Reduce Pulsation, Double Drive Output, and Improve Accuracy with Double-Y Tube Sets

Reduce Pulsation, Double Drive Output, and Improve Accuracy with Double-Y Tube Sets

Double-y tube sets rely on two “Y” connections assembled to a split-channel tubing configuration. Splitting the channels allows two channels of tubing to run through one pump – effectively doubling the flow. Double-y tube sets are typically used with either two stacked pump heads or a pump head specifically designed for double-y tube sets. As the pump operates, one channel “pulls” from the unification point upstream, while the other channel “pushes” to the unification point downstream – essentially “splitting” the fluid path. Splitting the fluid path provides not only twice the pump output (if the fluid path width is not reduced), but it can also greatly decrease downstream pulsation, while increasing dispensing accuracy. Additionally, adding an additional channel to a pump drive is very simple and does not require additional electric outlets.

Options to consider when increasing channels with one drive

Masterflex offers a few ways to increase active pump channels with one drive. First, make sure the Masterflex drive can handle the torque required of two – or four – channels at once. This is easiest to determine by max speed on Masterflex L/S^® drives. If the max speed is 100 rpm, it can handle up to four pump heads. If the drive runs up to 600 rpm, then it can handle two. Masterflex I/P^® drives can handle up to two channels.

Stacked pump heads

Use Masterflex double-Y tubing assemblies with the offset rollers of two stacked Masterflex L/S Easy-Load^®, Easy-Load II, or I/P Easy-Load pump heads to reduce pulsation and enhance accuracy in peristaltic dispensing. When these heads are stacked, the roller sets in adjacent heads are offset. While one roller is drawing fluid through one channel of the double-Y tubing the other is pushing it through the other channel. This results in an overall smoother flow (as described above) as the drawing action between fluid pockets in a peristaltic pump are compensated for downstream by the other fluid channel.

Most convenient option for double-Y tube sets

The most convenient way to get double-Y tube sets is to purchase Masterflex double-Y tubing assemblies. These are ready to use straight from the package and will eliminate the time and expense of making tube sets in house. Presterilized tubing is also available if that is a requirement. Each formulation exceeds FDA and USP Class VI requirements and meets USP Class V (extractables) standards. The tubing is manufactured to pharmaceutical cGMPs and is autoclavable. A variety of tubing length and sizes are available. For more information on double-Y tubing, see our full product range.