Lab Bulletin your partner in science

Bio-Chem Fluidics helps original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) address clogging waste lines in clinical diagnostic systems with its solenoid operated pinch valves.

Many OEMs use the same rocker isolation valves from the core of the diagnostic instrument to control the system's waste line. While these valves are efficient at handling test sample and reagent flow, the higher flow rates and thicker consistencies of waste fluid often result in clogs. The diagnostic system must then be shut down, requiring expensive maintenance and part replacement to resume operation.

When pinch valves are used in waste lines, both the occurrence and severity of this problem are reduced. Bio-Chem Fluidics' pinch valves offer less flow restriction, simpler fluid paths, and larger minimum gaps than rocker valves to reduce the likelihood of clogging. Pinch tubing wears in a predictable manner for easy preventive maintenance scheduling, and can easily be replaced by the user without the need for a service technician.

Bio-Chem Fluidics pinch valves have few moving parts for reliable operation. Only the tubing comes in contact with the fluid path, and exterior surfaces can withstand common cleaning agents. There is no need for a complicated manifold block, allowing the valves to be incorporated into existing systems or new designs.

For more information visit www.biochemfluidics.com or call (973) 263-3001.

Bio-Chem Fluidics manufactures inert, high reliability, solenoid-operated pinch valves, isolation valves, dispensing pumps and manifolds for a wide range of industries including analytical chemistry, clinical diagnostics and medical device manufacturers. Bio-Chem Fluidics' staff of design and prototyping experts can offer simple modifications of standard products as well as completely customized designs.