Inside your MRI machine is the cooling system or cold head, which helps keep the magnet working properly. The liquid helium inside of the MRI device will turn from liquid to gas once it reaches increased temperatures. The cold head will then make sure to recondense the gas to liquid to keep it from burning off in its totality.

The average lifespan of a cold head inside of the used MRI scanner is anywhere from 2 to 3 years; if it’s recently been refurbished, it can last from 3 to 4 years, and if it’s new, it will typically last 4 to 5 years. Extending the life of your cold head can be possible if you make sure to have stable power and chillers. Having your medical imaging equipment serviced properly is also beneficial.

Some ways you can tell your cold head could stop working is when the pressure on the magnet is highly elevated. If the pressure reaches over 5 psi, the MRI machine will start to lose helium. The cold head could also fail if there is acceleration or elevation of boiloff in the 10k system. If your MRI device increases noise levels that sound like loud pounding or grinding, it can signal that the cold head isn’t working. Another thing to look out for is if temperatures on your used MRI scanner continue rising. 

If it’s time to replace your cold head, or you want to upgrade your pre-owned medical imaging equipment, you can reach us at Medilab Global, where we have refurbished MRI Machines for sale and used MRI Machines For Sale! As a third-party provider, we can help guide you through the process of purchasing pre-owned medical imaging equipment like an MRI device. Our team can help you find the best option for your facility, and we can also ensure the de-installation of the old and the installment of your new purchase. We even offer a trade-in program, where you can put your old device towards a new purchase.