HPLC Valve Pressure Equalization for Dual-Pump Gradient Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems face challenges in providing continuous or gradient flow of mobile phases from two pumps with differing compressibilities, requiring additional fluids to account for pressure equalization, which complicates the delivery of mobile phases at a common pressure.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two pumps, pressure sensors, and a controller that regulates the flow through a valve with specific stator and rotor configurations to ensure communication and pressure equalization, allowing for continuous or gradient flow of mobile phases at a common pressure, eliminating the need for additional fluids to account for compressibility differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two pumps with differing compressibilities are used to provide mobile phases, then the system can handle different fluid requirements, but pressure equalization becomes difficult and requires additional fluids
Solution Approach 1:
A common pressure line is introduced as an intermediary element that receives mobile phase from both pumps and equalizes pressure between them. This mediator allows pumps with different compressibilities to operate simultaneously by providing a shared pressure reference point, eliminating the need for additional compensating fluids.
Solution Approach 2:
The common pressure line serves multiple functions: it acts as a pressure equalization chamber, a flow distribution manifold, and a reference pressure source for both pumps. This multi-functional element simplifies the overall system by consolidating what would otherwise require separate components for each pump.
2Reliability
If additional fluids are added to account for compressibility differences, then pressure equalization is achieved, but the system complexity and fluid management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pressure equalization function from the mobile phase fluids themselves and places it in a dedicated common pressure line. By separating the pressure equalization requirement from the mobile phase delivery function, the system avoids the complexity of managing multiple fluids with specific compressibility characteristics while achieving reliable pressure balance.
3Productivity
If mobile phases are delivered at different pressures, then each pump can operate independently, but effective flow and chromatography performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The common pressure line creates an equipotential pressure environment where both pumps operate at the same pressure level. This equalizes the potential energy of the mobile phases from both pumps, ensuring they mix and flow consistently through the chromatography system without pressure imbalances that would compromise performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems for use with liquid chromatography for provision of continuous flow or gradient flow in connection with two pumps providing mobile phase to a valve.