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In this episode of The Flow Lab Podcast, hosts Ben Walker, Co-CEO of RetroTec, and Sam Myers, building science specialist and RetroTec trainer, sit down with Niek-Jan Bink, Director/co-owner at ACIN instrumenten and mastermind behind innovative tools like the Flow Finder Mk2+ and the ADT.

Niek shares his fascinating journey from climate research to engineering HVAC solutions, while uncovering the evolving needs of ventilation systems around the globe. This is a must-listen for HVAC pros, energy auditors, and building scientists curious about the tools shaping better indoor air quality and airtight construction.

Expect to Learn:

• From a handmade aluminum box to a smart, Wi-Fi powered airflow measurement device.
• A new tool that simplifies testing on large-scale housing projects without replacing the blower door.
• Discover how ultrasonic tools are transforming on-site diagnostics, no construction delays required.
• Why do the U.S. and Europe approach airflow, ventilation, and ductwork so differently.
• What Niek learned from experts like Bill Spohn and Colin Genge, and why curiosity is key in HVAC.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:00] - How it works with or without the blower door

[01:13] - Meet Niek-Jan Bink and his work with ACIN Instrumenten in the Netherlands

[03:54] - From climate researcher to co-owner of a cutting-edge HVAC company

[06:30] - ACIN’s diverse innovations: from naval valves to plant research

[08:52] - The origin story of the Flow Finder and 1980s ventilation failures

[12:40] - Flow Finder Mk2+ development & challenges

[18:00] - Ultrasonic leak detection tools: what's coming next

[21:37] - Using Flow Finder and ultra graphics in prefab & commercial projects

[28:32] - Breaking down the ADT’s functionality, limitations, and value

[35:56] - Practical ADT case study in a Dutch apartment complex

[44:11] - Achieving ISO 17025 accreditation & improving calibration uncertainty

[47:22] - Flow Finder Mk2+ updates: new motor controller, better efficiency

[52:56] - Extending the flow capacity up to 700 CFM

[55:00] - Future software for hood-specific calibration

[58:44] - U.S. use cases: whole-house ventilation, duct testing, and balancing

[01:03:00] - Advice for young

Follow Hosts:
Ben Walker (Co-CEO, Retrotec)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walker-4a05901/

Sam Myers (Building Science Specialist & Trainer)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-myers-ms-a9a4a546/

Website: https://retrotec.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/retrotec/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retrotec/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RetrotecEnergy/

Listen on
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3xMDAhIttUTHWK41DH7KhB

Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on airtightness, ventilation strategies, and innovations in building science!

#BuildingScience #AirtightnessTesting #EnergyEfficiency #BuildingPerformance #HVAC #Retrotec #GreenStar #EnergyWaste #HomeImprovement