or routine maintenance. PURE captures the vented helium, purifies it to the required specifications, and recycles it back into the system, allowing MRI facilities to reuse helium multiple times without compromising performance.
One of the features of our PURE system is its ability to work seamlessly with existing infrastructure. It is a plug-and-play system that can be installed without disrupting ongoing operations, meaning MRI facilities can begin realising savings almost immediately. The system is capable of recovering helium that is mixed with air or other gases, purifying it to a high concentration, and reintroducing it into the MRI cooling loop. This makes PURE an adaptable solution that can handle both high-volume and low-volume helium loss scenarios with equal efficiency.
Financial Benefits: Reducing Operational Costs
The primary benefit of implementing the PURE system is the significant cost savings on helium procurement. By recovering and reusing helium that would otherwise be lost, MRI facilities can reduce their helium consumption by up to 90%, depending on usage patterns. This reduction not only mitigates the impact of rising helium prices but also ensures that MRI facilities can maintain their operations even during periods of helium scarcity.
For MRI facilities that operate multiple machines, the cost savings can be particularly dramatic. Facilities that previously had to budget substantial amounts for helium replacement now have the opportunity to redirect those funds towards other critical areas, such as machine upgrades or expanded patient services. With a quick return on investment—often within two years—the PURE system offers both immediate and long-term financial benefits.
Additionally, the system’s modular design allows facilities to scale their helium recovery capabilities based on need. Whether a facility operates a single MRI machine or several, the PURE system can be customised to meet the specific demands of the operation, ensuring that no helium goes to waste.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Beyond the financial benefits, adopting the PURE system also contributes to a facility’s sustainability efforts. Helium is a non-renewable resource, and every effort to conserve and recycle it plays a role in reducing the overall strain on global supplies. By recovering and reusing helium, MRI facilities can reduce their environmental footprint, supporting the healthcare industry’s broader goals of sustainability and resource efficiency.
Additionally, the PURE system aligns with the growing trend toward environmentally responsible healthcare. Hospitals and healthcare providers are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and operate more sustainably. By implementing helium recovery systems like PURE, MRI facilities can demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship while maintaining high standards of patient care.
Future-Proofing MRI Operations
As the global helium supply becomes more constrained, MRI facilities that lack efficient recovery systems may face operational disruptions, either due to helium shortages or prohibitively high costs. The PURE system offers a forward-thinking solution to this problem, ensuring that facilities can continue to operate smoothly, regardless of fluctuations in the helium market. By future-proofing their helium supply chain, MRI facilities can protect themselves from potential supply crises and remain competitive in an evolving healthcare landscape.
Wrapping Up
Our PURE Helium Recovery System offers MRI facilities a comprehensive solution to the ongoing challenges posed by helium usage. By recovering and reusing helium, PURE delivers significant cost savings, reduces environmental impact, and ensures the continuity of MRI operations in a market where helium scarcity is becoming a critical issue. For MRI facilities looking to optimise their helium usage, enhance sustainability, and safeguard their future, PURE is an essential investment.