Let’s Dive into Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800, from Thermo Scientific, is a compact, point-of-use water purification system designed to deliver demineralized water on demand. It promises a continuous flow of high-purity water, crucial for laboratories, small-scale manufacturing, and any application requiring water free from mineral contaminants.
My work in remote research labs frequently requires demineralized water, but often lacks centralized systems. Transporting large volumes of pre-purified water is cumbersome and risky, making an on-site solution incredibly appealing.
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 arrived well-packaged, its footprint surprisingly small. The unit itself feels robust, with a clear and easy-to-read meter for monitoring water purity.
Compared to larger, more complex deionization systems I’ve used in the past, the Bantam D0800 appeared refreshingly simple. Other options I considered included larger capacity systems from MilliporeSigma and Sartorius, but their size and complexity were overkill for my needs.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping this compact unit could truly deliver the consistent water quality I require. The price point certainly sets expectations high, and I was eager to see if the performance justified the investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 in a temporary field lab set up near a river sampling site. The raw water source was relatively clean river water filtered through a basic sediment pre-filter.
The Bantam D0800 performed flawlessly, producing demineralized water with a consistent purity reading well within acceptable limits. Its ease of use was immediately apparent, requiring only a simple connection to the water line and a power source.
After an hour of continuous use, the unit maintained a stable flow rate and consistent water quality, exceeding my initial expectations. There were no leaks, unusual noises, or any indication of stress on the system.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of near-daily use, the Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 continues to provide reliable service. The purity meter has remained consistent, and the flow rate has only slightly decreased, likely due to gradual cartridge depletion.
So far, there are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs. The plastic housing has proven durable, and the connections remain secure.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving wiping down the exterior and monitoring the purity meter. Replacing the cartridge looks straightforward, based on the Thermo Scientific’s instructions.
Compared to previous experiences with bottled demineralized water, the Bantam D0800 offers a significant improvement in convenience and cost-effectiveness. The water quality is comparable, if not superior, to commercially available sources.
Breaking Down the Features of Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800
Specifications
- Flow Rate: 19-38 Liters/hour (5-10 Gallons/hour). This flow rate provides a practical output for most laboratory and small-scale production needs.
- Meter Calibration: 0-19 ppm (as NaCl) and 25,000 ohms-cm to 18,000,000 ohms-cm. This wide range allows precise monitoring of water purity across various applications.
- Dimensions: 15.2W x 22.2D x 72.4H cm (6 x 8 3/4 x 28 1/2 inches). Its compact size makes it ideal for labs with limited space.
- Electrical: 120V, 50/60 Hz. This is a standard voltage and frequency suitable for most North American labs.
- Cartridge Replacement: A thumbwheel arrangement allows for simple cartridge changes without the need for specialized tools.
- Direct Water Line Connection: The demineralizer connects directly to a raw water line.
- Direct Reading Meter: Indicates the purity of effluent at all times.
- Atmospheric Pressure Delivery: Delivers demineralized water in continuous flow at atmospheric pressure.
These specifications highlight the Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800’s design as a point-of-use system for producing high-quality demineralized water conveniently. The flow rate, purity monitoring, and ease of cartridge replacement are all crucial for consistent and efficient operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 excels at consistently delivering high-purity demineralized water. Its reliability, ease of use, and consistent performance make it a valuable asset.
The unit’s primary strength lies in its ability to transform ordinary tap water into high-quality demineralized water on demand. A potential weakness could be the limited flow rate for high-volume applications, but it is sufficient for smaller needs.
The Bantam D0800 meets and exceeds expectations for a compact demineralization system. Its performance and reliability are on par with more expensive and complex systems.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 features a functional and space-saving design. The unit is constructed from durable plastic, giving it a robust feel without being excessively heavy.
The design is intuitive, requiring minimal setup. The direct-reading meter is well-placed and easy to interpret.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 appears to be built for long-term use. Regular cartridge replacement should be the only major maintenance requirement.
The system’s simplicity reduces the chances of mechanical failures, making it easy to maintain and repair if necessary. Replacement parts, such as cartridges, should be readily available from Thermo Scientific.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 comes with a pedestal for tabletop use, which can be removed for wall mounting. While no specific accessories are included beyond the initial cartridge, pre-filters are recommended to extend cartridge life.
The unit’s connections are standard, meaning it can be easily integrated with various pre-filtration systems. While it lacks extensive customization options, its core functionality is well-executed.
Pros and Cons of Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800
Pros
- Consistently delivers high-purity demineralized water.
- Compact design saves valuable lab space.
- Easy to install and operate, with minimal training required.
- Direct-reading meter provides real-time water quality monitoring.
- Simple cartridge replacement with no specialized tools.
Cons
- Relatively high initial cost compared to purchasing bottled demineralized water.
- Flow rate may be insufficient for high-volume applications.
Who Should Buy Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800?
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 is perfect for laboratories, research facilities, and small-scale manufacturers needing a reliable source of demineralized water. It also suits any application where consistently pure water is critical.
Those who only require very small volumes of demineralized water infrequently might find bottled water more cost-effective. Businesses with extremely high water demands may need to consider larger, more industrial-scale systems.
A pre-filter is a must-have accessory to extend the life of the demineralization cartridge. Depending on the application, a final filter might also be beneficial for removing any remaining particulates.
Conclusion on Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800
The Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable and convenient source of demineralized water. Its consistent performance, ease of use, and compact design make it a standout product.
While the initial price is significant, the long-term cost savings compared to purchasing bottled water and the convenience of on-demand purification justify the investment. I would highly recommend the Barnstead Demineralizer Bantam D0800 to anyone in need of a reliable, point-of-use demineralization system. Take the plunge and experience the freedom of high-purity water on demand!