Inert gas and compressed air system design and installation

January 29, 2024

Compressed air and inert gas distribution systems are critical components in various science and medical technology applications.

 

Compressed air and inert gas distribution systems in science and medical technology applications

Owlstone Medical is developing a breathalyser for the early detection of cancer, inflammatory and infectious diseases using breath biomarkers. Their mission is to save 100,000 lives and $1.5B in healthcare costs by advancing early detection and precision medicine. As a respected supplier to the science and technology community located on or near the science park, Cambs Compressors were approached to design, install and provide support for a new compressed air and inert gas system.

 

Working to the most stringent quality standards

The design and implementation of compressed air and inert gas distribution systems in science and medical technology applications require careful consideration of the specific needs of the processes and instruments involved, as well as compliance with relevant safety and quality standards. The reliability, purity and precision of these systems are critical to the success of scientific research, medical diagnostics, and healthcare practices.

 

Compressed air and inert gas distribution systems are crucial in science and medical technology applications for several reasons:


Powering Instruments and Equipment

Many laboratory instruments and medical devices are designed to be powered by compressed air or inert gases. Pneumatic systems, driven by compressed air, are often used to control valves, actuators and other components in scientific and medical equipment.


Precision Control:

Compressed air and inert gases provide a source of power that allows for precise control in various processes. This is essential in applications such as analytical instruments, where accuracy and repeatability are critical.


Safety in Laboratories:

Inert gases like nitrogen are commonly used in laboratories for blanketing and purging applications, creating an inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation or contamination. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of sensitive experiments and samples.


Biomedical Research and Biotechnology:

In both biomedical research and biotechnology, compressed air and inert gases play a role in various processes. For example, compressed air may be used in pneumatic systems for liquid handling, while inert gases like nitrogen are employed in cryopreservation.


Analytical Techniques:

In analytical chemistry, gas chromatography and mass spectrometry often rely on compressed air and inert gases for sample analysis and as carrier gases for separation and detection.


Preservation of Pharmaceuticals:

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, compressed air and inert gases are used in processes such as aseptic filling, where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to prevent contamination of pharmaceutical products.


Laboratory Glove Boxes:

In laboratories, glove boxes are often used to create controlled environments for handling sensitive materials. Compressed air and inert gases help control the atmosphere within these glove boxes.


Cryopreservation and Cell Culture:

In medical technology and research, cryopreservation of biological samples and cell culture processes often involve the use of inert gases like liquid nitrogen.


Medical Gas Systems:

In healthcare facilities, medical gas systems, which may include compressed air and various inert gases, are essential for delivering gases used in medical procedures, anaesthesia, and respiratory therapy.


Automation and Robotics:

Compressed air is frequently employed in automation and robotics in medical laboratories and manufacturing settings, powering pneumatic actuators and controlling robotic movements.


Pressurisation in Medical Devices:

Certain medical devices, such as ventilators and surgical tools, may utilise compressed air or inert gases for pressurisation and operation.


 

Why Cambs Compressors?

Compressed air and inert gas distribution systems are foundational in science and medical technology applications, providing the power and control necessary for a wide range of instruments, processes, and experiments. Our specialist knowledge of these applications provides peace of mind that your systems will be both compliant to the various regulatory standards as well as fit for purpose.