Helium Liquefier Replacement and Relocation
Helium Liquefier Replacement and Relocation 鈥� Millburn House
The new facility will be housed in Millburn House, selected for its close proximity to the University鈥檚 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) laboratories, reducing transport distances and improving the efficiency of helium handling.
The modernised installation will provide a more reliable, sustainable, and energy鈥慹fficient solution to support long鈥憈erm research needs.
Key Challenges
Integration of new specialist equipment: Although the liquefier has already been procured, it requires carefully planned installation, including high鈥慶apacity power, cooling water, process gas lines, extraction, and environmental monitoring systems.
Adapting an existing building for technical equipment: Millburn House requires structural and services upgrades to accommodate heavy, vibration鈥憇ensitive machinery and to ensure suitable ventilation, access, and pipework routing for cryogenic operations.
Cryogenic safety and compliance: The design must meet stringent safety standards for oxygen鈥慸eficiency hazards, emergency ventilation, alarm systems, and safe operator access.
Working near active NMR facilities: Construction must take place close to NMR laboratories where strong magnetic fields are always active. This restricts the use of magnetic tools and equipment and requires careful planning to ensure contractor safety and prevent disruption to sensitive research.
Future鈥憆esilience and operational flexibility: The new facility must support future upgrades, maintenance access, and evolving research demands around helium use and recovery.