A split control device for a liquid chromatography system
By optimizing the flow channel structure and sealing design of the liquid chromatography splitter, stepless split ratio adjustment and time synchronization are achieved, solving the problems of low split accuracy and high risk of clogging, and improving separation efficiency and equipment reliability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- WELCH MATERIALS (ZHEJIANG) INC
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-04
AI Technical Summary
Existing liquid chromatography split devices suffer from problems such as low split accuracy, large dead volume, significant signal delay, high risk of clogging, and poor sealing, which affect the accuracy and efficiency of target component collection.
Employing a multi-port valve body structure and a high-pressure sealing system, and by optimizing the flow channel geometry and path length matching, combined with a flow splitting ratio adjustment component and a multi-stage sealing design, stepless flow splitting ratio adjustment and time synchronization are achieved, reducing flow resistance and preventing leakage.
It significantly improves the accuracy and stability of the diversion process, reduces the risk of cross-contamination, extends equipment life, reduces maintenance costs, and achieves accurate collection and efficient separation of target components.
Smart Images

Figure CN224592741U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of liquid chromatography equipment technology, and in particular to a split control device for the detector and collector in a liquid chromatography system, which can achieve high-precision split ratio adjustment, reduce dead volume, and improve sample yield. Background Technology
[0002] In traditional preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the collector is located downstream of the detector. When the detector detects a signal, the volume of the tubing from the detector outlet to the collector is fixed. The time it takes for the collected component to reach the collector outlet after the detector detects the signal can be calculated using the current flow rate. This triggers the collector to collect the target analyte precisely. However, when performing high-flow-rate preparation, limitations such as detector flow rate or signal response overload, or the lack of UV absorption characteristics of the target analyte, necessitate the use of other detectors, such as ELSD detectors. However, ELSD detectors have very low flow rate tolerances and are unsuitable for high flow rates. In such cases, a small portion of the separated sample stream needs to be diverted to a detector (such as an ELSD or MS detector) for real-time monitoring via a split valve, while the target component is simultaneously diverted to the collector for collection. Other types of detectors (such as UV detectors) may also be installed before the collector.
[0003] In this field, the prior art CN 221631370U discloses a dual-column salt-conversion type liquid chromatography system, which utilizes dual columns with different particle sizes and a three-way regulating valve to reduce the problem of dead adsorption of packing material during the salt conversion process; however, this method has the following shortcomings: Low split accuracy: Existing liquid chromatography split adjustment relies on the opening of mechanical valves. Adjusting the opening of two valves results in inconsistent responses of the mechanical valves at different flow rates, making it difficult to dynamically adjust the split ratio. This leads to large fluctuations in the detection signal, affecting the accuracy and collection rate of the target component.
[0004] Large dead volume: The internal flow channels of traditional valve bodies are complex, and the extra chambers make it difficult to completely remove residual samples, which can easily lead to cross-contamination or peak broadening and reduce separation efficiency.
[0005] Significant signal delay: The mismatch in path length and velocity between the main stream and tributaries makes it difficult to synchronize the outflow time of the target material at both ends after the split. Repeated experiments are required to measure the delay time and perform reverse correction, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and has limited accuracy, resulting in a decrease in the yield of the target material.
[0006] High risk of blockage: High viscosity or particulate samples are prone to depositing at valve ports and pipelines, especially in low-flow branches, which can lead to pipeline blockage or valve failure and affect system stability.
[0007] Inconvenient maintenance and poor sealing: Traditional valve bodies have complex structures, are difficult to disassemble and clean, and have high maintenance costs; the sealing design is simple (such as relying solely on O-rings), which makes them prone to leakage under high pressure, requiring frequent replacement of seals and further increasing downtime. Utility Model Content
[0008] The problem this invention aims to solve is the low splitting accuracy, large dead volume, significant signal delay, high risk of clogging, and poor sealing of existing liquid chromatography splitting devices. It provides a device that allows for stepless adjustment of the splitting ratio within a certain flow rate range, ensuring consistent or controllable linear flow velocities in the main stream and two branch streams. The device only needs to maintain the pipe lengths of the main and branch streams to achieve controllable arrival time of the target analyte at the detector and collector, thus achieving precise collection of the target analyte. This device is used for splitting control in liquid chromatography systems.
[0009] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a split control device for a liquid chromatography system, comprising: The multi-port valve body structure is provided with an inlet port, a main liquid output port and a branch liquid output port, and the multi-port valve body structure forms a fluid channel that communicates with each port. The fluid channel has a streamlined or arc-shaped structure. By optimizing the channel geometry, the flow resistance is significantly reduced, dead volume is eliminated, sample residue and cross-contamination risks are reduced, and separation efficiency is improved. The main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end are based on the matching relationship between flow velocity and path length. The path lengths of the two are matched and configured to adjust the split ratio so that the linear velocity of the target component at the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end is consistent or maintains a predetermined time difference, so that the time of arrival of the target component at the collector and detector is synchronized. The flow ratio adjustment component is integrated inside the multi-port valve body structure. It includes an axially displaceable adjustment component. By continuously changing the flow cross-sectional area of the main and branch liquid output ends, stepless flow ratio adjustment is achieved. By adjusting the flow ratio and path length, the transmission linear velocity of the target component in the detector and collector is made consistent or controllable, solving the signal delay problem and achieving precise synchronous collection.
[0010] High-pressure sealing systems are designed with multi-stage sealing structures to prevent fluid leakage in high-pressure environments.
[0011] Preferably, the liquid inlet is located at the bottom of the multi-port valve body structure and is used to connect to the injection line of the liquid chromatography system; the main liquid output is located at the right end of the multi-port valve body structure and is used to deliver the main liquid to the collector; the branch liquid output is located at the left end of the multi-port valve body structure and is used to deliver the branch liquid to the detector. The fluid channel is located at the center of the multi-port valve body structure and extends upward to form the valve body cavity. The valve body cavity is connected to the liquid inlet, the main liquid output, and the branch liquid output respectively, so that the center of the fluid channel rises to form the valve body cavity. The streamlined symmetrical layout shortens the difference in length between the main and branch flow paths, ensuring that the speeds of the two paths are more easily matched; the central cavity structure is simplified, the dead volume is reduced, and the navigation smoothness and splitting accuracy are improved.
[0012] Preferably, the adjusting component includes a movable valve core with a split structure. Its lower end engages with a fixed valve seat in the fluid channel via a conical surface to achieve a gradual seal. Its upper end extends out of the fluid channel and connects to a flow ratio adjustment knob. The split valve core, with its complementary conical surface, provides a reliable seal and achieves a gradual seal, ensuring no leakage under high pressure. It also supports stepless adjustment of the flow ratio, improving flow accuracy and adaptability. The valve core is axially displaced via the knob, and the flow ratio is directly calibrated using a dial, simplifying the operation and reducing manual adjustment time.
[0013] Preferably, the flow ratio adjustment knob drives the axial displacement of the movable valve core by rotation, steplessly adjusting the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end to achieve continuous flow ratio control. The surface of the flow ratio adjustment knob is provided with a scale for direct calibration of the flow ratio. Users can read and repeatedly set the flow ratio at a glance. The linear scale standardizes the experimental method, reduces the experience adjustment time, and improves repeatability.
[0014] Preferably, the high-pressure sealing system includes a main sealing layer and an auxiliary pressing component. The auxiliary pressing component includes a pressing bushing and a locking nut. The pressing bushing adjusts the compression of the main sealing layer by locking the locking nut with a threaded locking mechanism.
[0015] Preferably, the main sealing layer uses an O-ring made of PTFE or FKM material; the clamping bushing uses a metal bellows, which combines elasticity and corrosion resistance, and works in synergy with the main sealing layer to enhance pressure resistance. Combined with the locking nut, the clamping force is finely adjusted to prevent leakage and extend the valve body life.
[0016] Preferably, the upper end of the multi-port valve body structure cavity is provided with a U-shaped groove, and the clamping bushing is embedded downward into the U-shaped groove. A main sealing layer is provided between the clamping bushing and the U-shaped groove. A locking nut is sleeved on the outer edge of the upper end of the multi-port valve body structure, and the clamping bushing is disposed in the locking nut. The locking nut is connected to the multi-port valve body structure by threads and is used to adjust the clamping force of the clamping bushing on the main sealing layer. By embedding the clamping bushing in the U-shaped groove at the upper end of the valve body and adjusting the clamping force by the threads of the locking nut, the structure is compact and facilitates quick on-site adjustment of the sealing pressure. It is easy to disassemble and assemble, and maintenance and replacement can be completed without special tools.
[0017] Preferably, the multi-port valve body structure is made of high-strength ceramic or corrosion-resistant metal, and the surface of the fluid channel is polished or coated to further reduce flow resistance and eliminate dead volume.
[0018] Preferably, a control method for a split control device in a liquid chromatography system includes the following steps: S1. Inject the liquid sample into the diversion control device through the liquid inlet port; S2. By adjusting the diversion ratio adjustment component of the diversion control device, the diversion ratio adjustment knob drives the axial displacement of the movable valve core through rotation, steplessly adjusting the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end, thereby controlling the fluid diversion ratio between the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end. S3. Set the required split ratio according to the target flow rate to make the linear velocity of the main flow path and the branch flow path consistent or meet the predetermined difference range. S4. After the split ratio is adjusted, determine the expected arrival time of the target component at the detector and collector based on the transport path length of the sample in the main and branch paths. S5. The collector is triggered by the signal output of the detector to dynamically correct the split ratio, thereby achieving accurate collection of the target component; the adjustment step is stepless and controllable within the range of 1:1-1:5000.
[0019] Preferably, the dynamic correction step further includes adjusting the split ratio in real time based on the detector response time and path length error to achieve time synchronization, realizing online automatic correction without manual intervention; it can dynamically optimize for the characteristics and flow rate changes of different components, improving collection accuracy and yield.
[0020] Preferably, the split ratio is adjusted by a split ratio adjustment knob with scale markings, and the scale markings are linearly related to the split ratio. The path lengths of the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end are adjustable to adapt to the time synchronization requirements under different flow rates.
[0021] Compared with the prior art, the present invention achieves the following beneficial technical effects: This invention achieves continuous split ratio control through a split ratio adjustment component, significantly improving split accuracy and stability. The high-precision split ratio control adapts to the flow requirements of different detectors.
[0022] This invention employs streamlined / arc-shaped flow channels, a symmetrical layout of the central cavity, and mirror-polished surface treatment to minimize dead volume, reduce residue, and avoid cross-contamination, making it suitable for high-viscosity or particulate samples.
[0023] This invention employs a dual matching strategy of path length and linear velocity, combined with online signal triggering and dynamic correction of the split ratio, to ensure that the arrival time of the detector and collector is consistent or within a controllable range, ensuring reliable time synchronization. Based on the intelligent matching of flow velocity and path length, it solves the signal delay problem in traditional technologies, thereby improving collection efficiency and yield.
[0024] This utility model features a multi-stage sealing structure and a detachable design, reducing maintenance difficulty and extending equipment lifespan. Seals can be replaced or clamping force adjusted without disassembling the valve body; this reduces maintenance costs and improves laboratory efficiency. The multi-stage sealing structure uses a main sealing layer and an auxiliary clamping component's clamping bushing for coordinated sealing, combined with a locking nut for fine-tuning the clamping force. It withstands high-pressure environments, prevents leakage, and extends valve body life. Attached Figure Description
[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to the present invention.
[0026] Figure 2 This is a front view of the split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to the present invention.
[0027] Figure 3 This is a top-down schematic diagram of the split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to this utility model.
[0028] Figure 4 This is a side view of the split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to the present invention.
[0029] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of AA.
[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application of the split control device of this utility model in a liquid chromatography system in an embodiment.
[0031] Figure 7 This utility model is used in a liquid chromatography system for the application of a split control device in another embodiment.
[0032] In the diagram: 1-Multi-port valve body structure, 11-U-shaped groove, 2-Liquid inlet port, 3-Main liquid output port, 4-Branch liquid output port, 5-Diversion ratio adjustment component, 51-Adjustment component, 510-Modible valve core, 511-Diversion ratio adjustment knob, 512-Scale, 6-High pressure sealing system, 61-Main sealing layer, 62-Auxiliary clamping component, 621-Clamping bushing, 622-Locking nut, 7-Fluid passage. Detailed Implementation
[0033] The present invention will be further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.
[0034] Reference Figure 1 As shown, a split control device for a liquid chromatography system includes: The multi-port valve body structure 1 is provided with a liquid inlet port 2, a main liquid output port 3 and a branch liquid output port 4, and a fluid channel 7 is formed inside the multi-port valve body structure 1 that communicates with each port. The fluid channel 7 has a streamlined or arc-shaped structure. By optimizing the channel geometry, adopting streamlined / arc-shaped channels, symmetrical layout of the central cavity, and mirror-polished surface treatment, the flow resistance is significantly reduced, thereby minimizing the dead volume, reducing sample residue and cross-contamination risks, and making it suitable for high-viscosity or particulate samples; improving separation efficiency. The main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4 are based on the matching relationship between flow velocity and path length. The path lengths of the two are matched and configured to adjust the split ratio so that the transmission linear velocity of the target component at the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4 is consistent or maintains a predetermined time difference, so that the time of arrival of the target component at the collector and the detector is synchronized. This invention employs a dual matching strategy of path length and linear velocity, combined with online signal triggering and dynamic correction of the split ratio, to ensure that the arrival time of the detector and the collector is consistent or within a controllable range, ensuring reliable time synchronization. The path lengths of the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end are adjustable. Through intelligent matching of the split ratio and linear velocity, the signal delay problem in traditional technologies is solved, thereby improving collection efficiency and yield.
[0035] The diversion ratio adjustment component 5 is integrated inside the multi-port valve body structure 1. It includes an axially displaceable adjustment component 51. By continuously changing the flow cross-sectional area of the main and branch liquid output ends, stepless diversion ratio adjustment is achieved. By adjusting the diversion ratio and path length, the transmission linear velocity of the target component in the detector and collector is made consistent or controllable, solving the signal delay problem and achieving precise synchronous collection.
[0036] This invention achieves continuous split ratio control through the split ratio adjustment component 5, which significantly improves split accuracy and stability. The high-precision split ratio control adapts to the flow requirements of different detectors.
[0037] Specifically, through the gradual sealing design of the split valve core and the conical surface, combined with the knob mechanism with a dial, stepless flow ratio adjustment in the range of 1:1 to 1:5000 can be achieved, which significantly improves the flow ratio accuracy and stability and meets the needs of low flow detectors such as ELSD and mass spectrometer.
[0038] The high-pressure sealing system 6 is configured with a multi-stage sealing structure to prevent fluid leakage under high pressure.
[0039] This utility model features a multi-stage sealing structure and a detachable design, which reduces maintenance difficulty, extends equipment service life, and allows for the replacement of seals or adjustment of clamping force without disassembling the valve body; it also reduces maintenance costs and improves laboratory efficiency.
[0040] Specifically, the multi-stage sealing structure uses a metal bellows and FKM / PTFE sealing rings for synergistic sealing, combined with a locking nut for fine-tuning the clamping force. This allows it to withstand high-pressure environments, prevent leakage, and extend valve body life. The valve body features a modular design, allowing for quick disassembly and assembly of the clamping bushing and locking nut. Seal replacement or maintenance can be completed without special tools, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
[0041] The multi-port valve body structure 1 is made of high-strength ceramic or corrosion-resistant metal, and the surface of the fluid channel is polished or coated to further reduce flow resistance and eliminate dead volume.
[0042] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the liquid inlet 2 is located at the bottom of the multi-port valve body structure 1 and is used to connect to the injection line of the liquid chromatography system; the main liquid output 3 is located at the right end of the multi-port valve body structure 1 and is used to deliver the main liquid to the collector; the branch liquid output 4 is located at the left end of the multi-port valve body structure 1 and is used to deliver the branch liquid to the detector. The fluid channel 7 is located at the center of the multi-port valve body structure 1 and extends upward to form the valve body cavity. The valve body cavity is connected to the liquid inlet 2, the main liquid output 3 and the branch liquid output 4 respectively, so that the center of the fluid channel rises to form the valve body cavity. The streamlined structure is symmetrically arranged, which shortens the difference in length between the main and branch flow paths and ensures that the speeds of the two paths are more easily matched. The central cavity structure is simplified, the dead volume is reduced, and the navigation smoothness and splitting accuracy are improved.
[0043] Reference Figure 3 , 4As shown in Figure 5, the adjusting component includes a movable valve core 510. The movable valve core 510 adopts a split structure. Its lower end is gradually sealed to the fixed valve seat of the fluid channel 7 through a conical surface fit. Its upper end extends out of the fluid channel 7 and is connected to the flow ratio adjustment knob 511. The split valve core and complementary conical surface fit ensure reliable sealing and achieve a gradual seal, ensuring no leakage under high pressure. It also supports stepless adjustment of the flow ratio, improving flow ratio accuracy and adaptability. The valve core is axially displaced by the knob, and the flow ratio is directly calibrated by the dial, simplifying the operation process and reducing manual adjustment time.
[0044] The flow ratio adjustment knob 511 drives the axial displacement of the movable valve core 510 by rotation, steplessly adjusting the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4 to achieve continuous flow ratio control. The flow ratio adjustment knob 511 is provided with a scale dial 512 for direct calibration of the flow ratio. Users can read and repeatedly set the flow ratio at a glance. The linear scale standardizes the experimental method, reduces the time for experience adjustment, and improves repeatability.
[0045] The high-pressure sealing system 6 includes a main sealing layer 61 and an auxiliary pressing component 62. The auxiliary pressing component 62 includes a pressing bushing 621 and a locking nut 622. The pressing bushing 621 adjusts the compression of the main sealing layer 61 by threading the locking nut 622.
[0046] The main sealing layer 61 uses an O-ring made of PTFE or FKM material; the clamping bushing 621 uses a metal bellows, which combines elasticity and corrosion resistance. It works in conjunction with the main sealing layer to enhance pressure resistance. Combined with the locking nut, the clamping force is finely adjusted to prevent leakage and extend the valve body life.
[0047] The multi-port valve body structure 1 has a U-shaped groove 11 at the upper end of its cavity. A clamping sleeve 621 is embedded downward into the U-shaped groove 11. A main sealing layer 61 is provided between the clamping sleeve 621 and the U-shaped groove 11. A locking nut 622 is fitted on the outer edge of the upper end of the multi-port valve body structure 1. The clamping sleeve 621 is located inside the locking nut 622. The locking nut 622 is connected to the multi-port valve body structure 1 by threads and is used to adjust the clamping force of the clamping sleeve 621 on the main sealing layer 61. The clamping sleeve is embedded in the U-shaped groove at the upper end of the valve body, and the clamping force is adjusted by the threads of the locking nut. The structure is compact and facilitates quick on-site adjustment of the sealing pressure. It is easy to disassemble and assemble, and maintenance and replacement can be completed without special tools.
[0048] A control method for a split control device in a liquid chromatography system includes the following steps: S1. Inject the liquid sample into the diversion control device through the liquid inlet port 2; S2. By adjusting the diversion ratio adjustment component 5 of the diversion control device, the diversion ratio adjustment knob 511 drives the axial displacement of the movable valve core 510 by rotation, steplessly adjusting the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4, thereby controlling the fluid diversion ratio between the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4. S3. Set the required split ratio according to the target flow rate to make the linear velocity of the main flow path and the branch flow path consistent or meet the predetermined difference range. S4. After the split ratio is adjusted, determine the expected arrival time of the target component at the detector and collector based on the transport path length of the sample in the main and branch paths. S5. The collector is triggered by the signal output of the detector to dynamically correct the split ratio, thereby achieving accurate collection of the target component; the adjustment step is stepless and controllable within the range of 1:1-1:5000.
[0049] The dynamic correction step further includes adjusting the split ratio in real time based on the detector response time and path length error to achieve time synchronization, realizing online automatic correction without manual intervention; it can dynamically optimize for the characteristics and flow rate changes of different components, dynamically adjust the split ratio based on the real-time signal of the detector and the path error, realize online synchronization of the arrival time of the target component, and improve collection accuracy and yield.
[0050] The split ratio is adjusted by a split ratio adjustment knob 511 with a scale marking, and the scale marking is linearly related to the split ratio. The path lengths of the main liquid output end and the branch liquid output end are adjustable to adapt to the time synchronization requirements under different flow rates.
[0051] The split ratio is linearly calibrated using a dial, simplifying the operation process, standardizing the experimental method, and minimizing repeatability error.
[0052] It is suitable for analytical (such as LC-MS) and preparative liquid chromatography scenarios, supporting the simultaneous needs of high flow rate preparation and low flow rate detection, and reducing solvent waste.
[0053] Reference Figure 6 As shown, this utility model illustrates the application of a split control device in a liquid chromatography system for analytical liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) coupled applications. It combines the high separation efficiency of liquid chromatography with the high sensitivity and selectivity of mass spectrometry, and is widely used for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of compounds in complex mixtures. Since MS requires very small volumes, only a fraction of a second, while the injection volume of liquid chromatography is relatively large, a split valve is needed to introduce a small portion of the target analyte into the MS.
[0054] By delivering most of the sample to the collector and introducing a very small flow rate (e.g., 0.1 ml / min) into the mass spectrometer detector, the low flow rate requirement of mass spectrometry is met, thereby improving detection sensitivity.
[0055] Reference Figure 7 As shown, this utility model relates to a split control device in a liquid chromatography system for preparing target analytes without UV absorption. This requires connection to an ESLD or other detector because these detectors have very low energy. A split valve is needed to divert a small portion of the flow for target analyte detection. When the split valve is adjusted to a specific flow rate, the detector sends a command when it detects the target analyte, and the collector then collects it. This improves collection efficiency and reduces waste.
[0056] To facilitate understanding of the above technical solutions of this utility model, the following detailed description of the above technical solutions of this utility model is provided through specific usage methods.
[0057] The specific working process is as follows: The liquid sample is injected into the diversion control device through the inlet port 2, and enters the multi-port valve body structure 1 through the streamlined fluid channel 7. The fluid channel 7 adopts a polished or coated arc / streamlined structure, which significantly reduces flow resistance and eliminates dead volume, ensuring smooth sample flow and avoiding residue or cross-contamination. By rotating the diversion ratio adjustment knob 511, the movable valve core 510 is driven to move axially. The movable valve core 510 adopts a split structure, and its lower end and the fixed valve seat achieve a gradual seal through complementary conical surface cooperation. By changing the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4, the diversion ratio is continuously adjusted within the range of 1:1-1:5000. The scale 512 on the surface of the diversion ratio adjustment knob 511 directly displays the diversion ratio parameter, allowing users to quickly set or repeat experimental conditions, reducing manual debugging time and improving operational standardization. The diversion ratio is set according to the target flow rate to make the linear velocity of the main flow path and the branch flow path consistent or maintain a predetermined difference. Meanwhile, the path lengths of the main liquid output end 3 and the branch liquid output end 4 are adjustable. Through intelligent matching of the split ratio and path length, the transmission time of the target component between the detector and the collector is ensured to be synchronized. For example, when the detector (such as ELSD or mass spectrometry) is located in the branch path, the split ratio is adjusted to increase the branch linear velocity, compensate for path differences, and achieve time synchronization. At the same time, based on the real-time signal of the detector (such as UV or mass spectrometry peak signal), the split ratio is dynamically corrected in combination with the path length error. If the detector signal trigger time is earlier than the expected time for the target component to reach the collector, the system automatically increases the cross-sectional area of the branch path, reduces the branch linear velocity, and delays the synchronization of the detection signal and the collection action. In addition, for high viscosity or particulate samples, the clamping force of the locking nut 622 on the clamping sleeve 621 is finely adjusted to enhance the sealing performance and prevent the risk of pipeline blockage. When the seal needs to be replaced, only the locking nut 622 needs to be loosened and the clamping sleeve 621 needs to be removed to complete the operation. There is no need to disassemble the valve body, which significantly reduces maintenance downtime.
[0058] This invention solves the problems of signal delay, low diversion accuracy and difficult maintenance of traditional diversion valves through the coordinated control of stepless adjustment, path matching and dynamic correction, and achieves efficient separation and accurate collection of complex samples. It is suitable for diverse needs of high flow rate preparation and low flow rate detection.
[0059] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal connection of two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0060] It should be noted that in this invention, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
[0061] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features of the present invention.
[0062] This implementation process is only for illustrating the technical concept of this utility model and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Any modifications made based on the technical concept proposed by this utility model and on the basis of this technical solution shall fall within the scope of protection of this utility model.
Claims
1. A split control device for a liquid chromatography system, comprising: A multi-port valve body structure (1) is provided with an inlet port (2), a main liquid output port (3) and a branch liquid output port (4). The multi-port valve body structure (1) forms a fluid channel (7) that communicates with each port. The fluid channel (7) is streamlined or arc-shaped to reduce flow resistance and eliminate dead volume. The main liquid output port (3) and the branch liquid output port (4) are matched based on the flow velocity and path length. The path lengths of the two are matched and configured to adjust the split ratio so that the transmission linear velocity of the target component at the main liquid output port (3) and the branch liquid output port (4) is consistent or maintains a predetermined time difference, so that the target component arrives at the collector and detector at the same time. The flow ratio adjustment component (5) is integrated inside the multi-port valve body structure (1) and includes an axially displaceable adjustment component (51). By continuously changing the flow cross-sectional area of the main and branch liquid output ends, stepless flow ratio adjustment is achieved. The high-pressure sealing system (6) is configured with a multi-stage sealing structure to prevent fluid leakage under high pressure.
2. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system of claim 1, wherein, The liquid inlet end (2) is located at the bottom of the multi-port valve body structure (1) and is used to connect the sample injection line of the liquid chromatography system; the main liquid output end (3) is located at the right end of the multi-port valve body structure (1) and is used to transport the main liquid to the collector; the branch liquid output end (4) is located at the left end of the multi-port valve body structure (1) and is used to transport the branch liquid to the detector; the fluid channel (7) is located at the center of the multi-port valve body structure (1) and extends upward to form the valve body cavity, and the valve body cavity is connected to the liquid inlet end (2), the main liquid output end (3) and the branch liquid output end (4) respectively.
3. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The regulating component includes a movable valve core (510), which adopts a split structure. Its lower end is gradually sealed by a conical surface fit with the fixed valve seat of the fluid channel (7), and its upper end extends out of the fluid channel (7) and is connected to the flow ratio adjustment knob (511).
4. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The flow ratio adjustment knob (511) drives the axial displacement of the movable valve core (510) by rotation, and steplessly adjusts the flow cross-sectional area of the main liquid output end (3) and the branch liquid output end (4) to achieve continuous flow ratio control. The surface of the flow ratio adjustment knob (511) is provided with a scale (512) for direct calibration of the flow ratio.
5. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The high-pressure sealing system (6) includes a main sealing layer (61) and an auxiliary pressing component (62). The auxiliary pressing component (62) includes a pressing bushing (621) and a locking nut (622). The pressing bushing (621) adjusts the compression of the main sealing layer (61) by locking the locking nut (622) with a thread.
6. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper end of the cavity of the multi-port valve body structure (1) is provided with a U-shaped groove (11), and the clamping bushing (621) is embedded downward into the U-shaped groove (11). A main sealing layer (61) is provided between the clamping bushing (621) and the U-shaped groove (11). A locking nut (622) is provided on the outer edge of the upper end of the multi-port valve body structure (1). The clamping bushing (621) is located in the locking nut (622). The locking nut (622) is connected to the multi-port valve body structure (1) by threads and is used to adjust the clamping force of the clamping bushing (621) on the main sealing layer (61).
7. The split control device for a liquid chromatography system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-port valve body structure (1) is made of high-strength ceramic or corrosion-resistant metal, and the surface of the fluid channel is polished or coated.