Pre-cooler for reducing cryogen consumption

摘要

MRI system 10 is provided. The MRI system 10 includes a magnet assembly 12 . A first cryogen cooling fluid 20 is utilized to cool the magnet assembly 12 . A first supply line 16 communicates the first cryogen cooling fluid 20 to the magnet assembly 12 . A first return line 18 communicates the first cryogen cooling fluid 20 away from the magnet assembly 12 . A blower assembly 22 is positioned between and in communication with the first supply line 16 and the first return line 18 . A regenerative heat exchanger 36 is in communication with the first supply line 16 and the first return line 18 . The regenerative heat exchanger 36 transfers thermal energy 29 from the first supply line 16 to the first return line 18 . The regenerative heat exchanger 36 is positioned between the blower assembly 22 and the magnet assembly 12 . A second supply line 28 transports a second cryogen fluid 26 through a pre-cooler assembly 24 . The pre-cooler assembly 24 is positioned between the regenerative heat exchanger 36 and the magnet assembly 12 . The pre-cooler assembly 24 transfers thermal energy 29 from the first supply line 16 to the second supply line 28.