ASA AC2017-101 Axial Compression System
| Brand | ASA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Product Category | Domestic |
| Model | AC2017-101 |
| Instrument Type | Dynamic Axial Compression (DAC) System |
| Certification | ISO 9001 Compliant, CE Marked |
| Column ID Range | 50–101 mm |
| Application | Preparative SFC & HPLC Column Packing |
Overview
The ASA AC2017-101 Axial Compression System is a robust, benchtop dynamic axial compression (DAC) instrument engineered for reproducible, high-density packing of preparative chromatographic columns used in supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Unlike static or manual packing methods, the AC2017-101 applies controlled, continuous axial force via a precision-guided pneumatic actuator—ensuring uniform bed density across the entire column length. Its design eliminates hydraulic pulsation and mechanical backlash, enabling stable, pulse-free piston displacement during slurry compression. This principle of constant-force, low-velocity consolidation minimizes particle rearrangement and channeling, directly contributing to improved column efficiency (N/m), reduced backpressure variability, and enhanced batch-to-batch reproducibility in method transfer and scale-up.
Key Features
- Dynamic axial compression architecture with integrated pneumatic cylinder and linear motion guide—engineered for smooth, non-oscillatory piston travel without pressure spikes or dwell-induced settling.
- Modular column interface accommodates standard preparative column hardware with internal diameters from 50 mm to 101 mm, supporting both stainless steel and reinforced polymer column bodies.
- Self-contained control unit with analog pressure regulation and digital position feedback—no external PLC or PC required for basic operation.
- CE-marked and compliant with ISO 9001:2015 quality management system requirements for manufacturing and process validation documentation.
- Maintenance-free actuation system: sealed pneumatic cylinder with wear-resistant piston seals and corrosion-inhibited aluminum alloy housing.
- Force stability ±1.5% full scale over 8-hour continuous operation; positional repeatability ≤±0.05 mm under nominal load conditions.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AC2017-101 is validated for use with common preparative stationary phases including silica, C18, diol, amino, and chiral selectors (e.g., amylose- and cellulose-based derivatives), as well as SFC-compatible materials such as 2-ethylpyridine and bare silica under CO₂-methanol mobile phase systems. It supports slurry concentrations ranging from 15–40% w/v in appropriate solvents (e.g., THF, IPA, heptane, or ethanol/water mixtures), with optimal performance observed at 25–35% w/v. Column hardware must conform to ASME B31.3 pressure piping guidelines for maximum operating pressures up to 10 MPa during compression. The system meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1 and safety standards under EN 61000-6-2/6-4 for laboratory environments.
Software & Data Management
While the AC2017-101 operates in standalone mode via front-panel controls, optional RS-485 serial interface enables integration with third-party Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS) or electronic lab notebooks (ELN) for audit-trail-capable data logging. Compression parameters—including applied force (kN), piston displacement (mm), duration (s), and ambient temperature (°C)—are timestamped and exportable in CSV format. When deployed in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical QC labs), users may configure the system within a 21 CFR Part 11-compliant infrastructure using validated external software platforms that enforce user authentication, electronic signatures, and change control protocols. Full traceability aligns with GLP and GMP documentation expectations for column qualification reports.
Applications
- Packing of analytical-to-preparative scale chiral SFC columns (50–101 mm ID) for enantiomer separation in API purification.
- Reproducible re-packing of degraded or channelled preparative HPLC columns without disassembly or bed disturbance.
- Method development support for gradient elution optimization—uniform bed density reduces band broadening and improves resolution of closely eluting compounds.
- Quality control of packed-bed integrity prior to system qualification (e.g., flow profile testing, hold-up volume measurement, and pressure drop profiling).
- Academic and contract research organization (CRO) laboratories requiring rapid turnaround for custom column fabrication under defined SOPs.
FAQ
What column diameters does the AC2017-101 support?
It accommodates columns with internal diameters from 50 mm to 101 mm, inclusive.
Is the system compatible with supercritical CO₂-based packing protocols?
Yes—its pneumatic actuation and solvent-resistant sealing materials are rated for use with CO₂-miscible solvents and low-viscosity slurries typical in SFC column preparation.
Does the AC2017-101 require external compressed air or vacuum sources?
A clean, oil-free compressed air supply at 0.6–0.8 MPa is required; no vacuum source is needed.
Can compression force be calibrated or verified onsite?
Force calibration is performed at the factory using NIST-traceable load cells; field verification requires an external calibrated force transducer and alignment jig per ASTM E4 procedures.
Is technical documentation available in English for regulatory submission?
Yes—user manuals, IQ/OQ protocols, and CE Declaration of Conformity are supplied in English and formatted for inclusion in FDA or EMA regulatory dossiers.
