The Barostat and the Flow Control Valve in the Medical and Health Industry

illustration of digestive system
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A barostat is a device used in the medical or health industry to maintain constant pressure in an enclosed environment. The main principle of the device is to provide a constant pressure in a balloon employing a flow control valve and pneumatic pump. A barostat is normally used in neurogastroenterology research. The device measures sensory thresholds and gut wall tension in the gut.

Human research and medical practice

While the barostat is a specially designed instrument used in neurogastroenterology research, it is also used for other research and medical treatments of abnormalities in the rectum ampulla, colon, small bowel, stomach, and oesophagus. Since the body’s gut wall has the constant capacity to expand and contract spontaneously and by reflex, the barostat’s polyethylene balloon must also be able to inflate or deflate very rapidly in keeping up with the gut’s movements.

Thus, modern barostats are now computer-controlled and are being used to assess pain thresholds and sensations in the gut. In the near future there is a possibility that barostats will be capable of diagnostic measurements.

Other human research

The barostat is also used to study the physiology and pathophysiology of the sensory and motor functions of the whole gastrointestinal tract. It can monitor volume changes while maintaining a controlled constant pressure that keeps pace with the expansion and contraction of the gastrointestinal organs. It can also deliver controlled distensions to the gut. Visceral perception and motility can also be monitored and assessed. 

Because of the barostat, there is now a better understanding of the physiological processes of the gastrointestinal tract as well as the ability to study various gastrointestinal disorders. Other diseases that are gastrointestinal in origin and systemic diseases affecting the gut can also be monitored and analysed. 

The barostat is sometimes used as a clinical tool for the diagnosis and treatment aid of motor and sensitivity disorders of the gut and tract, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

A special type of extremely accurate high-pressure non-medical barostat is used as a pressure regulator in pneumatic air rifles and pistol competitions. 

MasterMac 2000

MasterMac2000 P/L is the exclusive distributor of Univer original flow control valve systems and components and other pneumatic valves. Since 1980, Univer has been known for its quality mixed or spool systems for all industrial applications including heavy applications. Contact us today for more information on 07 3344 4711 or take a look at our products on https://mastermac2000.com.au/.

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About The Author

Stuart Havill

Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.

With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.

In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.

Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.

Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.

View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.

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