More Room for Science: Inside Zero Point Cryogenics’ Redesigned Model I Dilution Refrigerator

When it comes to advancing quantum technologies, researchers often find themselves caught between complex experimentation and meticulous hardware. Zero Point Cryogenics (ZPC), a North American manufacturer specializing in hand-crafted dilution refrigerators and cryogenic equipment, has built its reputation on resolving this problem. Their mission is simple: help customers focus on developing quantum technologies rather than spending their days operating complex fridges.

True to this mission, ZPC has completed the re-design of its flagship “Compact Innovator,” the first inverted model on the market: the Model I Dilution Refrigerator, 500 mK Phase Separation Refrigerator (PSR), 0.9 K, or 1.4 K system. Comparing the previous design to the newly released 2026 specifications reveals that the ZPC team has significantly improved the system’s capacity.

Here is a closer look at what is new, what has evolved, and how the re-designed Model I is setting a new standard for compact dilution refrigerators.

A Massive Upgrade to the Sample Space

A substantial change in the re-designed Model I lies right where the science happens: the sample space. For researchers mounting increasingly complex microwave cavities, quantum sensors, or housing large magnets for spin-qubit experimentation, experimental space is becoming increasingly important. ZPC has expanded this area:

• Sample Diameter: New diameter of 250 mm (original: 150 mm).
• SMA Coax lines: Up to 20 coax lines (original: 8-10 lines).
• DC Cabling: Accommodates hundreds of DC lines, including EMI-shielded configurations.
• Experimental Space: Added customizable cassettes and space for electronics on 4K.

Enhanced Efficiency and Accessibility

Beyond the physical size increase, ZPC has overhauled the internal architecture to prioritize researcher workflow and cooldown speed:

• Sample Diameter: New diameter of 250 mm (original: 150 mm).
• Cold Plate Addition: Added a dedicated cold plate for better thermalization pathways.
• Removable Cassettes: All stages now feature removable cassettes, allowing for much easier access to your setup.
• Sample Switching: Flexible and easy sample switching at tabletop height.
• Upgraded Stabilized Legs: Single support rods and triangle foot legs have been redesigned for improved rigidity of the sample stage.
• Faster Cooldowns: The design and location of the heat switches have been re-engineered to reduce cooldown times.
• Radiation Shield Redesign: The shields have been redesigned to be put on and removed with ease, facilitating quicker sample switching.
• Optimized Pumping: The still pumping line has been optimized for better performance and efficiency.
• Vibration Isolation: ZPC has maintained optical table integration for enhanced vibration reduction. 
• Optical Window Access: The system remains fully optical access ready, supporting add-on options like fiber-optics and 5-axis optical window access.

A Revised, High-Capability Footprint

To support the expanded experiment volume and enhanced diagnostic options, the system’s spatial footprint has evolved to accommodate more infrastructure:

• The New Footprint: The re-designed Model I features a bigger 2.0 m² footprint, which includes the entire Gas Handling System (GHS).

Even with this slight expansion, the Model I maintains its standing as an exceptionally compact, customizable solution that easily satisfies tight space and size requirements across industry, government, and academic labs.

Uncompromising Cryogenic Reliability

While the internal layout has grown, ZPC kept the robust, leak-proof mechanical core that makes their systems dependable. The cryostat continues to feature an exceptionally durable architecture:

• Zero Solder: Built entirely with all-metal seals and no soldered connections to safeguard helium-3 and prevent any porous leaks.
• Electrical Clarity: Features built-in galvanic isolation to minimize ground-loop noise and protect sensitive experimental signals.
• Auxiliary System: Equipped with a dedicated auxiliary pumping system for vacuum can evacuation (harboured by all ZPC systems), alongside an extended-life cryogen-free cold trap.
• Industry-Leading Assurance: ZPC stands firmly behind this build quality, offering a robust 48-month warranty on every component they manufacture.

Easy Access & Operation

The physical layout of the Model I is explicitly tailored around the users operating it.

• Accessible Height: The sample sits at a comfortable, easily accessible benchtop sample height. This specialized geometry allows for a simple, single-person sample exchange without requiring complex overhead cranes or hazardous handling.
• Magnet Compatibility: The redesign features specific geometry improvements for easier magnet integration and compatibility for both vector and single-axis magnets.

Flexible Add-On Features

Every lab has unique demands, and the re-designed Model I offers a comprehensive menu of specialized add-ons to customize your setup:

• Custom Wiring & Cabling: Compatible with EMI shielded DC lines and RF coax
• Magnetic Fields: Integrate superconducting single-axis or 3-axis magnets directly into your testing environment with improved ease.

About Zero Point Cryogenics

Zero Point Cryogenics manufactures robust and reliable hand-crafted dilution refrigerators, the primary low-temperature platform that enables quantum computing. As the only manufacturer of its kind in Canada, ZPC is dedicated to bridging the gap between customized research and commercially scalable solutions, ensuring its products stay “Colder for Longer”, so their customers can focus on their research, instead of their refrigerators.