PreFluid WF350 High-Precision Peristaltic Dispensing Pump

Overview

The PreFluid WF350 High-Precision Peristaltic Dispensing Pump is an engineered solution for repeatable, traceable, and GMP-aligned liquid handling in regulated laboratory and manufacturing environments. Based on the fundamental principle of peristaltic displacement—where rollers compress elastomeric tubing to generate positive displacement—the WF350 delivers high-fidelity volumetric dispensing without fluid contact with mechanical components. Its core architecture integrates a brushless DC servo motor with real-time closed-loop speed feedback, ensuring stable rotational velocity across the full 0.1–350 rpm range and minimizing flow pulsation through the proprietary PF246 dual-channel metal pump head. Designed for compatibility with single-use tubing configurations (e.g., Norprene®, PharMed® BPT, or silicone), the system supports rapid changeover between batches—critical for aseptic processing, diagnostic reagent formulation, and vaccine fill-finish operations where cross-contamination must be eliminated.

Key Features

• High-accuracy dispensing with ≤±0.5% volumetric error at volumes ≥10 mL, validated per ISO 8655-3 for piston-type dispensers and adapted for peristaltic systems via gravimetric calibration protocols
• PF246 all-metal pump head with hard-anodized aluminum housing, optimized for low-pulse operation via parallel compression and synchronized tube release
• Large backlit LCD display with intuitive bilingual (English/Chinese) menu navigation, supporting real-time monitoring of speed, direction, elapsed time, dispense count, and cumulative volume
• Comprehensive local control: soft-start ramping (prevents splashing/foaming), programmable retract angle (0–360°), no-bottle detection, automatic tube priming, and post-dispense empty cycle
• Embedded non-volatile memory retains up to 12 user-defined protocols—including volume, speed, retract angle, delay timing, and calibration offsets—with automatic recall after power interruption
• Industrial-grade enclosure (IP54-rated) with corrosion-resistant powder-coated finish and sealed front-panel membrane keys; suitable for cleanroom Class D and ISO 14644-1 compliant environments
• Standard RS485 serial interface compliant with Modbus RTU protocol for integration into SCADA, MES, or PLC-based automation systems; optional analog 4–20 mA speed setpoint input available

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The WF350 accommodates a broad spectrum of tubing inner diameters (ID: 0.8–9.6 mm), including standard L/S series (e.g., Luer-lock compatible 15#, 24#, 35#, 36#) and custom extrusions. Tubing selection directly influences accuracy, pulse amplitude, and chemical resistance—making material certification (e.g., USP Class VI, FDA 21 CFR 177.2600) essential for pharmaceutical applications. The system meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC 61326-1 and safety standards per IEC 61010-1. While not certified as a Class III medical device, its operational repeatability, audit-trail-capable parameter logging (via external software), and support for 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records make it suitable for GLP/GMP workflows when deployed with documented SOPs and periodic performance verification.

Software & Data Management

Although the WF350 operates autonomously via its onboard controller, it supports bidirectional communication for centralized supervision. When connected to host software (e.g., LabVIEW, Python-based control suites, or custom HMI platforms), users can log run timestamps, dispense volumes, motor current draw, and fault codes—including overcurrent, stall detection, or tubing occlusion alerts. All parameter changes are timestamped and stored in internal memory, enabling retrospective review during quality investigations. For regulated environments, integration with LIMS or ELN systems allows direct association of dispense events with batch IDs, operator credentials, and environmental monitoring data—fulfilling ALCOA+ data integrity principles.

Applications

The WF350 serves critical roles across multiple regulated sectors: in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, it performs accurate fill volumes for viral vaccines (e.g., rabies and influenza subunit doses of 0.62 mL) under tight cycle-time constraints; in IVD production, it dispenses enzyme conjugates, calibrators, and controls onto microtiter plates with minimal carryover; in fine chemical synthesis, it meters viscous catalyst solutions or pH-sensitive buffers without degradation; and in beverage R&D, it enables reproducible flavor concentrate dosing for sensory panel testing. Its ability to operate continuously at low speeds (≤1 rpm) with high torque stability also supports ultra-slow perfusion studies in cell culture and organ-on-chip platforms.

FAQ

What tubing sizes are supported by the PF246 pump head?
The PF246 head accepts tubing with inner diameters from 0.8 mm to 9.6 mm, including standardized L/S 15#, 24#, 35#, and 36# sizes—compatible with common peristaltic tubing materials such as silicone, Viton®, and PharMed® BPT.
Does the WF350 support regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical use?
While the pump itself is not a certified medical device, its design supports GMP practices through traceable parameter storage, repeatable dispensing performance, and compatibility with single-use tubing—enabling validation per ASTM E2500 and qualification per IQ/OQ/PQ protocols.
Can the pump be integrated into automated production lines?
Yes—via RS485 Modbus RTU or optional 4–20 mA analog input, the WF350 accepts remote commands for start/stop, direction reversal, speed modulation, and status polling, facilitating seamless integration with PLCs and MES platforms.
How is accuracy verified and maintained over time?
Accuracy is confirmed through gravimetric calibration using NIST-traceable balances; PreFluid recommends quarterly verification for critical applications, with built-in calibration offset adjustment to compensate for tubing wear or temperature drift.
Is firmware update capability available?
Firmware updates are performed via RS485 connection using PreFluid’s authorized configuration utility; version history and update logs are retained in device memory for audit purposes.