Cobra

Cobra has been designed specifically for labs looking for Cryostream-like efficiency and functionality, without the need for liquid nitrogen. Whether the driving force is logistics, safety or simply the cost of liquid nitrogen, Cobra provides a practical and efficient answer.

Cobra uses nitrogen gas, either provided by the optional generator or an in-house supply, to produce a constant cold stream of nitrogen, down to 80 K. This makes it ideal for researchers intent on avoiding the expense, inconvenience and safety issues associated with refilling Dewars with liquid nitrogen.

Room temperature compressed nitrogen gas is cooled by the Cobra refrigerator, and delivered to the Cobra head via a vacuum insulated transfer line. Whilst the Cobra head is smaller than the Cryostream coldhead, the dimensions of the nozzle have been retained, meaning the Varibeam support stand can still be used to support and position the nozzle. An external stream of nitrogen gas (or dry air) at room temperature creates the laminar flow, which prevents icing of the sample.

Cobra consists of:

• Cobra gas delivery head, designed in the style of the Cryostream head*
• 2 metre flexible insulated vacuum hose connecting Cobra head to Cobra refrigerator*
• Cobra refrigerator incorporating a single stage GM coldhead*
• Water-cooled GM refrigerator compressor
• Optional nitrogen gas generator

*The first 3 items are permanently joined to form an integrated assembly.

Customers with an in-house dry nitrogen gas supply can plug this straight into the Cobra refrigerator. Otherwise, we supply a nitrogen generator, which we have chosen especially for its efficiency and small footprint. This model produces sufficient nitrogen gas for the inner and outer stream, meaning a dry air unit is not required.