Multilayer Manifold Stands Up to Harsh Chemicals

HOTLINE

EPI’s multilayer manifold is designed for use in harsh chemical environments.

Eastern Plastics Inc. (EPI; Bristol, CT) offers a custom perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) manifold that resists corrosion and heat in aggressive-chemistry applications. “The manifold can be used anywhere chemicals would attack or damage plastic,” says Larry Dawson, vice president of marketing. Medical uses include DNA synthesis and analysis equipment.

The multilayer design uses a proprietary bonding process. Diffusion bonding is used to adhere a carbon-filled PFA layer to a virgin, unfilled PFA layer. This process can create internal flow paths and chambers without the use of solvents, adhesives, or gaskets. The integrated fluid paths minimize connections and solution volumes while also eliminating leak points. These features combine to reduce production costs and improve user satisfaction, says EPI.

EPI offers custom PFA manifold development to instrument OEMs. Surface-mount valves, pumps, sensors, fittings, and other components can be included in the manifolds. The PFA material is translucent, which allows viewing of the fluidic channel.

PFA material combines properties of PTFE and FEP. According to the company, PFA outperforms both materials in continuous-use testing.

Instrument manufacturers can now have the company’s manifolds designed with chemically resistant valves and other surface-mount features. The resulting units give manufacturers an integrated fluid control plug-and-play assembly. The firm also makes multilayer bonded manifolds from other thermoplastic materials.