NORHOF Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About Norhof and LN2 Microdosing Systems
What does Norhof specialize in??
Norhof develops, produces, and distributes a wide range of liquid nitrogen (LN2) dosing systems, focusing on innovation, quality, and close customer contact for over 40 years
What is an LN2 microdosing system??
An LN2 microdosing system gently delivers liquid nitrogen from a low-pressure storage vessel (Dewar) to the application in controlled, small amounts. This method avoids the risks and drawbacks of high-pressure LN2 systems, such as noise, vibration, and excessive waste
What are the main applications of Norhof LN2 systems??
Norhof systems are used for filling FTIR detectors, SEM, TEM or FIB microscopes, cold traps, cryogenic electron microscopes, DSC and other laboratory and industrial applications where precise, safe, and clean LN2 dosing is required
What types of LN2 dosing systems does Norhof offer??
Norhof offers both manual and automatic LN2 dosing systems:
Manual systems: For safe, hand-controlled administration of LN2 in small vessels
Automatic systems: Programmable microdosing with various control options, including level and temperature-based modes, remote control, and data logging
How does the Norhof LN2 pump work??
The pump creates a gentle overpressure (up to 300 mBar) in the Dewar by heating a small amount of LN2, causing the liquid to rise and flow out without the need for high pressure or solenoid valves. This ensures quiet, spill-free, and precise LN2 delivery
What are the advantages of Norhof’s low-pressure LN2 systems??
No need for high-pressure vessels or solenoid valves
Minimal risk of ice formation in the Dewar
Quiet, vibration-free operation
Adjustable and precise flow rates
Enhanced safety and compliance with laboratory standards
What sizes of Dewars are available??
Norhof offers lightweight, robust aluminum Dewars in various sizes (e.g., 35L, 50L, 100L), all equipped for easy LN2 withdrawal and transport
Can Norhof systems be integrated with laboratory automation??
Yes, Norhof’s automatic systems can be controlled remotely via software, PLCs, or computers, and support multiple control modes for seamless integration into automated laboratory setups
Is it possible to use Norhof systems with other cryogenic liquids??
Certain models, such as the #915, can also be used for liquid argon dosing. Please contact Norhof for specific requirements
How can I get technical support or request a custom solution??
Contact Norhof directly via email (info@norhof.com) or phone (+31 – 85 – 1045715) for support, custom solutions, or further technical information
Product-Specific Questions
What is the flow rate of Norhof LN2 pumps??
Manual pumps: Up to 1 liter/minute
Automatic pumps: Adjustable from a few drops up to 0.5 liters/minute
Are Norhof systems suitable for sensitive laboratory environments??
Yes, the systems are designed for safe use inside laboratories, near workspaces, thanks to their low-pressure operation and compliance with safety standards
Can I monitor and log LN2 usage??
Yes, Norhof automatic systems offer software monitoring and data logging capabilities for process control and traceability
How do I choose the right Norhof system for my application??
Consider your application’s required dosing precision, automation level, and integration needs. Contact Norhof for expert advice tailored to your requirements
NORHOF Applications in a Laboratory environment
For FTIR Detectors and Laser Detectors
How does the Norhof system support FTIR and laser detector applications??
Norhof LN2 microdosing systems offer unattended, automatic refilling of FTIR and laser detectors, ensuring consistent cooling and minimizing downtime. The system can be programmed for overnight measurements and automatic sequences, making it ideal for laboratories that require reliable, hands-off operation
Can the system be adapted to fit different detector brands??
Yes, Norhof provides standard adaptors for brands like Bruker and Shimadzu, and custom adaptors are available on request for other detector types, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of scientific instruments
For Research and Physical Laboratories
Why are Norhof systems preferred in research labs and physical laboratories??
They allow safe, precise, and spill-free hand-controlled or automatic filling of small Dewars, samples, or experimental setups. The low-pressure, microdosing approach reduces risks, noise, and LN2 waste, making daily use practical and safe at the workstation
What typical tasks do Norhof systems perform in research labs??
Filling small Dewars or containers for experiments
Cooling small objects or chemical reactions
Freezing small samples
Filling Dry Shippers for sample transport
For Automated Laboratory Workflows
How does the Norhof system integrate with automated workflows??
The automatic LN2 microdosing pumps can be remotely controlled via software or PC, support multiple level and temperature control modes, and offer monitoring and data logging. This enables seamless integration into automated laboratory processes, such as unattended overnight measurements or scheduled sample cooling
For Cryogenic Sample Storage and Transport
Can Norhof systems be used for filling Dry Shippers??
Yes, the hand-controlled systems are ideal for safely and efficiently filling Dry Shippers with LN2, ensuring proper sample preservation during transport without the risks of overfilling or spillage
For Small-Scale Cryogenic Cooling
Are Norhof systems suitable for cooling small chemical reactions or objects??
Absolutely. The precise, low-flow dosing is perfect for controlled cooling of small-scale chemical reactions or delicate objects, minimizing thermal shock and LN2 waste
General Application Question
What are the main benefits of using Norhof LN2 microdosing systems for these applications??
Gentle, pressureless LN2 delivery
Adjustable and programmable flow rates
Minimal risk of spillage, noise, and vibration
Enhanced safety for laboratory personnel
Compatibility with a wide range of scientific and industrial equipment
If you have a specific application in mind, please contact Norhof for tailored advice and solutions.
What are the main applications of the Norhof LN2 microdosing system??
The Norhof LN2 microdosing system is designed for precise, safe, and automated dispensing of liquid nitrogen (LN2) in a wide range of laboratory and industrial settings. Its main applications include:
Filling Cold Traps in Vacuum Systems
Automated or manual filling of cold traps to maintain optimal vacuum conditions in scientific and industrial processes2.
Filling Biological Storage Vessels
Controlled LN2 delivery for cryogenic storage of biological samples, ensuring consistent temperatures and minimizing sample loss2.
FTIR Detector Refilling
Automatic, gentle refilling of FTIR detectors (e.g., Bruker, Shimadzu) to enable uninterrupted, overnight, or long-duration measurements without operator intervention8.
DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimeter) Filling
Fully automatic, slow filling of DSC systems to maintain precise cooling during measurements, eliminating the need for manual refills and improving operator safety7.
Filling Small Vessels and Dewars
Safe, spill-free filling of small laboratory vessels, Dewars, or samples, either manually or automatically, directly at the workstation6.
Hand-Controlled Cooling and Freezing
Manual administration of LN2 for cooling small objects, freezing small samples, or filling Dry Shippers for sample transport6.
Temperature-Controlled Applications
Precise LN2 dosing for temperature stages in microscopes, thermal analysis systems, gas chromatography, and sub-zero temperature control systems2.
Stopping Chemical Reactions
Controlled cooling to rapidly halt chemical reactions at specific process stages2.
Cooling of Targets, IR Cells, and Cuvettes
Microdosing LN2 to cool sensitive components in research and analytical instruments2.
Computer-Controlled Freezing and Automated Laboratory Workflows
Integration with laboratory automation systems for remote-controlled, programmable LN2 dosing, including software monitoring and data logging12.
These applications benefit from Norhof’s pressure-less, spill-free, and vibration-free LN2 delivery, which enhances safety, precision, and workflow efficiency in laboratory environments
FAQ for International Customers – Norhof LN2 Microdosing Systems
Can Norhof LN2 systems be shipped internationally??
Yes. Norhof regularly ships products worldwide. All systems are carefully packaged to meet international shipping standards, and documentation is provided for customs clearance.
Are Norhof systems compatible with international power supplies??
Yes. Norhof LN2 systems are available in versions compatible with both 110V and 230V power supplies, and come with the appropriate plug type for your country upon request.
What languages are user manuals and support materials available in??
User manuals are provided in English. Additional languages may be available upon request. Technical support is primarily offered in English.
Does Norhof provide technical support for international customers??
Absolutely. Norhof offers remote technical support via email, phone, and video conferencing. Our team can assist with installation, troubleshooting, and application advice regardless of your location.
What certifications do Norhof systems have for international use??
Norhof systems comply with relevant European safety and quality standards, such as the CE mark. Please contact us if you require region-specific certifications or documentation.
How are customs duties and import taxes handled??
Customs duties, import taxes, and any local fees are the responsibility of the customer. Norhof provides all necessary commercial invoices and shipping documents to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
Can Norhof systems be integrated with laboratory equipment from non-European manufacturers??
Yes. Norhof systems are designed to be compatible with a wide range of laboratory instruments worldwide. Adaptors for major brands (e.g., Bruker, Shimadzu) are available, and custom solutions can be provided on request.
What is the typical lead time for international orders??
Lead times vary depending on the product and destination, but most orders are shipped within 2–4 weeks. You will receive an estimated delivery date upon order confirmation.
Is training available for international customers??
Yes. Norhof provides remote training sessions and detailed user manuals to ensure correct installation and operation. On-site training may be available in select regions—please inquire for details.
How do I place an order from outside the Netherlands??
Contact Norhof directly via email (info@norhof.com) or phone (+31 – 85 – 1045715). Our team will guide you through the ordering process, provide a quote, and arrange shipping to your location.
FAQ: Reliability and Lifetime of Norhof LN2 Microdosing Systems
How reliable are Norhof LN2 microdosing systems??
Norhof systems are engineered for high reliability, using a static pump design with minimal moving parts. This reduces the risk of mechanical failure and ensures consistent performance over time. The systems are ready for use 24 hours a day and deliver LN2 on demand, with no need for warm-up or priming.
What is the expected lifetime of a Norhof LN2 system??
Thanks to the robust design and use of pressure-less Dewars, Norhof systems typically offer a long operational lifetime. The lack of high-pressure components, solenoid valves, or complex control instruments minimizes wear and tear, contributing to extended service life.
What maintenance is required to ensure longevity??
Routine maintenance is minimal. Periodic checks should be performed on Dewar seals, fill hoses, and electrical connections. Keeping the system clean and dry, and regularly inspecting for condensation or frost buildup, will help maintain optimal performance and extend equipment life. Dewar vessels should be checked for integrity and venting, and any worn parts should be replaced as needed.
Are there any common failure points??
The static pump design eliminates common failure points found in systems with solenoid valves or high-pressure fittings. There are no internal LN2 valves or external control valves that could fail, reducing downtime and maintenance needs.
How does the system avoid performance degradation over time??
Norhof systems use insulated tubing and have a low thermal mass, which means there is minimal heat transfer and rapid LN2 delivery. This design reduces ice buildup and thermal stress, helping maintain high filling efficiency (over 90%) throughout the system’s lifetime.
What should I do if my system requires service??
If service is needed, Norhof provides technical support and replacement parts. Most issues can be resolved by replacing consumables or performing minor repairs, thanks to the system’s modular and accessible design.
If you have more questions or need a custom solution, please contact Norhof’s support team.