If you have recently set up or are reviewing a cryogenic storage workflow for biological samples, this guide covers the four core consumable components and how they interact technically.
Cryocanes: Aluminium construction (typically 6xxx series alloy), length approximately 290mm, available in 5-slot and 6-slot configurations. Slot diameter sized for 0.25ml or 0.5ml straws and standard visotubes. Fit inside round canisters of 47mm internal diameter (standard CBS canister sizing).
Cryosleeves: Clear PVC, 273mm length (standard), fits over loaded cane. Available in rigid (better visual clarity, easier stacking) and flexible (faster to apply/remove) variants. Single-use in clinical settings for contamination control.
Visotubes: Transparent polymer, rated for -196°C liquid nitrogen exposure. Round visotubes available in multiple diameters. Triangular and hexagonal shapes allow denser packing — a hexagonal visotube arrangement in a CBS Daisy Goblet gives 11 positions plus 1 round centre position per goblet.
Cryocane Coders: Injection-moulded plastic, clip-fit design, available in 8–10 colour variants. Material rated for thermal cycling between -196°C and ambient. For procurement and UK specifications, see [https://cryolab.co.uk/product-category/storage-accessories/]
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