Thermoelectric Modules optimize reliability of PCR cyclers.
Press Release Summary:
Tested to 800,000 temperature cycles, RoHS-compliant PC Series can operate in temperatures up to 120°C, exceeding requirements for polymerase chain reaction machines. Modules are constructed with multiple layers between ceramic substrates, copper buss bars, and semiconductor couples. To minimize thermally induced stress and extend operational life of modules, flexible and thermally conductive soft layer is inserted between cold side ceramic substrate and copper buss bars.
Original Press Release:
Laird's Power Cycling Thermoelectric Modules Enhance Reliability of PCR Cyclers
Laird's new PC Series thermoelectric modules (TEMs), tested to 800,000 temperature cycles, offering a significantly longer operating life and lower overall cost of ownership compared to standard TEMs
Global technology leader Laird (LRD: London) has developed an advanced thermoelectric module (TEM) designed for high reliability applications like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thermal cycling, which require extended mean time between failure (MTBF). The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a biochemical technology that amplifies a single copy or a few strands of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating several hundred thousands of copies of a particular DNA sequence. PCR requires a high number of thermal cycle steps to create thousands of strands of DNA sequencing for analysis. This is a harsh environment for standard thermoelectric modules due to the mechanical stresses that occur during the heating and cooling stage.
In modern PCR devices, thermoelectric modules (TEMs) are typically used to achieve the rapid temperature changes. The advantages of thermoelectric modules over other types of thermal cycling devices are precise temperature control, compactness, faster temperature ramp rates and efficiency.
The PC Series TEMs are proven to perform for more than 800,000 temperature cycles and can operate in temperatures up to 120°C. This exceeds the requirements for PCR machines and provides a lower total cost of ownership, while increasing opportunity to sell more reagents. A copy of the validation test report can be obtained upon request.
The new PC Series TEM is constructed with multiple layers between the ceramic substrates, copper buss bars and semiconductor couples. To reduce thermally induced stress, a flexible and thermally conductive "soft layer" is inserted between the cold side ceramic substrate and copper buss bars. The integration of the polymer into the thermoelectric modules absorbs the mechanically induced stresses caused by rapid temperature cycling. As a result, the stress induced on the semiconductor couples and solder joints are significantly reduced, extending the overall operational life of TEM.
"Thermal cycling exposes TEMs to mechanical stresses as the module contracts and expands from repeated cooling and heating cycles. Standard TEMs are traditionally designed for refrigeration applications only. The high-temperature diffusion of impurities and mechanical stresses over time significantly reduces the operational life of a standard TEM," explains Senior Vice President of Laird's Engineered Thermal Systems, Anders Kottenauer. "Our new PC Series is designed to handle hundreds of thousands of thermal cycles with minimal degradation."
Key System Features:
Designed to pass rigorous testing
Robust construction developed for thermal cycling applications
800K+ thermal cycle operating life
Superior temperature control stability
RoHS Compliant
Learn more about the PC Series TEMs here.
http://www.lairdtech.com/product-categories/thermal-management/thermoelectric-modules/pc-series?utm_source=PCR%20Cyclers%20PR&utm_medium=press%20release&utm_content=click%20here&utm_campaign=ETS%20PCR%20Cyclers
About Laird
Laird is a global technology company focused on providing systems, components and solutions that protect electronics from electromagnetic interference and heat, and that enable connectivity in mission critical systems through wireless applications and antenna systems.
Products are supplied to all sectors of the electronics industry including Connected Transport, Connected Industry, Connected Medical, Telecom/ Computing, and Mobile Device markets.
Laird PLC and its operating businesses, employ 9,000 people in more than 50 facilities located in 19 countries.
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