GE HealthCare Launches Helium-Free Freelium Platform for MRI
Chicago, Thursday, 27 February 2025.
GE HealthCare’s new Freelium platform, unveiled at ECR 2025, uses less than 1% of helium required by conventional systems, maintaining efficiency without extra cooling.
Revolutionary Technology and Market Impact
The unveiling of Freelium at ECR 2025 represents a significant evolution in GE HealthCare’s magnetic resonance imaging technology. Building upon their lightweight intelligent platform technology introduced in 2020, which has achieved over 2,000 installations worldwide at both 1.5T and 3.0T magnetic fields [1][4], the platform has already demonstrated substantial market impact. The innovation has contributed to positive financial performance, with GE HealthCare’s net profit margin improving from 7.1% to 10.1% year-over-year, and net income rising to US$720 million from US$403 million [3].
Technical Innovations and Operational Benefits
Freelium’s revolutionary design incorporates intelligent sensor technology that enables remote monitoring of the MR system and provides automated magnet protection and recovery capabilities without requiring field engineer intervention [1]. This advancement is particularly crucial during power outages or natural events that could disrupt operations [4]. The platform operates with permanently enclosed helium, achieving optimal performance while using less than 1% of the helium required in conventional magnet technology [2].
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
GE HealthCare’s commitment to sustainability is evidenced by their track record of saving approximately 3 million liters of helium through intelligent magnet technology and Continuum™ upgrades [1][4]. The company’s environmental consciousness extends throughout the product lifecycle, from manufacturing to ongoing operations [1]. This initiative aligns with broader industry sustainability goals while maintaining diagnostic accuracy and performance standards [4].
Future Outlook and Market Expansion
The platform’s design facilitates seamless integration with future technological advancements and upgrade options [1], particularly in AI-enabled solutions for enhanced diagnostic capabilities [4]. This innovation has contributed to GE HealthCare’s market performance, with the company experiencing a 9.41% price movement over the last quarter [3]. With approximately 53,000 colleagues and a business valued at $19.7 billion [1], GE HealthCare’s position among the 2025 Fortune World’s Most Admired Companies reflects its continued leadership in healthcare innovation [1].