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> There are NO alternatives.

We use a lot in our MR scanners.

The tech is changing and magnets are using far far less.

Super-conduction at higher temperatures has made progress too.

So while you are right that nothing else stays liquid at those temps, we won’t be needing nearly as much helium in radiology in the next few years.

The new generation use something like 700ml of helium, where the standard was hundreds of litres. https://magneticsmag.com/siemens-healthineers-gets-fda-clear...



> So while you are right that nothing else stays liquid at those temps, we won’t be needing nearly as much helium in radiology in the next few years.

How many loans for MRI machines that require helium haven't been paid back yet?


I know of a few.

They use a lot when installed, but rarely need top-ups.

They are shipped full of helium and chilled, but aren’t ramped up (so aren’t superconducting magnets until after commissioning).




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