According to Starkstrom, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is 'arguably the greatest advance in diagnostic medical techniques to have taken place in the last century'.
As part of its commitment to medical design and innovation, Starkstrom has added an MRI chamber to its already extensive portfolio, extending its expertise beyond the confines of the critical care and operating theatre areas, while still, it says, “providing the same high standards of equipment and after-sales support that customers have come to expect from a trusted supplier”.
The Starkstrom MRI Chamber features what is claimed to be a “unique” dimmable LED light system designed specifically for the MRI, which eliminates strobe effects and is reportedly “60% more efficient than other lighting systems”, thus reducing power usage and costs.
Starkstrom says: “Research carried out in conjunction with the National Physics Laboratory has led to the use of more effective material in magnetic field shielding, and new quench thermal insulation material has improved performance, but reduced risk, protecting personnel and equipment from contact with extremely cold piping.” The company has also developed a new computer modelling programme for magnetic field shielding, which ensures that unnecessary costs are not incurred through “over- engineering” and that potential issues with adjacent equipment are identified before installation. The chamber has already been installed as part of several major PFI healthcare projects, including Barts and the London Hospitals, and the Royal Victoria Infirmary and Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.
As with all Starkstrom’s products, the MRI chamber can be purchased “supply only”, or as part of a total turnkey project.
The company says: “Whichever option is taken, customers will benefit from advice right from the start on issues such as adverse effects on other equipment which may be created by the MRI scanner, and resulting impact on construction programmes. Customers opting for the turnkey solution, which incorporates the MRI room, emergency quench, magnetic field and final testing, will receive an MRI installation featuring elements all provided by one trusted specialist; Starkstrom’s unique capacity to do this is part of what sets it above the competition.
“In addition, all elements of the chamber are manufactured in the UK; Starkstrom prides itself on designing and assembling almost all its equipment in the UK, celebrating the skills of UK workers, and safeguarding jobs now and for the future.”
