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In modern bioscience, the long-term and secure storage of cells and biological material is a central component of many workflows – from basic research to reproductive medicine. Reliable cryogenic cell storage is not only a logistical issue but also a matter of quality assurance. The choice of the right liquid nitrogen container plays a decisive role in this context.
As a specialized distributor of cryogenic storage and transport containers, we would like to provide you with an overview of what matters when selecting the appropriate system – regardless of whether you operate a research laboratory, an IVF clinic, or a biomedical facility.
1. Clearly Define the Intended Use: Storage or Transport
The first step in selecting the right container is clarifying the intended use:
The right choice depends significantly on your daily requirements: Do samples need to be moved regularly, do they remain stationary in storage for months – or do they need to be shipped?
Tip:
For purely stationary applications, standard storage containers are more efficient and cost-effective in operation. If samples are regularly transported, combination containers are recommended. For dedicated shipping – particularly by air – the specialized dry shipper containers are the optimal solution.
2. Define Capacity & Sample Format
Another central factor in selecting the appropriate container is the required storage volume as well as the sample format used. Both significantly determine the design and equipment of the cryogenic container.
Capacity: Analyze precisely which sample formats (e.g., vials or straws) you intend to store and in what quantity. These parameters are decisive for selecting the appropriate model.
Carrier Systems: Check which system the container is equipped with – canisters or racks.
Canister Systems: Available in short (-S, 120 mm) and long (-L, 276 mm) versions. Short canisters are suitable exclusively for storing straws. Long canisters allow storage of both straws and vials.
Rack Systems: These are used in models with larger neck openings (AC 2XL-B and AC 3XL-B) and are optimized for structured storage of vials in cryoboxes or blood bags (AC 3XL).
Capacity is one of the most important decision criteria: A container that is too small quickly leads to bottlenecks, whereas an oversized container causes unnecessary operating costs.
Tip:
Plan with future demand in mind. Moderate oversizing creates flexibility for growing sample numbers and reduces investment pressure during expansions.
3. Static Hold Time & Evaporation Rate: Operating Costs and Safety
Both values are decisive for operating costs, safety, and maintenance effort.
Static Hold Time: Indicates how long the container maintains the temperature without refilling – important for planning refill intervals, maintenance cycles, and for the safety of the samples.
Evaporation Rate: Refers to the daily loss of liquid nitrogen. A low rate reduces operating costs and minimizes the refill effort.
Although all AC containers use the same high-quality insulation technology, these values vary. They primarily depend on the following factors:
Neck Opening: Smaller openings reduce heat influx and thus the evaporation rate.
Volume: Larger containers generally have longer static hold times than smaller models, as they can store more nitrogen relative to their internal surface area. This results in less cold loss, which lowers the evaporation rate and keeps the temperature stable for longer.
Usage Intensity: Frequent opening, high ambient temperatures, or direct sunlight increase the evaporation rate.
If these aspects are considered during selection, frequent refill intervals, unnecessary nitrogen consumption, and high maintenance costs can be reliably avoided.
Tip:
For infrequent access, choose models with maximum hold time. For frequent withdrawals, variants with a balanced ratio between easy handling and controlled evaporation rate are recommended.
4. Evaluate Ergonomics and Handling in Daily Use
Although ergonomics of a liquid nitrogen container is not the most important selection criterion in cryogenic cell storage, it can still play a role in daily operations – particularly when samples are regularly retrieved. The following ergonomic aspects should be considered:
Opening Diameter: A smaller neck diameter extends hold time but makes handling more difficult. A larger opening simplifies access and increases storage capacity but leads to higher nitrogen consumption. Which opening makes sense?
Larger neck opening: Recommended for frequent sample retrieval.
Smaller neck opening: Ideal for infrequent handling to achieve longer hold times.
Especially with frequent retrieval (e.g., IVF or cell culture), easy accessibility and safe handling are important.
Tip:
For regular sample retrieval, e.g., in reproductive medicine or cell culture, models with a larger opening are more comfortable.
To support you in choosing the right product, we have developed a digital Product Finder. Simply answer three key questions—and receive a tailored product recommendation from our range.
To offer the right product for every application – from stationary long-term storage to safe transport of biological samples – we carry various model series. Below you will find an overview of the features, application areas, and differences of our liquid nitrogen containers:
AC L, AC XL, AC XL+, AC 2XL, AC 2XL+
These model series differ mainly in neck diameter (L with 50, XL with 80, XL+ with 90, 2XL with 125, and 2XL+ with 127 mm) and total volume (2 to 50 liters). They were specifically designed for long-term storage of cells and biological material in liquid nitrogen. Models with a small neck diameter offer particularly long static hold times due to lower evaporation. Models with a wider opening facilitate daily handling and enable higher storage capacities. These containers are available with short (-S, 120 mm) or long (-L, 276 mm) canisters as well as with racks for cryoboxes (2XL-B).
AC T Series (Transport Models)
The models of the AC T-series are based on the same sizes as AC L, AC XL, AC XL+, AC 2XL, and AC 2XL+, but differ in their special suitability for transport of biological samples. The “T” stands for transport: These reinforced aluminum containers are certified for mobile use according to ADR regulations (road and rail transport). Example: AC L20-S (standard) and AC L20T-S (T version).
Due to their robust design, they provide protection during movement and transport. However, the reinforced construction results in a slightly shorter static holding time and a higher evaporation rate. These containers are also available with short or long canisters as well as racks for cryoboxes. The models are ideal when samples are regularly moved or transported.
AC 3XL
With a neck diameter of 216 mm and a volume range of 65 to 175 liters, these containers are optimized for the systematic storage of large sample quantities. They were developed for use with racks for cryoboxes and are particularly suitable for biobanks and facilities with high storage demands. The AC 3XL series is the only model series that is also suitable for storing blood bags.
AC FREEZER
These large-volume cryogenic freezers were specifically developed for long-term storage of particularly large quantities of biological samples. They enable storage in both the vapor and liquid phases and are available with volumes of 430, 480, or 860 liters. The AC FREEZER series is ideal for research institutions, biobanks, and universities that require a centralized high-capacity solution.
AC DS (Dry Shipper)
The DS series are cryogenic freezers specifically developed for the transport of biological material in liquid nitrogen. The special material inside the container absorbs the liquid nitrogen and enables safe transport without spill risk, while the valuable material remains safely cooled at the lowest possible temperature. This allows the containers to be transported or shipped without difficulty on all routes, including by air. These containers are available with short (-S, 120 mm) or long (-L, 276 mm) canisters as well as with racks for cryoboxes (-B) and have a volume of 3 to 25 liters.
| Model Series | Neck Diameter | Volume (L) | Storage Systems |
Application Area | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC L | 50 mm | 2–50 | Short (-S) and long (-L) canisters |
Long-term storage of small quantities |
Very long holding time, low evaporation |
| AC XL | 80 mm | 10–50 | Short (-S) and long (-L) canisters |
Medium sample quantities | Balanced between handling and holding time |
| AC XL+ | 90–91 mm | 10–35 | Short (-S) and long (-L) canisters |
Larger sample quantities |
Wider opening for improved accessibility |
| AC 2XL | 125 mm | 10–50 | Short (-S), long (-L) canisters, racks (-B) |
Frequent withdrawal of larger quantities |
Ideal for frequent sample access |
| AC 2XL+ | 127 mm | 35 | Short (-S) and long (-L) canisters |
High sample numbers | Even wider opening for maximum flexibility |
| AC 3XL | 216 mm | 65–175 | Racks (-B) |
Systematic rack storage | For cryoboxes, large volumes; only series for blood bags |
| AC FREEZER | 317, 446, 800 mm | 430–860 | Canisters and racks |
Large volumes in vapor/liquid phase |
For large research centers, extremely high capacity |
| AC T | 50–125 mm | 10–50 | Short (-S), long (-L) canisters, racks (-B) |
Mobile transport (ADR-compliant) | Reinforced design, for mobile use |
| AC DS | 50, 80, 125, 216 mm |
3–25 |
Short (-S), long (-L) canisters, racks (-B) |
Safe shipping (including air) |
Absorbent material, spill-proof, air-transportable |
A liquid nitrogen container is not an isolated product – it is part of a sensitive overall system. The appropriate infrastructure (e.g., ventilation, storage room, safety equipment), well-thought-out logistics processes, and regular maintenance are just as crucial as the product itself. Thorough consultation in advance helps avoid incorrect purchases and subsequent limitations.
As a distributor of high-quality liquid nitrogen containers, we are not just a supplier but see ourselves as a consulting partner. We offer a wide range of cryogenic products – for storage and transport – and support you in selecting a system that meets your individual requirements.
Our expertise ranges from simple laboratory applications to complex storage solutions for IVF clinics or biobanks. And since we deliberately do not sell liquid nitrogen, your requirements and the safety of your samples are our sole focus – not nitrogen consumption.
Choosing the right cryogenic cell storage system is more than a technical decision – it is a key factor for the success of your research or medical care. We are happy to advise you and work with you to find the optimal solution.
Contact us—we look forward to supporting your next project.
Cryonos – Your Expert Partner for High-Quality Cryogenic Solutions.
Disclaimer
The information in this blog post is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, medical, technical, or safety advice and does not replace individual professional consultation. Although we compile the content with the greatest care, we assume no liability for the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information provided. Use of the information is at your own risk. We expressly exclude any liability for damages, whether direct or indirect, arising from the use of or reliance on the information described in this blog. Please always observe applicable laws, regulations, standards, and safety guidelines. For specific questions or decisions, please always consult qualified professionals.
