3 Dec 2019
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The Serinus® gas analysers include a sample filter and a flow-block. By working together with end-users, solutions were created to optimise these part’s performance.
Common occurrence triggers a redesign
New, simple and user-friendly. This was the brief the ECOTECH Technical Service team received to update the design of the sample filter, which is a critical component in every Serinus® gas analyser.
The sample filter is a particulate filter of 5-micron, or five millionths of a metre, filtration size. It is used in all Serinus® gas analysers to remove particles, larger than 5-micron, which could interfere with the instrument’s sample measurement. The original design worked well, however, user feedback from customers highlighted a design improvement opportunity that would make it significantly easier to remove the sample filter during service.
The materials used in the construction of the sample filter are delicate. Any redesign would need to adequately protect the filter and ensure performance equal to, or better than the current design it would replace. The new design of this Serinus® component also had to save the customer valuable time in servicing and maintenance.
Customers included in constant improvement
ECOTECH reached out to customers who had difficulties removing the sample filter during service, and were encouraged to test the alpha prototypes. These same customers became a part of a collaborative process to improve the design.
The final design, now available for sale to all Serinus® gas analyser customers, was a direct result of this collaboration. ECOTECH distributors and end-users commented that they liked the new design, and enjoyed being part of the development process.
“Listening to customers was a key part of the redesign process for the sample filter and flow block. They’re the ones who are using Serinus® instruments on the front line. Invariably, they are in the best position to give us the most valuable feedback on how to make the Serinus® gas analyser even better,” commented James Merry, ECOTECH Production Engineer.
Engineered from existing materials
Re-engineered to be serviceable, the “flow block” part went through a similar improvement process. The flow block is part of the optional internal pump setup in Serinus® gas analysers.
To maintain a stable sample flow in the instrument, the flow block provides constant flow measurement, used as feedback to the pump control system. An environment with a high level of dust in the air could be hard on this part. Engineered from existing materials already in stock at ECOTECH’s manufacturing facility, design improvements to the new flow block aimed to not only increase usability, but also to encourage sustainability and reduce unnecessary waste.
Learn more about the full range of Serinus® gas analysers and options, please visit www.ecotech.com/serinus or email@ecotech.com