Liquid Handling

Precision Motion for Automated Liquid Handling Systems

Rotalink’s miniature motors and gearboxes deliver precise, repeatable motion control for automated liquid handling systems, pipetting robots, and laboratory automation platforms.

Our motion technology provides the accuracy, torque, and smooth control required for transferring microliter and nanoliter volumes with exceptional repeatability and reliability.

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Industry Challenges

Liquid handling systems must achieve extremely high levels of accuracy and consistency while maintaining compact, clean, and quiet operation.

High precision control
Required for handling microliter or nanoliter volumes.
Compact design
Integration into small robotic systems and benchtop instruments.
Smooth motion
To avoid air bubbles, vibration, or sample disruption.

Reliability
Maintaining performance through long operational cycles.
Low noise and maintenance
Essential for laboratory comfort and uptime.

How Motion Technology Supports Liquid Handling Systems

Rotalink’s miniature gear motors combine torque, accuracy, and efficiency for smooth fluid motion and mechanical actuation.
Our motion systems are engineered to provide:

High torque at low speed
For controlled, precise displacement.
Smooth and consistent movement
For accurate pipetting and pumping.
Compact, sealed designs
suited for laboratory automation.
Quiet, low-vibration operation
for precision handling environments.
Custom gearing options
optimised for repeatable dosing and sample transfer.

Applications of Miniature Motors and Gearboxes
in Liquid Handling Systems

Automated Liquid Handlers / Pipetting Robots

Function: Transfer small, precise liquid volumes between containers.
Gearbox Role: Controls syringe or plunger actuation with high precision and repeatability.
Benefits:
- High torque at low speed for accurate fluid displacement.
- Smooth, controlled motion for small-volume pipetting (microliters or less).

Sample Preparation Stations

Function: Mix, dilute, or aliquot samples.
Gearbox Role: Drives actuators, valves, and pumps for coordinated fluid handling.
Benefits: Compact gear motors enable multi-axis movement in tight instrument spaces.

Centrifuges with Liquid Handling Integration

Function: Automate sample loading, spinning, and unloading.
Gearbox Role: Positions sample holders and opens or closes sample trays.
Benefits: High reliability and torque for precise, repeatable motion cycles.

Peristaltic Pumps

Function: Provide non-contact fluid movement through tubing systems.
Gearbox Role: Controls roller rotation for consistent, low-pulsation flow.
Benefits: Adjustable speed and gentle pumping ideal for sensitive or sterile fluids.

Microfluidic Systems

Function: Handle ultra-small fluid volumes in lab-on-chip and analytical devices.
Gearbox Role: Powers miniature syringes or actuators for precision movement.
Benefits: Enables nanoliter-scale control and repeatable fluid metering.

Why Choose Rotalink for Laboratory Instrumentation?

High-precision gear systems
Supporting exact fluid delivery and repeatability.
Compact, efficient motors
Perfect for space-constrained lab automation systems.
Quiet, reliable operation
Designed for low vibration and long duty cycles.
Custom-engineered solutions
Tailored to torque, speed, and integration requirements.
UK-based engineering expertise
Providing full design and OEM support.