Originally Published MPMN November
2004
SPOTLIGHT
Pumps and ValvesSyringe-pump components
Pumping modules are fully supported with software, electronic diagrams, and
engineering phone support. This enables a designer to build prototypes or test
pumping functions without sacrificing the quality of the pumping mechanism.
The modular syringe-pump components come in three styles—microliter delivery,
milliliter delivery, and high-force delivery. Harvard Bioscience Inc.,
Holliston, MA www.harvardapparatus.com
Swabbable luer valves
Swabbable luer valves were developed as substitutes for needle ports in
IV applications. The needleless valves allow multiple usage, require no cap,
and have good flow and low priming volume. Valve stems and bodies will mate
securely with all standard luer syringes and luer connectors. All materials
are gamma-resistant, USP Class VI, DEHP-free, and latex-free. The valves are
available in both straight, Y-port, and vial adapter configurations. Bodies
are available in polycarbonate or copolyester. Halkey-Roberts Corp.,
St. Petersburg, FL www.halkey-roberts.com
Peristaltic pumps
A line of peristaltic pumps have a NEMA 4¥ washdown sealed enclosure. The
520-series pumps are designed for accurate metering, dosing, and transferring
of corrosive or sensitive fluids. The units provide low shear, contamination-free
pumping, and predictable pump service intervals, which extend validation periods.
The pump heads feature a large swept volume with low-friction stainless-steel
rollers for superior accuracy. A large-diameter track and low rotational speeds
ensure a long tube life and gentle handling of sensitive fluids. Watson-Marlow
Bredel, Wilmington, MA www.watson-marlow.com
Ceramic, ruby, and sapphire components
High-precision pistons, valves, and other custom-made parts are available for
high-pressure pumps, pipettes, and precision dispensers. Surfaces are highly
polished to better than 1 µin. High-purity alumina and TZP zirconia are
the most commonly used ceramics. HIP treatment is available on request for zirconia
pistons. Typical applications include high-pressure pumps for analytical instruments
and micropumping devices for the medical industry. Maret S.A., Bole,
Switzerland www.maret.ch
Pressure regulators
A modular dovetail design enables regulators to be used individually or assembled
into a modular combination of pneumatic components. Modular components include
the manifold block, regulators, switches, and gauges. Dovetail push-in fittings
are available in 1¼4, 3¼16, 5¼16, and 5¼32 in. and
a variety of metric sizes. Standard threaded dovetails are available in 10-32
UNF, 1¼8-27 NPT, and 1¼4-18 NPT. Pressure regulators are available
with adjustment ranges from 0.5 to 100 psi. The maximum supply pressure is 150
psi. Air Logic, Racine, WI www.air-logic.com
Clean valves
Bottom flush valves are designed for use on glass-lined reactors where batch-to-batch
cleanliness is important. The self-draining valves allow for a variety of functions
including sampling, gas dispersion, and maintenance without interrupting the
process and without dismantling the valve. A glass-lined design ensures no metal
contamination of the process fluid and enables use across a wide range of temperatures
and pressures. The valve seat seals against the bottom outlet nozzle to prevent
any collection or build-up of materials in the annular area between the valve
seat and nozzle wall. An additional port with a 5° downward-sloping angle
has been built into the valve to facilitate cleaning of the internal components
and body. De Dietrich Process Systems, Union, NJ www.ddpsinc.com
Pressure valves
Valves prevent excess system pressure by bypassing total system fluid flow.
The C46-series units contain no external springs or moving parts, are fully
adjustable, and can be serviced without removing fittings or plumbing. The units
are available with stainless- steel or brass bodies to suit various application
needs. The design consists of a simple tapered plunger and valve seat. When
excess pressure overcomes the adjustable spring pressure on the plunger, the
plunger lifts off the seat, allowing fluid to bypass and reduce the pressure.
The valves can handle flows up to 10 gpm and pressure to 1500 psi. Wanner
Engineering Inc., Minneapolis, MN www.hydra-cell.com
Copyright ©2004 Medical Product Manufacturing News
