Our mission is to offer ultra-reliable, high performance, compact microfluidic solutions for our costumers. Founded by Dr Eric Dalton and Dr Valeria Nico, to initially solve the problem of cooling photonic lasers, the design principles were quickly identified with having uses in multiple engineering sectors.
Liquid cooling, and dispensing of a broad range of liquids at a microfluidic level with reliability, design integration, variable power and flow rate abilities is at the core of our principles. Stokes Microfluidics was spun-out from research at the University of Limerick.
FAQ
What is the nature of the connections for connecting power?
The driver controller uses a USB micro connection at 5V.
The connector from the driver controller to the pump is a JST PH 2-Pin.
Fluidic Connection type?
Slip fittings, 3.5 mm diameter compatible with 4mm hose - for units the MSP0.8 and MSP1.7, MLV0.8 MLV1.7, FRM1.7.
Is the pump uni- or bi-directional?
The Pump is uni-directional.
What viscosities of pumping medium will it handle?
The pump can handle fluids from 1-1000 cPa.
Pumping power density (or similar metric) – as with Nokia-Bell for some key applications.
The pumping power: 1925 ml.min-1 · kPa
The pumping power density: 2187 ml.min-1 · kPa / cm3
Efficiency: 1925 ml.min-1 · kPa/W
How hot does the unit get at 3W? (data on rate of heat rise per W can be found in datasheets)
At 3W under at maximum flow rate the pump remains at RT, at maximum pressure the temperature of the pump reaches 45 °C.
Operational temperature range of the pump?
The operational range of the pump is -60 to 125 °C
What are the tolerances of particles in the pumping stream?
The Pump is particle tolerant, particles above ~200 micros will become an issue – clogging the internal mechanics.
What impact do parasitic gases have on the pumping stream. E.g. on the ability to self-prime?
The pump is self-priming, and is bubble tolerant.
Can a sensor be integrated into the package for measuring flow rate?
A flow sensor can be combined with the pump e.g. the FRM1.7.
More background about permitting closed loop would be helpful.
This Pump is suitable for closed loop application.
Flow stability and start and stop time.
The average pumping flow rate is very stable ± 2 ml/min, with oscillation at 100 Hz. The start/stop rate is 10 ms.
While the Stokes pump is comparatively low cost to manufacture, its ability to be disposable could be a great benefit. For example, could costs be reduced further by making a substantial part of the body in plastic or would this increase the costs (of assembly etc)?
A polymer (disposable) pump is in development.
If you would like to learn more, please get in touch with our team.
