Masterflex L/S 31514-01 Barbed & Barbed-with-Threaded Fitting Kit for Peristaltic Pump Tubing

Overview

The Masterflex L/S 31514-01 Barbed & Barbed-with-Threaded Fitting Kit is a precision-engineered fluid interconnection solution designed specifically for use with Masterflex L/S-series peristaltic pumps and compatible silicone or thermoplastic elastomer tubing. These fittings serve as critical mechanical interfaces between pump heads, tubing, and downstream fluid-handling components—ensuring leak-tight, pressure-stable, and vibration-resistant connections in continuous or intermittent flow applications. Unlike generic compression or push-to-connect fittings, the 31514-01 kit integrates dual retention mechanisms: barbed inserts that grip the inner bore of tubing via radial interference, and optional threaded collars (e.g., 10-32 UNF or 1/4-28 NPT) that provide secondary axial anchoring and torque-controlled sealing. This hybrid design mitigates tubing slippage under pulsatile flow conditions—a common failure mode in high-cycle peristaltic pumping—while maintaining compliance with standard L/S pump tubing diameters (e.g., 0.062″–0.250″ ID). The fittings are manufactured from chemically resistant acetal (POM) and stainless steel components, supporting operation across pH 2–12 and temperatures up to 60°C in laboratory, pilot-scale bioprocessing, and analytical sample delivery systems.

Key Features

• Two-in-one configuration: includes both standard barbed fittings and barbed fittings with integrated threaded collars for enhanced mechanical stability
• Compatible with Masterflex L/S-series pump heads and standard L/S tubing sizes (e.g., 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 25, 36)
• Barb geometry optimized for uniform radial compression—minimizes tubing deformation and extends service life
• Threaded collar variants support secure attachment to manifolds, valves, or custom adapters using industry-standard fasteners
• Acetal body material offers low moisture absorption, dimensional stability, and resistance to alcohols, dilute acids/bases, and hydrocarbons
• No tools required for initial barbed insertion; threaded collars engage with standard hex wrenches (0.050″–0.093″ hex key)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These fittings are validated for use with FDA-compliant silicone, Viton®, Tygon® B-44-3, and PharMed® BPT tubing—materials commonly specified in GLP/GMP environments for reagent delivery, cell culture media transfer, and HPLC mobile phase routing. While the fittings themselves do not carry standalone regulatory certification, their material composition and dimensional conformity align with ASTM D5205 (standard specification for plastic tubing connectors) and ISO 8536-4 (infusion equipment—connectors). When installed per Masterflex technical guidelines and paired with certified tubing, the assembly supports traceability requirements under 21 CFR Part 11 when used within validated pump control systems.

Software & Data Management

As passive mechanical components, the 31514-01 fittings require no embedded firmware, drivers, or software integration. Their performance is independent of pump controller firmware but must be accounted for in system-level validation protocols—particularly in applications where connection integrity directly impacts flow accuracy, sample carryover, or pressure transients. Documentation packages include dimensional drawings (ANSI Y14.5), material certifications (RoHS, REACH), and installation torque specifications for threaded variants—enabling inclusion in IQ/OQ documentation for regulated laboratories.

Applications

• Continuous reagent dosing in automated titration and colorimetric analyzers
• Media perfusion in bioreactor seed train and scale-down models
• Waste line management in ICP-MS and LC-MS sample introduction systems
• Calibration standard delivery in environmental water testing workflows
• Low-shear transfer of shear-sensitive biological suspensions (e.g., primary hepatocytes, microcarriers)

FAQ

Can these fittings be sterilized using autoclaving?

No—acetal components are not autoclave-rated. Sterilization is limited to ethylene oxide (EtO), gamma irradiation (up to 25 kGy), or liquid chemical agents (e.g., 70% ethanol, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite).

What is the maximum recommended operating pressure?

Dependent on tubing selection and pump head compression; typical limit is 25 psi (172 kPa) for silicone tubing at 23°C. Higher pressures require reinforced tubing and torque verification of threaded collars.

Are replacement O-rings or seals included?

No—the 31514-01 kit contains only barbed bodies and threaded collars. Sealing relies on tubing compression; no elastomeric seals are used in standard configurations.

Is this kit compatible with Cole-Parmer or Watson-Marlow peristaltic pumps?

Mechanical compatibility is not guaranteed. Dimensions and threading follow Masterflex L/S specifications; cross-brand use requires verification of tubing ID tolerance, barb pitch, and collar thread engagement depth.