Frequently Asked Questions about Semen Tanks
The purpose of IC Biomedical’s semen tanks is to preserve your investment until it can be put to its intended use – no matter how long that may be. We get a lot of questions about semen storage and transportation. Here are some of the typical questions we get asked by end users.
The number one reason is our products are made in the United States (Cartersville, GA) and with US-sourced materials. We follow world-class manufacturing standards so you can be assured each tank is the highest quality. Next, our neck tubes are designed to be stronger and last longer. When a tank is filled with LN2 and moved, the liquid will cause the inner vessel to swing and sway. Our neck tubes are designed to last longer with a reinforced structure that provides added strength. We use a grade of aluminum that allows sway without breaking. Some manufacturers, to save money, have thinner neck tubes which can cause premature failure. IC Biomedical’s neck tubes are thicker to last longer and keep your samples safer.
Like everything, it depends on how it is handled. A tank that is well cared for should last 10 – 15 years. (See our 5 Tips on How to Make Your Semen Tank Last Longer)
It is no problem to transport a semen tank inside the passenger compartment of your vehicle if the top is securely in place and the tank is secured. Modern vehicles circulate more than enough fresh air and the amount of LN2 vented is minimal. We highly recommend securing your tank with a seatbelt or other method. The less movement the tank experiences when filled, the longer it will last. And you certainly don’t want it to tip over while you’re driving.
Yes, but make sure it is secure with straps or in a box that is strapped down. Don’t allow your tank to roll around – empty or full. This will shorten its life.
The 10XT is one of our most popular semen tanks. It's great for AI techs or small operations in that it is easy to carry (35 pounds full and a full bail handle) and has enough capacity for a day’s work. It needs to be refilled about every 60 days, which is ideal if you’re at a remote location.
You can, but keep in mind Shippers are more expensive than small freezers and have lower holding times. Shippers are a lot more work to maintain. A small freezer like the 10XT is a better option.
No! Aluminum reacts with the alkalis (OH) found in Portland cement concrete. When these two chemicals are combined, the reaction produces hydrogen gas. So concrete, when in direct contact with aluminum, creates a caustic reaction that will degrade the bottom of the tank and make it lose its vacuum. You should always use a cardboard or wood barrier between your tank and a concrete floor. Ideally, store your tank on a wood or fiber pallet in a cardboard box for maximum protection.
This is done to add strength to the tank. Because the outer chamber of the tank is in a vacuum state, this area naturally wants to collapse the outer wall of the tank inward. The ribs provide additional strength for a longer-lasting product.
Our TW brand tank designs were originally developed by Taylor-Wharton, which was the first company to develop insulated liquid cylinder products in 1957. Taylor-Wharton sold its Cryoscience division to Worthington Industries in 2015, and IC Biomedical acquired the line from Worthington in 2020. We believe the original Taylor-Wharton tank designs continue to be the best. We have made some small design tweaks, but the basic design is the same. So yes, we manufacture Taylor-Wharton-designed storage and transport cryogenic devices.