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Microbial detection in the field and the lab
ECHA was born in the labs of Cardiff University with a simple mission: to develop pioneering microbiology solutions to support various sectors. The company is still based in Wales, but its reach now extends to all four corners of the globe, with engineers, operators and regulators alike trusting its innovative portfolio to detect and mitigate microbial risks in some of the world’s most critical systems.
Fuelled by expertise, driven by discovery
ECHA has long supported its customers in addressing microbial issues before they escalate into operational problems. First and foremost, we provide end-to-end microbiological testing and analysis, led by a team of microbiologists who are just as comfortable in our advanced laboratory facilities as they are on site with customers, carrying out assessments and investigations around the world. Few, if any, companies combine both lab testing and field investigation like we do, which provide unique insights into understanding the root causes of microbial growth in industrial systems. This depth of expertise lends itself to a broad range of industries, particularly in managing microbial contamination and corrosion in fuel and oil systems across aviation, marine and ground transportation, where we are recognised as a leading authority in the field.
From research in the lab…
Technologies to identify and mitigate microbial risk almost always stem from the lab – or more accurately, the scientists at the bench. As new fuels and materials emerge, so too do novel microbial challenges, which is why our laboratory team continues to push the boundaries of microbial detection solutions, from exploring the genetic markers that make certain microbes more corrosive to testing the resilience of coatings under simulated conditions. In one recent project, we worked with a client to build controlled microcosms that reflected the unique environment of their system, helping them to assess how the materials they use stand up to corrosive microbial by-products. It’s this kind of practical, targeted science that gives our customers the data and confidence they need to act.
… to innovation in the field.
ECHA’s commitment to microbial innovation stretches back over four decades, guided by a clear vision to provide science-led testing solutions to engineers. This philosophy took shape early on with our significant involvement in the development of dip slides, which are now used globally for monitoring microbial contamination in aqueous samples. We have since pioneered more advanced tools for complex mixtures – such as fuel and oil – bringing reliable microbial detection to environments where traditional methods fall short, from aircraft fuel tanks to offshore platforms. For example, MicrobMonitor®2 is a field-ready test based on our proprietary ‘smart’ gel matrix that estimates the number of colony forming units (CFU) – a measure of viable microbial cells in a sample – of bacteria, yeasts and moulds. It’s a breakthrough that delivers lab grade accuracy in the field, making routine microbial testing in fuels, oils and associated water both practical and dependable.
Made by scientists for engineers
From the lab to the field, ECHA continues to lead the way in microbiological innovation. By combining long-standing microbiological expertise with practical tools, we help our customers to detect and mitigate microbial risk before it amounts to operational issues. We’re much more than a catalogue of products; we’re a team of passionate scientists dedicated to microbial innovation and sharing the latest technologies with our loyal customers around the world.
