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IMPORTANT! Before using Cryonite® equipment, read and understand these safety guidelines.
Before using this equipment, please read the Safely Working With Cryonite section.
Highlights include:
Thank you for choosing Cryonite! This section demonstrates the components of the Cryonite equipment and basic assembly instructions.
Cryonite is different from conventional insecticides; therefore, the application procedures vary from those regularly used by Pest Professionals treating various structural pests. To make the most effective use of this valuable alternative pest control technology, read and understand the techniques and tips included in this User Manual and other training materials provided by Cryonite (e.g., DVD, service guidelines).
The trolley is shipped in 9 pieces, ready to assemble in 3 simple steps.
The trolley is shipped in 9 pieces, ready to assemble in 3 simple steps.
As consumers, workers, producers or employers, we all need to be aware of how our daily lives can impact the environment. Although pesticides are valuable tools that have helped society produce more food, improve public health and protect our dwellings from damage, they are toxicants and should be used carefully and judiciously.
Treatment of most pests, such as cockroaches, bed bugs, ants and spiders, are more effectively controlled by trained pest professionals. Professionals with knowledge of pest identification and biology understand the conditions and harborages in which pests thrive and can then ensure their treatments — both chemical and non-chemical — are applied where they can be most effective.
Pest Professionals in the Structural Pest Control Industry have looked to various alternatives to residual treatments as part of IPM programs and a number of these strategies and technologies have found regular use. Cryonite is one such alternative, and its use can reduce the amount and type of insecticide treatments necessary to control a number of troublesome pests, including bed bugs, stored food pests, spiders, and cockroaches.
Cryonite works by freezing insects and other pests by employing the cooling properties of CO2 (carbon dioxide). Liquid CO2 is transformed into exceptionally cold dry-ice “snow” and causing the death of pests by freezing.
The Trolley (A) has Straps for the liquid CO2 cylinder, one high-pressure Hose, one Grounding Cable for static electricity reduction, and a Jet Nozzle. It also has clips to hold the Lance, Jet Nozzle, Spanner, and hooks for winding the Hose and Grounding Cable.
The secret of Cryonite is found in the nozzle of the Lance (B) which has been developed to create the optimum quality of CO2 snow. The ergonomic telescopic Lance has a variable trigger mechanism allowing Cryonite delivery at different rates to suit the situation. A security lock for Components of the Cryonite® System the trigger is also found on the handle by the trigger.
The Hose (C) provided with Cryonite is about 12 feet long and has connections for the Lance on one end and for the cylinder on the other. It is temperature and pressure-resistant.
The Jet Nozzle (D) is designed to produce high speed snow and is useful when it comes to application in hard-to-reach areas such as cracks or voids. It also can provide a significant flushing effect to chase insects from hiding within harborages. DO NOT use the Jet Nozzle for regular Cryonite applications.
A build-up of static electricity is possible when working with Cryonite. The steel Grounding Cable is used for discharging static electricity away from the Cryonite equipment. This cable only needs to be used when applying Cryonite near electronics (integrated circuits). See the Working Safely with Cryonite section on page 13.
It’s important to use the right type of CO2 cylinder (E) — it must be equipped with a dip tube inside! The dip tube is necessary because Cryonite uses the CO2 in liquid form, otherwise it cannot produce the CO2 snow needed for freezing pests.
Liquid CO2 in the cylinder enter the Lance which converts it to the particles of dry ice “snow” emerging from the nozzle. About half of the CO2 will become cold gas necessary to propel the snow from the nozzle tip onto targeted pests and into pest harborages. The CO2 snow made by Cryonite is a mixture of different-sized particles in ratios proven by research to provide the optimum lethal effect upon contact with target pests.
When the CO2 snow hits surfaces at normal temperatures, it evaporates (sublimates) and becomes CO2 gas. The required heat energy necessary for evaporation is extracted from the immediate surroundings in contact with the dry ice snow. When the snow is in contact with a target pest, naturally, the heat energy is taken from the body of the pest. Water in the pests’ cells then crystallize into ice, therefore, killing the insect. Cryonite’s snow particles are optimized for clinging the pest’s exoskeleton allowing the time needed for deeper penetration of the freezing effect into the pest’s body, increasing it’s effectiveness.
The dry ice snow only chills those surfaces on which it has direct contact. If a pest is insulated from direct contact with the snow by a layer of debris, dust, or food particles, the maximum freezing effect may not occur and the pest may survive. For this reason, use of a vacuum to remove exposed pests and debris prior to application of Cryonite often is highly beneficial for many pests situations.
NOTE: This is why nitrogen is not as effective as carbon dioxide despite its colder temperatures (-196 °C/-320°F)—as nitrogen converts from liquid to a gas, it floats on a layer of gas creating an insulating barrier. Nitrogen therefore takes almost no energy from the surface contacted. Cryonite’s snow particles make direct contact with the exoskeleton of target pests as well as surrounding surfaces.
Cryonite is especially effective against smaller insects which can be more easily killed by freezing. This technology is used most often by pest professionals to control bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) and various stored product beetles and moths.
Cryonite works effectively against other pests as well such as many web-building spiders (i.e., cobweb weavers, Family Theridiidae), German cockroaches (Blattella germanica), fly larvae in drains (i.e., moth flies, Family Psychodidae; phorid flies, Family Phoridae) and some mites found in buildings (Class Acari). Pest Professionals have also used Cryonite to eliminate wasp nests (i.e., paper wasps, Polistes spp.).
A limitation of Cryonite is that it works by contact only — it does not leave any residual residues. This fact, however, is also a significant advantage, along with it being non-pesticidal, because Cryonite can be used in sensitive areas where residual insecticide treatments may not be prudent or allowed. Examples include schools, day cares, many areas of hospitals (e.g., patient areas, patient rooms, operating suites), assisted living/nursing care facilities, food processing areas, pharmaceutical areas, pet stores, and zoos.
Because Cryonite works only when the dry ice snow directly contacts a pest, it is important to be sure pests are not protected by layers of dirt, dust, grain debris or other materials. Vacuuming areas prior to treatment with Cryonite removes both dust and debris as well as many of the target pests. Remaining pests (and in the case of bed bugs— eggs) in the area are then more exposed to direct contact by dry ice snow.
Bed bugs respond strongly to CO2 as, to them, it signals the presence of a host. It is recommended that you reapply Cryonite to areas with bed bug activity about 15 to 20 minutes following the initial application to contact and kill bed bugs flushed into the open.
Application of Cryonite into cracks and voids (use the Jet Nozzle tip) where German cockroaches are active can flush these insects into the open where they can be removed by vacuuming or treated directly with Cryonite.
It is recommended to vacuum areas with pest activity with dust and debris which cleans the area. The freezing effect provided by Cryonite can also result in encrusted debris and soil to be loosened. Adding the Jet Nozzle to the Lance for a 2nd pass can then cause such debris to release from the surface where it can be removed by vacuuming.
Experience has shown that application of Cryonite into drains down to the trap to kill fly larvae can freeze and loosen wet slime and debris on the sides of the drain making the drain easier to clean with a brush.
Effective pest management results through following basic procedures and application techniques. Every pest situation is different so Pest Professionals may need to change up the basic steps below to fit the situation at hand.
Remove dust, debris and exposed pests using a vacuum prior to Cryonite application.
Apply Cryonite to cracks, voids and surfaces where pests are found or suspected. Avoid application by depressing the trigger all the way. Best results occur when applying at lower pressure, depressing the trigger about half-way.
Repeat the above procedures in areas where pest activity continues.
Although Cryonite technology is non-toxic, some risks may be involved with transporting CO2 Cylinders and the use of Cryonite equipment and application of CO2.
Carbon dioxide is common component in the atmosphere and is essential for plant life on this planet and therefore animal life as well. C02 gas is widely used in the food industry and other industries. High concentrations of CO2 are hazardous to human and animal health, but the low concentrations of CO2 resulting from the use of Cryonite are not typically high enough to be considered dangerous to people, pets or animals (other than the target insects, spiders, mites, etc.). Typical HVAC systems in buildings recycle enough air within rooms to prevent CO2 concentrations from accumulating.
A small risk exists if Cryonite is being applied in enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation, such as some crawlspaces, plenums, compartments within large equipment, pipe chases, or similar locations. It is possible for concentrations of CO2 reach a high enough concentration be a concern in such enclosed locations especially near the floor where the heavier CO2 may collect in low-lying areas.
Precautions should be taken when using CO2 in enclosed spaces — primarily ensuring good ventilation. Use a fan to ventilate the space with fresh air while applying Cryonite and have another person standing by as a precaution. When working in manufacturing, food processing and other commercial buildings, the facility may have safety procedures that need to be followed when working in a “confined space.” Be sure to consult the customer, before entering any tunnel, crawlspace, or similar space with little or poor ventilation to apply Cryonite of perform any other pest control service.
It is recommended that Cryonite equipment and CO2 Cylinders be secured in an area separated from the driver.
Make sure that the Trolley cart is secured so that fragile parts aren’t damaged. The Lance is especially at risk for damage during transport.
The Lance and Nozzle. The end of the Lance, near the Nozzle, can get very cold when using the equipment and is indicated by visible frost on the Nozzle. Allow the frost to evaporate before unscrewing the Nozzle and switching to the Jet Nozzle. Insulated gloves may also be used when switching out the Nozzle.
CO2 Cylinders. Depending on the type of CO2 Cylinder to be used, always keep in mind the weight of the cylinder. Use proper lifting techniques when handling Cylinders to avoid potential muscle strains or injuries. Ask for help with handling Cylinders when necessary.
Dry Ice Snow. The dry ice snow emerges from the Lance at a temperature of -110°F (-78.5°C). The snow also comes out of the nozzle at different speeds depending on the degree to which the trigger is depressed and whether the high speed Jet Nozzle is being used. Dry ice snow can bounce back from surfaces and hit the eyes, nose, or mouth as well as exposed skin. Contact with the face and eyes is especially possible when applying Cryonite at or above shoulder height.
Static Electricity. While working with Cryonite, the flow of CO2 can cause a build up of static electricity. A static discharge could affect and damage unprotected electronics (integrated circuits). The steel Grounding Cable on the Trolley is used when equipment needs to be protected from static charges.
When using Cryonite near electronics (integrated circuits), connect the clamp at the end of the Grounding Cable to the machine or surface where the dry ice snow is being applied.
Static Discharges and Dusty Environments. In certain environments where dust accumulates, such as grain elevators or grain storage bins, any spark — including a static discharge — can trigger a potential explosion, . If Cryonite is considered for use in such areas, consult the facility’s manager, safety director other similar authority to discuss potential risks and the suitability of using Cryonite in that area.
Cryonite can be used in all types of industries and areas. Where it is used within a particular building will depend on the type of pest infestation encountered. Non-toxic and non-residual nature of Cryonite applications is highly advantageous for many of the types of structures/facilities listed below.
Also beneficial is the fact that persons and pets (especially tropical fish) typically need not vacate treatment areas during Cryonite applications. (Note: If residual treatments are applied following any Cryonite applications, any label directed restrictions regarding occupation during treatment and re-entry afterward need to be followed.)
IMPORTANT: DO NOT use directly on sensitive equipment, screens or digital displays.
Social wasps that construct paper nests, such as hornets and yellowjackets, are better suited for treatment with Cryonite. Treatments are best done in the evening or very early in the morning during lowest points of nest activity. A protective bee suit should also be worn. Apply Cryonite at about half-pressure on the trigger directly into the nest opening for 30 seconds. Gradually increase pressure and allow the nest opening to fill with dry ice snow. It may also be beneficial to treat the outside of the nest (hornet nests). Remove hornet nests following treatment, place in sealed plastic bag and dispose of accordingly.
Note: Yellowjacket nests in the ground or within walls may be too extensive to control using Cryonite. It may be useful, however, to apply Cryonite into the nest opening to slow down or disorient yellowjackets thus making it easier to treat the nest using residual insecticides.
Adult beetles, eggs, larvae and moth cocoons must be exposed to allow direct contact with dry ice snow. Vacuuming prior to Cryonite application is high;y recommended. Apply Cryonite directly to surfaces where activity was noted or suspected, into all cracks and directly to moth cocoons/pupae attached to surfaces on shelving and cabinets. Cryonite may also be used to treat the outside of packaging adjacent to infested products to potentially control any beetles or eggs on such surfaces.
Prior to Cryonite application, exposed bugs, dust, and debris should be removed using a vacuum. Using good application techniques, apply Cryonite to all exposed surfaces where bed bugs may be active, including along all seams and flaps of mattresses and box springs, cracks and surfaces within box springs, headboards and bed frames, baseboards, picture frames, lamps, nightstands and furniture. Voids with access openings, such as cable or pipe entering a wall, can be treated using the Jet Nozzle to serve a “flushing” effect to move bed bugs out into the open where they may be vacuumed or treated directly with Cryonite.
Fifteen to 20 minutes following initial application of Cryonite, a 2nd treatment with Cryonite is recommended in areas with bed bug activity. The excess CO2 created by dry ice snow evaporation activates bed bugs and gets them moving. This second application can improve results in many cases.
Follow the vacuuming and Cryonite treatment with applications of residual insecticides using accepted procedures used for bed bugs.
German cockroaches and smaller nymph cockroaches are most susceptible to Cryonite treatment. Larger species may be able to withstand the initial freezing contact with the dry ice snow and will need a 2nd application. Flushed or knocked down cockroaches should be removed by vacuum after Cryonite treatments to be sure that no cockroaches left behind might recover and return to harborages.
Nests of the yellowjacket,Vespa vulgaris, were treated with Cryonite applied using low pressure for 30 seconds, then pressure was gradually increased. All the wasps within the nests were eliminated, and the nests are safely removed and destroyed.
Successful tests have been completed to eliminate German Cockroaches, Blattella germanica, in factories, houses, and hospitals using Cryonite in combination with diatomaceous earth, a vacuum, and traps.
A number of tests have been conducted to validate the effectiveness of Cryonite on a variety of different types of pests. The following provides a summary of a few of these tests.
In a laboratory bioassay, bed bug adults, nymphs, and eggs were placed on scrunched cardboard to simulate crack/crevices inside plastic Cylinders. Cryonite was then applied as four bursts onto the bed bugs in the Cylinders. The number of dead adults and nymphs was then counted at 24 hours post-treatment while the number of 1st instar nymphs that successfully hatched was assessed at 7 days post-treatment. At the 24 hour count, nearly all adults and all nymphs were deceased and zero 1st instar nymphs successfully hatched from treated eggs.
A field study was conducted to assess the efficacy of a combined Cryonite/diatomaceous earth treatment against bed bugs infesting a hotel room. Each item of furniture or area found to be infested was treated with two slow passes of the Cryonite application Lance. A second application was made after the CO2 dry ice snow evaporated. The treatment required approximately ½ cylinder of liquid CO2 (~5 kg of CO2). Diatomaceous earth was then applied to all cracks with bed bug activity. No live bed bugs were discovered during follow-up inspections at one day and one week following the Cryonite/diatomaceous earth treatment.
Cryonite was tested against confused flour beetles, (Tribolium confusum) infesting a worm conveyor situated in a flour mill (United Kingdom). The conveyor was first opened and cleaned after which Cryonite was applied to all sites where beetles were active or suspected. The application was conducted using both the standard nozzle and the Jet Nozzle. The initial treatment eliminated most of the beetles, but a number of beetles were found alive at the base of the conveyor. The construction of the conveyor base in this area prevented the Cryonite Lance to access the area for an effective Cryonite application. (Note: In such cases where Cryonite cannot be adequately applied to a specific site, insecticide treatments may be necessary.)
Cryonite proved highly effective in controlling poultry mites in poultry houses. Treatment with Cryonite was significantly more effective than treatment with insecticides commonly used to control poultry mites.
A bread oven infested with sawtoothed grain beetles, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, and cigarette beetles, Lasioderma serricorne, were treated with Cryonite. The insects were located in lumps of bread crumbs underneath the oven. The test resulted in a significant reduction in beetles despite new raw material continuously flowing through the factory.
This test was conducted in the packaging room of a large potato processing plant where larvae of Indian meal moths, Plodia interpunctella) were found. Cleaning alone failed to eliminate all of the moth larvae in the room so Cryonite was applied to all areas of activity. The treatment resulting in total mortality of larvae present and after two weeks, the room was still free of larvae and adult moths.
DO NOT attempt repairs yourself! All repairs should be completed by authorized Cryonite personnel. Email Customer Support at info@ cryonite.com for help and details.
Most likely, the CO2 cylinder tank is not equipped with a dip tube. A dip tube is essential for proper functioning of Cryonite. A certain amount of CO2 gas is found at the top of all CO2 cylinder tanks. Without dip tube, only CO2 gas — not liquid CO2 is entering the Lance. The Lance converts the liquid CO2 into the dry ice snow. Check with your local gas supplier that you are supplied with the right type of CO2 cylinder.
Solution: Close the valve of the cylinder, release the pressure in the hose by unscrewing the Hose nut by the cylinder about half a turn. When the gas pressure has been vacated, retighten the nut. Connect the Hose to the Lance, and reopen the valve.
Action: When this occurs, wait for 20 to 30 seconds or until the snow/ice has evaporated, then try again.
For the most part, yes, you can use it on almost every type of material. Items you should NOT treat include light bulbs, smoke/CO2/CO detectors, and fire suppression systems. Some Pest Professionals have reported that Cryonite can negatively impact some types of memory foam used in mattresses and pillows. Some extremely thin materials may also be affected by dry ice snow. If in doubt, apply to a small, inconspicuous test site to determine any reactions with the surface.
The Lance weighs about 2 lbs (1 kg) and the Hose and Trolley about 26 lbs (12 kg). The weight of the CO2 cylinder depends on its size. An aluminium cylinder containing 20 lbs (~10 kg) of liquid CO2 weighs about 55 lbs (25 kg). Disconnect the cylinder from the Hose and Trolley prior to storing in the vehicle. For safety reasons, the cylinder combined with the Trolley is too much weight to lift together.
Tip: For in-house use of Cryonite in manufacturing, food processing facilities, hospitals, etc., store cylinders locked in cool rooms. Have liquid CO2 cylinders delivered by the CO2 gas supplier.
Original tests conducted by Bertil Eliasson (October 2001)
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