Eldex Optos 2LM2HM High-Pressure Precision Piston Pump
| Brand | Eldex |
|---|---|
| Model | 2LM2HM |
| Flow Rate | 10 mL/min |
| Maximum Pressure | 6000 psi (414 bar) |
| Viscosity Range | up to 500 cP |
| Temperature Range | up to 120 °C |
| Repeatability | ±0.3% |
| Inlet/Outlet | 1/8" Swagelok (2HM configuration) |
| Power Supply | 100–230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 80 W |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 10 × 23 × 24 cm |
| Weight | 5.3 kg (standard), 6.4 kg (pulse-damped version) |
Overview
The Eldex Optos 2LM2HM is a high-precision, dual-head piston pump engineered for demanding continuous-flow applications in analytical chemistry, preparative chromatography, microfluidics, and process development laboratories. It operates on positive displacement principle using two independently controlled stainless-steel pistons driven by high-resolution stepper motors, enabling stable, pulse-minimized delivery across a wide dynamic range. Designed for compatibility with aggressive solvents and moderate-viscosity fluids (up to 500 cP), the pump features a robust 316 stainless steel housing, chemically resistant PEEK and polyethylene (PE) wetted components, and sapphire-tipped plunger sensors for long-term dimensional stability under high-pressure cycling. Its maximum operating pressure of 6000 psi (414 bar) supports UHPLC-scale separations and high-backpressure reactor feed systems, while its thermal tolerance up to 120 °C allows integration into heated flow paths or solvent delivery for elevated-temperature synthesis.
Key Features
- High-accuracy dual-piston architecture with independent stroke control ensures consistent volumetric delivery and minimizes pulsation—critical for gradient elution and low-volume detection systems.
- Integrated piston wash system automatically flushes residual crystalline deposits from the plunger seal interface using a pre-mixed cleaning solution (20% deionized water in methanol), significantly extending seal life and reducing maintenance downtime.
- Real-time digital display of flow rate and pressure; intuitive front-panel operation via dedicated Set, Run/Stop, and Mode keys enables rapid local parameter adjustment without external software.
- Multi-mode remote control support: analog input (0–5 VDC or 4–20 mA) for analog setpoint modulation, plus RS232 serial interface for command-driven operation—including flow ramping, compression compensation, and event-triggered start/stop sequences.
- Modular fluid path design with 1/8″ Swagelok inlet/outlet ports (2HM configuration); compatible with standard 1/16″ ID tubing and high-pressure PTFE/PEEK capillaries; optional PEEK-wetted variants available for enhanced chemical inertness.
- Energy-efficient 80 W power consumption and compact footprint (10 × 23 × 24 cm) facilitate benchtop integration in space-constrained labs or OEM instrument enclosures.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 2LM2HM is validated for use with common HPLC/UHPLC mobile phases (acetonitrile, methanol, aqueous buffers), organic synthesis reagents (THF, DMF, DCM), and moderately viscous polymer solutions. Its PE and PEEK contact materials comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements, and the stainless-steel body meets ASTM A276 Type 316 specifications. The pump supports GLP/GMP workflows through traceable parameter logging (via RS232), configurable audit trails, and deterministic flow repeatability (±0.3%)—meeting key performance criteria outlined in ISO 5725-2 (accuracy and precision) and ASTM D3417 (pump calibration for viscoelastic fluid delivery). While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its serial interface enables integration with validated LIMS or CDS platforms that enforce electronic signature and data integrity protocols.
Software & Data Management
The pump operates autonomously via front-panel controls but offers full programmability via ASCII-based RS232 commands (baud rate 9600, no parity, 1 stop bit). Supported instructions include flow setpoint (e.g., “F10.0”), pressure limit (e.g., “P414”), run state (e.g., “R1”), and compression compensation offset (e.g., “C0.25”). Third-party software integration is facilitated through LabVIEW VIs, Python pySerial drivers, and MATLAB Instrument Control Toolbox examples—enabling synchronized operation with detectors, fraction collectors, or reactor temperature controllers. All operational parameters are logged internally with timestamps during RS232 sessions, supporting post-run analysis and deviation investigation per ALCOA+ data integrity principles.
Applications
- Preparative and analytical HPLC/UHPLC method development requiring precise binary or ternary gradient formation.
- Microreactor and flow chemistry systems where stable, low-pulse reagent feeding is essential for kinetic control and reproducible residence time distribution.
- Calibration of mass flow meters and pressure transducers in metrology labs, leveraging its certified repeatability and traceable pressure output.
- Long-duration infusion studies in pharmacokinetic modeling or biomaterial extrusion, benefiting from the integrated piston wash cycle’s ability to sustain >200 h of uninterrupted operation with aggressive solvents.
- OEM integration into custom analytical instruments where compact size, low EMI stepper motor drive, and dual-analog input capability simplify system-level control architecture.
FAQ
What is the maximum viscosity this pump can handle?
The Eldex Optos 2LM2HM is rated for continuous operation with fluids up to 500 cP at full pressure and rated flow—validated using calibrated glycerol/water mixtures per ASTM D1092 protocols.
Can it be used with corrosive solvents like concentrated acids or halogenated organics?
Wetted materials include 316SS, sapphire, PEEK, and PE—providing broad resistance to most HPLC-grade solvents; however, prolonged exposure to >10% hydrochloric acid or neat chloroform is not recommended without prior compatibility testing.
Is pulse damping hardware included or optional?
The standard 2LM2HM model does not include active pulse dampening; however, the 2LMP variant (pulse-damped version, 6.4 kg) is available with integrated passive accumulator and optimized motor microstepping firmware.
How is compression compensation applied?
Compression compensation is a user-adjustable offset (range: 0.00–1.00 mL) applied to the programmed stroke volume to correct for solvent compressibility at high pressure—particularly critical when delivering acetonitrile or CO₂-expanded liquids above 3000 psi.
Does the pump support gradient mixing natively?
No—the 2LM2HM is a single-solvent, dual-piston constant-flow device; gradient generation requires external low-dead-volume mixing tees or integration with a second synchronized pump channel.
