Genesis Magnet Services enters its second decade of business this month. The Huntley, IL company was formed by a partnership between Genesis Medical Imaging and David Baldwin on November 29, 1999 to better service MRI customers.

"When Genesis Medical Imaging was founded in 1998, it supported only a few MRI systems in Chicago that they had just signed under full service agreements. They needed a cold head serviced and I helped them do the work," said Baldwin, a Genesis Magnet Co-owner. "With hard work and dedication, not only were we supporting the sites of Genesis Medical Imaging, but we had grown a very large customer base, seeing a niche business opportunity."

"We are very proud of the GMS's achievements in the last 10 years. Genesis is continuing to invest in technology and infrastructure resources to be able to continue to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions to our customers," said Robert Dakessian, President of Genesis Medical Imaging and Co-owner of GMS.
New Technologies Bring New Challenges

Today, all grown up with its team of engineers, Genesis Magnet provides MRI keep-cold service including full cryo refrigeration system agreements, cryogen management; technical magnet solutions, and also the refurbishing of cryo-refrigeration components for customers including health care providers and networks, and service companies including OEMs. GMS's fully automated cryolab is advanced even by OEM standards. And Genesis Magnet is the only independent company that refurbishes Sumitomo 4K cold heads used on all major OEM magnets today. GMS also services APD, Balzers, and Leybold cryo-coolers and equipments.

The greater efficiencies of today's zero boil-off MRI systems require less helium refilling to keep them operational. Older 10K systems required cryogenic top off of helium around three times per year; the new 4K systems may only need a refill every one or two years. Easier to service, right? Not quite. The technological changes have also increased the need for more careful monitoring of systems, a solution that GMS provides. (Watch for a special announcement from Genesis Magnet at this year's RSNA.)

"Service is the same. You still have to replace parts every 12,000 to 15,000 hours. Response time is key. In the past you would have days to make a decision. Now you must respond overnight," Baldwin said. "A lot of hospitals, imaging centers and healthcare networks are looking at how to advance the coverage of their system and reduce their cost," he noted.

"By having a connection with Genesis Magnet Services, we can look at the areas where they do not have the proficiency or the tools to service themselves," said Robert A. Hoffman, General Sales Manager of GMS. "We can come in and demonstrate major savings compared to what the OEMs or other independent service organizations without compromising quality. That is the strength we bring."

What also sets Genesis Magnet apart from the competition is that they refurbish components in their own facility including the cold head, compressor, and oil absorber.

About Genesis Magnet Services:

Genesis Magnet Services is an industry leader in providing superior MR cryo-shielding components, MRI remote monitoring technology, and magnet cryorefrigeration services globally. Visit their website at www.genesismagnet.com.

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