416 The SteriPen Revisited: Scaling UP! Your UV Digestion Knowledge
Release Date: 04/18/2025
Scaling UP! H2O
A Lifelong Exploration into Chlorine Dioxide In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore welcomes Greg D. Simpson, a recognized authority on chlorine dioxide and a long-time researcher, writer, and technologist in the industrial water treatment space. With decades of hands-on experience and a personal archive of thousands of technical papers, Greg brings unmatched depth to this essential conversation. From Field Trials to File Cabinets Greg takes us through his early career, from being tasked to explore chlorine dioxide as an alternative disinfectant on the...
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In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore interviews , Marketing & Inside Sales Director at , for a deep dive into how innovation is born—not in labs, but in the field. Jake shares the story of Pyxis Lab’s rapid evolution from a lean, hands-on team to an industry leader in developing smart, user-informed water treatment technology. Building Solutions from Real-World Problems Jake Deak's journey began during the pandemic, stepping into a role shaped by both legacy and urgency. Working closely with his father and the Pyxis team, he reveals how their approach...
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In this milestone episode, host Trace Blackmore welcomes of and current President of the . Together, they explore the strategic evolution of AWT and announce an exciting new partnership that officially makes Scaling UP! H2O the association's podcast partner. This conversation is a rare behind-the-scenes look into how AWT operates, from board decisions to training initiatives, and what the future holds for water treatment professionals who want to lead, grow, and make an impact. Behind the Boardroom: How AWT Operates at the Top John Caloritis gives a full picture of how the...
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“Keep it simple because the more complex things get, the less people will do it” - Gary Garcia For years, water treatment professionals have relied on PTSA tracers to estimate system performance, but emerging technologies are offering clearer, more direct answers. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcome once again returning guest Garret "Gary" S. Garcia of , now a business unit of to explore how fluorescent tagged polymers are revolutionizing the way water treaters monitor system health and chemical performance. With decades of expertise, Gary offers practical...
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"Continue to learn something new every day.” What happens when a Navy-trained water chemistry expert dives into AI-powered marketing? You get —Marketing and Business Development Manager at —who’s turning the tide on how water treatment professionals use tech. Whether you're still skeptical of AI or already exploring tools like ChatGPT, this episode offers a masterclass in practical, professional applications tailored for the water treatment world. From the Navy to Water Treatment: Ben’s Story Ben Frieders shares his journey from operating nuclear submarines to...
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In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore reconnects with returning guest , President of North Metal & Chemical Company. Known for his forward-thinking predictions, Dave returns to share valuable insights into supply chain forecasting, emotional intelligence in leadership, and how a strong culture can shape business longevity. Purpose-Driven Predictions Dave doesn’t just react—he predicts. Learn how he turns economic signals, freight trends, and material pricing into reliable forecasting tools to protect inventory and serve loyal customers. ...
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Corrosion control is fundamental to the success of any water treatment program, but how often do we question the limitations of the tools we rely on? In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes back returning guest , Vice President of Water Additives at , to explore the evolving role of maleic acid-based corrosion inhibitors in industrial water treatment. Drawing on decades of expertise, Mike shares practical insights into when — and when not — to use these innovative solutions to meet today's complex challenges. Understanding the Corrosion Control Toolbox Mike...
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“ Don’t Just Be Successful – Be Significant” How do you define success? Is it about financial achievement, accolades, or influence? What if true fulfillment lies in significance rather than just success? In this episode of the Scaling Up H2O podcast, we welcome back a distinguished guest, . With over four decades of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron has not only built thriving businesses but has also dedicated his life to mentoring others, helping them navigate their paths with purpose. His belief that "Relationships Matter Most" is a guiding principle for those seeking deeper...
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“Always test your tools before field use. Side-by-side comparisons ensure repeatability and accuracy.” In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host delivers an in-depth update on the SteriPen, a widely used tool for water treatment professionals. After overwhelming demand from listeners, we revisit the SteriPen, its capabilities, and its impact on testing organic phosphates and azoles. If you're looking for efficiency, precision, and portability in water testing, this episode is packed with actionable insights. The Evolution of the SteriPen Learn how the SteriPen became a game-changer...
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“When there’s a will, there’s a way.” - Charlie Cichetti Sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a commitment to a better future. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with , LEED Fellow + WELL AP, CEO + Co-Founder of a leading expert in green building to discuss the latest updates in sustainability and how they impact industries worldwide. From energy efficiency to new LEED requirements, Charlie breaks down what professionals need to know about the latest green building innovations. Whether you’re a facilities manager, an industrial...
info_outline “Always test your tools before field use. Side-by-side comparisons ensure repeatability and accuracy.”
In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore delivers an in-depth update on the SteriPen, a widely used tool for water treatment professionals. After overwhelming demand from listeners, we revisit the SteriPen, its capabilities, and its impact on testing organic phosphates and azoles. If you're looking for efficiency, precision, and portability in water testing, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
The Evolution of the SteriPen
Learn how the SteriPen became a game-changer in the industrial water treatment industry. Originally designed for hikers, it’s now widely adopted for phosphate digestion and azole testing.
SteriPen Classic 3 vs. SteriPen Ultra: Which One Is Right for You?
Trace compares the Classic 3 and Ultra models, discussing their battery life, efficiency, usability, and cost-effectiveness. Get clarity on which device suits your testing needs best.
Testing Efficiency: Reducing Time While Maintaining Accuracy
Find out how the SteriPen reduces testing time by half while maintaining accuracy, making it a must-have tool for water professionals.
Best Practices for SteriPen Use
From choosing the right vials and batteries to ensuring consistent testing results, this segment walks you through practical applications and expert recommendations.
The Future of Water Testing
How innovations like the SteriPen and other portable UV tools are reshaping the way industrial water treatment professionals conduct daily testing.
With water testing advancements, efficiency is key. Whether you're new to SteriPen or looking to upgrade, this episode provides valuable insights to optimize your water testing process.
Water professionals deserve better tools. Upgrade your phosphate and azole testing with the right SteriPen for maximum efficiency and accuracy.
Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!
Timestamps
02:28 – Trace Blackmore shares a recap of Episode 414
06:47 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
16:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald
20:45 – Deep dive into SteriPen device: it’s history and application
33:29 – Comparison between SteriPen Classic 3 and SteriPen Ultra
36:00 – Testing Procedures for organic and phosphate and azole tests
38:02 – Charging and battery life for both SteriPen models
Connect with Scaling UP! H2O
Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea
LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/
YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O
Click HERE to download Episode’s Discussion Guide
Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned
Ep 046 The One About Phosphate Testing
Ep 414 Pinks and Blues: Trace’s Phosphate Redux
Ep 415 Green Building Updates: What You Need to Know
Augmenting your testing procedures for Phosphonate and Azole testing
AWT (Association of Water Technologies)
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries
Eowpower 30pcs 50ml Plastic Vial Storage Container
Hach Benzotriazole/Tolyltriazole
Hach Phosphonate
Lithium re-chargeable batteries
Re-chargeable Lithium Batteries with charger
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Steri Pen Classic 3
SteriPen Ultra
SteriPen Ultra – Katadyn Fact Sheet
Submit a Show Idea
The unboxing of everything you need to use the SteriPen in your
Phosphonate and Azole testing
Taylor Technologies Test Procedures: Phosphonate
Taylor Technologies Test Procedures: Azole
World Vision Global 6k for Water
Water You Know with James McDonald
Question: Does silica solubility typically decrease or increase with rising temperature?
2025 Events for Water Professionals
Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.