The document provides guidance on properly caring for and maintaining liquid nitrogen refrigerators used for storing animal semen. Key points covered include how to safely handle liquid nitrogen, monitor refrigerator performance using dipsticks and monitor ampules, and keep organized records to track inventory levels and identify failures. Regular checks and following safety precautions are emphasized to protect the semen samples and avoid hazards.
In this section we will explore the equipment you will need for an A.I. Program.
Let’s begin with the refrigerator, it is an extremely efficient piece. The construction is similar to that in a thermos. It has an inner chamber surrounded by insulation, and an outer shell made of aluminum. Then is vacuum drawn and sealed.
Refrigerators are sturdy pieces of equipment, but need to be handled properly when moving it, to reduce the risk of damage.
Always store in a well ventilated area, nitrogen displaces oxygen. Also liquid nitrogen is like boiling water and will burn the skin. Never store the refrigerator directly on concrete, as it causes electrolysis and can damage the aluminum outer shell.
Sanitation is a priority, so keep your refrigerator clean by washing with cold water and a mild detergent.
Liquid nitrogen can burn the skin, wear the proper clothing and safety equipment when handling it.
Should your stopper freeze, remove immediately by using a screwdriver to pry it out. (Be careful of the neck tube.) Keeping the stopper in place and the dustcover closed will reduce the chances of the stopper freezing.
Have a schedule to check your nitrogen level regularly, all refers will eventually fail, and this can prevent losing valuable semen.
Ultimately the responsibility to maintain and service the unit rests with you, the user.
Each refrigerator should have a tag that indicates the model number. This chart, which is also in your manual in Chapter 8 on page 4, can help determine the holding time.
You will also find a chart indicating expected nitrogen levels on page 8-4.
By keeping an ongoing record of your nitrogen measurements you can be proactive to any failures.
Monitor ampules are provided as a tool to help you protect your semen investment.
Check your monitor ampules after each use or opening of the refrigerator, read them in the neck tube.
When transferring semen wear proper safety equipment and do it quickly, it is a two-person job.
Keeping a record of your semen inventory is just good business. It eliminates hunting through all the canisters, unnecessarily exposing semen to risk of damage.
These are the key things to remember regarding your liquid nitrogen refrigerator.