CryoDry’s goal is to revolutionise freeze drying by offering innovative cutting-edge freeze dryers. Our focus on the protection of our environment is already demonstrated through our choice of natural refrigerant, use of highest energy efficiency components, WEEE compliance and more.
Another key standard for environmental protection standards is focused on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (ROHS) use in electrical and electronic components and devices. This is documented in the European Directive 2011/65.
This article outlines the significance of ROHS compliance and its implications for both manufacturers and users of freeze-drying technology.
What is ROHS Compliance?
ROHS stands for Restriction of Hazardous Substances, a directive established by the European Union aimed at reducing the environmental impact of electrical and electronic products. The directive restricts the use of specific hazardous materials found in these products, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants.
Why is ROHS Compliance Important?
- Safety and Health: The primary goal of ROHS compliance is to protect human health and the environment. By ensuring that our freeze dryers are free from harmful substances, CryoDry contributes to safer use, safer freeze-dried products (such as food), a safer workplace for employees and an overall healthier ecosystem.
- Regulatory Compliance: Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including fines and product recalls. By adhering to ROHS standards, businesses can mitigate the risk of legal issues, ensuring that their freeze dryers meet all necessary regulations.
- Innovation and Improvement: The pursuit of ROHS compliance has driven innovation at CryoDry. Together with our suppliers we have chosen component materials and technologies that are less harmful to the environment, leading to improvements in our product design and performance.
The Process of Third-Party ROHS Compliance Testing
Independent testing verifies that our products do not contain hazardous substances above the permissible limits, thus ensuring safety for consumers and environmental protection.
Key Aspects of ROHS Compliance Testing are:
- Sampling and Preparation: Testing begins with selecting representative samples of the product components. Proper sample preparation is crucial to ensure accurate results, which may involve disassembly and analysis of various components.
- Analytical Methods: Several analytical techniques are used in ROHS compliance testing. Common methods include:
- X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF): A non-destructive testing method that quickly identifies the elemental composition of materials.
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS): A highly sensitive technique used for detecting trace elements, particularly useful for substances like cadmium and lead.
- Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR): Used to identify organic substances and their concentrations.
- Documentation and Reporting: After testing, third party laboratories provide a detailed report that includes the test results, methodologies used, and compliance status. Manufacturers such as CryoDry must keep these documents on file as proof of compliance, which may be required for audits or regulatory inspections.
- Continuous Monitoring: Since ROHS regulations may update or change, manufacturers should implement continuous monitoring of their supply chains and production processes. This includes regular testing of new materials and components to ensure ongoing compliance.
Conclusion
ROHS compliance is not just a regulatory requirement, it is an essential aspect of responsible manufacturing and product development.
For freeze dryer manufacturers and users, adhering to these standards can enhance safety and align with goals to protect the environment.
With certification of our products, CryoDry confirms our commitment to offering class leading technology while contributing to a healthier planet.