We formed Aliquot, Ltd. on January 1st, 2023. Five months later, we debuted our new Mudgas Tubes at the URTeC conference in Denver. Though there are some significant differences between our new container and the old technology, we hope you find these differences to be not only beneficial, but also an improvement upon the old technology. Used primarily for the collection of gases liberated from mud while drilling oil/gas wells (i.e. mud gases), the protocols for this type of sample collection have remained relatively unchanged over the last 20 years. As a result, our goal was not to change the sampling process, but to improve upon the container itself. 

The main problem with the earlier containers tended to be the valves utilized (tire-stem/ “Schrader” valves). As a result of manufacturing processes, shards of metal would sometimes interfere with the sealing surfaces of these valves, causing them to leak. For our new Mudgas Tubes, we have chosen a more versatile valve that we feel will eliminate some of the problems of the past, without making changes to sampling methods or protocols. In addition to upgrading the valves, the overall architecture of our new container will allow for additional improvements and container types, as well as a multitude of sampling methods. Furthermore, the versatility of this new container should also simplify use in the laboratory, especially as it relates to automated equipment, as several fittings and attachments are now possible with our new valves.

As with any new product development project, we had to overcome a number of hurdles, from identifying suitable suppliers, remediating production issues, purchasing equipment, establishing methodologies, etc... However, we are now at a point where we have overcome most of the major obstacles and are now happy to announce that we are commencing full production of this new container.

We are constantly thinking of ways to further improve upon existing technology, and we hope that you will also find these new developments helpful. And where you see room for improvement, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. As a small company, we aim to focus on service and support whenever we can... and as such, your input is always welcome, important, and necessary.