Chromatography Buffer Preparation Using Segmented Pumping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current chromatography systems rely on high pressure pumps to mix stock solutions for buffer preparation, which limits the ability to accurately determine pH and conductivity levels before delivery to the chromatography column, often resulting in buffer solutions with undesired characteristics and increased system costs.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing low pressure pumps to deliver stock solutions to a T-joint for mixing, where sensors placed between the low pressure pumps and a high pressure pump can determine the buffer solution's characteristics without being affected by high pressure, allowing for precise control and adjustment of the solution's composition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high pressure pumps are used to deliver stock solutions to a T-joint for buffer preparation, then the buffer solution can be delivered to the chromatography column, but sensors cannot determine pH and conductivity characteristics because they cannot tolerate the high pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fluid delivery into two separate segments: low pressure pumps deliver stock solutions to the T-joint for mixing, and a high pressure pump delivers the final buffer solution to the chromatography column. This segmentation allows sensors to be positioned in the low pressure zone where they can accurately measure pH and conductivity without being damaged by high pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The T-joint acts as an intermediary mixing point where stock solutions from low pressure pumps are combined to form the buffer solution. Sensors are placed between the low pressure pumps and the high pressure pump, serving as intermediaries to measure solution characteristics before the solution enters the high pressure delivery system.
2Productivity
If high pressure pumps are used for buffer preparation, then the buffer solution can be delivered to the chromatography column, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping system is segmented into low pressure pumps for stock solution delivery and a high pressure pump only for the final buffer solution delivery to the chromatography column. This reduces the number of high pressure pumps needed, thereby lowering system cost while maintaining the required productivity for buffer preparation and delivery.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the preparation of buffer solutions with precise and controlled characteristics, reducing the likelihood of undesired properties and lowering the overall cost of the chromatography system by eliminating the need for high pressure pumps.
Implementation Method 1
a T-joint for preparing a buffer solution by mixing at least one first solution and a second solution
Implementation Method 2
one or more low pressure pumps supply the one or more first solutions into the T-joint
Implementation Method 3
The high pressure pump collects the buffer solution and delivers it to a chromatography apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A system for preparing solutions for chromatography application is disclosed. The system comprises a T-joint for preparing a buffer solution by mixing at least one first solution and a second solution. The T-joint receives the second solution from a solution supply unit connected to the T-joint. Further one or more low pressure pumps supply the one or more first solutions into the T-joint. The high pressure pump collects the buffer solution and delivers it to a chromatography apparatus.