Dialysis Machine Flow Rate Sensing Using Reed Sensors

Dialysis machines are life-saving devices used to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. In hemodialysis, the patient’s blood is drawn through a tube into the machine, where it passes through a dialyzer (artificial kidney) to remove toxins. The cleansed blood is then returned to the patient’s body. Maintaining an optimal blood flow rate is critical during dialysis to ensure proper filtration and avoid complications such as clotting or improper toxin removal. The flow rate of blood needs to be carefully monitored to maintain the effectiveness of the treatment.

Reed sensor based flow meters ensure that the flow rate of blood through the dialysis machine is consistent and within safe limits. By incorporating a reed sensor into the flow meter, the system can accurately detect and measure the rate at which blood is being pumped through the machine. Reed sensors, which operate by detecting changes in magnetic fields of a rotating vane with a multi-pole magnet, provide real-time feedback on the flow of blood. This helps the dialysis machine adjust the pumping speed, ensuring that the flow is neither too fast nor too slow, which is essential for patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Unlike other flow measurement methods, reed sensors are immune to environmental factors such as temperature or electrical interference, making them highly accurate in medical applications. Additionally, reed sensors are non-invasive and can be seamlessly integrated into the flow meter without direct contact with the fluid, reducing the risk of contamination. Their ability to provide precise, real-time flow rate data ensures that the blood is circulated at the correct flow rate, optimising dialysis treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Application Classification

Applications are classified as Position Sensing, Pulse Counting, Electromagnetic or Relay, Temperature Sensing or Magnet Biasing types. This application is classified as follows and the link gives more information on best practices to help select the most suitable AT band and matching magnet.

Pulse Counting Type

When an application requires the volume of a fluid, or a distance, or the RPM of a machine tool measured, such an application can be Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Recommended Products

The Reed Switches and Sensors used in dialysis applications need to be robust, durable and efficient in meeting a high life expectancy. Our engineers work hard in life testing our products under various conditions, and our intention is to ensure end product durability and life. Although we wouldn’t want to restrict any of our products for use in only certain applications, the recommended products for use in this application are listed below.

Sub Miniature Reed Switch, SM-1322

Reed Switch with Full Length LeadsCropped LeadsSMD Formed LeadsHorizontal MountingVertical Mounting starFeaturesRelease AT Continue reading -> Sep 28, 2024

M5 Threaded Sensor Cylindrical Sensor, MS-225

MS-225 Threaded Magnet Sensor drawing starFeatures10W Contact Rating. Normally Open contact. Three sensitivity bands. Sputtered Continue reading -> Sep 28, 2024

Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch, MO-1422

MO-1422 Miniature Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch with Full Length LeadsMO-1422 Miniature Off-Centre Contact Reed Switch with Cropped Continue reading -> Sep 3, 2024

Close Differential Reed Switch, MC-1425

MC-1425 Close Differential Reed Switch with Full Length LeadsMC-1425 Close Differential Reed Switch with Cropped LeadsMC-1425 Close Continue reading -> Sep 3, 2024