Spotlight

Originally Published EMDM September 2005

Spotlight

Originally Published EMDM September 2005

Spotlight

Duckbill check valve

A newly released ultraminiature check valve incorporates an elastomer duckbill that enables the part to withstand up to 250-psig back pressure. The check valve is available with an in-line barb-to-barb configuration or internal or external M3 threads. Valve materials are brass and stainless steel. The company offers high-performance miniature components in a variety of corrosion-resistant materials; captured O-ring face seals ensure leaktight sealing. Ultraminiature designs for compact applications are available. Beswick Engineering Company, Inc., Greenland, NH, USA.

Pinch solenoid valves

Solenoid valves that rely on a pinching device to adjust fluid flow are available for a range of applications. Fluid can flow in either direction at a determined rate without turbulence. The valve design minimizes dead space. The pinch valve mechanism protects fluids from contamination and temperature changes. Sirai Elettromeccanica, Bussero (MI), Italy.

Peristaltic pump

A matchbox-sized pump has been developed for OEM pumping applications that require accuracy in space-constrained designs. Measuring 31 ¥ 48 mm, the pump provides precision dispensing down to 1 µl. Its miniature size and low power consumption render the pump suitable for portable devices.
A spring-loaded track extends tube life, and the tube holder allows for continuous tubing and other options. Watson-Marlow Bredel Pumps, Falmouth, Cornwall, UK.

High-speed solenoid valves

Solenoid valves are designed for reliable and repeatable microdispensing applications. The valves offer high-speed control of small volumes and axial flow. They measure 0.22 in. diam and weigh 0.2 g. Their compact size enables the valves to be positioned directly over the individual centres of standard 96-well microtiter plates. Wetted parts are made from stainless steel, PEEK, PPS, and EPDM to enhance chemical resistance and compatibility with various fluids. Lee Products Ltd., Gerrards Cross, Bucks, UK.

Self-priming diaphragm pump

A pocket-sized, air-operated pump is suited for pumping aggressive or corrosive liquids such as solvents, strong acids, or alkalis. Containing only three moving parts, the self-priming diaphragm pump uses a venturi design to create a vacuum behind the diaphragm. Since it is used only to separate the air from liquid, the diaphragm is not subject to the same stresses as a conventional diaphragm. The pump has a maximum output of 3 L/min and maximum pressure of 6 bar. Body materials include polypropylene, PTFE, stainless steel, or aluminium. Pump Engineering Ltd., Littlehampton, W Sussex, UK.

Single-handed valves

A line of valves designed for single-handed operation are suitable for applications that require immediate and direct flushing. By depressing the cap manually, the user opens a bidirectional path for irrigation or aspiration. Release of the cap automatically closes the path. Two configurations are offered: an in-line valve with two male luer tapers and a 90° valve with male and female luer tapers. Both valve styles are latex-free. Qosina, Edgewood, NY, USA.

Precision fluid control pump

A pump for precision fluid control in analytical and process instrumentation integrates a patented, valveless piston design and precise stepper control. The STRH pump dispenses 0 –100 µl per stroke and up to 50 ml/min. The manufacturer also offers stepper motor controllers from simple quick-start controls to intelligent programmable units. Fluid Metering Inc., Syosset, NY, USA.

Rocker solenoid valve

A solenoid valve is suitable for applications in which the fluid must not come in contact with the valve’s metal parts. The body and diaphragm, the only valve components that are in contact with the fluid, are made of inert materials. To prevent contamination and ensure required purity levels, the valve is designed with an easy-to-rinse interior and less than 67 µl of dead volume. The use of rocker technology eliminates pumping action in the device. Asco/Joucomatic, Malmaison, France.

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