Case Study: Complex Bonded Manifold Reduces Reagent Consumption and Cost
The Challenge
An S&P 100 diversified life science tools company challenged AFP to create a highly complex bonded fluidic manifold for a sample analysis instrument. It was required to have the following characteristics:
- Small footprint design
- Chemical compatibility
- Highly repeatable performance
- Redundant geographical manufacturing capability to reduce risk
The AFP Solution
AFP collaborated with the OEM’s design team to fulfill the manifold’s demanding specifications. After several prototypes were designed and tested, a proper balance between a desirable flow restriction, small orifice, and compact footprint was achieved by using a .2-mm (.008-inch) “wavy” orifice. This unique design increased the flow passage length while minimizing the manifold’s size.
The Results
The innovative manifold design optimized the orifice’s turn radius to minimize turbulent flow. Precise connection of mating holes, reliable manufacturing of bonded manifold channels plus repeatable bonding and vapor polishing improved the product’s durability, reliability, and repeatable performance. The small orifices reduced expensive reagent consumption and OEM customer cost. The ultra-high-quality component continues to be manufactured on AFP’s global production platform.