Vertical Section Microfluidic Chip Holder
Secure mounting holder for 15 x 4 mm microfluidic chips with up to 4 PTFE tubing ports, supporting pressures to 30 bar and temperatures from -15°C to 150°C.
| Ports | Up to 4 |
| Chip Size | 15 x 4 mm |
| Tube OD | 1.6 mm (PTFE) |
| Max Pressure | 30 bar |
| Dead Volume | <0.3 uL per pipe |
| Automation Level | manual |
The Vertical Section Microfluidic Chip Holder provides secure mounting and fluidic connections for 15 x 4 mm microfluidic chips in laboratory applications. This holder accommodates up to 4 ports with 1.6 mm OD PTFE tubing connections, enabling precise fluid delivery with minimal dead volume of less than 0.3 μL per pipe. The compact design integrates into existing microfluidic setups while maintaining reliable sealing at pressures up to 30 bar.
Constructed for versatility across temperature ranges from -15°C to 150°C, the holder supports both ambient and controlled temperature experiments. The vertical orientation facilitates gravity-assisted flow patterns and enables microscopic observation of chip sections during operation. The low dead volume design minimizes sample waste and reduces mixing artifacts between sequential reagent introductions, critical considerations in quantitative microfluidic assays.
How It Works
The holder employs mechanical clamping to secure microfluidic chips while maintaining optical access for monitoring. Vertical orientation allows gravity-assisted flow and facilitates bubble removal from fluidic channels. The holder's design ensures uniform contact pressure across the chip surface, preventing delamination while maintaining fluidic seal integrity.
PTFE tubing connections utilize compression fittings that distribute clamping force evenly around the 1.6 mm outer diameter tubing. The low dead volume design minimizes dispersion effects and sample dilution, critical for maintaining concentration gradients and temporal resolution in microfluidic experiments. Temperature compatibility enables both cryogenic preservation studies and elevated temperature reactions within the specified -15°C to 150°C range.
Features & Benefits
Ports
- Up to 4
Chip Size
- 15 x 4 mm
Tube OD
- 1.6 mm (PTFE)
Max Pressure
- 30 bar
Dead Volume
- <0.3 uL per pipe
Automation Level
- manual
Brand
- ConductScience
Temperature Range
- -15 to 150 C
Research Domain
- Analytical Chemistry
- Cell Biology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Environmental Monitoring
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical QC
Weight
- 0.2 kg
Dimensions
- L: 50.0 mm
- W: 30.0 mm
- H: 20.0 mm
Comparison Guide
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Pressure Rating | 30 bar | Entry-level holders often rated for 10-20 bar maximum pressure | Enables high-pressure applications including cell disruption and rapid mixing protocols |
| Temperature Operating Range | -15°C to 150°C | Standard holders typically operate from 0°C to 80°C | Supports both cryogenic sample preservation and elevated temperature reactions in single platform |
| Dead Volume per Port | <0.3 μL | Basic holders often have 0.5-2 μL dead volume per connection | Minimizes sample waste and reduces temporal dispersion for improved kinetic measurements |
| Port Configuration | Up to 4 ports | Simple holders may offer 2-3 connection points | Accommodates complex multi-inlet experimental designs and parallel processing schemes |
| Chip Size Compatibility | 15 x 4 mm specific | Universal holders may accommodate multiple sizes with reduced precision | Optimized clamping force and sealing for consistent performance with standard chip format |
This holder offers high-pressure capability and wide temperature range operation with minimal dead volume design. The 4-port configuration and vertical orientation provide advantages for complex microfluidic experiments requiring precise fluid control.
Practical Tips
Prime all channels with buffer solution before introducing samples to establish stable baselines and remove manufacturing residues.
Why: Eliminates background interference and ensures reproducible flow characteristics.
Flush system with appropriate cleaning solution after each use and store with channels filled with storage buffer.
Why: Prevents sample carryover and maintains channel integrity between experiments.
If experiencing pressure fluctuations, check tubing for kinks and verify compression fitting tightness without over-tightening.
Why: Maintains consistent flow while preventing damage to PTFE tubing or holder threads.
Allow temperature equilibration for 5-10 minutes before critical measurements when changing operating temperatures.
Why: Ensures thermal stability and prevents measurement artifacts from temperature gradients.
When operating at maximum pressure, use appropriate safety shields and ensure all personnel are clear of potential release paths.
Why: 30 bar pressure can cause serious injury if fittings fail unexpectedly.
Verify flow rates using external measurement methods when establishing new protocols, as back-pressure affects pump performance.
Why: Ensures accurate flow control for quantitative experiments and reproducible results.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Vertical section microfluidic chip holder
- PTFE tubing compression fittings (4 pieces) (typical)
- Installation hardware set (typical)
- User manual and specifications sheet (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard 1-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Technical support includes application guidance and troubleshooting assistance.
Compliance
What chip geometries are compatible with this holder?
The holder is designed specifically for 15 x 4 mm microfluidic chips. Consult product datasheet for thickness tolerances and surface finish requirements.
How do I prevent air bubbles during priming?
Prime at low flow rates (1-5 μL/min initially) and ensure tubing connections are completely filled. Tilt holder if needed to facilitate bubble migration to outlet ports.
What is the maximum operating pressure for continuous use?
The holder supports up to 30 bar continuous operation. For pulsed or cyclic pressure applications, consult manufacturer specifications for fatigue limits.
Can I use organic solvents with PTFE connections?
PTFE tubing provides broad chemical compatibility including most organic solvents. Verify compatibility with specific solvents and consider seal materials in compression fittings.
How do I achieve temperature uniformity across the chip?
Use thermal mass and allow adequate equilibration time. Consider thermal coupling between holder and temperature control system for uniform heating/cooling.
What maintenance is required for optimal performance?
Clean holder surfaces regularly with compatible solvents, inspect sealing surfaces for wear, and replace PTFE tubing when flexibility decreases or contamination occurs.
How does this compare to horizontal chip holders?
Vertical orientation facilitates gravity-assisted flow and bubble removal, while horizontal holders may offer better mechanical stability for high-magnification microscopy.
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