Tata backing helps revolutionary pumps device break US market

Clearwater Controls Ltd first won a ‘six figure’ deal from UK Steel Enterprise in September last year to support its international expansion plans, notably for its revolutionary Deragger device invented in 2012.

Now a second round of funding from UKSE will enable the Cumbernauld company to stage its biggest trial to date in the USA, piloting the device on a complete network of 40 pumps feeding a treatment works.

Managing director Simon Crompton said: “UKSE has been an integral part of our journey, and we are grateful for the team’s support.

“We have great aspirations for the next few years, and the latest funding allows us to take yet another step towards our goals.”

A spokesperson said the American project represents a major development in marketing the product. Previously its use has been mostly limited to pumps identified as prone to blockage.

“This new funding will help to position the revolutionary device as a preventative tool that eliminates blockages before they form and improves overall pumping efficiency across a whole network.”

Another target for Clearwater is Australia, where the funding will again underwrite the cost of staging pilot projects to demonstrate the Deragger.

Commenting on the award, Scott Webb, regional executive at UK Steel Enterprise, said: “Clearwater Controls Ltd is a fantastic example of Scottish innovation being showcased to international markets, with the help of equity backing.

“We have been with the organisation through almost every step of its development, and we are proud to be contributing to its impressive growth.”

Pic: Scott Webb (left) with Simon Crompton