A new internal pinch-tube solenoid valve which offers low carry-over volume of 3.7 µL and low overall internal volume of just 11 µL. in critical flow applications has been introduced by miniature component specialists The Lee Company. 

The Xover solenoid valve is designed to switch quickly and efficiently between samples, reagents, cleaning solutions or calibrants, and can be used in flow cytometry, gene sequencing, in-vitro diagnostics, urinalysis and haematology instruments.

The Xover valve features a Y-shaped elastomer tube in a three-way configuration representing an innovative design which combines the flow path of a pinch valve with the versatility and maintenance-free performance of a chemically inert isolation valve. This means it’s easily flushed, ensures fast, efficient fluidic performance with lower power consumption (2.1 W) and at a lower overall cost. 

The valve can be connected to ¼-28 flat bottom tubing assemblies or the ports can be configured to meet the specific requirements of the application. Also, mounting holes for easy integration and an electrical connector with secondary retention contribute toward ease-of-installation and improved system reliability. These benefits, along with their construction using durable, chemically inert wetted materials such as PEEK and FKM (treated) using the very latest manufacturing techniques, all help to ensure long and reliable maintenance-free operation.  

Industries and applications where the Xover valve will be appreciated include scientific instrumentation, drug discovery, analytical chemistry, medical, pharmaceutical and also OEM / engineering fluidic applications where low internal and zero-dead volume and inert materials are critical to system integrity and performance.