Being able to ride to work, and on such a beautiful route, is quality of life at its best.
Perfect Measurement, Perfect Maneuver
Whether in the lab or on wild rivers – Romano Gieriet relies on preparation, precision, and control. As an application specialist at Hamilton Bonaduz AG, he ensures that sensors deliver reliable measurements. In his kayak, he navigates raging currents with the same care – even daring to take on waterfalls.
When Romano Gieriet installs a process sensor, every detail matters: The measurement must be precise, and integration into the control system must run smoothly. Even small deviations can have major consequences – just like kayaking in challenging waters. “I analyze the currents and anticipate their effects on the boat. The same level of preparation is crucial for an installation – nothing can go wrong.”
Mistakes Are Not an Option
In the lab, just like in a rapid, a single mistake can have drastic consequences. Romano has already plunged over a waterfall more than ten meters high in his kayak – a calculated risk, he says, thanks to thorough preparation.
Unlike on the water, where the goal is to find the most spectacular lines, the lab is all about finding the safest path. “If a sensor signal fails and damages the medium, the costs can quickly reach six or even seven figures.”
Hamilton Sensors in the Biopharma Industry
The sensors from the Process Analytics business unit are used, among other applications, in the biopharma industry. In bioreactors, cells, bacteria, or yeast are cultivated under controlled conditions. These organisms produce valuable substances – such as proteins, antibodies, or vaccines – which are later used as medications. “Our sensors measure key parameters during this process, including pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and CO2 levels. The sensors are connected to a control system. For example, if the pH level is too high, the system automatically adds acid until optimal conditions are restored.” Hamilton sensors help ensure quality and efficiency in bioproduction, enabling the reliable manufacturing of life-saving medications.
Graubünden – A Kayaker’s Paradise
For a kayaker like Romano, there’s no better place than Graubünden – with numerous rivers right at his doorstep. A highlight for tourists is the Vorderrhein with the spectacular Rhine Gorge, known as the “Swiss Grand Canyon”, where Romano also offers relaxed canoe tours for beginners.
For himself, however, he seeks more challenging waters. “The challenge of paddling something cool is what drives me – I’m not after speed but rather spectacular lines of waterfalls.” Rivers like the Landquart, Glenner, Albula, Verzasca, and Plessur provide him with a kayaker’s paradise, always within reach thanks to his kayak permanently strapped to his car roof. “That way, I can be in my paradise within minutes.”
Tried and Tested in Every Water
Romano keeps a cool head even in critical situations. With his kayak, he has traveled across most continents and conquered wild waters from the rivers of Graubünden to the rapids of Africa, North, and South America. These experiences also benefit him in the lab, as he knows the importance of thorough preparation. And if things do get tricky, he stays calm and always finds a way – both on the river and in the lab.
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