Collection: Cryogenic Storage
Cryogenic Storage Systems for Sale
Buy used, refurbished, and surplus cryogenic storage systems from mLab Supply for biobanking, cryopreservation, cell banking, and long-term biological sample storage workflows. We source liquid-phase and vapor-phase liquid nitrogen storage systems from Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington Industries, and Custom BioGenic Systems for academic research, biotech, pharmaceutical, and biobanking environments. Pricing and availability vary by system configuration and capacity — submit a quote request and we will confirm current sourcing options, configuration details, and lead time.
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CBS Custom BioGenic Systems Isothermal LN2 Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Worthington Industries Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Taylor-Wharton LABS Series Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
MVE Vapor Series Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
MVE HEco Series Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Thermo Scientific Locator Series Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Thermo Scientific CryoPlus Series Cryogenic Storage System — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Liquid Nitrogen Storage — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Sold out
Cryogenic Storage — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price
<section class="mlab-collection-buying-guide">
<h2>How to Choose a Cryogenic Storage System</h2>
<p>Selecting a cryogenic storage system requires matching the system's storage capacity, phase configuration, and sample-handling design to your specific biobanking or cryopreservation workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Storage capacity:</strong> Confirm the system's storage capacity in terms of sample vials, straws, or canes matches your current and projected sample volume requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Vapor phase vs liquid phase:</strong> Vapor-phase systems store samples above the liquid nitrogen surface; liquid-phase systems submerge samples directly. Confirm which phase is appropriate for your application and biosafety requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Sample format:</strong> Confirm the system's rack, cane, and canister configuration is compatible with your sample vial or straw format.</li>
<li><strong>Neck opening:</strong> Neck opening diameter affects access workflow and LN2 evaporation rate. Confirm neck size is appropriate for your access frequency and sample retrieval workflow.</li>
<li><strong>LN2 consumption and fill method:</strong> Consider LN2 consumption rate, fill interval, and whether auto-fill capability is required for your facility.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring and alarms:</strong> Confirm whether LN2 level monitoring, temperature monitoring, local alarms, and remote alarm capability are required for your workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Footprint and facility:</strong> Confirm available floor space, ventilation, oxygen-deficiency monitoring requirements, and LN2 supply logistics before purchasing.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider vacuum integrity, local service availability, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-phase">
<h2>Vapor Phase vs Liquid Phase LN2 Storage</h2>
<h3>Vapor Phase Cryogenic Storage</h3>
<p>Vapor-phase cryogenic storage systems maintain samples in the nitrogen vapor space above the liquid nitrogen surface. Samples are not in direct contact with liquid nitrogen, which reduces the risk of cross-contamination between samples and eliminates the potential for liquid nitrogen to enter sealed vials. Vapor-phase systems are commonly used in biobanking, cell banking, and applications where sample-to-sample contamination risk must be minimized. LN2 consumption and temperature uniformity characteristics vary by system design.</p>
<h3>Liquid Phase Cryogenic Storage</h3>
<p>Liquid-phase cryogenic storage systems submerge samples directly in liquid nitrogen, providing highly uniform cryogenic temperatures throughout the storage vessel. Liquid-phase systems are commonly used for long-term storage of biological samples where temperature uniformity is a priority. Direct contact with liquid nitrogen may introduce cross-contamination risk between samples if vial integrity is compromised. Confirm which phase configuration is appropriate for your application and institutional biosafety requirements.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison-ult">
<h2>Cryogenic Storage vs Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems and <a href="/collections/ultra-low-temperature-freezers">ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers</a> are distinct technologies serving different storage workflows. Cryogenic storage systems use liquid nitrogen to maintain cryogenic temperatures and are commonly used for long-term biobanking, cryopreservation, cell banking, and biological sample storage where cryogenic temperatures are required. ULT freezers are mechanically refrigerated systems that typically operate around -80°C and are used for shorter-term storage of biological samples, reagents, and other materials that do not require cryogenic temperatures. They are not interchangeable — the appropriate system depends on your storage temperature requirements and application.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular Cryogenic Storage Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources cryogenic storage systems from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington Industries, and Custom BioGenic Systems. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>CryoPlus Series, Locator Series</dd>
<dt>MVE</dt>
<dd>HEco Series, Vapor Series</dd>
<dt>Taylor-Wharton</dt>
<dd>LABS Series</dd>
<dt>Worthington Industries</dt>
<dd>Cryogenic Storage System</dd>
<dt>Custom BioGenic Systems</dt>
<dd>Isothermal LN2 Storage System</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Cryogenic Storage Systems</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished cryogenic storage systems can offer significant cost savings compared to new systems. When evaluating a used cryogenic storage system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vessel condition:</strong> Confirm the outer vessel is free of damage, dents, and corrosion that could affect vacuum integrity or structural integrity.</li>
<li><strong>Vacuum integrity:</strong> Vacuum integrity is critical for LN2 hold time and system performance. Request available vacuum test history where available. Vacuum integrity cannot be guaranteed on used vessels without independent testing.</li>
<li><strong>Neck tube and lid/cork:</strong> Confirm neck tube condition and lid or cork integrity. Damaged neck components affect LN2 evaporation rate and access workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Level sensors and auto-fill controls:</strong> Confirm LN2 level sensor condition and auto-fill controller function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Solenoid valves and alarms:</strong> Confirm solenoid valve condition and alarm system function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring system:</strong> Confirm monitoring system condition, connectivity, and data logging capability where required.</li>
<li><strong>Racks, canes, and accessories:</strong> Confirm which racks, canes, canisters, and accessories are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Service and decontamination history:</strong> Request available service and decontamination records where available.</li>
</ul>
<p>Vacuum integrity, alarm calibration, accessory completeness, and validation status must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished cryogenic storage system meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-facility">
<h2>LN2 Supply and Facility Considerations</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems require a reliable liquid nitrogen supply and appropriate facility infrastructure. Key facility considerations include LN2 supply logistics (bulk tank, dewar delivery, or on-site generation), fill connections and auto-fill plumbing where applicable, room ventilation and oxygen-deficiency monitoring (ODM) requirements, available floor space and floor loading capacity, placement away from heat sources and high-traffic areas, and access clearance for sample retrieval and LN2 filling. Oxygen-deficiency monitoring is strongly recommended in enclosed spaces where liquid nitrogen is stored or handled. Confirm all facility requirements with your safety team before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-monitoring">
<h2>Monitoring, Alarms, and Data Logging</h2>
<p>Reliable monitoring is critical for long-term cryogenic sample storage. Key monitoring considerations include LN2 level monitoring (continuous or periodic), temperature monitoring where applicable, local audible and visual alarms, remote alarm connectivity for after-hours notification, data logging capability and export formats, controller condition and battery backup where applicable, and available alarm calibration and maintenance documentation. Monitoring capability varies significantly by system model and configuration. Confirm monitoring requirements and system capabilities before purchasing. mLab Supply does not guarantee monitoring system function or calibration status on used instruments.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems support a wide range of biological sample storage workflows including biobanking, cell banking, stem cell storage, cell therapy research, reproductive research, microbiology collections, tissue storage, cryopreservation, pharmaceutical and biotech research, and long-term biological sample storage. Suitability for specific regulated applications, GxP environments, or institutional quality requirements must be confirmed by the buyer and their compliance team.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Logistics</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems require careful handling during transport and installation. Key logistics considerations include freight coordination, deinstallation and rigging at the origin site, upright transport requirements (many cryogenic vessels must remain upright during transport), facility access and doorway dimensions, placement and LN2 connection at the destination, and performance verification after relocation. LN2 must be purged before transport on most systems. Confirm transport and installation requirements before finalizing a purchase. mLab Supply can coordinate freight and rigging for cryogenic storage systems — contact us when requesting a quote.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Asset Disposition</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific cryogenic storage system capacities and configurations on request. We also assist with surplus cryogenic storage purchasing, lab closures, equipment liquidation, and relocation coordination. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus cryogenic storage systems or other laboratory equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing cryogenic storage systems often also require <a href="/collections/ultra-low-temperature-freezers">ultra-low temperature freezers</a> for -80°C mechanical storage, <a href="/collections/lab-freezers-20c">lab freezers</a> for -20°C sample storage, and <a href="/collections/lab-refrigerators">lab refrigerators</a> for cold storage workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from that manufacturer. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus cryogenic storage systems or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>A cryogenic storage system is a vessel or system designed to store biological samples at cryogenic temperatures using liquid nitrogen (LN2). Cryogenic storage systems are used for long-term biobanking, cryopreservation, cell banking, and biological sample storage where samples must be maintained at cryogenic temperatures to preserve viability and integrity.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between vapor-phase and liquid-phase LN2 storage?</summary><p>Vapor-phase systems store samples in the nitrogen vapor space above the liquid nitrogen surface, reducing direct sample contact with LN2 and minimizing cross-contamination risk. Liquid-phase systems submerge samples directly in liquid nitrogen, providing highly uniform cryogenic temperatures. The appropriate phase depends on your application, sample format, and biosafety requirements.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between cryogenic storage and a -80°C freezer?</summary><p>Cryogenic storage systems use liquid nitrogen to maintain cryogenic temperatures and are used for long-term biobanking and cryopreservation. Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers are mechanically refrigerated systems that typically operate around -80°C and serve different storage workflows. They are distinct technologies and are not interchangeable.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>Key inspection points include vessel condition, vacuum integrity, neck tube and lid condition, LN2 level sensor and auto-fill controller function, solenoid valve and alarm system condition, monitoring system capability, rack and cane inclusion and compatibility, and available service and decontamination history. Accessory completeness and vacuum integrity must be confirmed per unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>How do I know whether I need vapor-phase or liquid-phase storage?</summary><p>The choice depends on your application, sample format, biosafety requirements, and institutional policies. Vapor-phase storage is commonly preferred where cross-contamination risk between samples must be minimized. Liquid-phase storage is commonly used where temperature uniformity is the primary priority. Consult your biosafety and quality teams to determine the appropriate configuration for your workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are racks and canes included with used cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Rack, cane, canister, and accessory inclusion varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that racks, canes, or other accessories are included unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Confirm accessory requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used cryogenic storage systems tested before sale?</summary><p>Testing and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used cryogenic storage system has been vacuum-tested, performance-verified, or validated unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available service and test documentation when inquiring about a specific system.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington, or CBS model?</summary><p>Yes. We source cryogenic storage systems from Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington Industries, Custom BioGenic Systems, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, storage capacity, and phase configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished cryogenic storage systems suitable for regulated biobanking?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated biobanking depends on the specific system's condition, vacuum integrity, monitoring capability, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished system meets GxP, AABB, or other regulatory standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>What facility requirements should I confirm before purchasing a cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>Key facility requirements include LN2 supply logistics, room ventilation and oxygen-deficiency monitoring, available floor space and floor loading capacity, fill connection requirements, placement clearance, and doorway access dimensions for delivery. Confirm all facility and safety requirements with your safety team before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and rigging for cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Yes. Cryogenic storage systems require specialized handling during transport. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight, rigging, deinstallation, and installation coordination requirements for your specific location and system size.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus cryogenic storage systems and other laboratory equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>
<h2>How to Choose a Cryogenic Storage System</h2>
<p>Selecting a cryogenic storage system requires matching the system's storage capacity, phase configuration, and sample-handling design to your specific biobanking or cryopreservation workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Storage capacity:</strong> Confirm the system's storage capacity in terms of sample vials, straws, or canes matches your current and projected sample volume requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Vapor phase vs liquid phase:</strong> Vapor-phase systems store samples above the liquid nitrogen surface; liquid-phase systems submerge samples directly. Confirm which phase is appropriate for your application and biosafety requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Sample format:</strong> Confirm the system's rack, cane, and canister configuration is compatible with your sample vial or straw format.</li>
<li><strong>Neck opening:</strong> Neck opening diameter affects access workflow and LN2 evaporation rate. Confirm neck size is appropriate for your access frequency and sample retrieval workflow.</li>
<li><strong>LN2 consumption and fill method:</strong> Consider LN2 consumption rate, fill interval, and whether auto-fill capability is required for your facility.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring and alarms:</strong> Confirm whether LN2 level monitoring, temperature monitoring, local alarms, and remote alarm capability are required for your workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Footprint and facility:</strong> Confirm available floor space, ventilation, oxygen-deficiency monitoring requirements, and LN2 supply logistics before purchasing.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider vacuum integrity, local service availability, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-phase">
<h2>Vapor Phase vs Liquid Phase LN2 Storage</h2>
<h3>Vapor Phase Cryogenic Storage</h3>
<p>Vapor-phase cryogenic storage systems maintain samples in the nitrogen vapor space above the liquid nitrogen surface. Samples are not in direct contact with liquid nitrogen, which reduces the risk of cross-contamination between samples and eliminates the potential for liquid nitrogen to enter sealed vials. Vapor-phase systems are commonly used in biobanking, cell banking, and applications where sample-to-sample contamination risk must be minimized. LN2 consumption and temperature uniformity characteristics vary by system design.</p>
<h3>Liquid Phase Cryogenic Storage</h3>
<p>Liquid-phase cryogenic storage systems submerge samples directly in liquid nitrogen, providing highly uniform cryogenic temperatures throughout the storage vessel. Liquid-phase systems are commonly used for long-term storage of biological samples where temperature uniformity is a priority. Direct contact with liquid nitrogen may introduce cross-contamination risk between samples if vial integrity is compromised. Confirm which phase configuration is appropriate for your application and institutional biosafety requirements.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison-ult">
<h2>Cryogenic Storage vs Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems and <a href="/collections/ultra-low-temperature-freezers">ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers</a> are distinct technologies serving different storage workflows. Cryogenic storage systems use liquid nitrogen to maintain cryogenic temperatures and are commonly used for long-term biobanking, cryopreservation, cell banking, and biological sample storage where cryogenic temperatures are required. ULT freezers are mechanically refrigerated systems that typically operate around -80°C and are used for shorter-term storage of biological samples, reagents, and other materials that do not require cryogenic temperatures. They are not interchangeable — the appropriate system depends on your storage temperature requirements and application.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular Cryogenic Storage Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources cryogenic storage systems from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington Industries, and Custom BioGenic Systems. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>CryoPlus Series, Locator Series</dd>
<dt>MVE</dt>
<dd>HEco Series, Vapor Series</dd>
<dt>Taylor-Wharton</dt>
<dd>LABS Series</dd>
<dt>Worthington Industries</dt>
<dd>Cryogenic Storage System</dd>
<dt>Custom BioGenic Systems</dt>
<dd>Isothermal LN2 Storage System</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Cryogenic Storage Systems</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished cryogenic storage systems can offer significant cost savings compared to new systems. When evaluating a used cryogenic storage system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vessel condition:</strong> Confirm the outer vessel is free of damage, dents, and corrosion that could affect vacuum integrity or structural integrity.</li>
<li><strong>Vacuum integrity:</strong> Vacuum integrity is critical for LN2 hold time and system performance. Request available vacuum test history where available. Vacuum integrity cannot be guaranteed on used vessels without independent testing.</li>
<li><strong>Neck tube and lid/cork:</strong> Confirm neck tube condition and lid or cork integrity. Damaged neck components affect LN2 evaporation rate and access workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Level sensors and auto-fill controls:</strong> Confirm LN2 level sensor condition and auto-fill controller function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Solenoid valves and alarms:</strong> Confirm solenoid valve condition and alarm system function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Monitoring system:</strong> Confirm monitoring system condition, connectivity, and data logging capability where required.</li>
<li><strong>Racks, canes, and accessories:</strong> Confirm which racks, canes, canisters, and accessories are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Service and decontamination history:</strong> Request available service and decontamination records where available.</li>
</ul>
<p>Vacuum integrity, alarm calibration, accessory completeness, and validation status must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished cryogenic storage system meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-facility">
<h2>LN2 Supply and Facility Considerations</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems require a reliable liquid nitrogen supply and appropriate facility infrastructure. Key facility considerations include LN2 supply logistics (bulk tank, dewar delivery, or on-site generation), fill connections and auto-fill plumbing where applicable, room ventilation and oxygen-deficiency monitoring (ODM) requirements, available floor space and floor loading capacity, placement away from heat sources and high-traffic areas, and access clearance for sample retrieval and LN2 filling. Oxygen-deficiency monitoring is strongly recommended in enclosed spaces where liquid nitrogen is stored or handled. Confirm all facility requirements with your safety team before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-monitoring">
<h2>Monitoring, Alarms, and Data Logging</h2>
<p>Reliable monitoring is critical for long-term cryogenic sample storage. Key monitoring considerations include LN2 level monitoring (continuous or periodic), temperature monitoring where applicable, local audible and visual alarms, remote alarm connectivity for after-hours notification, data logging capability and export formats, controller condition and battery backup where applicable, and available alarm calibration and maintenance documentation. Monitoring capability varies significantly by system model and configuration. Confirm monitoring requirements and system capabilities before purchasing. mLab Supply does not guarantee monitoring system function or calibration status on used instruments.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems support a wide range of biological sample storage workflows including biobanking, cell banking, stem cell storage, cell therapy research, reproductive research, microbiology collections, tissue storage, cryopreservation, pharmaceutical and biotech research, and long-term biological sample storage. Suitability for specific regulated applications, GxP environments, or institutional quality requirements must be confirmed by the buyer and their compliance team.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Logistics</h2>
<p>Cryogenic storage systems require careful handling during transport and installation. Key logistics considerations include freight coordination, deinstallation and rigging at the origin site, upright transport requirements (many cryogenic vessels must remain upright during transport), facility access and doorway dimensions, placement and LN2 connection at the destination, and performance verification after relocation. LN2 must be purged before transport on most systems. Confirm transport and installation requirements before finalizing a purchase. mLab Supply can coordinate freight and rigging for cryogenic storage systems — contact us when requesting a quote.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Asset Disposition</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific cryogenic storage system capacities and configurations on request. We also assist with surplus cryogenic storage purchasing, lab closures, equipment liquidation, and relocation coordination. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus cryogenic storage systems or other laboratory equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing cryogenic storage systems often also require <a href="/collections/ultra-low-temperature-freezers">ultra-low temperature freezers</a> for -80°C mechanical storage, <a href="/collections/lab-freezers-20c">lab freezers</a> for -20°C sample storage, and <a href="/collections/lab-refrigerators">lab refrigerators</a> for cold storage workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from that manufacturer. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus cryogenic storage systems or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>A cryogenic storage system is a vessel or system designed to store biological samples at cryogenic temperatures using liquid nitrogen (LN2). Cryogenic storage systems are used for long-term biobanking, cryopreservation, cell banking, and biological sample storage where samples must be maintained at cryogenic temperatures to preserve viability and integrity.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between vapor-phase and liquid-phase LN2 storage?</summary><p>Vapor-phase systems store samples in the nitrogen vapor space above the liquid nitrogen surface, reducing direct sample contact with LN2 and minimizing cross-contamination risk. Liquid-phase systems submerge samples directly in liquid nitrogen, providing highly uniform cryogenic temperatures. The appropriate phase depends on your application, sample format, and biosafety requirements.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between cryogenic storage and a -80°C freezer?</summary><p>Cryogenic storage systems use liquid nitrogen to maintain cryogenic temperatures and are used for long-term biobanking and cryopreservation. Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers are mechanically refrigerated systems that typically operate around -80°C and serve different storage workflows. They are distinct technologies and are not interchangeable.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>Key inspection points include vessel condition, vacuum integrity, neck tube and lid condition, LN2 level sensor and auto-fill controller function, solenoid valve and alarm system condition, monitoring system capability, rack and cane inclusion and compatibility, and available service and decontamination history. Accessory completeness and vacuum integrity must be confirmed per unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>How do I know whether I need vapor-phase or liquid-phase storage?</summary><p>The choice depends on your application, sample format, biosafety requirements, and institutional policies. Vapor-phase storage is commonly preferred where cross-contamination risk between samples must be minimized. Liquid-phase storage is commonly used where temperature uniformity is the primary priority. Consult your biosafety and quality teams to determine the appropriate configuration for your workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are racks and canes included with used cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Rack, cane, canister, and accessory inclusion varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that racks, canes, or other accessories are included unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Confirm accessory requirements before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used cryogenic storage systems tested before sale?</summary><p>Testing and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used cryogenic storage system has been vacuum-tested, performance-verified, or validated unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available service and test documentation when inquiring about a specific system.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington, or CBS model?</summary><p>Yes. We source cryogenic storage systems from Thermo Scientific, MVE, Taylor-Wharton, Worthington Industries, Custom BioGenic Systems, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, storage capacity, and phase configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished cryogenic storage systems suitable for regulated biobanking?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated biobanking depends on the specific system's condition, vacuum integrity, monitoring capability, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished system meets GxP, AABB, or other regulatory standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>What facility requirements should I confirm before purchasing a cryogenic storage system?</summary><p>Key facility requirements include LN2 supply logistics, room ventilation and oxygen-deficiency monitoring, available floor space and floor loading capacity, fill connection requirements, placement clearance, and doorway access dimensions for delivery. Confirm all facility and safety requirements with your safety team before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and rigging for cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Yes. Cryogenic storage systems require specialized handling during transport. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight, rigging, deinstallation, and installation coordination requirements for your specific location and system size.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus cryogenic storage systems?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus cryogenic storage systems and other laboratory equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>