Hirschmann rotarus® MKF Multichannel Peristaltic Pump Head

Overview

The Hirschmann rotarus® MKF is a precision-engineered, modular multichannel peristaltic pump head designed for reproducible, contamination-free fluid handling in analytical laboratories, bioprocessing workflows, and automated sample preparation systems. Based on the proven principle of positive displacement via roller compression of flexible tubing, the rotarus® MKF eliminates fluid contact with pump mechanics—ensuring absolute chemical inertness, zero cross-contamination between channels, and compliance with stringent hygiene requirements. Its modular architecture allows seamless integration into existing Hirschmann pump drive systems (e.g., picoPLUS® and varioPLUS®), enabling scalable channel expansion from 2 to 8 independent flow paths without recalibration or hardware redesign. Developed and manufactured in Germany under ISO 9001-certified processes, the rotarus® MKF meets the dimensional, torque, and timing tolerances required for GLP-compliant liquid dispensing and multi-step reagent delivery.

Key Features

• Modular channel configuration: Interchangeable rotor assemblies support 2-, 4-, 6-, or 8-channel setups using standardized mounting interfaces.
• High-precision roller geometry: Optimized cam profile and hardened stainless-steel rollers ensure uniform tubing compression across all channels, minimizing pulsation and maximizing volumetric accuracy.
• Tubing-agnostic design: Accommodates a wide range of standard peristaltic tubing materials—including platinum-cured silicone, Viton®, and PharMed® BPT—with inner diameters from 0.5 mm to 4.8 mm.
• Low-maintenance operation: Tool-free tubing loading and wear-compensating roller alignment reduce service intervals and operator dependency.
• Digital synchronization capability: When paired with Hirschmann’s CAN-bus-enabled pump drives, all channels maintain synchronized start/stop, ramp profiles, and real-time speed feedback.
• Traceable performance: Each unit ships with factory calibration documentation aligned to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines, supporting audit readiness for regulated environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The rotarus® MKF is suitable for handling aqueous buffers, organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, methanol, IPA), weak acids and bases, cell culture media, and viscous solutions up to 500 mPa·s (at 20 °C). Its chemically resistant housing (polyphenylsulfone, PPSU) and metal-free fluid path make it compatible with USP Class VI and FDA-compliant applications. The pump head conforms to CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD), RoHS 2011/65/EU, and supports full traceability under 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with validated Hirschmann control software. It is routinely deployed in ICH Q5A-compliant bioburden reduction workflows and ASTM D5116-17-compliant environmental extraction protocols.

Software & Data Management

When operated with Hirschmann’s picoCONTROL® or varioCONTROL® software (Windows-based), the rotarus® MKF enables programmable multi-segment flow profiles, time-stamped event logging, and CSV-exportable run reports. Audit trails include user ID, timestamp, parameter changes, and error codes—all retained for ≥36 months. The system supports electronic signatures, role-based access control, and optional PDF report generation compliant with ALCOA+ data integrity principles. Integration with LIMS via OPC UA or Modbus TCP is supported through certified middleware adapters.

Applications

• Automated liquid handling in ICP-MS and IC sample introduction systems requiring simultaneous acid matrix, internal standard, and rinse line delivery.
• Multi-reagent dispensing in ELISA, PCR setup, and high-throughput screening platforms where channel isolation prevents carryover.
• Continuous-flow synthesis reactors demanding precise stoichiometric feed ratios across 4+ reactant streams.
• Environmental lab workflows including EPA Method 353.2 and ISO 11843-7 compliant wastewater nutrient analysis with segmented dilution and standard addition.
• Pharmaceutical QC labs performing dissolution testing per USP , where independent channel control ensures accurate sink condition maintenance across multiple vessels.

FAQ

Is the rotarus® MKF compatible with non-Hirschmann pump drives?
No—it requires mechanical and electrical interface alignment with Hirschmann’s proprietary drive shaft coupling and CAN bus protocol; third-party integration is not supported.
Can tubing wear be monitored automatically?
Not autonomously; however, the pump head includes visual wear indicators on the rotor housing and supports scheduled preventive maintenance based on runtime hours and tubing type (per Hirschmann’s MTBF database).
What validation documentation is provided?
Each unit includes a Factory Calibration Certificate (traceable to PTB standards), EU Declaration of Conformity, and Material Compliance Statement (RoHS/REACH). IQ/OQ templates are available upon request.
Does the rotarus® MKF support sterile filtration inline?
Yes—when used with sterile-grade, gamma-irradiated tubing and appropriate 0.2 µm in-line filters mounted upstream, it meets ISO 13408-1 requirements for aseptic processing.
How is channel-to-channel flow deviation minimized?
Through matched roller mass distribution, CNC-machined rotor balance (≤0.5 g·cm imbalance), and batch-calibrated tubing clamping force—verified during final assembly at the German production facility.