Masterflex L/S Digital Dispensing Peristaltic Pump

Overview

The Masterflex L/S Digital Dispensing Peristaltic Pump is an engineered solution for precise, repeatable, and contamination-free fluid handling in analytical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and quality control laboratories. Based on the proven peristaltic principle—where rollers compress flexible tubing to generate positive displacement—the system eliminates valve wear, seal leakage, and cross-contamination risks inherent in piston or diaphragm pumps. Its modular architecture separates the drive unit from the controller, enabling flexible installation in benchtop, wall-mounted, or integrated OEM configurations. Designed for GLP-compliant workflows, the pump delivers high reproducibility across wide dynamic ranges without recalibration, supporting both low-volume microdispensing (0.001 mL increments) and high-throughput transfer (up to 3400 mL/min), all while maintaining traceable operation via programmable parameters and audit-ready execution logs.

Key Features

• Dual-controller platform: Select between a stackable, splash-resistant desktop controller (IP33-rated ABS housing) or a fully washdown-capable wall-mount unit (IP66/NEMA 4X-rated powder-coated aluminum and steel)
• Four programmable dispensing modes: Continuous run, timed dispense, repetitive copy mode (1–9999 cycles), and volume-based dispense (0.001–9999 mL per aliquot) with configurable time-interval sequencing (1–9999 sec between cycles)
• High-precision brushless DC motor with ±0.1% speed repeatability and 6000:1 turndown ratio, ensuring stable flow under variable backpressure and tubing aging conditions
• Drip-prevention algorithm actively compensates for post-dispense fluid sag by reversing motor rotation for user-defined milliseconds, improving volumetric accuracy in low-viscosity applications
• Remote operation capability via DB25 (desktop) or industrial-grade weatherproof connector (wall-mount), supporting external PLC integration for start/stop, direction reversal, priming, and analog flow rate output (0–10 V or 4–20 mA)
• Modular pump head compatibility: Supports up to four L/S-series pump heads simultaneously—including multi-channel, high-pressure, and low-pulse models—enabling parallel processing or gradient delivery in multi-fluid systems

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The L/S Digital Dispensing Pump is compatible with standard Masterflex L/S silicone, Viton®, and PharMed® BPT tubing (ID range: 0.13–6.4 mm), permitting use with aqueous, organic, mildly corrosive, and shear-sensitive fluids—including cell suspensions, buffers, reagents, and APIs. Tubing selection directly governs maximum pressure rating (up to 30 psi), pulse amplitude (<2%), and chemical resistance profile. The system meets general-purpose electrical safety requirements per UL 61010-1 and IEC 61010-1. While not intrinsically rated for hazardous locations, its IP66/NEMA 4X configuration complies with environmental protection standards for wet-process areas in cGMP manufacturing suites. All firmware operations support timestamped parameter logging, aligning with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 expectations for electronic records when deployed with validated software environments.

Software & Data Management

No proprietary PC software is required for basic operation; all programming and monitoring occur via the built-in LCD graphical interface with intuitive menu navigation. However, the pump supports RS-232 (optional adapter) and analog I/O for integration into LabVantage, DeltaV, or custom SCADA platforms. Parameter settings—including target volume, cycle count, interval timing, and speed ramp profiles—are stored non-volatilely and can be exported via serial command protocol for backup or version control. Audit trails include operator ID (if network-authenticated), timestamped start/stop events, error codes (e.g., tubing occlusion, motor stall), and real-time RPM feedback—facilitating root-cause analysis during process validation or regulatory inspections.

Applications

• Automated reagent dispensing in ELISA, PCR setup, and microplate assay preparation
• Controlled feed of culture media or inducers in bioreactor inoculation and fed-batch processes
• Calibration standard delivery in ICP-MS, HPLC, and ion chromatography sample introduction systems
• Consistent dilution series generation for QC testing in pharmaceutical stability studies
• Low-shear transfer of fragile biologics, liposomes, or exosome suspensions where particle integrity must be preserved
• OEM integration into automated liquid handlers, filling lines, and environmental monitoring stations requiring IP66-rated fluid control

FAQ

What tubing sizes are supported?
The L/S platform accommodates Masterflex L/S tubing with inner diameters from 0.05 to 0.25 inches (1.3–6.4 mm); exact flow performance depends on selected tubing compound, wall thickness, and pump head geometry.
Can the pump be validated for GMP use?
Yes—when paired with documented IQ/OQ protocols, calibrated flow verification using gravimetric or timed-volume methods, and configured with audit-trail-enabling software interfaces, the system supports qualification under ISO 13485 and EU Annex 11 requirements.
Is firmware upgrade capability available?
Firmware updates are performed via RS-232 connection using Masterflex-provided utilities; revision history and release notes are accessible through authorized distributor portals.
How is tubing life monitored?
While no embedded sensor tracks tubing wear, the system logs cumulative operating hours and alerts users upon exceeding manufacturer-recommended service intervals—typically 1,000–3,000 hours depending on speed, pressure, and fluid abrasivity.
Does the wall-mount controller support outdoor installation?
The IP66/NEMA 4X rating permits exposure to rain, dust, and hose-directed water, but ambient temperature must remain within –10°C to +50°C, and UV-resistant tubing must be specified for prolonged sunlight exposure.