The RVM mini is the world's smallest OEM microfluidic rotary valve. This switch configuration is a compact, industrial-grade, zero-dead-volume electric rotary valve designed for automated microfluidic instruments. It enables sequential port-to-port connections and loop-based injection workflows with an internal volume down to 2.4 µL.
Available with 4 or 6 ports, 0.5 mm channel size, and wetted materials PCTFE/PTFE or PCTFE/UHMW-PE. Additional port counts and channel sizes are available on request.
Includes only the RVM mini valve assembly (motor/communication drive + valve head). USB-C cable and power supply must be added separately. Dedicated fittings and accessories are also available.
General
The RVM mini switch valve is an ultra-compact microfluidic rotary valve developed for OEM integration in space-constrained systems. It connects adjacent ports in pairs, which is ideal for loop-based sample injection and sequential port-to-port routing. Built on the proven fluidic architecture of the RVM series, it delivers precise and repeatable flow control with no dead volume, low carryover, and excellent sealing performance.
Built around the new-generation P202-O drive, it combines a driver and an integrated angular encoder in an ultra-compact body designed for seamless OEM integration. With a zero-dead-volume fluidic path and an internal volume down to 2.4 µL, it is the perfect companion for injection and switching tasks in compact analytical instruments, diagnostic platforms and automated microfluidic systems. Its minimized footprint (height 44 mm, Ø32 mm) and light weight (~77 g) make it one of the most compact rotary switch valves on the market, manufactured with Swiss precision.
Advantages
The RVM mini switch valve is used for sample injection, loop loading, and sequential port-to-port connections, and is well adapted to point-of-care and benchtop instruments. Compact and light, it is easy to integrate thanks to a wide range of communication options.
- Ultra-compact integration: With a small footprint and a lightweight design, the RVM mini is optimized for highly integrated and portable systems.
- Proven fluidic architecture: The valve uses the same validated fluidic technology as the RVM series, already deployed in demanding industrial and microfluidic applications.
- Fast liquid switching: The extremely small internal volume allows liquid paths to be switched rapidly while maintaining ultra-low carryover, with a port-to-port switching time down to 310 ms (6-port version).
- Ultra-low internal volume: The unique precise valve head exhibits an internal volume (port-to-port) down to 2.4 µL and a carryover volume down to 0.6 µL thanks to its exceptionally small 0.5 mm diameter channels.
- Integrated angular encoder: The position sensor is directly integrated into the valve to ensure precise positioning (even with clearance on the motor axis and potential wear). An automatic homing procedure at power-up lets the valve determine its precise location.
- OEM-ready connectivity: USB-C plus three Pico-Lock™ connectors give access to serial (RS232/RS485), I2C, TTL and analog I/O communication (CAN on request), for straightforward integration into your platform.
- Manifold integration ready: The RVM mini can integrate directly onto microfluidic manifolds, enabling compact multi-stage fluidic architectures and high integration density. Broad chemical compatibility is ensured by PCTFE/PTFE wetted materials (UHMW-PE, PEEK or full PTFE on request).
Applications
- Compact analytical instruments and diagnostic systems
- Loop-based sample injection and reagent routing
- Microfluidic automation and lab-on-chip integration
- Portable and battery-operated devices
- Sample preparation systems
Configurations
| Valve Type |
SWITCH |
| Function |
Connects adjacent ports in pairs (sequential switching / injection) |
| Number of ports |
4, 6 (other port counts on request) |
| Also known as |
Injection valve
Loop valve
N-port switching valve |
Available switch configurations (catalog):
| Ports |
Channel size |
Wetted materials (seat / rotor) |
| 4 |
0.5 mm |
PCTFE / PTFE or PCTFE / UHMW-PE |
| 6 |
0.5 mm |
PCTFE / PTFE or PCTFE / UHMW-PE |
Content
1x RVM mini valve assembly (P202-O drive + switch valve head)
Power supply and cables are not included.
Fittings are not included (see the Related Products).
Specifications
Main valve specifications
| Valve configuration |
Zero dead-volume switch / injection valve with integrated angular encoder |
| Port-to-port switching time |
390 ms for 6 ports (down to 310 ms in some conditions) |
| Valve seat (stator) material |
PCTFE |
| Valve rotor material |
PTFE or UHMW-PE |
| Max. pressure |
7 bar (102 psi) |
| Channel diameter |
0.5 mm |
Detailed valve specifications
| Valve Type |
Switch |
| Tube port fittings |
1/4-28 UNF, flat-bottom |
| Dead volume |
None |
| Maximum pressure |
7 bar (102 psi) |
| Configuration |
Internal volume |
Carryover volume |
Channel size |
| 4 ports |
2.6 µL |
0.8 µL |
0.5 mm |
| 6 ports |
2.4 µL |
0.6 µL |
0.5 mm |
For the specifications of alternative channel dimensions and materials, please contact us.
General specifications
| Operating temperature |
15–40°C (59–104°F) |
| Storage temperature |
5–45°C (41–113°F) |
| Operating humidity |
20–80%, non-condensing |
| Electrical interface |
USB-C, 3 x Pico-Lock™ 1 mm pitch 4 pos. |
| Communication type |
UART via USB or Serial (RS232/RS485), I2C, TTL, analog I/O (CAN upon request) |
| Power |
22–32 VDC, 0.5 A peak |
| Dimensions |
H 44 mm – Ø32 mm (top) / Ø29 mm (down) |
| Weight |
~77 g |
Valve heads are interchangeable.
Other configurations are available upon request, including:
- 3, 8 or 12 ports
- 2.0 mm or 2.4 mm channel diameter
- PEEK valve seat
- CAN communication
Documentation
RVM mini operating manual
RVM mini datasheet
Accessories and Wiring Scenarios
Maintenance guide
STEP file available on request.
