EP #58 – Behind Anton Flue Gas Analysers: The Manufacturer’s Perspective w/ Kieren Carter

Overview

Most engineers have strong opinions about their flue gas analyser, but very few know what things look like from the manufacturer’s side.

In this episode, we invited Kieren Carter, account manager at Anton, to get the inside scoop on how engineers choose their analysers, the features most don’t even know they’ve paid for, and where FGA technology is headed in the next few years.

Highlights

What does an account manager at Anton actually do?

• (1:35) – Kieran explains his role, doing toolbox talks and showing engineers how to look after their analyser
• (2:37) – Why Anton speaks to engineers direct, then points them to their nearest distributor

Choosing the right analyser for the work you do

• (3:27) – Why domestic and commercial engineers need different kit
• (4:03) – Can you over-spec? And how accessories add to what your analyser can do
• (5:56) – How engineers choose: brand loyalty, maintenance cost and turnaround time for calibration
• (14:56) – How Kieran would choose one today, weighing it up like buying a car

Calibration and the 12-month lock

• (6:31) – How servicing an Anton analyser works, and why they lock after 12 months
• (8:57) – The real consequences of running an uncalibrated device. Calibrating your analyser is just like getting your car MOT.

Providing feedback & getting the most out of your FGA

• (10:07) – Feedback goes straight to lead scientist Paul Basham and good ideas get implemented into the product (such as the depth gauge issue and O-ring redesign that fixed it.)
• (12:29) – Kieran encourages engineers to get in touch with Anton, no matter what the question is.
• (13:41) – The Bluetooth feature is underused, sending readings to certificate apps like Gas Engineer Software
• (16:59) – Where FGAs go next: a wireless world you read from your phone