Dewar Flask: Clinging Noise Inside?

  • Thread starter Thread starter +energy
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    flask
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the unusual clinging noise heard inside an old dewar flask, specifically one used for biological samples. Participants explore potential causes for the noise, including structural issues and the presence of foreign objects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the noise could indicate a broken flask with a piece of glass rattling between the walls.
  • Another participant mentions the possibility of a crack at the top of the flask, which could affect its vacuum integrity.
  • There is a suggestion to use an inspection mirror to check for cracks or damage that may not be visible from the bottom.
  • A humorous comment is made about the noise potentially being caused by hardened scotch, though this is not taken seriously as a technical explanation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various hypotheses regarding the source of the noise, but there is no consensus on the exact cause or solution. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge limitations in their ability to inspect the flask thoroughly, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the integrity of the vacuum and the potential for unseen damage.

+energy
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
I have an old dewar flask i found on clean up day, i was wondering, when i shake it, i hear a strange clinging noise inside, what could it be? (its the type used for bio samples)
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
Have you tried looking inside? My first thought is that it's broken, and a piece of glass is rattling around between the walls.
Also, I assume that you mean a clanging noise. Clinging is usually silent, with perhaps a moan or two. :-p
 
I can just see the bottom, where the sample holders go, there are no signs of break, but there could be a crack at the top somewhere. only way i can check it still has vacuum, is to fill it with n2 or ice and see how long it lasts?

Sorry about my onomatopoeia
 
+energy said:
Sorry about my onomatopoeia

Don't be; I can't make jokes without ammunition. :biggrin:

edit: Come to think of it, can you use an inspection mirror? That's a small mirror on the end of a telescoping handle similar to a an old portable radio antenna. You can get one for a couple of bucks at any auto parts supplier and most hardware stores. (They're used by mechanics to check in tight spaces and under things.)
 
Last edited:
dewar-flask.jpg


I believe this happens when the scotch hardens into candy.
 
:smile:

Jeez, Flex! Long time, no giggles. From wherever you've been hiding, welcome back.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
Replies
7
Views
4K