Every CryoStork dry shipper comes with a three-year vacuum warranty as standard. The vacuum in a dry shipper is the insulation layer between the inner and outer walls of the vessel. It is what keeps the cold mass in the absorption matrix from being lost to ambient heat. Without an intact vacuum, the vessel cannot maintain cryogenic temperatures for its rated hold time, and samples are at risk.
Why vacuum failure matters clinically
Vacuum failure is the most serious equipment failure mode for a dry shipper. Unlike a low liquid nitrogen level in a storage vessel, which triggers an alarm and allows a response window, vacuum failure in a dry shipper can be gradual and may not be immediately apparent from external inspection. The first signs are typically a reduction in hold time and an increase in the rate at which the vessel warms after charging. In a worst case, a vacuum-failed vessel used for a transfer without pre-use verification could fail to maintain temperature during transit.
The three-year vacuum warranty is not just a commercial assurance. It defines the expected operational lifespan of the vessel’s core insulation function and sets the benchmark against which hold time performance should be evaluated throughout the vessel’s working life.
What the warranty covers and what it does not
The warranty covers defects in the vacuum insulation arising from manufacturing. It does not cover damage resulting from dropping, impact, improper storage or misuse. This is why the optional aluminium-framed trolley cases with custom foam interiors are worth considering for vessels that travel regularly by courier or air freight, where handling by third parties introduces impact risk that the laboratory cannot fully control.
Pre-use verification
Pre-use verification before every significant transfer is good practice regardless of warranty status. Confirming that a vessel achieves its rated hold time after charging before loading samples for a critical transfer provides the assurance that the warranty alone cannot give in real time. For any concerns about vessel performance, contact the Cryolab team or browse the full CryoStork range.
