Dr Piotr Traczykowski

Dr Piotr Traczykowski

Clean Fuels Consultant 

Tell us about yourself

My background is in Physics and Engineering. I have an MSc in Physics (microelectronic) and then I studied for a PhD in Mechanics. I was always interested in experimental physics and ultimately, it led me to metrology.

Why did you choose to join TÜV SÜD?

I was always interested in measurements, experimental physics, and metrology. During my time working for the Polish National Institute of Metrology, I met some of the team from TÜV SÜD on various occasions. Through them I learned about the company’s activities and capabilities which looked very interesting to me and that led me to apply for a job as a Clean Fuels Consultant at TÜV SÜD.

Where do you work?

I work at TÜV SÜD in East Kilbride, Scotland. If my work doesn’t require me to be in the office, laboratory or on a customer site, I work from home.

What are your main areas of expertise?

My main area of expertise is flow measurement and associated metrology. Currently, my team is focusing on hydrogen metrology, and we are concentrating on accurate measurements of hydrogen dispensed by hydrogen refuelling stations.

What does your role involve?

My role involves development and calculations of uncertainty of the test facilities, optimising the design of our facilities with an emphasis of uncertainty. I also deal with the selection of devices and equipment that we use in our facilities. Another part of my role is supporting other people with uncertainty calculations.

What most interests you about your role?

I like most the feeling of working in some areas that are currently being developed – eg, the hydrogen industry which is still in its early years. There is also quite a lot of work associated with the use of modern and sophisticated technology.

What exciting developments have you seen at TÜV SÜD since you started?

TÜV SÜD have made significant upgrades in its single phase (oil and water) calibration facilities, and I’m enjoying being involved in this. Recently, I was part of the development team for the hydrogen refuelling stations field test standard in what was, and still is, a very challenging experience.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

We will see more development towards clean fuels metrology and related services. That creates quite a lot of challenges as this is relatively new field of research.

What is your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge was to switch from being a researcher to a broader role of researcher and engineer.

What do you see as the top perk of working for TÜV SÜD?

I like the way my work is organised – flexible hours and work from home. I like the working environment in TÜV SÜD and people I work with.

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

TÜV SÜD allow me to broaden my knowledge by taking part in conferences, training and meeting with the hi-tech companies we collaborate with.

Describe your fellow workers in five words

Friendly, knowledgeable, skilled, kind, helpful.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for a role similar to yours?

I’d advise you to be flexible within your role and take the opportunity to broaden your knowledge via the training or work experience offered by the company.

ADDITIONAL INFO

TÜV SÜD RESOURCES

I presented a webinar on ‘TÜV SÜD’s Vehicle Refuelling Stations Testing Standard’ which you can watch on-demand.

Find out more about our clean energy services and flow measurement consultancy services.