Flow Cell for Optical Analysis in Chemical Manufacturing

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Flow Cell

Definition

A flow cell is a critical component of Process Analytical Technology (PAT) modules that provides a controlled environment for liquid samples to pass through while being analyzed by optical sensors. It serves as the interface between the process stream and analytical instrumentation, enabling real-time monitoring of chemical, biological, or physical properties during manufacturing processes. The flow cell is designed to maintain a consistent optical path length and minimize sample disturbance, ensuring accurate and reproducible measurements. It is typically constructed from materials such as optical-grade quartz, sapphire, stainless steel 316L, PTFE, or borosilicate glass, selected for chemical compatibility and optical clarity. Key parameters include optical path length (1–100 mm), cell volume (1–100 µL), operating pressure (1.0–1.6 MPa), and operating temperature (10–50 °C). Wetted materials may include PEEK, PTFE, fused silica, or stainless steel 316, while window materials are often UV-grade fused silica or sapphire. Path length tolerance is ±0.05 mm, and connection threads are typically 10–32 UNF or 1/4-28 UNF. Leak rate is specified as ≤1×10⁻⁹ Pa·m³/s per ISO 20485, and chemical resistance covers pH 1–14. Weight ranges from 50–200 g. These values are reference ranges; actual specifications must be confirmed with the manufacturer for the specific model and application. The flow cell is essential for real-time process monitoring, enabling quality control and optimization in chemical manufacturing.

Working Principle

Liquid samples are pumped through the flow cell's chamber, which has precisely aligned optical windows. Light sources (UV, visible, IR, etc.) pass through the sample, and detectors measure absorbance, fluorescence, or scattering properties. The flow cell maintains consistent pathlength and minimizes sample disturbance to ensure accurate, reproducible measurements. The optical path length and cell volume are selected based on the sensitivity required and sample availability. Operating pressure and temperature must be within specified limits to prevent leakage or optical distortion. The wetted materials and window material must be chemically compatible with the sample to ensure integrity. Regular verification of path length tolerance and leak rate is recommended to maintain performance.

Common Materials

Optical-grade quartz, Sapphire, Stainless steel 316L, PTFE (Teflon), Borosilicate glass

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Optical Path Length	1–100 mm	Determines sensitivity; longer path for low concentrations.
Cell Volume	1–100 µL	Smaller volume reduces sample consumption.
Operating Temperature	10–50 °C	Exceeding range may cause leakage or optical distortion.
Wetted Materials	PEEK, PTFE, fused silica, stainless steel 316	Chemical compatibility critical for sample integrity.
Window Material	UV-grade fused silica, sapphire	UV-grade for 190 nm; sapphire for high pressure.
Path Length Tolerance	±0.05 mm	Ensures measurement reproducibility.
Connection Thread	10–32 UNF, 1/4-28 UNF	Standard fittings for leak-free connections.
Leak Rate	≤1×10⁻⁹ Pa·m³/s	Helium leak test; ensures no sample loss.ISO 20485
Chemical Resistance	pH 1–14	Resistant to most solvents and acids/bases.
Weight	50–200 g	Affects handling and mounting.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Optical Windows Part
Allow light transmission into and out of the sample chamber

Material: Quartz or sapphire
Sample Chamber
Holds liquid sample during analysis

Material: Stainless steel or PTFE
Inlet/Outlet Ports Part
Connect to fluid delivery system for sample introduction and removal

Material: Stainless steel
Seals/Gaskets Part
Prevent leaks and maintain pressure integrity

Material: Viton, Kalrez, or PTFE

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Process Analytical Technology Module

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Flow Cell

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical optical path length range for a flow cell?

The optical path length typically ranges from 1 to 100 mm, depending on the sensitivity required. Longer paths are used for low concentrations, while shorter paths are for higher concentrations. The exact value must be confirmed for the specific model.

What materials are commonly used for flow cell construction?

Common materials include optical-grade quartz, sapphire, stainless steel 316L, PTFE, and borosilicate glass. Wetted materials may include PEEK, PTFE, fused silica, or stainless steel 316. Window materials are often UV-grade fused silica or sapphire. Material selection depends on chemical compatibility and optical requirements.

What are the operating pressure and temperature limits?

The operating pressure is typically 1.0 to 1.6 MPa, and the operating temperature is 10 to 50 °C. Exceeding these ranges may cause leakage or optical distortion. Always verify the limits for the specific model.

How is the leak rate specified and verified?

The leak rate is specified as ≤1×10⁻⁹ Pa·m³/s, per ISO 20485. This is verified through helium leak testing to ensure no sample loss. Regular verification is recommended to maintain measurement integrity.

Data Basis

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pressure:	0 to 5 bar
flow rate:	0.1 to 10 mL/min
temperature:	-10°C to 80°C
slurry concentration:	Up to 20% solids by weight

Flow Cell

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