Spain-based Mediclinics says its Optima hand-dryer has earned recognition for being environmentally friendly.

"Our newly-launched innovative Optima- the first hand dryer in the market with a stainless steel cover, has been conferred the environmentally friendly 'Blue Angel' mark," says a spokesman for Mediclinics.

Mediclinics claims to be a world leader in the manufacture of professional washroom equipment and a reference point for "the most advanced features, a great variety of products and the most exigent quality and reliability".

"With Optima, the power-saving hand dryer, Mediclinics offers an environmental-friendly hand-drying technique," says the spokesman.

He continues: "Optima is an attractive warm-air hand-dryer, which is powerful, at the same time, low on (power) consumption. Vibration-free and quiet, this hand-dryer has been designed for a long and maintenance-free life.

''The optimal balance between airflow and airspeed guarantees comfortable and safe drying of hands at any time. Thanks to the new heating element, Optima is energy-saving and cost-efficient."

''Optima comes in different cover finishings: satin (matt), bright stainless steel or white epoxy-painted steel, allowing it to blend with any kind of washroom design.''

''Mediclinics assures its distributors and end-users of the safety, reliability, and hygienic and ecological benefits of warm-air hand dryers,'' he says.

The product's electrical features:

• Voltage/frequency: 220-240 V, 50-60 hz

• Nominal power: 1.650 Watt

• Motor: 140 Watt, 2,800 rpm

• Heating element: 1.510 Watt

• Consumption: 7 A.

• Insulation: Class II

•Temperature: ca. 51 deg C (at 10 cm distance)

• Free airflow: 200 cu m/h

• Effective airflow: 160 cu m/h

•Air speed: 60 km/h

•Noise level: 60 dB.

Mediclinics' products are distributed in more than 50 countries.