The Power of Helium in MRI Imaging: How nexAir Supports Healthcare Facilities

Hospital administrators know MRI machines are expensive, essential, and surprisingly finicky. These million-dollar diagnostic tools need liquid helium to stay cold enough to work properly, and when helium runs low, the entire system shuts down. That means cancelled appointments, frustrated patients, and lost revenue until the machine returns online. With nexAir’s KnowHow™, healthcare facilities can keep their MRI systems running smoothly without worrying about helium supply problems that disrupt patient care.

Why MRI Systems Need Liquid Helium

MRI machines create images by using incredibly powerful magnets that must stay colder than outer space. The magnets inside these systems work through superconductivity, which only happens at temperatures around minus 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Liquid helium is the only practical way to reach and maintain these extreme temperatures.

When helium levels drop or temperatures fluctuate, the magnetic field becomes unstable and image quality suffers. Radiologists can’t make accurate diagnoses from blurry or distorted scans, which means patients might need repeat procedures or alternative testing methods. Keeping helium levels stable protects both image quality and patient experience.

Older MRI systems typically consume more helium than newer models because their insulation systems become less efficient over time. Some facilities operate multiple MRI units with different helium requirements, making supply management even more complex. Understanding these consumption patterns helps prevent unexpected shortages that could affect multiple machines simultaneously.

How nexAir Keeps Your MRI Running

Healthcare facilities use helium differently than industrial operations because MRI machines run continuously and can’t be shut down for routine maintenance during business hours. We track consumption patterns for each facility and schedule deliveries that prevent shortages without overstocking expensive liquid helium.

Emergencies happen when helium systems develop leaks or unexpected demand spikes occur. Our response teams understand that MRI downtime affects patient scheduling and hospital operations in ways that go far beyond simple equipment repair. With reliable helium supply and quick response capabilities, hospitals and imaging centers can Forge Forward with confidence, knowing their diagnostic equipment stays operational when patients need it most.

Technical support helps facility managers optimize helium usage while maintaining the performance standards that diagnostic imaging requires. MRI cooling systems involve complex safety procedures and specialized handling requirements that our team understands thoroughly. We also provide guidance on storage best practices and safety protocols that protect both equipment and personnel.

Cost management becomes important because liquid helium represents a significant ongoing expense for most healthcare facilities. Our delivery scheduling helps minimize waste from boil-off while ensuring adequate supply during peak usage periods. Many facilities find that proper helium management reduces their overall imaging costs while improving equipment reliability.

Keeping Your Diagnostics Running Smoothly

MRI systems represent major investments that need consistent support to deliver the diagnostic capabilities modern healthcare depends on. The right helium supplier understands that healthcare operates differently than other industries and provides service that matches those unique demands.

Want to ensure your MRI systems have a dependable helium supply that keeps diagnostic services running without interruption? Contact nexAir to learn how our healthcare-focused delivery and support can help your facility maintain the imaging capabilities your patients and doctors count on every day.