The Reliable LAMBDA Peristaltic Pump in NASA’s Capisorb Visible System Aboard the ISS
The Capisorb Visible System (CVS) was a NASA experiment designed to test a new method for removing carbon dioxide from the air aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The system's innovative design used a passive, open-channel fluidic device, that includes the LAMBDA peristaltic pumpto manage the flow of liquid sorbent.
In the CVS, the LAMBDA peristaltic pump was responsible for moving the liquid sorbent between the Contactor, where the CO2 was absorbed, and the Degasser, where it was removed, enabling a continuous, closed-loop process. The ability of the pump to operate with high reliability and precision in microgravity was essential for the successful flight demonstration on the ISS, proving the viability of this advanced air revitalization technology for future space missions.
Fig 1: The Capisorb Visible System (CVS) experiment assembly
Image credit and Reference: Torres, L. J., Weislogel, M. M., Chen, Y., Krishcko, O., Jenson, R. M., Belancik, G. A., Alcid, M., Levri, J. A., Hand, L. A., Cortez, A., Heavner, S., & Graf, J. C. (2024, July). A Capillary Fluidic CO₂ Scrubber for Spacecraft: The Liquid Amine Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly. In Proceedings of the 53rd International Conference on Environmental Systems. Louisville, Kentucky.
The Capisorb Visible System demonstration was conducted in the unique microgravity environment of the ISS. The Capisorb Visible System (CVS) project, which launched on the SpaceX CRS-27 cargo mission and was conducted on the ISS from April 18–21, 2023. For a more detailed technical overview of the experiment, you can refer to the NASA Technical Reports Server citation: NASA/TM-20240006714.
This test success highlights a new frontier for our LAMBDA peristaltic pumps. In the demanding environment of space, where reliability is paramount and maintenance is a challenge, the performance of our pumps was critical. The selection of a peristaltic pump for this vital role is a testament to its design and our decades of experience in creating solutions for continuous, long-term fluid handling.
The LAMBDA Peristaltic pump Advantage: Engineered for Excellence
Our pumps are built to address the most common problems faced in laboratory and industrial settings. The design goes beyond the standard, offering key features that make it an ideal choice for stable flow rate without any problem.
Fig 2: LAMBDA Peristaltic pump's innovative pump design offers many advantages
- Long-Term Reliability: Our unique pumping mechanism, which features large-diameter bearings instead of small rollers, reduces mechanical stress on the tubing. This not only extends the tubing's life but also ensures the flow rate remains consistent for weeks at a time, eliminating the risk of costly interruptions.
- Precision and Control: Our microprocessor-controlled motors and quartz-driven electronics provide a level of precision that is essential for accurate fluid dosing. With a digital speed control range and the ability to program complex flow profiles, our pumps offer the fine-tuned control necessary for sensitive processes.
- Safety in Any Environment: Our pumps are designed to operate without increasing pressure, even if the fluid line becomes blocked. This is a crucial safety feature for any enclosed system, especially in a delicate microgravity environment.
- Cost-Effective and Simple: The unique design of our pump head allows for the use of low-cost, readily available tubing, reducing operational expenses and simplifying maintenance.
Since 1970!
Fig 3: The different models of LAMBDA peristaltic pumps since 1970
The successful CVS experiment on the ISS demonstrates that our commitment to quality, precision, and durability translates into a product that can perform flawlessly in the most challenging conditions. It is proof that a LAMBDA pump isn't just a tool; it's a reliable partner in innovation.
Versatile Applications of LAMBDA Peristaltic Pumps
Chromatographic Techniques
- Compact and stackable, LAMBDA peristaltic pumps are ideal for chromatography—used standalone or with the OMNICOLL fraction collector and autosampler.
Applications include:
- Liquid chromatography (LC)
- Sample collection and fractionation
- Automatic liquid handling
- Gradient elution and gel pouring
- Column saturation and gradient formation
- PC-controlled gradient pump via PNet software
Fermentation & Cell Culture
Designed for long-term, sterile processes, LAMBDA pumps support continuous bioprocessing with sterilizable tubing.
Used for:
- Feed and harvest (fed-batch, continuous, chemostat, perfusion)
- pH and antifoam control
- Timed sampling and nutrient dosing
- Exponential feeding, C-feed optimization
- Media dispensing and agar plate filling
- Growth tracking and metabolic activity analysis
Chemical & Biochemical Reactions
Ensure precise liquid delivery for accurate results.
Ideal for:
- Titration and pH-stat control
- Controlled reagent addition in exothermic reactions
- Reaction rate visualization
- Enzyme activity measurement (e.g. esterases, lipases, proteases)
Single-Use Systems & Pharmaceutical Research
Perfect for contamination-sensitive processes requiring high precision.
Applications include:
- Sterile filtration and dosin
- Cell suspension handling
- Drug trials and process validation
Ready to elevate your research? Explore the LAMBDA Peristaltic pumps today and discover how it can transform your work with precise liquid transfer. Contact us at sales@lambda-instruments.com for more information and quotation. You can find more information at www.lambda-instruments.com