How a micro fluidic valve influences instrument performance?

Microfluidic valves are a core element in diagnostic and analytical instrument that control the dispensing of fluids. Daniela Klöppel reports.

The world's population in general is growing and the overall population is aging. These are facts which result in an increasing demand for healthcare and medical service all over the world. This includes healthcare testing, drug discovery, genomics, proteomics and for the instruments itself consumables and services used to carry out these processes.

But human health is not for free, healthcare spending in the emerging economies has risen from less than 3 per cent of GDP to more than 5 per cent over the past five years. This is expected to increase another full percent in the next 20 years. These numbers are caused by the expected growth of the population aged 65 and older. We were at a level of 6.9 per cent in 2012 and this number is expected to increase to 12 per cent people being 65 or older in 2030.[Page Break]

Equipment manufacturers and equipment users in the labs have an important role in improving the healthcare service. System complexity is reduced as well as the size of the instruments - a bench-top analyser rather than a multi-functional integrated system. Physician's offices, clinics and small laboratories demand easier and more cost effective systems.

Considering the emerging markets and developing countries the next equipment generation is also more suitable for remote locations with lack of infrastructure and limited technical resources. Point-of-Care diagnostic with smaller and less complex instruments means faster diagnosis, faster treatment and more frequent testing to determine the best course of action with the ultimate benefit of effective and less costly treatments for patients.[Page Break]

Users, equipment designers and manufacturers need to consider different aspects regarding the microfluidic valves when developing and evaluating the next generation instrument.

Reliability

Instruments have to be reliable. They are a key element in the daily lab routine and are crucial for many different processes. The lab's and the manufacturer's reputation and their profits rely on the performance of their machines. New technologies are therefore often seen as critical component since their performance and reliability has to be proven. The micro fluidic valves face tough lifecycle tests, rigorous evaluations of flow, switching time and dispensing accuracy to address these requirements.

Economics

Green principles are everywhere. It makes sense to save energy because on the one hand the environment is less harmed and on the other hand it is more cost effective.

Modern instruments adopt the green principles in construction, operation and maintenance in the devices as well as lab managers and healthcare facilities do for the whole equipment.

Instruments used in labs and clinics consume a large portion of power. The increased power consumption is often accepted as necessary in proceeding to automated systems.

Microfluidic valves using a 'hit and hold' electronic can mitigate this trade of by reducing power consumption by up to 75 per cent.

To address these demands rocker valves using two solenoids have been introduced by Burkert on the market. They achieve higher flow and pressure and ensure reliable performance for the complete lifecycle.

Enter √ at www.scientistlive.com/eurolab

Daniela Klöppel is with Bürkert Fluid Control Systems, Bürkert Werke GmbH, Ingelfingen, Germany. www.burkert.com

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