ACR Journal

Coolair supports women in ACR Coolair.indd 1 02/02/2021 11:32 to be quick thinking, be able to multitask and have strong problem-solving abilities. Having a technical mindset is important as well to understand fluid characteristics, efficiencies, and the associated systems. Customer service and communication skills are also particularly important. What challenges do you face in this role? I'm a meticulous planner, but my day doesn't always go the way I expected! At times we receive a call that requires our urgent assistance, and we must react quickly. We're pretty good at working to very tight timescales. It's great to be able to provide solutions effectively and avoid costly downtime for our customers. What are your most significant achievements? Recently, we had an emergency call-out from one of the largest food processing plants in the world. The 24/7 operation had significant cooling fluid contamination and needed urgent attention. From the initial call for help to engineers attending the site with the appropriate equipment, the response time was less than 18 hours. I have played a key part in promoting a proactive approach to fluid management, highlighting the importance of regular coolant analysis as a means of proactively monitoring closed-loop system conditions. As a result, we have identified many potential corrosion, biological and sediment related issues before they get out of hand - minimising system damage and unplanned maintenance for our customers. I consider my career development to be one of my most significant achievements. Hydratech encouraged me to develop my skills and have provided the support I needed to progress in the company. From starting as an administrator, I now assist our engineers on some of the most advanced cooling systems in the world; that is something I am very proud of. What do you like most about your job? The team spirit makes all the difference in my job, and they are like my extended family. Everything we do in our FMS department is a group effort. I'm often surprised at how much knowledge and understanding I have of complex cooling and heating systems. Learning something new every day through 'on the job' training is also a big plus. What advice would you give someone considering a career in your field? I would recommend gaining as much experience as possible while in education, either through work placements or summer work. Adopt a consultative approach. Do your background research and understand the customer's requirements. Then, provide the best service you can and deliver proven solutions. Awareness of individual system design, thermal and pumping demands are key. Detailed publications produced by CIBSE and BSRIA provide excellent guidance on pipework systems' commissioning (and recommissioning). What do you like to do in your spare time? I usually go to the gym before work. I find it helps me focus my mind on the day ahead. Then, after a busy day in the office, I like to be outdoors in the fresh air walking my dogs. On the weekend, I love eating out and catching up with friends. • For more information on Hydratech's Fluid Management Services (FMS) and Fluid Monitoring Program (FMP), contact: Soraya Pratten. Email: soraya@hydratech.co.uk Tel: 01792 586800. CMYK / .ai CMYK / .ai CMYK / .ai acrjournal.uk 'IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF COOLING SYSTEMS TO BE OVERLOOKED, LEADING TO POTENTIAL ISSUES, PRIMARILY; ADVANCED CORROSION, BIOLOGICAL FOULING AND SEDIMENT FORMATION.' 43 SPONSORED BY COOLAIR