The new product is described as ‘an innovative sequential non-thermostatic pressure balanced valve (PBV) mixer tap’ . The company said: “While thermostatic mixing valve taps remain the gold standard for maintaining a consistent outlet temperature in critical care areas, the Markwik 21+ SQ PBV mixer offers a safe water delivery system, and the opportunity of lowering maintenance costs. The new mixer offers an alternative to thermostatic mixing valve products for the hospital and healthcare environment, in appropriately risk-assessed healthcare settings, and in line with HTM 04-01.” A ceramic ‘sleeve and shuttle’ system increases or restricts the hot and cold water supply to achieve a new pressure balance, while a consistent outlet temperature reportedly offers ‘a more hygienic and durable alternative to stainless steel mechanisms’.
The new PBV mixer has been designed for rapid fitting in healthcare settings. Armitage Shanks said: “Plug and play functionality enables providers to easily convert Markwik 21 or Markwik 21+ thermostatic tap installations to the new pressure balance installation. Depending on the Markwik models, this allows handles and detachable spouts from the previous installation to be retained, reducing the time taken to make the upgrade and the costs, while facilitating maintenance. A detachable spout designed for autoclave cleaning provides protection against biofilm build-up.
Anil Madan, Non-Residential Marketing manager at Armitage Shanks, said: “Healthcare Estates is a great opportunity to showcase the latest additions to our healthcare offering with the people in the best position to implement them. We’re dedicated to providing the NHS with the tools it needs to keep its patients safe, and the latest additions to the Markwik range are designed to do just that. While thermostatic mixing valve taps are as key as ever for maintaining a consistent outlet temperature in critical care areas, our new PBV mixer has been created with convenience and cost-effectiveness in mind, without compromising patient safety.”