BlueSky Global, a pioneering environmental technology company headquartered in Tomball, targets large problems with even bigger technology solutions. The company’s added focus – COVID-19, a pandemic that has put the world on its heels. BlueSky Global has applied their adept business model and state-of-the-art technology to minimize exposure to the virus.
CUTTING-EDGE SMARTBOX TECHNOLOGY
Founded in 2016 by Dr. Michael Seitz, BlueSky Global has developed a technology that could revolutionize industrial air filtration. For the coronavirus, BlueSky’s cutting-edge SmartBox Technology has combined high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtering and ultraviolet (UVC) sterilization into a fully integrated machine. Seitz says the company’s patented SmartBox Technology is the safest and most environmentally friendly industrial air cleaning system, aswell as the simplest to use and maintain. Seitz compares the SmartBox system to replacing an ink-jet cartridge on a printer. When it is time, a used SmartBox can be easily replaced, without anybody being exposed to any contaminants.
“For all BlueSky applications, when it is time for maintenance, a service company lifts the used SmartBox out of the machine and replaces it with a with new SmartBox with clean filters inside. This process takes only a few minutes, putting the system back online quickly,” offered Seitz, Chief Executive Officer. “In competing machines, it may take an entire day to change filters. That is expensive downtime, not to mention the dangers of exposing service personnel, equipment, and the environment to dislodged dust, dirty filters, and in the case of coronavirus applications, pathogens. We are excited to show people how safe and efficient our technology is.”
The functionality and safety of the technology allows BlueSky Global to meet the demands of companies who require industrial air filtration permanently and those that need filtration for only a short time. Plant maintenance shut-downs, construction, shipyards, batch plants, and fracking are just a few examples of short-term project uses. Foundries, manufacturing facilities, and all bulk powder industries use air filtration machines full-time. When it comes to airborne dust, BlueSky Global is a good fit for all.
“Our product is a very practical machine to improve air quality,” added James Pruitt, Global Estimating Director. “If you need a permanent solution, we have you covered. If you are working a project and need something for a few weeks, BlueSky can help with that, too.”
The equipment’s adaptability and the company’s scientific approach is what spurred the team to battle coronavirus. BlueSky Global’s idea to combat the virus sounds simple, but it is what Seitz explained will help to keep people safe. It is the implementation of downward airflow to remove contaminated aerosols, the vehicle for the virus, out of indoor spaces.
“We are trained to think critically, and we love to solve problems. We noticed a major issue with the virus and believed our technology could be part of a solution,” said Seitz, who began working on the general SmartBox concept in 2005.
“As the only company in the world with this technology readily available, we know we can positively change the response to COVID-19 by repurposing our equipment.”
BlueSky’s technology sends clean air from the ceiling pushing down contaminated air, which is removed by exhaust vents located at the floor of the space. These aerosols are then captured in the SmartBox’s filters. In addition to down-draft airflow, the BlueSky system can also humidify the space if necessary. Ideal humidity levels keep people from expressing more potentially infected aerosols. As Dr. Seitz explained, human lungs need certain air-temperature and humidity-conditions to thrive. This form of downward-directed airflow means, for example, that customers waiting in line for coffee do not walk into the same contaminated airspace as the customer in front of them.
“BlueSky Global’s system will revolutionize the response to COVID-19,” offered Seitz. “It seems simple but replacing dirty air with clean air limits the exposure to the virus. Our methodology combined with our SmartBox Technology can give medical clinics, corporate offices, supermarkets, restaurants, and more, the ability to operate safely by removing dangerous aerosols.”
TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
This kind of technology and innovation has not gone unnoticed by fellow Tomball businesses. BJ Services, a Tomball-based leader in oil and gas services, is hoping to partner with BlueSky Global to be the first company in BJ Services’ innovation park. This potential partnership creates excitement and opportunity for BlueSky Global.
“BJ Services is a company that we try to emulate. They put their roots down in Tomball many years ago and BlueSky is proudly doing the same,” added Seitz. “The opportunities created by being in BJ Services’ innovation park are endless.”
BlueSky Global already has had conversations with BJ Services about installing virus units in BJ Services’ newly renovated offices and is working with the oil and gas company on compliance with OSHA silica laws. This shows the breadth of BlueSky’s offerings.
Access to major infrastructure, proximity to large innovative industries, and a friendly business environment are key reasons BlueSky Global calls Tomball home. “Tomball has so many advantages. It is close to major freeways, international airports, and a wide range of industries, all while keeping its small-town charm,” said Pruitt. “The people here are friendly and understand the importance of business and industry. You cannot beat it.”
Tomball Economic Development Corporation
29201 Quinn Rd. Suite B
Tomball, TX 77375
281-401-4086
www.tomballtxedc.org
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