JULABO USA has announced a significant update to its smartphone application, integrating advanced LiDAR technology to help laboratories more accurately assess space requirements for liquid temperature control units—particularly as the industry transitions to natural refrigerants.
Designed with laboratory managers in mind, the enhanced app supports safer equipment deployment, improved compliance, and more informed purchasing decisions through real-time spatial analysis.
LiDAR Technology Supports Safe Natural Refrigerant Use in Laboratories
As environmental regulations evolve, many U.S. laboratories are shifting toward natural refrigerants such as CO₂ and hydrocarbons. This transition is being driven in part by updated standards, including a 150g charge limit for importing laboratory refrigeration equipment (UL 60335-2-89).
While natural refrigerants offer environmental benefits, their flammable properties introduce new safety considerations. When operating a circulator using these substances, room volume must be sufficient to ensure that any potential gas leak remains below the lower explosion limit (LEL) or lower flammability limit (LFL). The minimum space required is directly tied to the circulator’s filling volume—making accurate room measurement critical.
"The integration of LiDAR technology into our existing smartphone app marks a significant leap forward for laboratory planning, especially as the industry transitions to natural refrigerants," said Dr. Dirk Frese, VP of Sales, Marketing & Service. "Safety is paramount to what we do. This innovative feature allows users to create accurate 3D models of their lab spaces, ensuring precise product recommendations that adhere to critical safety requirements."
Using real-time LiDAR scanning on compatible Pro devices, the updated JULABO USA app enables users to generate precise 3D models of their laboratory environments. These measurements are then used to provide tailored product recommendations based on lab dimensions and safe sizing requirements.
Key Features Designed for Lab Managers
The updated app aims to streamline both planning and purchasing workflows while enhancing safety compliance. Key features include:
- Real-time LiDAR Scanning: Create an accurate 3D model of your laboratory space with advanced scanning technology.
- Personalized Product Recommendations: Receive suggestions for JULABO units that are optimally sized for your specific lab dimensions and safety requirements.
- Enhanced Safety Compliance: Ensure your laboratory setup meets the necessary minimum space requirements for operating equipment with natural, flammable refrigerants.
- Streamlined Pre-sale Process: Facilitate better product selection for end-users and empower distributors with precise data for recommendations.
By integrating LiDAR technology directly into its app, JULABO USA positions itself as the only competitor currently offering both a dedicated application and built-in 3D scanning capabilities. The tool is intended to simplify complex lab design decisions while helping managers adopt sustainable refrigerant solutions safely and efficiently.
Laboratories interested in optimizing space planning and maintaining compliance with evolving refrigerant standards can download the updated app at julabo.us/app using a compatible Pro device with LiDAR capabilities.
