Empower Trace Detection with Micropumps

Bartels’ micropumps support the IONSCAN 600 in delivering fast, precise trace detection of explosives and narcotics. 

The Challenge

In environments like airports, border checkpoints, and sensitive facilities, reliable and rapid detection of explosives and narcotics is critical. Traditional detection systems often rely on bulky, non-portable setups, require radioactive sources, or involve complex sampling processes.

Smiths Detection set out to overcome these barriers with the IONSCAN 600: A compact, portable trace detector capable of identifying a wide range of substances, including high-risk synthetic opioids like fentanyl. 

To achieve this, they partnered with Bartels Mikrotechnik: 

  • Bartels Mikrotechnik: Experts in microfluidics and compact fluid control solutions. 
  • Smiths Detection: Global leaders in advanced threat detection technologies. 

With Bartels’ micropumps at the core, Smiths Detection developed a system where precision gas flow and compact integration are essential for reliable field operation.

Our Solution

Bartels Mikrotechnik provided micropumps that met the demanding requirements of the IONSCAN 600: 

  • Stable Gas Flow: Our BP7 micropumps ensure consistent and controlled airflow, critical for sensitive ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). 
  • Compact Form Factor: The pump’s small size enables seamless integration into the portable desktop design of the IONSCAN 600. 
  • Battery-Friendly Operation: With low power consumption, our pumps support uninterrupted use even during battery-powered operation in the field. 

These features support the IONSCAN 600’s ability to provide fast, accurate results without radioactive sources or complex licensing. 

The Result

Thanks to Bartels’ micropumps, the IONSCAN 600 achieves outstanding performance in real-world environments: 

  • Rapid Detection: Results in under 8 seconds, supporting fast decision-making. 
  • Wider Reach: Portable and licence-free, ideal for use across airports, border control, and high-risk locations. 
  • High Sensitivity: Reliably detects trace amounts of narcotics and explosives, including fentanyl. 

This partnership showcases how Bartels’ microfluidic expertise contributes to safer environments, enabling threat detection technologies to operate with unmatched speed and precision. 

Need a similar solution?

Looking to innovate with precise and reliable microfluidics?

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From compact micropumps to integrated systems, we empower your next breakthrough.

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