Spotlight on Pumps and Valves 16344

High-resolution syringe pump
A high-resolution syringe pump for use in automated medical instrumentation is suitable for a variety of applications, including sheath flow and cell counting. Offering up to 192,000 microsteps per full stroke, the C24000 addresses the need for low-flow, minimal-pulsation fluid handling. Capable of dispensing microliter to 12.5-ml quantities of fluid per stroke, the company's C-series syringe pumps utilize a proprietary direct-drive design that eliminates the use of belts, which often stretch and wear out. The pumps' self-lubricating drive mechanism has been life-tested to several million cycles without the need for maintenance, according to their manufacturer. In addition, the pumps use standard communication protocols and mounting configurations, eliminating the need for redevelopment.
TriContinent Scientific Inc.
GRASS VALLEY, CA
www.tricontinent.com

High-flow valves
Split-septum swabbable valves for infection control are designed to eliminate the need for needles. Featuring a patented design, the tube-end luer valves can be used in a variety of applications requiring high flow and a closed system. In addition, they can simplify assembly for set manufacturers and enhance product reliability by eliminating the need for a luer connector and a bonding operation. Pockets designed to accommodate tubes measuring 2.0, 2.5, 2.8, 3.7, and 4.0 mm ensure convenient bonding. Available with a clear or red polycarbonate housing, the valves are made from ISO 10993-compliant, latex-free, and DEHP-free materials.
Halkey-Roberts Corp.
ST. PETERSBURG, FL
www.halkeyroberts.com

Syringe pumps
Customized for OEM systems, a company's manual, semiautomated, and robotic fluid-measuring syringe pumps are self-contained, fluid-dispensing subsystems with 30- and 60-mm stroke lengths. A choice of specialty syringes and high-performance valves is available, enabling the precision pumps to meet the requirements of various medical device applications. The pumps' self-lubricating, self-tightening lead nut is intended to resist deterioration and helps optimize syringe-plunger positioning. Manufactured to ISO 9001 standards, the pumps feature a chassis design that results in precise and accurate fluid dispensing.
Hamilton Co.
RENO, NV
www.hamiltoncompany.com

Cartridge valve
Offered as a simplified alternative to solenoid operators and stud-mount valves, a manifold-mount cartridge valve is part of a family of direct-acting solenoid valves for air and liquid applications in medical devices. The compact valve is available in two- and three-way models with a stainless-steel body. Without manifold orifices to machine or press, it saves space as well. In addition, users do not have to assemble loose parts because the sleeve, plunger, spring, and orifice are pressed together as a single unit. Supplied with Type 204 and Type 304 stainless-steel coils, these valves come normally closed or normally open with a sleeve port size of 1/8 in. and orifices ranging in size from 3/64 through 5/32 in. Economy models are available for less-demanding applications.
Parker Fluid Control Div.
NEW BRITAIN, CT
www.parkerfluidcontrol.com

Solenoid valve
At 4.5 mm wide, a flipper-type isolation valve supports miniaturization while matching or surpassing 10-mm valves in terms of fluid-handling performance, according to its manufacturer. The Type 6650 valve enables manufacturers of medical equipment and instruments to pack more valves and functionality into a given space. Its optimized internal design facilitates flushing of materials through the device in the manner of rocker valves, helping to eliminate reagent waste and cross-contamination while enhancing process safety. Patented flipper technology incorporates an elastomeric element that moves between two opposed valve seats under the force of permanent magnets fixed to the flipper element, opening one seat as it closes the other. Because this operation requires only a temporary pulse, it exhibits a short response time. The low-wear valve ensures reproducible fluid-handling performance.
Bürkert Fluid Control Systems
IRVINE, CA
www.burkert-usa.com

Brushless dc pump
A brushless dc air compressor is designed for medical applications requiring a compact, lightweight pump with variable output. Measuring 3.8 × 2.64 × 3.63 in. and weighing 1.2 lb, the 230-series WOB-L pump offers output in the range of 1000 to 3000 rpm, maximum flow of 0.50 cu ft/min, and maximum pressure of 30 psig. Other features include an enclosed crankcase to reduce sound to 40 dBa, proprietary piston technology, an oilless piston and wear-resistant cylinder, permanently lubricated bearings, die-cast aluminum components, and stainless-steel valves. The pump is balanced for smooth, low-vibration operation, and all wetted aluminum parts have been treated for corrosion protection. Its brushless dc motor enables the variable output, consumes little energy, and contributes
to the pump's long lifetime.
Thomas Div.
SHEBOYGAN, WI
www.gd-thomas.com


Pinch valves for diagnostic systems
Solenoid-operated pinch valves can help OEMs address clogging waste lines in clinical diagnostic systems. While rocker isolation valves from the core of diagnostic instruments are efficient at handling test samples and reagent flows, the higher flow rates and thicker consistencies of waste fluids often result in clogs. The use of pinch valves in waste lines can reduce both the occurrence and severity of this problem. They minimize flow restrictions, offer simpler fluid paths, and feature larger minimum gaps than rocker valves, reducing the likelihood of clogging, according to their manufacturer. In addition, pinch tubing wears in a predictable manner, easing preventive maintenance scheduling. Featuring few moving parts, the pinch valves do not require a complicated manifold block, enabling them to be incorporated into existing systems or new designs.
Bio-Chem Fluidics
BOONTON, NJ
www.biochemfluidics.com