In recent years, Istec has been at the forefront of product innovation, focusing on speed measurement solutions like SpeedSys®. In this interview with Lucas van Ruiten, who recently stepped into the role of Manager of Technology and Innovation, we explore how Istec continues to build on its success. With extensive experience in the field and a clear vision for the future, Lucas shares insights into Istec’s journey of product development and the continuous innovation that drives the company forward.
17 years of experience
With 17 years of experience, Lucas van Ruiten began as a rotating engineer after an internship, progressing to a service manager in 2017. As of recently, he holds the position of Manager of Technology and Innovation.
Lucas van Ruiten, Manager of Technology and Innovation
Istec’s journey from a service provider to an industry leader in vibration and speed technology has been powered by the collective efforts of the entire technology team. Their hard work and dedication were pivotal, while Lucas’s practical experience played a key role in shaping the design process and advancing Istec’s hardware development.
Innovative solutions: SpeedSys
In recent years, Istec has focused on developing and launching the complete SpeedSys® line, offering solutions ranging from speed monitoring to overspeed protection. The product range covers the entire scope, from simple single-channel transmitters to SIL2 and SIL3-certified overspeed protection systems. Lucas highlights: “Our solutions have quickly gained traction in the market, being adopted by numerous end-users and OEMs as trusted and innovative choices for their applications.”
The concept of SpeedSys first emerged in 2018,” Lucas explains, “and in 2020, we launched the SpeedSys 200 to provide effective speed monitoring and protection.” Since then, the SpeedSys line has grown with multiple overspeed protection systems and tachometers.
SpeedSys features a compact DIN-rail design, making it suitable for a wide range of machinery. It is scalable, modular, and fills the gaps left by traditional systems, offering flexible overspeed protection for critical and non-critical equipment. SpeedSys is also cost-effective, reducing maintenance and improving spare part management. Additionally, it offers extensive support, including online training and specialist assistance, backed by Istec’s global partner network.
Through years of experience, Istec deeply understands customer needs. “This knowledge is crucial in refining our products to address customer challenges directly,” Lucas highlights. By collaborating with customers, Istec tailors its products to provide effective, relevant solutions, making customer-centric innovation key to its success.
Design philosophy
“Our design philosophy is all about going back to basics.” says Lucas. “We focus on building products that perform their core function effectively, without unnecessary complexity. It comes from our experience with products that were often too difficult to work with, and we want to make sure our customers never face those challenges again. Each product is built to perform its core function with simplicity and reliability, free from unnecessary complexity.”
The focus on simplicity and usability is evident throughout Istec’s range. One of the major challenges in this field is translating the inherent complexity of vibration and speed monitoring into solutions that are accessible and effective for users. Istec consistently strives to reduce this complexity, ensuring that its products remain intuitive and user-friendly.
Vision for the future
Lucas notes, “We see an exciting period ahead, driven by AI and other innovations. We are working on a revolutionary vibration monitoring product called VibSys.” He adds, “VibSys is not your average vibration transmitter”.
Istec’s future vision centers on expanding the applications of its products, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation while addressing the evolving needs of the industry. By focusing on versatility and technological advancement, Istec aims to provide solutions that continue to support customers effectively and drive future growth.
