LeadFluid TFD02-01 Split-Body Syringe Pump

Overview

The LeadFluid TFD02-01 Split-Body Syringe Pump is an engineered precision fluid delivery system designed for laboratory-scale applications requiring high-resolution volumetric control, long-term stability, and flexible integration into automated workflows. Based on a stepper-motor-driven linear actuation principle, the pump delivers fluids via controlled plunger displacement within standard glass or plastic syringes—enabling accurate, pulseless, and programmable flow across six orders of magnitude (0.184 nL/min to 83.318 mL/min). Its modular architecture separates the control electronics (controller) from the mechanical drive unit, allowing independent mounting in confined spaces, glove boxes, or custom-built rigs while maintaining full operational integrity. The system operates under closed-loop positional feedback with sub-micron stroke resolution (0.156 µm/µstep), ensuring consistent volumetric output even during extended infusion protocols or low-flow microdispensing tasks typical in microfluidics, electrophysiology, chromatography sample loading, and reagent dosing for analytical instrumentation.

Key Features

• Split-body design: Independent controller (245 × 205 × 95 mm) and drive unit (266 × 86 × 76 mm) enable flexible installation, thermal isolation, and integration into OEM platforms or multi-axis fluidic systems.
• High-fidelity human-machine interface: 4.3-inch color LCD touchscreen with LF-Touch-OS firmware supports intuitive icon-based navigation, real-time animated status visualization, and multilingual UI configuration (English default).
• Precision motion control: Adjustable linear force (1–100% of rated >10 kgf), fine speed resolution (1 µm/min), and calibrated stroke accuracy (30% of max 110 mm) ensure reproducible dispensing across diverse syringe geometries.
• Comprehensive operational modes: Injection, withdrawal, injection-then-withdrawal, withdrawal-then-injection, and continuous circulation—each fully programmable with start/stop triggers, pause/resume, and directional state indication.
• Robust connectivity: RS485 serial interface compliant with Modbus RTU protocol enables bidirectional communication with PLCs, SCADA systems, or host PCs; optional TTL-level external trigger inputs support edge-triggered start/stop and direction reversal.
• Enhanced usability safeguards: Parameter lock function, keypress mute, brightness adjustment, audible feedback toggle, and automatic power-loss parameter retention prevent unintended changes and ensure session continuity.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TFD02-01 accommodates syringes ranging from 10 µL to 60 mL, including standard Luer-lock and Luer-slip types from major manufacturers (e.g., BD, Hamilton, SGE, Ito). Users may define custom syringes by entering inner diameter values directly—critical for non-standard or specialty glassware used in high-viscosity or solvent-sensitive applications. All fluid-contact surfaces are chemically inert (stainless steel plunger rod, PTFE-coated guide rails), supporting compatibility with aqueous buffers, organic solvents, and mild acids/bases. While not certified for medical device use, the pump meets general-purpose laboratory equipment requirements per IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety and EMC compliance (EN 61326-1:2013). It supports GLP/GMP-aligned operation through audit-trail-capable software logging (via LF-Touch-OS export) and configurable user access levels.

Software & Data Management

LF-Touch-OS provides embedded control logic with local storage of up to 20 user-defined protocols, each containing multiple steps with independent flow rate, volume, direction, and dwell time parameters. Real-time display includes cumulative dispensed volume, remaining volume, instantaneous flow rate, syringe ID, direction indicator, and animated plunger position. Data export is supported via USB flash drive in CSV format for post-processing in MATLAB, Python, or Excel. For system-level integration, the Modbus RTU register map exposes all critical variables—including current position, target volume, status flags, and error codes—enabling synchronization with LabVIEW, Python PyModbus, or industrial HMIs. Optional PC software (LeadFluid Control Suite v3.x) extends functionality with remote monitoring, script-based batch sequencing, and timestamped event logging compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles (when deployed with appropriate IT infrastructure).

Applications

• Microfluidic device priming and continuous perfusion in organ-on-chip and cell culture studies
• Precise reagent injection in HPLC, UHPLC, and capillary electrophoresis autosamplers
• Controlled drug delivery in preclinical pharmacokinetic modeling and patch-clamp electrophysiology
• Calibration fluid dispensing for environmental sensor validation and water quality analyzers
• Low-flow catalyst feeding in continuous-flow synthesis reactors
• Automated sample dilution and standard preparation in QC/QA laboratories adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 requirements

FAQ

What syringe sizes are supported?
The TFD02-01 supports syringes from 10 µL to 60 mL. Preloaded profiles include common models from BD, Hamilton, and SGE; custom syringes can be added by entering internal diameter manually.
Does the pump support regulatory-compliant data integrity?
Yes—when used with LeadFluid Control Suite and configured with user authentication, electronic signatures, and audit-trail logging, it supports workflows aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements.
Can the drive unit operate independently without the controller?
No—the drive unit requires the controller for power, command interpretation, and motion control; however, they may be physically separated by up to 10 meters using shielded RS485 cabling.
What is the minimum controllable flow rate and its corresponding accuracy?
At 0.184 nL/min (achieved using a 10 µL syringe at 1 µm/min), volumetric accuracy remains within <±0.35% under stable ambient conditions and proper syringe calibration.
Is there built-in protection against syringe overpressure or stalling?
The pump monitors motor current and detects stall conditions, automatically halting operation and triggering an error code; however, it does not feature active pressure sensing—external pressure transducers must be integrated for closed-loop pressure regulation.