Liquid Nitrogen Store
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“There are ten unique research departments within the KRI facility. My role is to facilitate the researchers’ needs with equipment and supplies, enable preventative maintenance programmes to improve time and facility efficiencies and maintaining accreditation standards” Mark Ornatowski, KRI Laboratory Manager. |
What We Do
Liquid nitrogen is internationally recognised as being one of the most efficient and effective methods of storing organic samples for medical research and experiments. Liquid nitrogen storage has proved to be invaluable for medical researchers around the world and also here at the Kids Research Institute.
The KRI’s Liquid Nitrogen Store provides the proper storage and the service provision of liquid nitrogen, giving researchers the means to preserve samples for further observation into the causes behind various childhood diseases and conditions.
Facility Functions
Through a series of storage tanks, Dewar’s, the Liquid Nitrogen Storage facility provides researchers at the Kids Research Institute with a safe and effective means for the storage of samples and experiments in sub-zero temperatures.
An in-line system for liquid nitrogen access and storage is currently being acquired to improve the Liquid Nitrogen Store’s capabilities.
Current Projects
The in-line system for providing liquid nitrogen is soon to be installed, enhancing the Liquid Nitrogen Store’s service provision and capacity within the KRI.
Currently, liquid nitrogen is transported manually via lifts, but with the implementation of the in-line system, liquid nitrogen can be transported through an insulated piping system from the ground floor up directly to the Liquid Nitrogen Store.
This system will not only improve safety for its users and operators (by removing the manual process of refilling), but also maintain a more consistent supply during storage.
The in line system has been purchased and is currently in the process of manufacturing its components, delivery and final installation. The system is due to be installed in late September/October 2011.
Major Achievements
Following the construction of the Kerry Packer Building (which the KRI is now located within), one of the biggest challenges has been bringing the laboratory services and provisions from the old building in line with the newer facilities of the Kerry Packer Building, thereby creating a level of consistency for the KRI’s researchers.
The Liquid Nitrogen Store has kept up with these changes, and through the recent appointment of Mark Ornatowski as Laboratory Manager, hopes to continue with providing the various KRI research groups with the best possible equipment and services related to the use of liquid nitrogen.
Laboratory Manager
- Mark Ornatowski
E:
T: +61 2 9845 3091
Mob: 0418 283 427
Prepared by: David Shi, 2011 Science Communications Intern
