Masterflex L/S Economy Modular Variable-Speed Peristaltic Pump

Overview

The Masterflex L/S Economy Modular Variable-Speed Peristaltic Pump is an engineered solution for precise, contamination-free fluid transfer in analytical, bioprocessing, and quality control laboratories. Based on the well-established peristaltic principle—where rollers compress flexible tubing to create a positive displacement seal—the pump delivers repeatable volumetric flow without exposing internal components to the process fluid. Its modular architecture separates the motor and controller units via a standard 1.9-m (6-ft) power cable, enabling flexible placement in constrained or hazardous environments while maintaining ergonomic access to speed controls. Designed as a direct upgrade from fixed-speed L/S drivers, this variable-speed platform supports full integration with Masterflex’s extensive family of L/S pump heads—including single- and multi-channel configurations—making it suitable for applications ranging from low-flow reagent dosing to high-throughput media circulation.

Key Features

• Modular design with independent motor and controller units, connected via a 1.9-m UL-listed power cable for spatial flexibility and simplified maintenance.
• Single-turn analog speed control with tactile feedback and green LED power indicator; retains setpoint across power cycles for consistent operational continuity.
• 1/10-HP (75 W) bidirectional AC motor with soft-start circuitry and back-EMF regulation, minimizing mechanical stress during acceleration and deceleration.
• Speed accuracy of ±2% across the full operating range (4–600 rpm), verified under steady-state load conditions per ISO 8573-1:2010 test methodology.
• Powder-coated steel enclosure rated IP33 for protection against vertically falling water droplets and solid objects ≥2.5 mm—suitable for general laboratory use but not for washdown or high-humidity enclosures.
• CE and ETL certification confirms compliance with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), supporting deployment in regulated environments requiring documented conformity.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The pump is compatible with all Masterflex L/S-series pump heads (e.g., L/S 13, L/S 14, L/S 16, L/S 25, L/S 36), accommodating tubing inner diameters from 0.36 mm to 11.1 mm. Flow performance is directly dependent on tubing material, wall thickness, and pump head geometry—users must select chemically resistant, USP Class VI-certified tubing (e.g., PharMed BPT, Norprene, or Viton) appropriate for their fluid matrix. While the drive unit itself carries no fluid-path certifications, its mechanical design supports GLP/GMP workflows when paired with validated tubing sets and documented calibration procedures. The system meets electrical safety requirements for laboratory equipment under EN 61010-1:2010 and UL 61010-1, and its stable speed output enables traceable flow delivery aligned with ASTM D3418 and ISO 11357 standards for polymer processing and rheological testing support.

Software & Data Management

This analog-driven model does not include digital communication interfaces (e.g., RS-232, USB, or Ethernet) and operates independently of host software. However, its repeatability and stability make it ideal for integration into larger automated systems via external PLC-triggered dry-contact inputs (available as optional accessories). For audit-trail compliance in regulated settings, users may pair the pump with third-party flow meters (e.g., Coriolis or ultrasonic sensors) and log data using compliant SCADA platforms that satisfy FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures. Calibration verification can be performed using gravimetric or volumetric methods traceable to NIST standards, with documentation templates available through Masterflex’s technical support portal.

Applications

• Continuous feed of cell culture media, buffers, or fermentation substrates in bioreactor support systems.
• Accurate dispensing of standards and reagents in HPLC, ICP-MS, and automated titration workflows.
• Low-shear transfer of shear-sensitive biologicals—including viral vectors, exosomes, and protein solutions—to preserve structural integrity.
• Recirculation loops for inline pH, conductivity, or dissolved oxygen monitoring in closed-loop QC systems.
• Environmental lab applications such as wastewater sampling, leachate extraction, and soil column elution studies where chemical compatibility and pulseless flow are critical.

FAQ

What pump heads are compatible with the Masterflex L/S Economy Variable-Speed Drive?
All Masterflex L/S-series pump heads are mechanically and electrically compatible, including single-channel (L/S 13, L/S 14), dual-channel (L/S 16), and high-capacity models (L/S 25, L/S 36). No firmware or adapter is required.
Can this pump be used in GMP-compliant manufacturing environments?
Yes—when operated with validated tubing, documented calibration, and integrated into a controlled system with appropriate SOPs and change control, it supports GMP Annex 11 and EU GMP Chapter 4 requirements for ancillary fluid-handling equipment.
Is there a digital version of this drive with remote control capability?
The Masterflex L/S Economy series is analog-only. For digital control, consider the Masterflex L/S Digital Drive (Model 07528-10) with RS-232/USB and programmable ramp profiles.
How often should the pump tubing be replaced?
Tubing life depends on speed, pressure, fluid chemistry, and temperature. As a general guideline, replace Norprene or PharMed tubing every 100–500 hours of operation at 100 rpm; consult Masterflex’s Tubing Life Estimator tool for application-specific projections.
Does the drive support reverse rotation for backflushing or priming?
Yes—the bidirectional motor allows forward/reverse operation via front-panel toggle switch, enabling manual priming, air bubble removal, or line purging without disassembly.