Taking it to the next level

One of the basic elements in life : water. And of course preferably safe water, to avoid diseases like diarrhea and cholera. Access to safe water is vital. How can we make sure that people in emergency situations have access to safe water in an easy, affordable way?

That’s the challenge we have accepted!

At Basic Water Needs we focus on developing and distributing water filtration systems for all kind of situations. Our target groups are mainly based in developing countries. We were already working on a water filter for emergency situations that requires special features to make it easy to use and distribute on a large scale.

Developing a new product is an interesting and time consuming process for which we needed an investment to take our concept product to the next level. We were very happy to receive a grant from the HIF, so we can fine-tune the design, test and finalize our new product : the Tulip FLOW Siphon water filter (hereafter called FLOW filter).

The FLOW filter will be a portable, gravity operated water purifier that is easy to use and store. Its intuitive backwash function will make sure that the filter stays clear and fit for purification and has a fast flow rate. The water filter will be based on a micro membrane filtration technology and is an improved model of the existing Tulip Siphon filter, which has a ceramic filter element.

The main features of the FLOW filter is that it will fit into a jerry can, which is the main option for water collection and water storage at the house in emergency situations. The filter will be developed in such a way that it will be substantially more affordable as compared to membrane filters with similar filter capacities. Replacement cartridges will be available and cartridges will be easy to replace (no throw-away system).

We will finalise the prototype of the FLOW filter and test this prototype in household situation in three countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Based on our findings and feedback, the design will be finalised and the product will be made ready for large scale production.

At the finalisation of the project, we expect to have a water filter that can provide a household of five with safe drinking water for at least three years and is appropriate for (post)emergency situations due to its affordability, intuitive use, durability, packability and sustainability.

We are excited to keep you posted on the journey of our team towards this new Tulip FLOW Siphon water filter for emergency situations. Our team consists of 4 people with different expertise: R&D, business development, product design and social marketing.

Welcome on board!