Components that facilitate maintenance of chromatography and synthesis columns

Abstract

A chromatography and synthesis column includes a main pipe, a plurality of internal lower media ports (300), and an internal groove (304). The internal groove (304) is formed in the inner surface of the main pipe (324) and selectively provides an internal flow path between each of the internal lower media ports (300). This, in turn, facilitates quick and easy maintenance of the internal lower media ports and other components of the chromatography and synthesis column.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to chromatographic and synthetic columns, and more specifically, to components (e.g., internal grooves, media ports) that facilitate the maintenance of chromatographic and synthetic columns. Background Technology

[0002] Preparative liquid chromatography (HPLC) is widely used in various forms to purify chemical and biological substances. A typical HPLC apparatus has an upright housing in which a porous media bed rests against a permeable bed support. A liquid mobile phase enters a distributor plate that distributes the liquid mobile phase throughout the bed and is removed via an outlet. Separation of substances occurs between the mobile phase carrying the products through the column and the stationary phase of the porous media. Typically, the porous media is compressed into a packed bed within the column, which is usually formed by consolidating a suspension of discrete particles (called a slurry) that is pumped into or poured into the column and consolidated by compression using a movable piston.

[0003] Routine column maintenance may involve packing and unpacking the bed using ports in the main pipe called slurry ports. Slurry ports can be located in the main pipe, near the top, bottom, or both. Slurry ports near the top of the main pipe are typically used to pack the column interior with slurry. Slurry can be poured into or pumped into the upper slurry port to pack the column. The lines used to dispense the slurry can be flushed through the upper slurry port to push each drop of medium into the column interior. The upper slurry port can be closed, and liquid is expelled from the slurry by moving a piston within the column to solidify the slurry into a bed. The bed thus formed can be solid or semi-solid, depending on the slurry medium and the piston pressure. Slurry ports near the bottom of the main pipe are typically used to depack semi-solid beds. Semi-solid beds can be depacked by releasing pressure on the piston, allowing flow to break up the bed, opening the lower slurry port and flushing away the bed, or recirculating the medium. Slurry ports provide access to the column interior and facilitate cleaning the column interior after use.

[0004] However, known slurry ports present several distinct problems. First, conventional slurry ports are spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the main pipe, which is inefficient for flushing the column because it creates eddies inside the column, thus hindering uniform cleaning. Second, slurry ports often introduce imperfections to the cylindricity of the column wall, which in turn negatively impacts chromatography. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, a chromatographic column includes: a main tube having internal radial grooves; a top plate removably connected to a first end of the main tube; a bottom plate removably connected to a second end of the main tube, the bottom plate being movable within the main tube and having a slurry port on its underside; a piston assembly movable within the main tube; a piston rod connected to the piston assembly, the piston rod being arranged to extend through an opening in the top plate; and a frame supporting the column on the bottom plate, the frame being connected to the main tube and capable of lifting the main tube relative to the immovable bottom plate. Actuating members are arranged on three legs of the frame such that the internal radial grooves in the main tube are movable relative to the bottom plate to a first position, exposing the interior of the main tube relative to the slurry port disposed in the bottom plate. In a second position relative to the bottom plate, the internal radial grooves in the main tube are exposed relative to the slurry port, thus allowing them to be cleaned, and the second position also allows for operation and packing of the chromatographic column. In a third position relative to the bottom plate, the main tube is completely removed from the bottom plate.

[0006] According to a second aspect, a chromatographic column includes: a main tube having internal radial grooves; a top plate removably connected to a first end of the main tube; a bottom plate removably connected to a second end of the main tube, the bottom plate being movable within the main tube and having a slurry port on its underside; a piston assembly movable within the main tube; and a piston rod connected to the piston assembly, the piston rod being arranged to extend through an opening in the top plate.

[0007] According to a third aspect, a chromatographic column includes: a main tube; a base plate coupled to the main tube; a plurality of internal lower media ports carried by the base plate; and an internal groove formed in an inner surface of the main tube, wherein the internal groove interacts with the base plate and selectively provides an internal flow path between each of the internal lower media ports.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect, a chromatographic column includes: a main tube comprising an inner chamber suitable for accommodating a media bed; a base plate coupled to the main tube; a plurality of lower internal media ports carried by the base plate; and an internal groove formed in an inner surface of the main tube, wherein the inner chamber is selectively accessible via the internal groove, and wherein the internal groove provides an internal flow path between each of the lower internal media ports. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Features of this disclosure that are considered novel are specifically set forth in the appended claims. This disclosure is best understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals identify similar elements in several figures, in which:

[0010] Figure 1This is a perspective view of the chromatographic and synthetic columns and base assembly according to various embodiments;

[0011] Figure 2 This is a side cross-sectional view of the support leg assembly of the base assembly according to various embodiments, showing the hydraulic cylinder;

[0012] Figure 3 This is a side cross-sectional view of the support leg assembly of the base assembly according to various embodiments, showing the hydraulic cylinder and the swing arm;

[0013] Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the leg assembly of the base assembly according to various embodiments, showing the guide block;

[0014] Figure 5 It is equipped with removable outriggers according to various embodiments. Figure 10 A side front view of the chromatographic and synthetic columns and the base assembly;

[0015] Figure 6 These are process diagrams and instrument diagrams used to illustrate pneumatic and hydraulic control circuits;

[0016] Figure 7 is a top schematic view of a chromatographic and synthetic column and a base assembly having a pivoting swing arm configured as a guide base plate according to various embodiments.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a top view schematic diagram of an alternative chromatographic and synthetic column and base assembly having a pivoting swing arm configured as a guide base plate according to various embodiments.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a side front view of a chromatography and synthesis column and base assembly with telescopic legs according to various embodiments;

[0019] Figure 10 Figure 7 is a top cross-sectional view of the telescopic outrigger according to various embodiments;

[0020] Figure 11 Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the telescopic outrigger according to various embodiments;

[0021] Figure 12 This is a side front view of a chromatography and synthesis column and base assembly with removable legs installed according to various embodiments;

[0022] Figure 13 This is a simplified diagram of a pneumatic-hydraulic control circuit according to various embodiments;

[0023] Figure 14 is a top plan view of a substrate for a chromatographic and synthetic column with radially open slots according to various embodiments;

[0024] Figure 15The following is a side plan view of a chromatographic and synthetic column including the base plate of FIG14 and the main tube according to various embodiments, showing a pendulum component for securing the base plate to the main tube;

[0025] Figure 16 is an illustration according to various embodiments. Figure 15 Cross-sectional side views of chromatographic and synthetic columns;

[0026] Figure 17 According to various embodiments Figure 15 Cross-sectional side views of chromatographic and synthetic columns;

[0027] Figure 18 This is a side cross-sectional view of a chromatographic and synthetic column having a base plate inserted to cover the slurry port according to various embodiments;

[0028] Figure 19 According to various embodiments Figure 18 Side cross-sectional views of chromatographic and synthetic columns;

[0029] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a chromatographic and synthetic column having an internal groove and an internal lower media port according to various embodiments, showing the base plate in a first position relative to the main tube;

[0030] Figure 21 Similar to Figure 20 However, it shows the base plate in the second position relative to the supervisor;

[0031] Figure 22 yes Figure 20 Side view of the bottom plate and lower internal media port of the chromatography and synthesis column;

[0032] Figure 23 yes Figure 20 A bottom view of the bottom plate and lower internal media port of a chromatographic and synthetic column, wherein the first portion of the lower internal media port is hidden; and

[0033] Figure 24 yes Figure 20 A bottom view of the bottom plate and the lower internal media port of a chromatography and synthesis column, wherein the second part of the lower internal media port is hidden.

[0034] Those skilled in the art should understand that the elements in the figures are shown for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the size and / or relative positioning of some elements in the figures may be enlarged relative to other elements to aid in understanding the various embodiments of the invention. Additionally, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially viable embodiments are generally not depicted to minimize obscuring the view of these various embodiments. It should be further understood that certain actions and / or steps may be described or depicted in a specific order of occurrence, and those skilled in the art should understand that such specificity regarding the order is not actually required. It should also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meanings that those skilled in the art would assign to such terms and expressions as set forth above, unless different specific meanings are otherwise set forth herein. Detailed Implementation

[0035] This disclosure generally relates to chromatographic and synthetic columns, components, parts, and methods of assembly and disassembly. Chromatographic and synthetic columns as provided herein can be easily assembled and disassembled to save maintenance time and reduce potential damage to the column. The chromatographic and synthetic columns may further include a stabilizing base for reliable column movement. The chromatographic and synthetic columns may alternatively or additionally include components that facilitate efficient column maintenance (e.g., internal grooves, media ports).

[0036] refer to Figure 1-12 An exemplary support assembly 10 is described for a column 12 comprising a generally annular main pipe 14 and a base plate 16. For example... Figure 2 As shown, in one form, the support assembly 10 includes a rigid frame 18 having a house-shaped pentagonal configuration, and transverse members 19 extending around a rear rectangular portion 20 and a front triangular portion 22. In the illustrated form, the frame 18 is sized to extend around a column 12, such that the column 12 is positioned within both the rectangular portion 20 and the triangular portion 22.

[0037] The support assembly 10 further includes two rear legs 24 mounted to the frame 18 at the rear corner 26 of the rectangular portion 20, and a front leg 28 mounted to the frame 18 at the front corner 30 of the triangular portion 22. As shown, the frame 18 is configured such that the front corner 30 and the front leg 28 are aligned with the midpoint of the transverse frame members 19 extending between the rear corners 26. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the front leg 28 is positioned at a distance from the post 12, typically equal to the nearest vertical interval between the post 12 in the rectangular portion 20 and the three transverse members 19 of the frame 18.

[0038] In some embodiments, the support assembly 10 may be configured as a lifting column 12 to facilitate the removal of the base plate 16 and other maintenance actions. To achieve this, such as Figure 1-6As shown, the frame 18 is secured to the main tube 14 using brackets 44 or other suitable methods (e.g., welding), and the lower support leg assemblies 46, 48 for the rear support leg 24 and the front support leg 28 cooperate to lift the frame 18 and the column 12 to which it is secured.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown in Figure 4, the lower outrigger assemblies 46, 48 of the rear outrigger 24 and the front outrigger 28 include a base 50, casters 52 mounted to the underside of the base 50, a hydraulic cylinder 54 comprising a cylinder 55 and a piston rod 57, and a support member 56 disposed between the base 50 and the hydraulic cylinder 54. The base 50 and the support member 56 are sized to position the hydraulic cylinder 54 such that movement of the piston rod 57 causes the frame 18 and the main pipe 14 to move upward or downward by a desired amount. In this configuration, the lower outrigger assemblies 46, 48 control the vertical movement of the frame 18 by raising and lowering the piston rod 57 of the hydraulic cylinder 54. In the illustrated configuration, the hydraulic cylinder 54 is reversed, with the cylinder 55 connected to the frame 18. This advantageously prevents movement of hydraulic hoses and other components relative to the frame 18.

[0040] To orient and connect the lower outrigger assembly 46 to the frame 18, the frame 18 includes downwardly cantilevered tubular outrigger portions 58 located at corners 26, 30, each having a vertical sidewall 59 extending around its interior 60. The outrigger portion 58 is sized such that a support member 56 and a hydraulic cylinder 54 can extend upward into its interior 60. A bearing 61 is positioned along the height of the support member 56 and connected to the support member to contact the vertical sidewall 59 of the outrigger portion 58, thereby orienting the lower outrigger assembly 46 within the frame outrigger portion 58 when the hydraulic cylinder 54 moves the frame 18 up and down.

[0041] To further ensure alignment between the frame leg portion 58 and the base 50, the base 50 may include a block 62 having a vertical slot 64 extending through a portion thereof. The block 62 is positioned on the base 50 such that the vertical sidewall 59 of the leg portion 58 shifts within the block during lifting and lowering operations. Additionally, the block 62 may be configured to prevent rotation of the lower leg assemblies 46, 48 relative to the frame 18.

[0042] To protect the moving parts of the support assembly 10 during lifting and lowering operations, the base 50 may include an upright wall 66 extending around its periphery. As shown, the upright wall 66 is spaced outward from the vertical sidewalls 59 of the outrigger portion 58 and has a height that protrudes above the lower edge 68 of the outrigger portion 58 when the hydraulic cylinder 54 is in the raised configuration. This configuration allows the outrigger portion 58 and the upright wall 66 to extend and retract relative to each other during lifting and lowering operations, effectively preventing the user from accidentally placing their hands or other objects under the frame 18.

[0043] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4, the leg assemblies 46, 48 may include a height guide member 70 slidable along the base 50. The guide member 70 includes a raised portion 71 projecting upward toward the frame 18. The raised portion 71 is configured such that when the leg portion 58 is lowered, its lower edge 68 abuts the top surface 72 of the raised portion 71, thereby positioning the frame 18 at a suitable operating height. For storage, a user can slide the height guide member 70 so that the raised portion 71 is misaligned relative to the vertical sidewall 59, and a lowering operation causes the lower edge 68 to abut the lower surface 73 of the guide member 70. As shown in FIG. 4, the upright wall 66 of the base 50 may include an opening 74 extending therethrough to allow the guide member 70 to slide to a desired position on the base 50. Additionally, to maintain the guide member 70 in place on the base 50, the guide member 70 may include an end baffle 75 configured to abut the upright wall 66 or the base 50 as the guide member 70 slides from one end to the other. One method allows the guide member 70 to be positioned in a raised or lowered configuration using an end baffle 75, allowing the user to easily move the guide member 70 until the desired end baffle 75 prevents further movement.

[0044] Because inserting and removing the base plate 16 requires high precision, the hydraulic cylinder 54 can be configured to operate synchronously to provide synchronized up-and-down movement of the frame 18 and therefore the main pipe 14. The asymmetrical loads on the three lifting leg assemblies 46, 48, due to the offset positioning of the column 12 within the frame 18, make synchronized movement more difficult.

[0045] In order to achieve coordinated improvement, such as Figure 5 As shown, hydraulic cylinder 54 can be a double-acting cylinder. The dual-rod configuration ensures that the exposed area of ​​piston 100 is equal in the top chamber 102 and bottom chamber 104 of hydraulic cylinder 54. This allows for a single pump 106 ( Figure 6 This synchronizes multiple hydraulic cylinders 54 and provides coordinated descent of the hydraulic cylinders 54 when the load distributed on the hydraulic cylinders 54 is uneven. Figure 5As shown, hydraulic cylinders 54 are connected in series. A first closed system 108, filled with hydraulic fluid, is established between the top chamber 102 of the first cylinder 54a and the bottom chamber 104 of the second cylinder 54b, as understood. A second closed system 110 is established between the top chamber 102 of the second cylinder 54b and the bottom chamber 104 of the third cylinder 54c. When the bottom chamber 104 of the first cylinder 54a is filled with hydraulic fluid, the top chamber 102 of the first cylinder 54a fills the bottom chamber 104 of the second cylinder 54b. When the bottom chamber 104 of the second cylinder 54b is filled, the top chamber 102 of the second cylinder 54b fills the bottom chamber 104 of the third cylinder 54c. When the bottom chamber 104 of the third cylinder 54c is filled, the top chamber 102 forces hydraulic fluid out into a reservoir 112 that supplies the pump 106 for the first cylinder 54a. Although this hydraulic configuration of system 108 is less efficient than conventional hydraulic cylinders, the dual-rod configuration of the hydraulic cylinders 54 reduces the exposed area of ​​the piston 100, and the tandem arrangement of the hydraulic cylinders 54 adds up the load on all the hydraulic cylinders 54 and applies the total load to the reduced area of ​​the piston 100 of the first cylinder 54a. This disadvantage is tolerable because the hydraulic cylinders 54 are sufficient to handle the load when the column 12 is large, and the synchronized operation of the hydraulic cylinders 54 provides the significant advantage of fully synchronized movement of the frame 18 and the column 12 to which it is fixed.

[0046] The reverse operation occurs when frame 18 is lowered. The load on column 12 and frame 18 is used to drive hydraulic cylinder 54 downwards, and as... Figure 6 As shown, the metering valve 114 on the first cylinder 54a limits the descent rate of all hydraulic cylinders 54. A downward load on the third cylinder 54c causes the bottom chamber 104 to fill the top chamber 102 of the second cylinder 54b. Simultaneously, fluid supplied to the reservoir 112 by the pump 106 is drawn into the top chamber 102 of the third cylinder 54c. The top chamber 102 of the second cylinder 54b is filled by the third cylinder 54c, and the load on the second cylinder 54b and the third cylinder 54c causes the bottom chamber 104 of the second cylinder 54b to fill the top chamber 102 of the first cylinder 54a. The top chamber 102 of the first cylinder 54a is filled by the second cylinder 54b, and the load on the first cylinder 54a, the second cylinder 54b, and the third cylinder 54c causes fluid to be expelled from the bottom chamber 104 of the first cylinder 54a. A metering valve 114, positioned on the fluid flow from the bottom chamber 104 of the first cylinder 54a, limits the descent rate of all three hydraulic cylinders 54. This configuration causes the three hydraulic cylinders 54 to operate synchronously, moving the frame 18 and column 12 up and down.

[0047] Figure 6These are process and instrumentation diagrams illustrating an example of a pneumatic-hydraulic control circuit 116. As shown, control circuit 116 is provided to drive the movement of hydraulic cylinder 54 by controlling the operation of pump 106. In the illustrated form, pump 106 is a pneumatic-hydraulic pump, and control circuit 116 is pneumatic. It should be understood that the hydraulic pump and control circuit can alternatively be implemented using other circuits containing electrical equipment. In one approach, a user can provide input to control circuit 116 using a dangling member 118 with a push-button discharge port, providing operator convenience and facilitating single-person operation. It should be understood that the valve component of dangling member 118 may be located in other positions, and / or alternative embodiments of the circuit may perform the same or similar functions.

[0048] The control circuit 116 includes an inlet 122 from an air source 123 and an outlet 124 connected to a hydraulic cylinder 54, the air source being suitable for driving the pump 106 to the pressure required to lift the frame 18 and column 12 of the hydraulic cylinder 54. As shown, the control circuit 116 may further utilize a 3-way manual valve as an on / off valve 126, and utilize a pressure regulator 128, various pressure gauges 130, a manual shut-off service valve 132, a pneumatic shut-off valve 134, and a pressure reducing valve 136.

[0049] for Figure 6 The control circuit 116 shown allows the movement of the hydraulic cylinder 54 to be locked via an on / off valve 126, which simultaneously discharges pneumatic pressure regardless of whether the hydraulic cylinder 54 is in motion or idle. A first pressure gauge 130 is included to confirm the intake pressure when the on / off valve 126 is in the open position and to discharge pneumatic pressure when the on / off valve 126 is in the closed position. The droop 118 has two normally closed pneumatic valves 120. To lower the frame 18 and column 12, the "lower" valve of the two pneumatic valves 120 is connected to the actuator of the lower shut-off valve of the on / off valve 126 and the pneumatic shut-off valve 134. To raise the frame 18 and column 12, the "upper" valve of the two pneumatic valves 120 is connected to the actuator of the upper shut-off valve of the on / off valve 126 and the pneumatic shut-off valve 134. A pressure regulator 128 is connected to the air side of the on / off valve 126 and the pump 106. The second pressure gauge 130 is connected to the pressure regulator 128 and the air side of the pump 106. The liquid side of the pump 106 is connected to the fluid in the hydraulic fluid reservoir 112 and the upper shut-off valve in the pneumatic shut-off valve 134. The pressure reducing valve 136 is connected to the hydraulic fluid reservoir 112, the upper shut-off valve in the pneumatic shut-off valve 134, the metering valve 114, and the outlet 124 connected to the hydraulic cylinder 54. The third pressure gauge 130 is connected to the upper shut-off valve in the pneumatic shut-off valve 134, the pressure reducing valve 136, the metering valve 114, and the outlet 124 connected to the hydraulic cylinder 54.

[0050] As discussed above, the base plate 16 of column 12 is removed for numerous maintenance operations. To facilitate easy and repeatable movement of the base plate 16 from below the main column 14 and realigning it with the main column 14, a swing arm 32 is provided, which pivotally connects the base plate 16 to the support assembly 10 at the front support leg 28 via bearing 29. Figure 3 The swing arm 32 is rigid, allowing the base plate 16 to pivot along a predetermined radius from the front support leg 28. Advantageously, as shown in FIG7, the three-leg configuration of the support assembly 10 provides sufficient clearance between the front support leg 28 and the rear support leg 24, allowing the base plate 16 to pass easily through it.

[0051] In such Figure 8 In the alternative embodiment shown, frame 18' may have a rectangular configuration, wherein the legs 24 are spaced apart sufficiently so that the base plate 16 pivots between two adjacent legs via rigid swing arms 32'. While this configuration is suitable for many purposes, frame 18' occupies a larger area compared to the size of column 12 as in the embodiment described above.

[0052] Through a method, such as Figure 9 As shown, to assist in moving the base plate 16, the base plate 16 can be mounted to a bracket 34 having a housing or other support frame and casters 38. The bracket 34 allows the weight of the base plate 16 to be supported on the casters 38, rather than on a separate lifting device (e.g., a lifting fork). With this configuration, the user can easily manipulate the bracket 34 on the casters 38, preventing unstable movement of the lifting device. Furthermore, the bracket 34, together with the swing arm 32, ensures that the movement of the base plate 16 is precisely controlled along the radius of the swing arm 32, thereby preventing contact between the base plate 16 and the support assembly 10 and any resulting damage.

[0053] As discussed above, moving the base plate 16 back below the main pipe 14 to insert the plug portion 25 of the base plate into the main pipe 14 requires the base plate 16 to be translated, rotated, and horizontally aligned with the main pipe 14. Advantageously, the swing arm 32 provides easy, repeatable alignment because the base plate 16 can be fixedly mounted to the swing arm 32 such that the base plate 16 cannot rotate relative to the swing arm 32, and the swing arm 32 and the bracket 34 can hold the base plate 16 in a horizontal orientation. Additionally, a baffle 39 can be mounted to the support assembly 10 and / or the main pipe 14 such that when the base plate 16 abuts the surface 40, the inner surface 40 of the baffle 39 positions the base plate 16 in a translated alignment with the main pipe 14. With this configuration, the user can simply push the base plate 16 on the bracket 34, and the swing arm 32 will guide the movement along its radius until the base plate 16 contacts the baffle 39.

[0054] For example, the lifting mechanism of the hydraulic cylinder 54 discussed above can be further used to reliably remove the base plate 16 from the main pipe 14. As discussed above, the base plate 16 includes a plug portion 25 that protrudes into the inner surface 76 of the main pipe 14 and is sealed by one or more seals 77. Figure 9 As shown, the lower outrigger assemblies 46, 48 may include anchors 78 (e.g., the ring shown), and the base plate 16 may include corresponding anchors 80. Removable or releasable couplings 81 may then be installed between the anchors 78, 80 to engage the base plate 16 to the lower outrigger assemblies 46, 48 when the frame 18 is in a lowered position holding the base plate 16 in a fixed position. In the illustrated configuration, three couplings 81 to the rear outrigger 24 and the front outrigger 28 hold the base plate 16 such that the base plate 16 and the bracket 34 remain stationary when the hydraulic cylinder 54 raises the frame 18. When the main pipe 14 is raised, the plug portion 25 is pulled from within the main pipe 14 until there is sufficient clearance between the plug portion 25 and the main pipe 14. Thereafter, the couplings 81 are removable or releasable, and the base plate 16 can pivot on the swing arm 32 to a position outside the frame 18 through the gap between the front outrigger 28 and the rear outrigger 24, as discussed above. It should be understood that anchors 78, 80 and connectors 81 can take any suitable form, such as hooks, straps, fasteners, etc. Alternatively, in another form, bracket 34 may include one or more of the anchors 78, rather than the base plate 16.

[0055] Return to reference Figure 3 Due to the swing arm 32, the lower support leg assembly 48 of the front support leg 28 can be modified relative to the rear support leg 24 to include structures other than those described above. More specifically, the lower support leg assembly 48 includes a lower support member 51 and a base 53, with casters 52 mounted to the lower base 53. The lower support member 51 has a cylindrical configuration and is sized to allow free rotation of the bearing 29 of the swing arm 32 to which it is connected, and has space for vertical movement when the hydraulic cylinder 54 moves the frame 18.

[0056] As understood, the support assembly 10 with three legs may cause the column 12 to move less steadily, especially when the weight of the column 12 is subjected to an asymmetrical load on the frame 18 as discussed above. To provide additional support, such as... Figure 9-11 As shown, the support assembly 10 may include a telescopic leg 82 located at an intermediate corner 31 between the rear corner 26 and the front corner 30 of the frame 18. Having telescopic functionality, the telescopic leg 82 can move away from the path of the base plate 16 when the base plate is removed from under the main tube 14, for example, by using the swing arm 32 described above.

[0057] like Figure 10 and 11As shown, each telescopic outrigger 82 includes an elongated shaft 83 having a crossbar 84 extending outward from its central portion and a caster 85 mounted at its distal end. A telescopic housing 86 is mounted to the frame 18 at a corner 31. The telescopic housing 86 includes openings 87 extending through its top and bottom, allowing the telescopic outrigger 82 to extend through the housing. Optionally, the telescopic housing 86 may include bearings 88 disposed around the openings 87 for alignment and to assist movement of the telescopic outrigger 82.

[0058] As shown in the figure, the telescopic housing 86 includes a first positioning plate 89 and a second positioning plate 90 extending internally across the telescopic housing 86. Each of the first positioning plate 89 and the second positioning plate 90 further includes a wedge opening 91 extending vertically through it, the wedge opening having a shape corresponding to a crossbar 84 of the telescopic outrigger 82. The first positioning plate 89 is positioned at a certain height such that it is positioned similarly to the crossbar 84 located below the first positioning plate 89. Figure 11 As shown, the telescopic outrigger 82 is aligned with the other outriggers 24, 28 of the support assembly 10. Therefore, the support assembly 10 in this configuration has five outriggers to support the weight of the column 12 and provide stable movement. A second positioning plate 90 is positioned above the first positioning plate 89 and configured to hold the telescopic outrigger 82 in the raised position without obstructing the removal of the base plate 16. To move the telescopic outrigger 82 to the raised position, the user aligns the crossbar 84 with the wedge opening 91 of the first positioning plate 89 and subsequently with the wedge opening 91 of the second positioning plate 90. The user can then rotate the telescopic outrigger 82 so that the crossbar 84 is not aligned with the wedge opening 91, and the weight of the telescopic outrigger 82 is supported on the second positioning plate 90. If necessary, each telescopic outrigger 82 may include a handle 92 attached thereto to assist the user in moving the telescopic outrigger 82 to the raised position.

[0059] In another manner, to increase the stability of the support assembly 10, the corner 31 of the frame 18 can be used for attaching a removable leg 93. The removable leg 93 includes an elongated shaft 94, a caster 95 mounted at the distal end of the shaft 94, and a connecting portion 96 located at the proximal end of the shaft 94. The corner 31 includes a corresponding connecting portion 97 to which the removable leg 93 is removably secured. In the illustrated form, the leg connecting portion 96 includes a threaded fastener 98 that can be inserted through a through-hole 99 extending through the frame 18 and into the proximal end of the shaft 94. Alternatively, the removable leg 93 may include a threaded fastener and the through-hole 99 may have threads and / or a nut to secure the removable leg 93 to the frame 18. It should be understood that other connection methods, such as snap-fit, friction, etc., are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0060] The attachment and removal of the removable outrigger 93 can be assisted by a frame lifting mechanism (such as the hydraulic cylinder 54 discussed above). More specifically, the hydraulic cylinder 54 can lift the frame 18 to a raised position, and the removable outrigger 93 can then be easily secured to the frame 18, as discussed above. Subsequently, the hydraulic cylinder 54 can lower the frame 18 until the rear outrigger 24, front outrigger 28, and the support column 12 of the removable outrigger 93 move. When it is necessary to remove the base plate 16, the frame 18 can then be lifted and the removable outrigger 93 removed, allowing the base plate 16 to pivot between the front outrigger 28 and the rear outrigger 24, as discussed above.

[0061] In another embodiment shown in Figures 14-17, the base plate 16 can be easily secured to the main pipe 14 without the need for bolts as in conventional methods. As shown in Figure 14, the base plate 16 has a gear-shaped configuration with an array of radially opening slots 150 extending through the base plate 16. The slots 150 have curved inner ends 152 with rectangular radial openings 154 in the form shown, but other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0062] like Figure 15-17 As shown, the main tube 14 has a plurality of pendulum members 156 pivotally connected to the exterior 158 of the main tube 14 at spaced-apart radial positions. Each pendulum member 156 includes a guide portion 160, a distal end, an enlarged retaining portion 162, and a proximal end 164. Each pendulum member 156 can be connected to the main tube 14 by any suitable method including a pivot bracket 166 as shown. For example, in the form shown, the pendulum member 156 is an I-shaped rod, and the proximal end 164 is held by the pivot bracket 166 fixed to the main tube 14, allowing the pendulum member 156 to pivot along a vertical plane. With this configuration, in order to secure the base plate 16 to the main tube 14, the user can pivot each of the pendulum members 156 such that the retaining portion 162 is positioned below the base plate 16, preventing the base plate 16 from being removed.

[0063] In one manner, the guide rod portion 160 of each pendulum component 156 is sized such that when the plug portion 25 of the base plate 16 is fully received within the main tube 14, the retaining portion 162 can be disengaged from the base plate, i.e., the hydraulic cylinder 54 is lowered to allow the main tube 14 to be fully positioned on the base plate 16 and compress the compliance gap 166'. Subsequently, due to gravity, filling, or other operations, the plug portion 25 of the base plate 16 slides downward to widen the compliance gap 166' and abut the retaining portion 162 of the pendulum component 156. The seal between the plug portion 25 and the main tube 14 is maintained airtight through this movement because the seal is an internal seal, and the seal 77 is spaced sufficiently from the base plate 16 to allow the widening of the compliance gap 166'. Thus, the pendulum component 156 captures the base plate 16 and secures it to the main tube 14 without the use of bolts. One method is to chamfer or round the lower outer corner 170 of the base plate 16 to reduce the arcuate path of the retaining portion 162 pivoting to a position below the base plate 16. If desired, the retaining portion 162 may have a flat, radially inward surface 168 to provide a larger mounting area for the base plate 16. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the proximal end 164 of each pendulum member 156 may have a similar configuration to the retaining portion 162. With this configuration, the flat, radially inward surface 168 provides a distinguishing feature for the user mounting the pendulum member 156.

[0064] Similarly, to remove the base plate 16, the user can lower the main tube 14 or raise the base plate 16, allowing the plug portion 25 to be further inserted and reducing the compliance gap 166'. This insertion spacees the retaining portion 162 from the base plate 16, allowing the user to pivot the pendulum component 156 to a storage position radially spaced from or above the base plate 16. A connecting bracket 172 can be mounted to the main tube 14 above the pivot bracket 166. The connecting bracket 172 can be configured to hold the pendulum component 156 in a generally vertical orientation by means of clamps, snap-fit ​​engagements, friction fits, or other suitable methods.

[0065] Another implementation of column 12, for example Figure 18 and 19As shown, the main pipe 14 includes an upper slurry port 200 and a lower slurry port 202. In operation, a base plate 16 is coupled to the main pipe 14, and a piston 204 is driven downward to fill a bed 206 between the piston 204 and the base plate 16. A seal 208 of the piston 204 and a base plate seal 77 extend circumferentially around the piston 204 and the base plate 16, respectively, within a sealing groove 210. The piston 204 and the base plate 16 each further include a sliding ring 212 disposed within a groove 214 extending circumferentially around the piston 204 and the base plate 16, respectively. As shown, the piston 204 and the base plate 16 may further include a scraper seal 216, a frit 218, and a dispenser plate 220 with a seal 222.

[0066] In this embodiment, the depth of the plug portion 25 of the base plate 16 is greater than that of a conventional plate, causing the plug portion 25 to protrude further into the main pipe 14. This additional depth allows the seal 77 to be driven through the lower slurry port 202 for operation. In the illustrated form, the sliding ring 212 extends through the lower slurry port 202. Advantageously, the configuration of the hydraulic cylinder 54 described above can be used to drive the additional depth of the base plate 16 into the main pipe 14.

[0067] Similarly, piston 204 is driven downward within pipe 14, such that seal 208 is positioned below upper slurry port 200, and sliding ring 212 extends through upper slurry port 200. This configuration conceals the upper slurry port 200 and lower slurry port 202 to avoid interfering with plug flow and to achieve better chromatography, i.e., a higher plate number in HETP.

[0068] Advantageously, the upper and lower slurry ports 200 can be used for re-slurrying or processing of the soft bed in column 12. Additionally, the upper and lower slurry ports 200 can be used to transfer bed 206 within a closed system. To utilize these features, for example, by using a hydraulic cylinder 54 and a removable coupling 81 as described above, the piston 204 can be raised to expose the upper slurry port 200 and the base plate 16 lowered to expose the lower slurry port 202.

[0069] Figure 20-24 Another embodiment of the column 12 is shown, wherein the column 12 generally includes a main pipe 14, a base plate 16, and a piston 204, as discussed above, but differs in the manner described below. More specifically, the column 12 in this embodiment also includes a plurality of internal lower media ports 300 (in place of external slurry ports 200, 2020) and internal grooves 304 and a sliding ring 306, which is supported by the base plate 16 and slidably engages the main pipe 14. Figure 20 and 21As best shown, a plurality of internal lower media ports 300 are supported by a base plate 16 (while slurry ports 200, 202 are formed in the main pipe 14), and an internal groove 304 is formed in the inner surface 76 of the main pipe 14. As will be discussed in more detail below, the internal groove 304 selectively provides an internal flow path between each of the internal lower media ports 300, which in turn facilitates maintenance (e.g., cleaning) of the components of the column 12 without affecting the cylindricity of the inner wall of the column 12 (as discussed above regarding the known slurry ports). Furthermore, the main pipe 14 includes an internal chamber 316 adapted to accommodate a bed 206 (or different media beds), which can be selectively accessed via the internal groove 304, as will also be discussed in more detail below.

[0070] In this embodiment, the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 include four uniform internal lower media ports (in Figure 20 and 21 Only one port is shown in the image, but... Figure 22-24 All of these ports are shown in the diagram. Each of the four internal lower media ports is generally formed in and extends through the base plate 16, such that the bottom portion of at least each internal lower media port 300 is disposed below the bottom surface 320 of the base plate 16. Although somewhat difficult to observe, it should be understood that each of the four internal lower media ports is disposed entirely radially inside the outer surface 324 of the main pipe 14 opposite the inner surface 76 (and at least partially, if not entirely, radially inside the inner surface 76 of the main pipe 14). Furthermore, each of the four internal lower media ports extends downward and radially inward away from the main pipe 14. In this embodiment, each of the four internal lower media ports has a first portion oriented at a 45-degree angle relative to the bottom surface of the main pipe 14 and the bottom surface 320 of the base plate 16, and a second portion oriented at a 45-degree angle relative to the first portion, such that the second portion is parallel to the bottom surface of the main pipe 14 and the bottom surface 320 of the base plate 16. Additionally, as Figure 22 As shown, two of the four internal lower media ports 300 (in this case, internal lower media ports opposite to each other) are positioned at a first height (i.e., a first distance from the bottom surface 320 of the base plate 16), and the other two internal lower media ports 300 (also opposite to each other) are positioned at a second height (i.e., a second distance from the bottom surface 320 greater than the first distance). Additionally, as... Figure 23 and 24Ideally, the four internal lower media ports 300 are arranged circumferentially around the base plate 16, such that the four internal lower media ports 300 are staggered or offset from each other. In this embodiment, the four internal lower media ports 300 are evenly spaced from each other, but in other embodiments, the four internal lower media ports 300 may be spaced at different distances from each other. Finally, as shown... Figure 23 and 24 As best shown, two of the four lower internal media ports 300 (e.g., lower internal media ports 300 located at a first height) are fluidly connected to each other via a first manifold 308, and the remaining two of the four lower internal media ports 300 (e.g., lower internal media ports 300 located at a second height) are fluidly connected to each other via a second manifold 312.

[0071] However, in other embodiments, the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 may be connected to Figure 20-24 The ports shown are different. As an example, the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 may alternatively comprise two, three, five, six, or a different number of internal lower media ports. As another example, the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 need not be uniformly sized or otherwise constructed. As yet another example, the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 may extend and / or be positioned in different ways. In other embodiments, a first portion and / or a second portion of each internal lower media port 300 may be oriented at an angle of 30 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees, or some other angle relative to the bottom surface of the main pipe 14 and the bottom surface 320 of the base plate 16. Additionally, although not shown herein, it should be understood that the column 12 may also include one or more upper media ports formed in the main pipe 14 (or another component of the column 12) and selectively exposed relative to the inner chamber 316. The one or more upper media ports may take the form of an upper slurry port 200, an internal lower media port, or some other port.

[0072] In this embodiment, an internal groove 304 is formed in the inner surface 76 of the main pipe 14 and extends radially around the entire circumference of the main pipe 14. Furthermore, the internal groove 304 has a length extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 328 along which the piston 204 moves within the main pipe 14. Therefore, the internal groove 304 can also be referred to as an internal vertical groove or an internal radial groove. Additionally, in this embodiment, the size of the internal groove 304 is set such that the area of ​​the internal groove 304 is substantially (if not completely) equal to the area of ​​the plurality of internal lower media ports 300, which in turn promotes uniform and balanced fluid communication between the internal chamber 316 and the plurality of internal lower media ports 300 (when these components are in fluid communication with each other). In embodiments where the column 12 also includes one or more upper media ports, the internal groove 304 is typically positioned between the one or more upper media ports and the plurality of internal lower media ports 300. For example, when column 12 includes an upper slurry port 200, an internal recess 304 will be positioned between the upper slurry port 200 and a plurality of internal lower media ports 300. However, in other embodiments, the internal recess 304 may be formed and / or positioned in different ways. As an example, in some embodiments, the internal recess 304 may extend only around a portion of the circumference of the main pipe 14.

[0073] As discussed above, the base plate 16 can be moved relative to the main pipe 14 using a hydraulic cylinder 54 and a removable coupling 81. More specifically, the base plate 16 can be moved relative to the main pipe 14 between a first position and a second position, the first position being, for example... Figure 20 As shown, in the first position, the base plate 16 is positioned against a portion of the main pipe 14 (e.g., the inner surface 76), and the second position is, for example... Figure 21 As shown, in the second position, the base plate 16 is spaced apart from the portion of the main pipe 14 (e.g., inner surface 76). It should also be understood that by decoupling the base plate 16 from the bottom of the main pipe 14, the base plate 16 can be moved relative to the main pipe 14 to a third position, which again allows the main pipe 14 and the base plate 16 to be provided for maintenance.

[0074] like Figure 20As shown, when the base plate 16 is in the first position, at least the top portion of the internal recess 304 engages the wall of the base plate 16, thereby sealing the internal chamber 316. Furthermore, the internal chamber 316 is inaccessible (e.g., through the internal lower media port 300 or the internal recess 304). Additionally, when the base plate 16 is in the first position, the internal recess 304 provides an internal flow path between the main pipe 14 and each internal lower media port 300. The internal flow path advantageously allows the internal lower media ports 300 (and the internal recess 304) to be easily cleaned (and then drained) in a closed manner. For example, two of the internal lower media ports 300 can be used as inlets to receive and dispense one or more cleaning solutions into the internal flow path, while the remaining two internal lower media ports 300 serve as outlets to receive and subsequently drain the cleaning solutions from or out of the internal flow path after they have passed through some or all of the internal flow path. Meanwhile, since the internal chamber 316 is sealed, chromatography can be performed continuously using the column 12.

[0075] At the same time, such as Figure 21 As shown, when the base plate 16 is in the second position, at least the top portion of the inner groove 304 is spaced apart from the wall of the base plate 16, thereby unsealing the inner chamber 316, exposing the inner groove 304, and making the inner chamber 316 in fluid communication with the inner groove 304 (and consequently with the plurality of inner lower media ports 300). Advantageously, since the inner lower media ports 300 are equally spaced from each other in this embodiment, the inner lower media ports 300 are in fluid communication with the inner chamber 316 in a generally uniform and balanced manner. In any case, this fluid communication allows the bed 206 to drain through the inner groove 304, and the plurality of inner lower media ports 300 and / or media to be recirculated. For this purpose, the bed 206 can float upwards, away from the base plate 16, which causes the bed 206 to collapse generally uniformly out of the inner chamber 316 and into the inner groove 304. Importantly, the radial nature of the inner groove 304 causes the bed 206 to collapse into the inner groove 304 without eddies (rather than collapsing into the center of the main pipe 14). In other words, bed 206 can be defilled uniformly (or substantially uniformly). Furthermore, bed 206 can be discharged from internal recesses 304 and main pipe 14 through multiple internal lower media ports 300. It should be understood that the same process can be used to reintroduce and reform bed 206 in internal chamber 316.

[0076] Additionally, in embodiments where column 12 also includes one or more upper media ports, this will also allow the one or more upper media ports to be in fluid communication with the internal recess 304 (and consequently with the plurality of internal lower media ports 300). When this occurs, one or more cleaning solutions can be recirculated throughout column 12, i.e., through the one or more upper media ports, internal chamber 316, internal recess 304, and plurality of internal lower media ports 300. Finally, it should be understood that the internal recess 304 and plurality of internal lower media ports 300 can be used in conjunction with other chromatographic columns, including any of the columns described herein and others not discussed herein.

[0077] Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are considered to be within the scope of the inventive concept. Furthermore, one or more of the above components, elements, and embodiments can be used to modify the current column to provide the features and advantages described herein.

Claims

1. A chromatographic column comprising: director; The base plate is connected to the main tube; Multiple internal lower media ports supported by the base plate; as well as An internal groove formed in the inner surface of the main pipe, wherein the internal groove interacts with the base plate and selectively provides an internal flow path between each of the internal lower media ports. The base plate is movable relative to the main pipe between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the base plate is positioned against a portion of the main pipe, and in the second position, the base plate is spaced apart from that portion of the main pipe. When the base plate is in the first position, the plurality of internal lower media ports are exposed relative to the internal recess to provide a cleaning path for the plurality of internal lower media ports.

2. The chromatographic column of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of internal lower media ports extends to a position below the bottom surface of the base plate.

3. The chromatographic column according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the plurality of internal lower media ports is completely disposed radially inside the outer surface of the main tube.

4. The chromatographic column according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of internal lower media ports are arranged circumferentially around the base plate.

5. The chromatographic column according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the main tube includes an internal chamber adapted to accommodate a media bed, and wherein the internal chamber is selectively accessible via the internal groove.

6. The chromatographic column according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising one or more upper media ports formed in the upper portion of the main tube, wherein the internal groove is disposed between the one or more upper media ports and the plurality of internal lower media ports.

7. The chromatographic column according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a piston assembly movably disposed in the main tube along a longitudinal axis, wherein the internal groove extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

8. The chromatographic column according to claim 7, further comprising: A top plate is connected to a first end of the main tube, wherein a bottom plate is connected to a second end of the main tube opposite to the first end, and wherein the piston assembly includes a piston rod extending through an opening in the top plate.

9. A chromatographic column comprising: Including a main tube suitable for housing the internal chamber of the media bed; The base plate is connected to the main tube; Multiple internal lower media ports supported by the base plate; A piston assembly movably disposed within the main tube; as well as An internal groove formed in the inner surface of the main tube. The internal chamber can be selectively accessed via the internal recess. The internal grooves provide an internal flow path between each of the lower internal media ports. The base plate is movable relative to the main pipe between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the base plate is positioned against a portion of the main pipe, and in the second position, the base plate is spaced apart from that portion of the main pipe. The main tube includes an internal chamber suitable for accommodating a media bed between the piston and the base plate. When the base plate is in the first position, the inner chamber is sealed and the plurality of lower inner media ports are exposed relative to the inner recess to provide a cleaning path for the plurality of lower inner media ports. When the base plate is in the second position, the inner chamber is exposed relative to the plurality of lower inner media ports through the inner groove.

10. The chromatographic column of claim 9, wherein the plurality of internal lower media ports are arranged circumferentially around the base plate.

11. The chromatographic column according to claim 9 or 10, wherein each of the plurality of internal lower media ports is completely disposed radially inside the outer surface of the main tube.

12. The chromatographic column of claim 9 or 10, wherein each of the plurality of internal lower media ports extends to a location below the bottom surface of the substrate.

13. The chromatographic column of claim 9 or 10, further comprising a piston movably disposed in the main tube along a longitudinal axis, wherein the internal groove extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

14. The chromatographic column of claim 9 or 10, further comprising one or more upper media ports formed in the upper portion of the main tube, wherein the internal groove is disposed between the one or more upper media ports and the plurality of internal lower media ports.

15. The chromatographic column of claim 14, wherein when the base plate is in the second position, the inner chamber is exposed relative to the one or more upper media ports.

16. A method for maintaining a chromatographic column, the column having a main tube, a base plate connected to the main tube, a media bed disposed in an internal chamber of the main tube, a plurality of internal lower media ports carried by the base plate, and internal grooves formed in an inner surface of the main tube, the method comprising: When the base plate is in a first position relative to the main pipe, the chromatographic column is used to perform chromatography, wherein in the first position, the base plate is positioned against a portion of the main pipe and the inner chamber is sealed; When the base plate is in the first position, the plurality of internal lower media ports are cleaned by circulating the cleaning solution through the internal flow path provided by the internal grooves between each of the internal lower media ports; The bottom plate is moved from the first position relative to the main pipe to a second position where the bottom plate is spaced apart from the portion of the main pipe, thereby unsealing the inner chamber; as well as When the base plate is in the second position, the medium bed is discharged through the internal groove and the plurality of internal lower medium ports.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein expelling comprises: The medium bed is made to float upwards and away from the bottom plate, thereby causing the medium bed to collapse uniformly away from the inner chamber and enter the inner groove.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the media bed collapses into the internal groove without eddies.

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