The Client –
Trade client working on behalf of an NHS hospital
The Challenge –
Critical cooling for MRI scanners
The Solution –
Aqua Pro chiller system
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an extremely versatile diagnostic tool, using strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce high resolution images. The NHS in England conduct millions of MRI scans every year and they’re used in a wide range of medical scenarios. With our experience of designing & installing cooling systems for MRI applications, Aqua were recommend by a consultant to a trade customer who was working on behalf of an NHS hospital in the North of England.
Situation
The hospital had invested significantly in a new MRI suite which would house three new MRI scanners. MRI scanners rely on powerful superconducting magnets, which must be sufficiently cooled to function properly. Liquid helium is used to keep the magnets at an ultra-low -269°C, but a chiller based cooling system plays an essential supporting role.
Any temperature fluctuations can cause issues with the magnetic field and affect image quality. If the magnets themselves aren’t properly cooled, they can lose their superconductive properties which can result in a catastrophic failure. In this scenario, the liquid helium has to be discharged, which has a heavy financial impact as well as compromising patient appointments and treatment plans.
Solution
Our team designed a cooling system based around three of our Aqua Pro chillers. The units are specifically built for process application and are easily customisable. As well as being robust, they’re exceptionally reliable and energy efficient.
We added an integrated reservoir tank to each chiller, to help with the fluctuating load that is created by the scanner going from scanning to idling mode. When the unit is scanning it requires more cooling load then when it’s awaiting use.
The chillers are also non-ferrous, so any risk of corrosion is eliminated. This is key with an MRI application because the pathways within the scanner are extremely fine, so it’s important to ensure they can’t be blocked by contamination, however small.
The compressor on each chiller has a soft start, which reduces the effect of the start up current and limits the in rush power. Essentially, soft start helps improve overall efficiency.
We also included run & standby pumps, to give built-in resilience, and all necessary pipework and ancillaries. Resilience is important as any risk to scanner operation will impact patients’ appointments and care.
Results
“This project is a great example of how our partnerships with trade customers can really help them enhance what they offer to their end user clients” explains Aqua Regional Sales Manager, Mark Whittaker.
“MRIs are an extremely expensive resource, both to acquire and run, and they have very precise temperature control requirements. By working with Aqua, we could provide the specialist knowledge and system design needed to ensure our trade client could offer the absolute best product & service to their NHS client. As well as installing and commissioning the project, we’ll also provide ongoing support with a preventative maintenance plan.”
If you’re a trade customer looking for support with your next project, give the team a call on 0333 004 4433, we’d love to help.
