Liquid nitrogen tanks are designed with strict safety standards, but under extreme misuse or poor maintenance, rupture accidents may occur. Although rare, such incidents can cause severe equipment damage, product loss, and personal injury. Understanding the causes and taking preventive measures is essential for laboratories, medical facilities, and industrial users who rely on cryogenic storage.

1. Main Causes of Rupture

(1) Pressure Build-Up Due to Blocked Venting
Liquid nitrogen continuously evaporates, creating vapor pressure inside the tank. If the vent becomes blocked by frost, ice, impurities, or improper sealing, internal pressure may rise beyond the structural limit, leading to tank deformation or rupture.

(2) Vacuum Failure
A liquid nitrogen tank relies on high-quality vacuum insulation between the inner and outer vessels. When the vacuum layer degrades due to mechanical damage, corrosion, or aging, heat rapidly enters the tank. This accelerates LN₂ evaporation and raises internal pressure, increasing rupture risk.

(3) Mechanical Impact or Structural Damage
Dropping, collisions, or using a tank beyond its service life can lead to invisible cracks or weakened weld joints. Under cryogenic conditions, damaged structures become more brittle, significantly increasing the possibility of catastrophic failure.

(4) Improper Modification or Non-Standard Accessories
Using non-certified plugs, lids, or pressure-tight fittings on a non-pressure tank can prevent normal venting and create dangerous pressure accumulation.

2. Prevention Measures

• Ensure continuous venting: Never block the neck opening or use airtight caps.

• Inspect vacuum integrity: Monitor frost buildup or abnormal boiling — early signs of vacuum loss.

• Avoid mechanical impact: Transport tanks upright and use protective carts.

• Follow service life guidelines: Replace old or damaged tanks promptly.

• Use certified accessories: Do not modify the neck or cap structure.

Regular inspection and proper handling greatly minimize rupture risk, ensuring safe, long-term use of LN₂ tanks.