Helium Supply Disruptions And MRI Services

Table of Contents

Context

The war in West Asia and disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have raised concerns about helium supply, which is essential for operating MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machines. Qatar, a major exporter, supplies around one-third of the world’s helium, and much of it passes through the Gulf region.

How Helium is Used in MRI Machines

MRI machines rely on superconducting magnets that generate extremely strong magnetic fields to create detailed images of internal organs. These magnets must be cooled to cryogenic temperatures (around −269°C) to maintain superconductivity. Helium helps as follows:

Liquid Helium as the Ideal Coolant: Liquid helium, with the lowest boiling point among all elements, is used to maintain these extremely low temperatures. Its chemical inertness and cryogenic stability make it the only practical coolant for superconducting MRI magnets.
Maintaining Magnet Stability: Without sufficient helium, the superconducting magnets may lose their superconducting state — a process known as quenching — which can disrupt MRI operations and potentially damage equipment.

Helium Requirements in MRI Systems

Installation Stage: A new MRI machine may require up to 1,500 litres of liquid helium during installation.
Maintenance Refilling: Traditional MRI systems may require hundreds of litres annually to maintain cooling.

Types of MRI Systems Based on Helium Use

Helium-free systems: Require minimal helium (<10 litres) and do not need refilling.
Zero boil-off systems: Use sealed systems that minimise helium loss, requiring occasional small refills
Non-zero boil-off systems: Older machines that require regular helium replenishment.