Introduction to the Quaternary Pump

Overview

How does the Pump Work?

The liquid runs from the solvent reservoir through the degasser to the MCGV and from there to the active inlet valve. The pump assembly comprises two substantially identical plunger/chamber units. Both plunger/chamber units comprise a ball-screw drive and a pump head with one sapphire plunger for reciprocating movement in it.

A servo-controlled variable reluctance motor drives the two ball-screw drives in opposite directions. The gears for the ball-screw drives have different circumferences (ratio 2:1) allowing the first plunger to move at twice the speed of the second plunger. The solvent enters the pump head close to the bottom limit and leaves it at its top. The outer diameter of the plunger is smaller than the inner diameter of the pump head chamber allowing the solvent to fill the gap in between. The first plunger has a stroke volume in the range of 20–100 µl depending on the flow rate. The microprocessor controls all flow rates in a range of 1 µl–10 ml/min. The inlet of the first plunger/chamber unit is connected to the active inlet valve which is processor-controlled opened or closed allowing solvent to be drawn into the first plunger pump unit.

The outlet of the first plunger/chamber unit is connected through the outlet ball valve and the damping unit to the inlet of the second plunger/chamber unit. The outlet of the purge valve assembly is then connected to the following chromatographic system.

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Agilent Technologies 1100 Series manual How does the Pump Work?

1100 Series specifications

Agilent Technologies 1100 Series is a highly regarded lineup of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems designed to meet the demanding needs of laboratories in various fields including pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, and food safety. Known for its versatility, reliability, and advanced technology, the 1100 Series has established itself as a benchmark for analytical performance.

One of the standout features of the Agilent 1100 Series is its modular architecture. This design allows users to configure the system according to specific analytical requirements. The components such as pumps, detectors, and autosamplers can be mixed and matched to create a tailored solution, ensuring maximum efficiency and optimal performance. This modularity also facilitates easy upgrades and maintenance, significantly extending the life cycle of the instrument.

At the heart of the 1100 Series is its advanced pumping technology. The system utilizes precise, high-pressure pumps that ensure a consistent flow rate and excellent reproducibility, essential for accurate quantification of analytes. The binary and quaternary pump options provide flexibility in method development, enabling users to perform gradient elution with ease.

The Agilent 1100 Series also boasts a range of detectors, including UV/VIS, fluorescence, and refractive index detectors. Each detector is designed to enhance sensitivity and specificity, enabling the detection of a wide array of compounds. The UV/VIS detector, in particular, is known for its reliable performance and user-friendly interface, which simplifies method setup and data analysis.

Another critical aspect of the 1100 Series is its autosampler. The system's autosamplers provide high throughput and automatic sample handling, which significantly reduces human error and increases productivity. The intelligent design allows for temperature control and reliable sample injection, ensuring optimal results.

In terms of software, the 1100 Series is supported by Agilent’s OpenLAB software, which offers an intuitive platform for method development, data acquisition, and analysis. This software integrates seamlessly with the HPLC hardware, making it easier for scientists to manage workflows and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

Overall, the Agilent Technologies 1100 Series represents a significant advancement in liquid chromatography, bringing together ideal characteristics such as modularity, precision, versatility, and sophistication. Its commitment to innovation and quality makes it a preferred choice for laboratories seeking reliable analytical solutions.