In contrast, the following example underscores once again that sustainability has been part of our company's DNA for over 50 years.
In extractive gas analysis, the gas sample pump is the heart of the system. It must reliably transport the sample gas from the sampling point to the analyser. The sample gas is often moist, corrosive, and/or toxic. Therefore, the wetted parts of the gas sample pump must be made of particularly resistant material and have a long service life. Additionally, it should be capable of safely conveying any condensate that may form to the gas cooler.
Based on bitter experiences with the standard products of the time, Bühler Technologies decided long ago to develop its own gas sample pump for these demanding applications. The core of the pump was a bellows made from a single piece of PTFE. This ensured high resistance to the components of the sample gas, and also allowed safe transport of condensate without fear of damage from water hammer.
Because the lifespan of this new development could not be predicted, and because the company didn't want to make unrealistic promises to the market, a large-scale endurance test of the 'Bühler pump' was undertaken. A test bench with 20 pumps was set up. These pumps were operated continuously, 365 days a year, until failure. This allowed not only the lifespan of the bellows but also that of the crank mechanism components to be determined and optimised. Today, Bühler Technologies offers a tailored range of gas sample pumps with various flow rates and drives exclusively for gas analysis, including Ex and H2 applications.
The gas sample pump P2 shown here was in operation for more than 30 years in a gas sample conditioning system we supplied. It has now been replaced with a new one, although spare parts for it are still available.
By the way: for other Bühler Technologies products as well, nearly all spare parts are still available even after more than 30 years of production!
Is there any better proof of sustainable design and practice?