• Smith Flow Control - Halma India

Polishing Probe

Fluid handling specialist Diba has introduced a new service that delivers a highly polished inside diameter for stainless steel and other metallic probes used in in-vitro device (IVD) and scientific instruments. The proprietary DP3 technology leaves a highly passivated inside surface that ensures consistent fluid handling, with no degradation over time. The process can polish the inside surface of a probe down to a 6 micron inch roughness. The resulting mirror-like surface reduces the microscopic pits where process fluids can build up in unpolished probes, minimising the possibility of unwanted chemical interaction with potentially reactive materials. Applying DP3 to a probe reduces carryover by up to 75%, and increases throughput, while retaining the necessary flow characteristics for efficient system performance. Highly polished probes save cycle time and reduce washing fluid costs. They can also expand testing capabilities by facilitating more sensitive testing and the ability to work with a wider range of chemicals. Because the DP3 process smoothes the existing metal surface, rather than adding a coating (such as fluoropolymer) which can flake over time, it is much more durable. DP3 can be applied to Diba’s complete line of aspirate/dispense, piercing, level sensing, and vented reagent and sample transfer probes. Stainless steel or other metals can be selected to custom fit to any instrument manufacturer’s specification. DP3 is available for probes with inside diameters as small as .016” in flush, or angle cut tip designs.