Introduction to the Quaternary Pump

Overview

Figure 42

Principle of the Quaternary Pump

Damper

Chamber 1

Inlet valve

From solvent bottle

Plunger 1

Outlet valve

Chamber 2

Purge valve

To mixing chamber

To waste

Seal

Plunger 2

Ball screw drive

Gear

Motor with encoder

When turned on, the quaternary pump runs through an initialization procedure to determine the upper dead center of the first plunger. The first plunger moves slowly upwards into the mechanical stop of chamber and from there it moves back a predetermined path length. The controller stores this plunger position in memory. After this initialization the quaternary pump starts operation with the set parameters. The active inlet valve is opened and the down-moving plunger draws solvent into the first chamber. At the same time the second plunger is moving upwards delivering into the system. After a controller-defined stroke length (depending on the flow rate) the drive motor is stopped and the active inlet valve is closed. The motor direction is reversed and moves the first plunger up until it reaches the stored upper limit and at the same time moving the second plunger downwards. Then the sequence starts again moving the plungers up and down between the two limits. During the up movement of the first plunger the solvent in the

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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.