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In this episode of The Flow Lab Podcast, hosts Ben Walker, Co-CEO of RetroTec, and Sam Myers, building science specialist and RetroTec trainer, sit down with Niek-Jan Bink, Director/co-owner at ACIN instrumenten and mastermind behind innovative tools like the Flow Finder Mk2+ and the ADT.

Niek shares his fascinating journey from climate research to engineering HVAC solutions, while uncovering the evolving needs of ventilation systems around the globe. This is a must-listen for HVAC pros, energy auditors, and building scientists curious about the tools shaping better indoor air quality and airtight construction.

Expect to Learn:

• From a handmade aluminum box to a smart, Wi-Fi powered airflow measurement device.
• A new tool that simplifies testing on large-scale housing projects without replacing the blower door.
• Discover how ultrasonic tools are transforming on-site diagnostics, no construction delays required.
• Why do the U.S. and Europe approach airflow, ventilation, and ductwork so differently.
• What Niek learned from experts like Bill Spohn and Colin Genge, and why curiosity is key in HVAC.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:00 ] - How it works with or without the blower door

[01:13 ] - Meet Niek-Jan Bink and his work with ACIN Instrumenten in the Netherlands

[03:54 ] - From climate researcher to co-owner of a cutting-edge HVAC company

[06:30 ] - ACIN’s diverse innovations: from naval valves to plant research

[08:52 ] - The origin story of the Flow Finder and 1980s ventilation failures

[12:40 ] - Flow Finder Mk2+ development & challenges

[18:00 ] - Ultrasonic leak detection tools: what's coming next

[21:37 ] - Using Flow Finder and ultra graphics in prefab & commercial projects

[28:32 ] - Breaking down the ADT’s functionality, limitations, and value

[35:56 ] - Practical ADT case study in a Dutch apartment complex

[44:11 ] - Achieving ISO 17025 accreditation & improving calibration uncertainty

[47:22 ] - Flow Finder Mk2+ updates: new motor controller, better efficiency

[52:56 ] - Extending the flow capacity up to 700 CFM

[55:00 ] - Future software for hood-specific calibration

[58:44 ] - U.S. use cases: whole-house ventilation, duct testing, and balancing

[01:03:00 ] - Advice for young HVAC professionals: stay curious, listen, collaborate

Connect with the Guest:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niek-jan-bink-18b6203/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niekjanbink?igsh=MXIyNGFudGVzNWwwNw==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BDDSRAX8W/

Website: https://acin.nl/en/

Follow Hosts:

Ben Walker (Co-CEO, RetroTec) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walker-4a05901/

Sam Myers (Building Science Specialist & Trainer) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-myers-ms-a9a4a546/

Website: https://retrotec.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/retrotec/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retrotec/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RetrotecEnergy/ 

Listen on:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3xMDAhIttUTHWK41DH7KhB 

Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on HVAC innovations, sales strategies, and building performance. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#HVAC #SalesTraining #DuctSealing #BuildingPerformance #HomeComfort #HVACEducation #AirflowScience