Masterflex Easy-Load II Peristaltic Pump Head
| Brand | Masterflex |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | 77200-52 |
| Pump Type | Peristaltic Pump |
| Flow Rate Range | 29–2900 mL/min |
| Speed Range | 0–650 rpm |
| Housing Material | Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) |
| Rotor Options | Cold-Rolled Steel (CRS) or Stainless Steel (SS) |
| Pressure Rating | Up to 20 psi (1.4 bar) |
| Channel Configuration | Single-Channel or Dual-Channel |
| Mounting Compatibility | L/S Series Drive Systems |
| Max Stackable Heads | 4 per drive |
Overview
The Masterflex Easy-Load II Peristaltic Pump Head is an engineered solution for precise, repeatable, and low-maintenance fluid handling in laboratory, pilot-scale, and light industrial applications. Operating on the principle of peristalsis—where rollers compress flexible tubing to generate positive displacement—the Easy-Load II eliminates fluid contact with moving parts, ensuring contamination-free transfer and simplifying cleaning and validation protocols. Designed for integration with Masterflex L/S-series drive units, this pump head features a patented automatic tube-loading mechanism that positions tubing accurately within the occlusion zone without manual alignment or tension adjustment. Its four-roller rotor architecture delivers reduced pulsation, improved flow linearity, and enhanced mechanical stability compared to conventional two- or three-roller designs—critical for sensitive analytical workflows, continuous dosing, and shear-sensitive biologics handling.
Key Features
- Auto-aligning tube-loading system ensures consistent occlusion geometry and eliminates operator-dependent setup variability.
- Four-roller rotor design minimizes flow pulsation and improves volumetric accuracy across the full speed range (0–650 rpm).
- Durable polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) housing provides high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and dimensional integrity under repeated mechanical stress.
- Selectable rotor material: cold-rolled steel (CRS) for cost-effective general-purpose use; stainless steel (SS) for superior corrosion resistance and longevity in aggressive solvents or saline environments.
- Adjustable occlusion mechanism allows users to optimize between pressure capability (tight occlusion) and tubing service life (loose occlusion), supporting both high-head and extended-run applications.
- Modular mounting interface enables stacking of up to four pump heads on a single drive unit—ideal for multi-stream parallel processing or gradient delivery systems.
- Available in single-channel and dual-channel configurations; the dual-channel variant supports synchronous flow from two independent tubing paths without cascading or external manifolding.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Easy-Load II accommodates a broad spectrum of certified peristaltic tubing—including silicone, Viton®, Tygon® LFL, PharMed® BPT, and C-Flex®—enabling compatibility with aqueous buffers, organic solvents, acids, bases, and biological suspensions. Tubing selection directly governs maximum pressure rating, chemical resistance, and particulate generation profile. All configurations comply with ISO 8536-4 (infusion equipment) dimensional standards for L/S-series tubing interfaces. When paired with FDA-compliant tubing and operated within validated parameters, the system supports GLP and GMP-aligned processes. Full traceability is maintained through documented occlusion settings, rotor material certification, and batch-specific tubing qualification records.
Software & Data Management
While the pump head itself is electromechanically passive, it integrates seamlessly with Masterflex digital drive controllers featuring RS-232/RS-485, USB, and optional Ethernet connectivity. These drives support programmable ramp profiles, real-time flow calibration, event logging, and audit-trail generation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. Flow data can be exported in CSV or XML format for integration into LIMS or SCADA platforms. Firmware updates and parameter backups are managed via Masterflex’s PumpWare software suite, which includes preconfigured methods for common applications such as media perfusion, reagent dispensing, and inline filtration monitoring.
Applications
- Cell culture media perfusion and feed strategies in bioreactors and hollow-fiber systems.
- Automated reagent delivery in clinical analyzers, ELISA washers, and microplate handlers.
- Continuous sampling for online HPLC or IC systems where pulse dampening and tubing wear consistency are critical.
- Chemical dosing in environmental water testing, wastewater treatment pilot studies, and electroplating bath replenishment.
- Pharmaceutical formulation development involving solvent-based suspensions and viscous polymer solutions.
- Dual-channel operation enables simultaneous buffer exchange and waste removal in dialysis or tangential flow filtration setups.
FAQ
What tubing sizes are compatible with the 77200-52 model?
The 77200-52 is configured for L/S 36 tubing (ID 3.8 mm), supporting flow rates from 29 to 2900 mL/min at 6–600 rpm.
Can I mix CRS and SS rotors across stacked pump heads on one drive?
Yes—rotor material selection is independent per pump head; however, consistent occlusion settings are recommended for synchronized flow performance.
Is the Easy-Load II suitable for sterile applications?
When used with gamma-sterilizable tubing (e.g., PharMed BPT) and validated installation procedures, it meets ISO 13408-1 requirements for aseptic fluid path design.
How does adjustable occlusion affect calibration stability?
Occlusion setting must be documented and verified during initial calibration; changes require recalibration per ASTM D3418 to maintain volumetric accuracy claims.
What mounting hardware is required for dual-head operation?
Use part number 77200-02 (two-head bracket kit); all mounting components are machined from 316 stainless steel for corrosion resistance and long-term dimensional stability.
