Custom-designed rotary valves have helped the manufacturer of a DNA analysis instrument solve a seemingly intractable high viscosity fluid transfer problem
Custom-designed rotary valves from Omnifit have helped the manufacturer of a DNA analysis instrument solve a seemingly intractable problem.
The instrument, which uses very high viscosity fluids, needed inert valves with sufficient shear force to cut through the fluid, acting as shut off valves.
Solenoid valves were found to have insufficient force for the exacting application.
The solution from Omnifit was a 1mm bore custom-designed rotary valve with a stainless steel rotor for torsional strength, a Tefzel liner for chemical inertness, and a Peek body for rigidity.
The shape of the rotor was carefully profiled to give a clean cut through the fluid ensuring an instant start/stop to the flow.
The valve can operate up to very high pressures (1000psi) and is controlled by TTL or RS232 protocols.
Optical encoders are used to provide precise port positioning, enabling maximum flow of the fluid every time.
The valve was designed to specifically meet the user's performance requirements, with initial proposals being followed by prototypes for the customer to test.
In order to meet US FDA validation requirements, extended life testing was undertaken by Omnifit and, once the final design was agreed, the valves were manufactured to meet the user's Kanban delivery requirements.
