Are there different grades of helium

Research grade liquid helium is also an essential part of any MRI machine. This is because they require superconductive magnets that must be kept at a temperature of below 10 Kelvin in order to function. Such a lower temperature is essential because it enables superconductivity - leading to an electrical conductor without resistance, which means that there are no losses.

At this time, helium is the only medium that is cold enough to promote superconductivity in metal alloys. Like One other essential use for this gas can be seen as a shielding gas in welding. Shielding gases are inert or semi-inert gases used in various MIG and TIG welding practices to protect the weld area from water vapor and oxygen. It also has high thermal conductivity and higher ionization potential; meaning that it can absorb very high amounts of energy before it becomes ionized , resulting in a hotter arc at higher voltage.

This is because an all-helium atmosphere is the most effective way to prevent air bubbles from being trapped in the fibers during cooling. The vast majority of other elements may contaminate the fibers, rendering them useless. One common use for this grade of helium is gas chromatography, where different compounds are separated and analyzed.

The light atomic weight of helium, in conjunction with its inert properties and the fact that it is considerably safer to store than hydrogen, makes it a popular choice for gas chromatography across a range of life science and medical uses.

Ultra high purity helium is also commonly used in mass spectrometry , which is an analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions - or in other words, leak detection.

It also has a small atomic size, so it passes easily through leaks [1]. One other major use for ultra high purity helium?

Automotive Helium is used to test for leaks and ensure quality in automotive parts like fuel tanks and radiator systems.

Bulk Deliveries Helium is also available in bulk gas and liquid delivery, as well as in a full range of purities and tank sizes. Are you ready? Improve your procurement process, gain visibility and control of inventory, increase safety and productivity, and lower your overall costs.

Increase supply-chain efficiency with the convenience and expertise of Airgas packaged gas supply. Simplify your purchase-to-pay process by integrating your procurement software or ERP system with a solution that maximizes workflow. Need an Account? Register or Login. For example, 6. The second number after the decimal point represents the number after the last 9. So, 4. Note that within each of the different grades of helium, there can be even further variations within each grade, depending on your helium supplier and your specific need.

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