Feature

Variable volume dispense pump technical guide

Dispense pumps generate the fluid movement needed for aspirating and dispensing specific volumes of fluid. The system’s requirements, including accuracy, pressure, flow rate, fluidic properties, longevity, and reliability will determine the type of pump needed for your application. This guide provides background information for determining how to use Lee variable volume pumps effectively and efficiently in your designs.

03/09/2021 10:17:58

Lee variable volume pumps are intended for a long and maintenance-free life, even when dispensing aggressive fluids. These pumps are designed with innovative solutions developed by The Lee Company to minimise wear and maintain performance over the life of the pump.

Key considerations

Operation of the pump requires fluidic, electrical, and mechanical considerations:

• Fluidically: typically, the inlet of the pump is the side port and the outlet is the top port. Inlet and outlet valves (supplied separately) are connected to the pump. These valves allow the electrical controller to determine the direction of the fluid (aspirate and dispense) by actuating the appropriate valve.
• Electrically: the pump’s stepper motor and the valves are sequenced by a controller. This will determine the timing of the piston movement and opening/closing of the inlet and outlet valves.
• Mechanically: the pump should be rigidly mounted, typically with the motor side down, to allow for the purging of air and bubbles.

The Lee Company offers a wide variety of variable volume pump models, along with options to further customise performance to meet the needs of specific applications.

Visit the website or contact your local Lee Technical Sales Engineer to learn more.

The full guide is available from Lee Products Ltd: sales@leeproducts.co.uk

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.