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ITT Exelis adapts sonar technology for critical medical, commercial and defense applications

Dépèche transmise le 14 février 2012 par Business Wire

ITT Exelis adapts sonar technology for critical medical, commercial and defense applications

VAN NUYS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ITT Exelis (NYSE: XLS) and Altapure, LLC are introducing an advanced disinfection system to decontaminate medical, military and other critical equipment and facilities. The two companies have worked jointly for the past seven years to develop a portable nebulizer that eradicates viruses, bacteria, spores and fungi in less than 10 minutes.

“After seeing the nebulizer’s impact in select hospitals across the country, we realized the system could make a real difference in many areas”

Exelis adapted its piezoelectric ceramic-based technology – developed initially so underwater sensors could be the eyes and ears of submarines – to enable the nebulizer to disinfect areas, equipment and electronics effectively and efficiently. The system has been successfully piloted in targeted hospitals, and Exelis and Altapure now plan to offer the technology for additional commercial and defense applications.

“After seeing the nebulizer’s impact in select hospitals across the country, we realized the system could make a real difference in many areas,” said Chris Bernhardt, Exelis Executive Vice President and President of the Electronic Systems division. “From treating contaminated public buildings and military aircraft that have been subjected to biological agents, to disinfecting tainted food and keeping food processing facilities clean, we see many ways our piezoelectric ceramic technology can provide safer environments through the Altapure nebulizer.”

The Exelis technology enables the ultrasonic subsystem of Altapure’s nebulizer to deliver a robust, dense cloud of sub-micron droplets, providing high-level disinfection or decontamination of large areas. This approach results in the destruction of a wide range of pathogens at a reduced time and expense and at greater efficacy when compared to existing methods. This automated operation reduces the need for manual cleaning and decreases the risk of human exposure. The Altapure solution is non-corrosive, leaves no residue and is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. Rooms treated by the nebulizer can be reoccupied within 30 minutes.

“With its history of innovation and proven expertise in sophisticated product development, Exelis is the perfect partner for us,” said Carl L. Ricciardi, Altapure co-founder and president. “Our relationship will enable Altapure to expand into many markets.”

The nebulizer will be on display this week at the Medical Devices and Manufacturing show in Anaheim, Calif. The Electronic Systems facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, is leading this work for Exelis.

“This milestone is another sign of the Exelis commitment to finding innovative ways to adapt our advanced technologies to solve today’s challenges, both for our defense customers and for targeted commercial markets,” said Bernhardt.

This is the second significant commercial application of the Exelis sonar technology within the past year. In 2011, Exelis signed an agreement with the oncology company, NovoCure, to provide its piezoelectric ceramic technology to help treat brain cancer.

ITT Exelis Electronic Systems provides innovative integrated solutions for the global defense, intelligence, information assurance and commercial aerospace sectors. As a leader in electronic warfare and communications, we leverage our experience and innovation to ensure the success of our customers’ critical missions. Our technology leadership extends into the areas of airborne electronic attack, networked and satellite communications, counter-improvised explosive devices, airspace management, surveillance systems, airborne and shipboard radar, acoustic sensors, advanced composite structures and electronic weapons interfaces.

About ITT Exelis

ITT Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense and information solutions company with strong positions in enduring and emerging global markets. Exelis is a leader in networked communications, sensing and surveillance, electronic warfare, navigation, air traffic solutions and information systems with growing positions in cyber security, composite aerostructures, logistics and technical services. The company has a 50-year legacy of innovation and technology expertise, partnering with customers worldwide to deliver affordable, mission-critical products and services for managing global threats, conflicts and complexities. Headquartered in McLean, VA, the company employs about 21,000 people and generated 2010 revenue of $5.9 billion. Visit us at www.exelisinc.com

About Altapure, LLC

Altapure is a technology company dedicated to applying its ultrasonic platform to reduce the risk of biological contamination found in medical institutions, food processing facilities, and structures used to store agricultural crops.