Helium is used in a wide range of applications across several industries due to its unique chemical and physical properties. The main uses of helium include:
- Cryogenics and Medical Imaging: The largest use of helium is in cryogenic applications, especially as a cooling agent for superconducting magnets in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners and scientific instruments. Its extremely low boiling point and inertness are essential for maintaining the low temperatures needed for these technologies[3][6].
- Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing: Helium is vital in producing semiconductors, fiber optic cables, LCDs, and other electronics. It is used as an inert atmosphere to prevent impurities during manufacturing and as a cooling and carrier gas in various processes[4][5][7].
- Pressurizing and Purging: Due to its inertness and low density, helium is used for pressurizing and purging liquid fuel rockets in space exploration and to maintain controlled atmospheres in processes such as growing silicon crystals and producing titanium[3][4].
- Welding: Helium serves as a chief shielding gas in arc welding processes, particularly for metals like aluminum and copper. It provides higher heat conductivity and enhances weld quality and speed[1][2][5][7].
- Leak Detection: With its small atomic size and ability to diffuse rapidly, helium is widely used to detect leaks in HVAC systems, shipping containers, vacuum systems, and pipelines[1][2][6][7].
- Balloons and Airships: A well-known but minor use, helium fills balloons and airships because it is lighter than air and non-flammable, providing safe lift[3][4][6].
- Breathing Mixtures: Helium is used in specialized breathing gases for deep-sea diving and medical applications, reducing the risk of nitrogen narcosis and enabling safe breathing at great depths[3].
- Controlled Atmospheres and Research: Its inertness makes helium essential for maintaining controlled, non-reactive environments in scientific research, including quantum computing, particle accelerators, and nuclear fusion research[3][4].
- Airbags: Helium’s rapid diffusion properties make it ideal for airbag inflation systems in vehicles[5][7].
- Other Uses: Helium is also found in nuclear reactors (as a coolant), gas chromatography (as a carrier gas), and new cancer therapy technologies using ion beams[4][5][6].
References
- [1] Surprise helium applications: Everything you need to know
- [2] What is Helium and How is it Used in Welding and Other Industries?
- [3] Helium — Wikipedia
- [4] Uses of Helium — North American Helium
- [5] 10 Excellent Commercial Uses of Helium
- [6] From medicine to industrial processes: Exploring the many uses of helium
- [7] 10 Uses for Helium: More Than Balloons and Blimps