ChemTron SYR1240 / SYR2240 Series Precision Syringe Pumps

Overview

The ChemTron SYR1240 and SYR2240 Series syringe pumps are high-precision, programmable microfluidic delivery systems engineered for reproducible, low-volume liquid handling in analytical, pharmaceutical, and research laboratory environments. Based on a robust stepper motor actuation architecture coupled with high-resolution positional feedback, these pumps operate on the principle of linear displacement-driven fluid metering—where volumetric output is directly proportional to syringe plunger displacement and calibrated barrel geometry. Designed and manufactured under stringent German engineering standards, the SYR platform delivers stable flow rates across an exceptionally wide dynamic range—from nanoliter-per-minute infusion for capillary electrophoresis or microreactor feeding, up to 200 mL/min for preparative-scale reagent delivery. Each system supports interchangeable syringe cartridges (10 µL–50 mL), enabling method flexibility without hardware redesign. The dual-channel SYR2240 variant further extends utility in gradient formation, sequential injection, or parallel sample processing workflows.

Key Features

• Precision stepper motor drive with 1/48,000-step resolution per full stroke, ensuring sub-microliter repeatability and minimal pulsation.
• Modular syringe cartridge system: 13 standardized volume options (10 µL, 25 µL, 50 µL, 100 µL, 250 µL, 500 µL, 1 mL, 2.5 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL, 20 mL, 30 mL, 50 mL) fabricated from borosilicate glass with PTFE-coated plungers for chemical compatibility and low stiction.
• Top-mounted multi-port selection valve (3–8 positions) constructed from polyetherketone (PEK), offering high thermal stability, mechanical rigidity, and resistance to organic solvents and aggressive media.
• Analog I/O expansion module available (optional): accepts 0–5 V or 0–10 V analog input for real-time flow rate modulation; provides TTL-compatible digital outputs for synchronized external device control (e.g., UV-Vis detectors, fraction collectors, or solenoid valves).
• RS-232 and RS-485 serial interfaces compliant with industry-standard SCPI command sets, supporting integration into automated lab platforms and LIMS-controlled environments.
• Dual-channel configuration (SYR2240) enables independent or coordinated operation of two syringes—ideal for binary solvent mixing, stop-flow kinetics, or differential dosing protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SYR series accommodates a broad spectrum of liquid samples—including aqueous buffers, organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, methanol, DMSO), viscous polymer solutions (< 500 mPa·s), and mildly abrasive suspensions—when paired with chemically resistant syringe materials and PEK valve components. All wetted parts comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The system supports GLP/GMP-aligned operation through audit-trail-enabled software logging (available in SYR-PC variants), with timestamped event records for flow start/stop, syringe change, valve position shifts, and parameter modifications. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11-compliant out-of-the-box, the PC-based control software architecture permits configuration for electronic signature enforcement and role-based access control when deployed on validated Windows OS environments.

Software & Data Management

ChemTron provides dedicated Windows-based control software included with all -PC models (SYR1240-PC, SYR2240-PC) and optionally licensable for standalone SYR units. The interface supports multi-segment flow programming (ramp, step, hold, repeat), real-time flow monitoring with graphical trend display, and export of time-stamped CSV datasets for post-acquisition analysis. Data integrity safeguards include automatic backup on parameter save, session history retention (>1,000 entries), and configurable auto-shutdown triggers (e.g., end-of-syringe detection). Remote operation via TCP/IP (with optional Ethernet adapter) allows centralized management in multi-pump installations. API documentation is provided for Python and LabVIEW integration, facilitating custom automation scripts and instrument interlocking.

Applications

• Chromatography sample introduction (HPLC, UHPLC, SFC) with precise gradient elution timing.
• Microfluidic chip priming and continuous reagent perfusion in organ-on-chip and single-cell analysis platforms.
• Controlled catalyst or initiator dosing in polymerization reaction monitoring (e.g., RAFT, ATRP).
• Calibration standard delivery for ICP-MS, IC, and automated titration systems.
• Pharmaceutical formulation studies requiring accurate excipient addition across concentration gradients.
• Environmental testing labs performing EPA Method 3510C-compliant liquid-phase extraction and fraction collection.

FAQ

What syringe volumes are supported, and how quickly can they be exchanged?
The SYR platform supports 13 discrete syringe volumes ranging from 10 µL to 50 mL. Cartridge replacement requires no tools and takes under 60 seconds using the front-access bayonet-lock mechanism.
Is the flow rate accuracy affected by syringe diameter or fluid viscosity?
Accuracy specifications (±0.33 % CV) are validated per ISO 8536-4 using water at 25 °C. For non-Newtonian or high-viscosity fluids (>200 mPa·s), users should apply empirical calibration correction factors derived from gravimetric verification at operational conditions.
Can the SYR pump be integrated into a PLC-controlled production line?
Yes—via RS-485 Modbus RTU protocol or optional analog I/O module, enabling direct handshake with industrial PLCs for start/stop, flow setpoint updates, and valve position reporting.
Does the software support method transfer between SYR1240 and SYR2240 configurations?
Method files (.syrp) are fully cross-compatible; dual-channel methods automatically disable unused channels when loaded onto single-channel units.
Are firmware updates provided, and how are they installed?
Firmware revisions are distributed free of charge via ChemTron’s secure customer portal. Updates are applied via USB memory stick or direct serial connection using the built-in bootloader mode.