Chromatography Sample Introduction via Makeup Pump Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chromatography systems face challenges in smoothly introducing a sample fluid and redirecting mobile phase flow, especially with highly compressible mobile phases like CO2-based systems, due to pressure fluctuations and the need for valves that can damage components and require maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a makeup pump and restrictors to control fluid flow without valves, by adjusting the output volume of the makeup pump to direct sample fluid through restrictors and measure pressure across them using sensors, allowing for flow splitting and sample introduction without pressure perturbations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If valves are used to introduce sample fluid and redirect mobile phase flow, then flow control is achieved, but pressure fluctuations occur and components suffer wear requiring maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the valve component from the chromatography system. Instead of using valves to control sample fluid introduction and mobile phase flow redirection, the system uses a makeup pump with adjustable output volume to achieve the same flow control functions, thereby removing the source of pressure fluctuations and mechanical wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical valve system with a pump-controlled flow system. The makeup pump uses rotational speed control to regulate fluid flow, substituting mechanical valve operation with a more reliable pump-based flow control mechanism that eliminates the harmful effects of valve-induced pressure fluctuations and component wear.
2Adaptability or versatility
If valves are used for sample introduction, then flow direction is controlled, but the system requires maintenance and becomes less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes valves from the system entirely, replacing them with a makeup pump that controls flow direction through adjustable output volume. This extraction of the problematic valve component eliminates maintenance requirements while preserving the ability to control flow direction between the sample loop and column.
Solution Approach 2:
The makeup pump serves multiple functions: it introduces sample fluid into the mobile phase, controls the split ratio between sample and mobile phase, and directs flow to the appropriate destination (column or detector). This multi-functional pump replaces what would traditionally require multiple valves and associated components.
3Productivity
If traditional sample introduction methods are used, then sample fluid is introduced, but pressure changes perturb the system
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the control parameter from valve position to pump output volume. By adjusting the makeup pump's output volume, the system introduces sample fluid and redirects mobile phase flow without the abrupt pressure changes associated with valve operation. The pump's continuous adjustable output provides smooth pressure transitions that maintain system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The makeup pump operates continuously with adjustable output, providing continuous flow control rather than the on/off or fixed-position operation of valves. This continuous action allows for smooth introduction of sample fluid and gradual redirection of mobile phase flow, eliminating the pressure perturbations caused by sudden valve movements.
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 efficient sample fluid introduction and mobile phase flow control in chromatography systems, reducing wear on components, minimizing pressure changes, and eliminating the need for valves, thereby enhancing system robustness and performance.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a pressure across the first restrictor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to methodologies, systems, apparatus, and kits for introducing a sample within a chromatography system. A makeup pump is configured to pump a makeup fluid through a first restrictor into the chromatography system upstream of the column and downstream of a mobile phase pump. The first restrictor is located upstream of a column and downstream of makeup pump and a sample fluid pump. Decreasing an output volume of the makeup pump can direct a sample fluid from the sample fluid pump through the first restrictor to the column. Increasing an output volume of the makeup pump can direct the sample fluid to a second restrictor located downstream of the makeup pump and in parallel with the column and the detector.