Micro-Metering Valves

Micro-Metering Valves

IDEX Micro-Metering Valves deliver precise, repeatable control of fluid flow rates in analytical and laboratory fluid-handling systems. These fine-adjustment needle valves are ideal for applications requiring micro-scale flow regulation, including mass spectrometry, fraction collection, peristaltic pump transfer, and post-column fluid management.

When paired with a tee, micro-metering valves can reduce outgoing flow to as low as 3.5 µL/min (based on a 1 mL/min incoming water flow at room temperature), enabling accurate stream splitting and controlled diversion. In addition to liquid handling, these valves may also be used to regulate gas flow in helium sparging lines or serve as flow-dependent variable back-pressure regulators.

Flow paths are constructed from chemically resistant PEEK polymer (valve body and needle) with PTFE O-rings to ensure broad solvent compatibility and reliable performance. All valve configurations feature 0.020" thru-holes for consistent flow characteristics. Included fittings are manufactured from PEEK for 10-32 threaded versions and from PEEK with Tefzel® (ETFE) for 1/4-28 threaded models, supporting flexible integration into a wide range of LC and fluidic setups.

Chrom Tech offers a curated selection of IDEX Micro-Metering Valves and compatible fittings to help laboratories achieve precise flow control, simplified system tuning, and dependable analytical results. Many popular configurations are in stock and ready to ship.

Key Definitions â–¸
Micro-Metering Valve
A precision needle valve designed to provide fine, repeatable control of liquid or gas flow rates in analytical and laboratory fluid-handling systems.
Flow Splitting
A technique in which a single fluid stream is divided into multiple paths using a tee and metering valve, allowing precise reduction of outgoing flow for applications such as LC-MS and fraction collection.
Variable Back-Pressure Regulation
The use of a micro-metering valve to create controlled resistance in a flow path, stabilizing system pressure and improving consistency in low-flow analytical applications.
PEEK Polymer
A high-performance, chemically resistant polymer used in valve bodies and needles for its durability, biocompatibility, and compatibility with common HPLC solvents.
Thru-Hole
The internal bore of the valve through which fluid passes. All IDEX micro-metering valves feature a 0.020" thru-hole to support consistent flow characteristics across configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions â–¸
What are IDEX micro-metering valves used for?
Micro-metering valves provide fine control of liquid or gas flow in analytical systems. They are commonly used for flow splitting, peristaltic pump transfer, LC-MS applications, fraction collection, helium sparging, and as variable back-pressure regulators.
How low can flow rates be adjusted?
When used with a tee, IDEX micro-metering valves can reduce outgoing flow to approximately 3.5 µL/min based on a 1 mL/min incoming water flow at room temperature, enabling precise micro-scale flow control.
What materials are used in these valves?
Flow paths are constructed from chemically resistant PEEK polymer for the valve body and needle, with PTFE O-rings for sealing. Included fittings are made from PEEK for 10-32 versions and from PEEK with Tefzel® (ETFE) for 1/4-28 threaded configurations.
Can micro-metering valves be used for gas flow?
Yes. In addition to liquid handling, these valves are commonly used to regulate gas flow in helium sparging lines and other low-pressure gas applications.
What tubing sizes are supported?
All versions of IDEX micro-metering valves feature a 0.020" thru-hole and are available in both 10-32 and 1/4-28 threaded configurations, supporting integration with common laboratory tubing and fitting standards.