Dimensional measurements are fundamental in microfluidic device manufacturing and performance. The main focus of this study is the measurement of the connection port sizes in microfluidic devices and components and, accordingly, the possible existence of fluid leaks determined using the flow rate error. The sizes associated with three different microfluidic systems were determined using laser interferometry and through an optical measuring instrument, with metrological traceability to national length standards. It was possible to infer the method with the greatest accuracy and lowest measurement uncertainty for characterizing this kind of system. In conclusion, the results of this work directly address the current lack of dimensions measuring methods of microfluidic components by providing a comprehensive comparison of different protocols, ultimately suggesting a preferred option for immediate application within the microfluidic industry.
1 April 2014 in International Journal of Thermophysics
Nowadays, infusion pumps such as syringe pumps and peristaltic pumps are commonly used for drug delivery, in situations where the delivery dose has stringent limits and high risk impact. In order to ensure the metrological traceability of these flow and volume measuring equipment it is necessary to use suitable calibration methods and standards. One of the methods typically used in hospitals is relying on an Infusion Device Analyser (IDA). This is a secondary method, and consists on comparing directly the flow generated by the infusion pump with the IDA. The IDA can be calibrated by gravimetric or by the use of a precision syringe pump. In this paper the results of the two calibration methods are compared. Moreover, a new calibration method using a Coriolis meter is evaluated. The uncertainty budgets of the three methods are described in detail.