Catalyst FH-Series Peristaltic Pumps (Official Authorized Distributor)

Overview

Catalyst FH-Series peristaltic pumps are precision-engineered, fully integrated pump-and-drive systems designed for reliable, contamination-free fluid handling in life science laboratories, analytical instrumentation, bioprocessing development, and quality control environments. Operating on the fundamental principle of positive displacement via roller compression of elastomeric tubing, these pumps eliminate valves, seals, and wetted metal components—ensuring that only the tubing contacts the fluid. This design inherently prevents cross-contamination, simplifies cleaning validation, and supports applications requiring high chemical compatibility, sterility, or ultra-pure delivery. All FH-Series models feature factory-assembled architectures with pre-aligned rollers and calibrated occlusion geometry, minimizing setup time and operator variability. The modular platform spans low-flow (FH10: down to µL/min range), compact single/dual-channel (FH15/FH30), mid-range programmable dispensers (FH100/FH100X), and high-precision digital distribution systems (FH100D/FH100DX), enabling seamless scalability from benchtop assay support to pilot-scale process transfer.

Key Features

• Tool-free, ≤30-second tubing replacement enabled by spring-loaded, swing-open pump heads with integrated occlusion locking—no manual tension adjustment required.
• Self-lubricating Ertalyte® TX thermoplastic rollers deliver low-friction operation, extended service life (>10,000 hours typical), and consistent torque transmission across speed ranges.
• Dual-directional brushed DC motors support forward/reverse operation, enabling automated line priming, backflushing, and container evacuation without external valving.
• Remote control interface via dry-contact closure (FH10/FH15/FH30/FH100) or RS-232/USB (FH100D/FH100DX) for integration into LIMS, SCADA, or custom automation sequences.
• Programmable dispensing modes (volume-, time-, or repeat-based) with configurable inter-cycle delays—critical for multi-vessel batch processing and robotic liquid handlers.
• On-device calibration storage: FH100D/FH100DX retain up to 10 tube-specific flow rate calibrations (per ID/wall thickness combination), referenced during runtime to maintain volumetric accuracy under varying pressure loads.
• Interlocked safety switch de-energizes motor when pump head is opened—compliant with IEC 61000-6-2 EMC and basic functional safety expectations for lab equipment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

Catalyst FH-Series pumps accommodate a broad spectrum of tubing materials—including platinum-cured silicone, TPEs (thermoplastic elastomers), PVC, and fluoropolymer-lined variants—each selected for specific chemical resistance, gas permeability, and extractables profiles. Tubing inner diameters range from 0.16 mm (FH10/FH100M small cartridge) to 6.4 mm (FH100M large cartridge), supporting flow rates from sub-mL/min to 4 L/min. Pre-assembled “Stopped Assemblies” ensure dimensional consistency and eliminate user-induced kinking or misalignment. While not certified to ISO 8573 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, the FH100D/FH100DX firmware architecture supports timestamped parameter logging, user-access-level controls, and exportable calibration records—facilitating alignment with GLP, GMP, and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements. All pump housings meet UL 61010-1 and CE Low Voltage Directive standards.

Software & Data Management

The FH100D and FH100DX models integrate a menu-driven, multi-language (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean) firmware interface accessible via front-panel keypad and LCD. Critical operational parameters—including speed (rpm), direction, dispense volume/time, cycle count, delay intervals, and calibration offsets—are stored non-volatilely. Calibration data is retained per tubing specification (ID × wall thickness), allowing rapid reconfiguration when switching between chemically distinct fluids. Audit trails are not embedded, but all parameter changes and run logs can be exported via USB or serial connection for external traceability systems. No proprietary software is required; configuration files are plain-text CSV-compatible, enabling direct import into laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or electronic lab notebooks (ELN).

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: Precise reagent dosing in dissolution testing, HPLC mobile phase delivery, and filter integrity test fluid circulation.
• Cell culture & bioprocessing: pH/DO probe calibration solution delivery, feed media addition in bioreactors, and sterile buffer transfer using gamma-sterilizable tubing.
• Clinical diagnostics: Sample aspiration in immunoassay platforms, wash buffer routing in ELISA processors, and calibrator dilution series generation.
• Environmental testing: Continuous low-flow sampling in on-site water analyzers (e.g., nitrate, phosphate sensors) with minimal pulsation-induced measurement noise.
• Academic research: Controlled perfusion in microfluidic organ-on-chip devices, gradient generation for chromatography method development, and long-duration nutrient infusion in plant physiology studies.

FAQ

What tubing sizes are compatible with the FH100D pump?
The FH100D accepts tubing with inner diameters of 0.8 mm, 1.6 mm, 3.2 mm, 4.8 mm, and 6.4 mm—depending on the installed pump head cartridge. Wall thickness must be 1.6 mm for standard operation.
Can the FH100X be used in GMP-regulated environments?
Yes—when deployed with documented calibration procedures, version-controlled firmware, and controlled change management, the FH100X meets foundational requirements for instrument qualification (IQ/OQ) in GMP labs. Its mechanical simplicity reduces risk of drift versus piston-based alternatives.
Is remote start/stop supported on all FH-Series models?
All models feature dry-contact remote control inputs. FH100D/FH100DX add RS-232 and USB virtual COM port support for bidirectional command execution and status polling.
How does occlusion adjustment affect performance?
Tighter occlusion increases maximum differential pressure capability but accelerates tubing fatigue. Looser occlusion extends tubing life at the expense of pressure head—adjustment is standardized per cartridge and validated for ±5% flow repeatability across bidirectional operation.
Are Catalyst pump tubes compliant with USP Class VI testing?
Platinum-cured silicone and select TPE formulations meet USP particulate matter limits and USP / cytotoxicity and systemic toxicity requirements. Full USP Class VI certification applies only to specific lot-manufactured tubing—not generic stock items.