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    Helium is a non-toxic, non-flammable, and ultra-light gas with an exceptionally low boiling point of -452°F (-269°C) and high thermal conductivity. Because of these unique properties, helium is mission-critical for industries ranging from healthcare and electronics to aerospace and metal production where precision and reliability is paramount.

    However, helium supply has historically been volatile due to its limited natural occurrence and the complexity of its extraction. Most global sources are located in geologically and geopolitically sensitive regions, which can impact production and distribution, creating uncertainty for buyers.

    Messer’s recent global and local strategic investments mean you benefit from one of the world’s most reliable, diversified helium supply offering through economic or political uncertainty.

    As a user of industrial helium, you benefit from one of the world’s most secure, reliable, and diversified helium supply portfolios (both local to the US and global).

    What are safety hazards associated when working with liquid or gaseous helium?

    Helium is non-toxic and non-flammable, but it still presents risks if not handled properly.

    • Asphyxiation Hazard: In enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, helium can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation without warning.
    • Cryogenic Hazard: Liquid helium is extremely cold (–452°F / –269°C) and can cause severe cold burns, frostbite, or damage to materials upon contact.
    • Pressure Hazard: Helium is stored in high-pressure cylinders, tube trailers, liquid dewars and ISO containers. Improper handling can lead to mechanical failure, ruptures, or projectiles.

    Messer provides training, best practices, and equipment guidance for the safe handling of both gas helium and liquid helium.

    Messer safely provides the helium with a tube trailer for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

    Why Use Messer for Your Helium Applications?

    Across diverse industrial applications of helium, Messer provides dependable supply of this critical gas through our robust production network, worldwide distribution fleet, and advanced equipment solutions.

    We have access to diverse US-based helium sources combined with Messer’s ownership and operation of the Cliffside Helium Unit in Amarillo strengthens our ability to deliver domestic, reliable helium supply to U.S. customers, even in the face of potential global disruption in the industry.

     

     From MRI cooling and semiconductor manufacturing to space flight preparation, Messer offers industry-specific knowledge to help you optimize helium use. 

     We combine global scale with local service, offering comprehensive safety training, ColdServe® MRI magnet filling, and responsive technical support. Our strategically located U.S. helium transfills, positioned near major markets, ensure that Messer’s service and support are close at hand.

     We provide more than just helium supply. We partner with you so that your helium supply chain is secure, your processes are efficient, and your business is prepared for the future. 

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    Technologies and Applications Using Helium

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    Aerospace & Space Exploration

    Helium is used in the aerospace and space exploration industry for launch and recovery systems to pressurize fuel tanks and purge lines.

    Learn More: Aerospace, Rocket Propulsion & Satellites | Messer Industrial & Specialty Gases

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    Chemicals & Energy

    Helium is used in the chemical industry as a carrier gas in gas chromatography and analysis processes to deliver consistent results and enable precise research and product development.

    Because of its chemical inertness and high heat capacity, helium is essential for cryogenic cooling in nuclear reactors, energy storage research, particle accelerators, superconductors, and ultra-low temperature experiments. Helium enables innovative breakthroughs in physics, materials science, and energy innovation. 
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    Advanced Electronics & Emerging Technologies

    Ultra high purity helium or UHP helium is used in the electronics industry to cool, protect, and optimize the manufacturing of semiconductors and fiber optic cables.

    Messer UHP helium gas for electronics manufacturing and in vacuum systems, plasma processes, and leak testing for precision, contamination control, and dependable production.

    Learn More: Electronics - Bulk and Specialty Gases, Equipment and Services

    Helium provides ultra-low temperature environments required for qubits and superconducting circuits, enabling high-fidelity quantum computing operations. 
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    Entertainment & Hospitality

    Helium is used in the hospitality and entertainment industries to provide safe lifting gas for balloons and aerial effects, creating experiences without flammability risks. One example is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
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    Healthcare

    Helium gas for MRI machines is used to cool superconducting magnets, enabling life-saving imaging, while Messer’s ColdServe delivery service makes sure technology remains operational. 
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    Manufacturing & Industrial Processes

    Thanks to its tiny particle size, chemical inertness and ease of detection, helium is used in the manufacturing industry to leak check for safety and performance reasons. For example, in the automotive industry helium is used to leak check fuel tanks, HVAC/air conditioning, and braking systems.

    Argon and helium are used in the welding industry to produce hotter arcs, deeper welds, and improved weld integrity for critical applications.

    As a non-toxic, non-flammable gas with a high expansion rate, helium and helium mixes can be used in air bags as a safer alternative to other chemical propellants. 
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    Metal Production & Processing

    Premium metals like titanium or zirconium, require the unique thermal conductivity properties of helium to transfer heat more efficiently while preventing oxidation. This makes it ideal for high-temperature melting applications, where fast and even heat transfer is critical. Messer’s metals team helps customers identify when helium is required in their process and where there are opportunities to use other gases.

    Learn More: Gas Supply from Titanium Melting to Titanium Powder: Messer Helium and Argon Solutions

    Helium Frequently Asked Questions

    Have questions about helium? Explore answers to common inquiries from our customers.

    Helium’s costs stems from its scarcity, market dynamics, and specialized transport requirements:

    • Limited Supply: Unlike oxygen, nitrogen, or argon, helium can’t be separated from air or manufactured. It is a noble gas found deep underground, typically a byprodcut of natural gas extraction from limited regions in remote areas across the globe.
    • High Value, High Volatility: With limited production facilities concentrated in select regions, helium pricing is particularly sensitive to global market dynamics, supply chain challenges, and geopolitical developments.
    • Specialized Logistics: Transporting helium from these remote locations requires highly engineered cryogenic liquid ISO containers or high-pressure tube trailers with precise handling.
    • Dedicated Team: Messer’s team understands these unique challenges and continues to deliver for customers across all three fronts—secure sourcing, stable supply, and experienced handling—so you don’t have to worry about market volatility or logistical challenges.
    Yes, many of Messer’s large volume customers choose to recycle the helium in their process. Depending on the helium application, there are specialized recycling systems on the market that can capture the helium and purify it for reuse. Our helium team works with you to understand your needs and can make recommendations when recycling is feasible and help you find the right helium recycling system for your process.
    Liquid helium can be delivered in liquid dewars or full ISO Containers. Gaseous helium can be delivered in cylinders or trailers.
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    Gas Helium Specifications

    Gas Helium Specifications

    Download Safety Data Sheet

    Liquid Helium Gas Specifications

    Liquid Helium Gas Specifications
    Download Safety Data Sheet

    Do you need additional specifications?

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    Any questions?

    Ask our team. We’re here to help.

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