CoMetro CP100-LDI Precision High-Pressure Constant-Flow Pump for Flow Chemistry Microreactor Applications

Overview

The CoMetro CP100-LDI is a dual-plunger, high-pressure constant-flow pump engineered specifically for demanding flow chemistry microreactor systems and preparative-scale liquid handling applications. It operates on positive displacement principle using precision-machined reciprocating plungers synchronized via a cam-driven mechanism to deliver continuous, pulse-dampened solvent or reagent streams without flow interruption. Unlike single-plunger designs, the CP100-LDI’s parallel dual-head architecture ensures uninterrupted delivery across the full operational range — critical for maintaining stoichiometric consistency in multi-step continuous reactions, photochemical syntheses, and exothermic transformations. Its maximum pressure rating of up to 10,000 psi (custom-configurable) supports compatibility with narrow-bore microfluidic reactors, packed-bed catalytic cartridges, and high-backpressure membrane separation modules. The pump is designed for integration into modular flow chemistry platforms where precise volumetric dosing, long-term stability under load, and chemical compatibility with aggressive solvents or aqueous buffers are non-negotiable performance criteria.

Key Features

• Dual parallel plunger heads with phase-shifted actuation for near-continuous flow and minimized pulsation (<2% peak-to-peak amplitude at rated flow)
• High-precision stepper motor drive with closed-loop position feedback, enabling reproducible speed control from 0.1 to 500 rpm
• Wetted path options include electropolished SS316L for organic solvents and high-purity PEEK for acidic/basic aqueous media and halogenated compounds
• Integrated auto-cleaning cycle for pump heads — programmable flush sequences using low-viscosity solvents to remove crystallized buffer salts and prevent seal degradation
• Modular front-panel interface with tactile keypad and OLED display; supports both local manual operation and remote RS-485/Modbus RTU communication
• Over-pressure protection circuitry with real-time pressure monitoring via integrated piezoresistive sensor (calibrated traceably to NIST standards)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CP100-LDI accommodates a broad spectrum of process fluids including acetonitrile, DMF, THF, concentrated HCl/HNO₃ solutions, ammonium acetate buffers, and viscous glycerol/water mixtures (up to 50 cP at 25 °C). All wetted materials comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements and meet ASTM F2028-19 for elastomer extractables profiling. The pump design adheres to IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for laboratory equipment and incorporates electrical isolation per EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility in shared lab environments. For regulated pharmaceutical development workflows, firmware supports audit-trail-enabled operation logs compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated SCADA software.

Software & Data Management

The CP100-LDI supports deterministic command protocols over Modbus RTU, enabling seamless orchestration within LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python-based control frameworks. Optional CoMetro FlowControl Suite provides graphical configuration of multi-segment gradient profiles, real-time flow/pressure trending, and CSV-exportable event logs timestamped to system clock (±100 ms accuracy). All parameter changes — including flow rate, dwell time, and cleaning sequence activation — are recorded with user ID, timestamp, and pre-/post-value snapshots, satisfying GLP/GMP documentation requirements for method validation and equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ).

Applications

• Continuous-flow synthesis of APIs and intermediates under elevated temperature/pressure conditions
• Automated reagent addition in photoredox and electrochemical microreactors
• Preparative HPLC and protein purification systems requiring stable low-flow delivery (e.g., 0.01–2 mL/min at 4000 psi)
• In-line dilution and mixing modules for reaction calorimetry and residence time distribution studies
• On-demand delivery of catalysts, quenching agents, or scavengers in telescoped multistep sequences
• Integration with PAT (Process Analytical Technology) tools such as inline FTIR or UV-Vis for real-time reaction monitoring

FAQ

What is the minimum programmable flow rate, and how is it maintained at ultra-low settings?
The CP100-LDI achieves 0.001 mL/min through microstepping motor control and calibrated plunger displacement volume (≤1.2 µL/stroke), with flow stability verified per ISO 5725-2 repeatability protocols.
Can the pump be used with corrosive buffer systems such as phosphate or citrate at pH 2–12?
Yes — when equipped with PEEK pump heads and Kalrez® seals, the CP100-LDI demonstrates >10,000-hour service life in continuous 0.1 M Na₂HPO₄/NaH₂PO₄ cycling (pH 7.4) with automated post-run wash cycles.
Is remote start/stop and flow adjustment possible via Ethernet or USB?
Standard communication is RS-485/Modbus RTU; optional Ethernet-to-Modbus gateway modules enable TCP/IP integration with enterprise LIMS or DCS platforms.
How does the dual-head design improve reliability compared to single-plunger alternatives?
By eliminating dead-volume switching and reducing mechanical wear per plunger stroke, dual-head operation extends mean time between failures (MTBF) to ≥15,000 hours under nominal load conditions.
Does the pump support gradient elution programming for preparative chromatography?
Yes — via external controller or CoMetro FlowControl Suite, users can define up to 99-step linear or stepwise gradients with independent ramp rates and dwell time compensation.