Syringe Pump
This syringe pump was designed for a Digital Fabrication course (DF-2100: Rapid Prototyping) as a low-cost, 3D-printed alternative to commercial laboratory pumps (typically costing thousands of dollars). These syringe pumps are used for precise fluid delivery in medical and research applications. It provides controlled and repeatable flow while remaining compatible with different syringe diameters (10 mL–20 mL).
Features
- Stepper motor + lead screw drive for accurate plunger motion
- Arduino-controlled flow rate (mL/min) set via program variables
- Compatibility with multiple syringe sizes without tools
- LED indicators: green (running), yellow (paused), red (out of liquid)
- Latching push button for start/pause and a limit switch for plunger travel
- Enclosure that integrates electronics and protects against spills
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Off-the-Shelf Parts
| Component | Specification / Notes | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Lead screw (250 mm, 2 mm lead) | Provided | 1 |
| Lead screw (250 mm, 8 mm lead) | Provided | 1 |
| Flexible coupling | 1/4" × 8 mm | 1 |
| Linear rods | 200 mm length, 8 mm Ø | 2 |
| Linear bearings | LM8UU for 8 mm rods | 2 |
| Aluminum extrusion | 2040 profile, 1′ length | 1 |
| Stepper motor | NEMA 17 | 1 |
| Power supply | MEAN WELL RQ-65D AC-DC, quad output (5V, 12V, 24V) | 1 |
| Arduino Uno | R3 board | 1 |
| Stepper driver | A4988 | 1 |
| Breadboard | Small prototyping board | 1 |
| Latching push button | Panel mount, on/off | 1 |
| Limit switch | Mechanical, lever-actuated | 1 |
| RGB LED | Common cathode | 1 |
| Miscellaneous hardware | Wires, fasteners, resistors, heat shrink | — |
3D-Printed Parts
| Part Name | Description | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Enclosure | Main housing for Arduino and driver electronics | PLA |
| Enclosure Lid | Cover for electronics enclosure | PLA |
| End Support | Standard support for smooth rods and lead screw | PLA |
| End Support (Motor Mount) | Support with integrated motor mounting plate | ABS |
| Modified End Supports ×2 | End supports adapted to hold syringe body | PLA |
| Carriage | Sliding carriage that holds syringe plunger | PLA |
Interactive CAD Model
Arduino Code
The Arduino control program is available here:
👉 View the code on GitHub