DLAB dFlow Electronic Bottle Top Dispenser
| Brand | DLAB |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer | DLAB Scientific Instrument Co., Ltd. |
| Model | dFlow |
| Dispensing Range | 0.1–99.9 mL |
| Minimum Increment | 0.1 mL |
| Accuracy | ±0.3% |
| Precision (CV) | ≤0.2% |
| Cycle Time | <8 s for 25 mL deionized water |
| Operating Temperature | 10–30 °C |
| Compliance | DIN EN ISO 8655 |
| Control Interface | External controller |
| Display | Large-format LCD |
Overview
The DLAB dFlow Electronic Bottle Top Dispenser is an ISO 8655-compliant precision liquid handling instrument engineered for repeatable, traceable, and operator-independent volumetric dispensing in regulated laboratory environments. Unlike mechanical or spring-loaded bottle top dispensers, the dFlow integrates a microprocessor-controlled motorized piston drive system with real-time position feedback, enabling closed-loop volume control based on calibrated displacement rather than manual force or spring tension. This architecture eliminates user-dependent variability—such as inconsistent plunger speed or torque—and ensures metrological consistency across operators, shifts, and instruments. Designed for integration with standard GL45 and GL32 threaded reagent bottles, the dFlow supports both discrete single-shot dispensing and continuous flow mode, making it suitable for applications ranging from QC sample preparation to multi-well plate filling in pharmaceutical and clinical laboratories.
Key Features
- Full digital operation via external controller with intuitive menu navigation and parameter lockout functionality to prevent accidental setting changes.
- High-contrast, large-format LCD display showing real-time volume, mode status, battery level, and error codes—optimized for glove-compatible viewing under fume hood or biosafety cabinet lighting conditions.
- Dual dispensing modes: “Single” mode delivers pre-set volumes with one-button activation; “Continuous” mode enables steady, adjustable flow rates for bulk transfers—both governed by the same calibrated piston displacement algorithm.
- Motor-driven piston mechanism with integrated optical encoder ensures positional repeatability at ≤0.2% CV (coefficient of variation) across the full 0.1–99.9 mL range, verified per DIN EN ISO 8655-3 protocols.
- Chemical-resistant fluid path constructed from PTFE, FFKM, and borosilicate glass components—compatible with aqueous solutions, organic solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol), and mild acids/bases (pH 2–12).
- Battery-powered operation (rechargeable Li-ion, >1000 dispenses per charge) with optional AC adapter support—enabling mobility without compromising regulatory compliance.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The dFlow is validated for use with Class A and Class B volumetric glassware and meets the performance requirements of DIN EN ISO 8655-3 (Piston-operated volumetric apparatus – Part 3: Bottle top dispensers). Its accuracy specification of ±0.3% and precision of ≤0.2% CV align with ISO 8655-6 verification criteria for routine calibration intervals. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant out-of-the-box, the external controller supports audit trail logging when integrated with validated LIMS or ELN systems—facilitating GLP and GMP documentation workflows. The device is CE-marked and manufactured under ISO 9001-certified quality management processes at DLAB’s Beijing facility.
Software & Data Management
The dFlow operates without embedded firmware-based software; instead, all configuration and operational parameters are managed exclusively through its dedicated external controller. This controller provides non-volatile memory for up to 20 user-defined programs—including volume, dispensing mode, pause intervals, and repeat counts—with timestamped execution logs exportable via USB-C interface. Though no proprietary PC software is required, raw log files (CSV format) are structured to integrate with third-party data integrity platforms supporting ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available). Firmware updates are performed offline using signed binary packages to maintain system integrity.
Applications
- Standardized dilution series preparation in analytical chemistry labs (e.g., ICP-MS, HPLC mobile phase formulation).
- Reagent distribution into microtiter plates during ELISA or cell culture assay setup.
- Controlled addition of catalysts or titrants in synthetic chemistry workflows requiring sub-milliliter reproducibility.
- Calibration solution dispensing for pipette verification programs aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
- Environmental testing labs performing EPA Method 525.3 extractions where consistent solvent delivery impacts recovery rates.
FAQ
Is the dFlow compatible with non-DLAB reagent bottles?
Yes—the dFlow features universal GL45/GL32 dual-thread adapters and accommodates bottles from major suppliers (e.g., VWR, Thermo Fisher, BRAND) provided they meet ISO 8383 thread specifications.
Does the device require periodic recalibration?
Per ISO 8655-6, users should verify performance at least annually—or after impact events or exposure to extreme temperature/humidity—using certified reference weights and distilled water density correction tables.
Can the dFlow be used with viscous liquids like glycerol or serum?
It is rated for liquids with viscosity up to 500 mPa·s at 20 °C; for higher-viscosity media, reduced dispensing speed and pre-wetting protocols are recommended to maintain accuracy.
What maintenance is required?
Daily wiping of the dispensing tip and piston seal area with lint-free cloth; quarterly inspection of O-rings and replacement per DLAB’s Maintenance Schedule (Ref. MNT-dFlow-Rev.4).
Is there a service network outside China?
DLAB maintains authorized service centers in Germany, USA, and Singapore, with spare parts logistics supporting 72-hour turnaround for critical components under extended warranty agreements.
