Makeup Pump Flow Control for LC Detector Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chromatography systems face challenges in smoothly redirecting mobile phase flow without positioning a valve inline between the column and detector, especially when dealing with fluid valves that have a larger fluidic volume and form factor, leading to space constraints and chromatographic band-broadening.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a makeup pump to control fluid flow, allowing the output of the chromatography column to bypass the fluid valve and reach the detector or be directed to waste, using restrictors to manage flow rates and minimize post-column volume, thereby eliminating the need for a valve in the direct flow path between the column and detector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a valve is positioned inline between the column and detector to redirect mobile phase flow, then flow diversion capability is achieved, but post-column volume increases causing chromatographic band-broadening
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is extracted from the direct flow path between column and detector, eliminating the source of band-broadening while preserving flow diversion capability through alternative routing architecture
Solution Approach 2:
A flow splitter and restrictors are introduced as intermediary components to manage flow distribution, allowing valve positioning away from the critical detection path while maintaining control over mobile phase routing
2Ease of operation
If a fluid valve with larger form factor is used to redirect mobile phase flow, then flow control capability is improved, but space constraints in the system are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture transitions from linear inline valve positioning to a multi-path routing configuration, effectively utilizing spatial dimensions to accommodate larger valve components outside the constrained detection path area
3Adaptability or versatility
If a valve is positioned inline to divert mobile phase flow, then flow diversion is achieved, but detector contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve and associated flow control components are extracted from the direct path to the detector, removing the mechanism that causes contamination while preserving the ability to divert flows through alternative routing
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 reduces post-column system dispersion and allows for flow diversion in space-constrained environments, maintaining the detector clean and preventing chromatographic band-broadening, while enabling efficient operation in integrated LC-MS systems.
Implementation Method 1
a makeup pump configured to pump a makeup fluid into the chromatography system
Implementation Method 2
The passive splitter is further configured to reduce pressure of the split flow stream, causing volumetric expansion of the split flow stream
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to methodologies, systems, and apparatus for controlling fluid flow within a chromatography system. The chromatography system includes a mobile phase pump configured to pump a liquid mobile phase through a column and a restrictor positioned downstream of the column and upstream of a detector. The system also includes a valve configured to operate in at least two positions. In a first position, the valve is configured to direct the output of the column to bypass the valve and reach the detector, while in the second position the valve directs the output of the column to waste.