Agela AcceleSep Petroleum Fraction Rapid Separation System

Overview

The Agela AcceleSep Petroleum Fraction Rapid Separation System is an automated, modular solid-phase extraction (SPE) platform engineered for high-throughput, reproducible fractionation of petroleum samples in accordance with SY/T 5119–2008 — *Method for Column Chromatographic Separation of Saturates, Aromatics, Resins, and Asphaltenes (SARA) from Crude Oil and Soluble Organic Matter in Rocks*. Unlike manual column chromatography, the AcceleSep system replaces labor-intensive, operator-dependent protocols with a controlled, pressure-driven separation process based on selective adsorption and sequential elution. It employs positive-pressure liquid delivery—via inert gas or solvent—to ensure quantitative sample transfer onto SPE cartridges without loss, minimizing variability inherent in gravity-fed or vacuum-based systems. Designed for laboratories requiring regulatory traceability and method consistency, the system supports full audit trails, method versioning, and real-time pressure monitoring—critical for GLP-compliant petroleum geochemistry, refinery QC, and upstream reservoir characterization workflows.

Key Features

• Modular architecture: One central control module can drive up to four independent extraction modules simultaneously; each module operates six parallel, isolated channels—eliminating cross-contamination between samples and solvents.
• High-precision, valveless metering pump: Delivers continuous, pulse-free solvent and sample flow; tolerant of particulates up to 50 µm; requires no routine maintenance or seal replacement.
• Inert fluidic path: Tubing and wetted components constructed from PEEK, PTFE, and alumina ceramic—chemically resistant to aggressive organic solvents (e.g., hexane, toluene, chloroform), strong acids, and alkaline washes.
• Dual-waste collection: Separate, labeled reservoirs for aqueous and organic effluents—enabling compliant hazardous waste segregation per EPA 40 CFR Part 261 and ISO 14001 laboratory environmental management protocols.
• Positive-pressure loading: Ensures complete sample introduction into SPE columns via regulated nitrogen or solvent pressure—preventing channeling, breakthrough, or incomplete elution.
• Integrated safety controls: Real-time overpressure detection, leak sensing, automatic channel shutdown, and sealed cartridge interface reduce operator exposure to volatile organics—fully compatible with fume hood installation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AcceleSep system accommodates a broad range of petroleum-derived matrices—including crude oils, bitumens, heavy fuel oils, shale extracts, and sedimentary rock extracts—across sample volumes from 1 mL to 5,000 mL. It supports SPE cartridges from 1 mL to 30 mL capacity, enabling method scalability from micro-scale screening to bulk fractionation. All operational parameters—including flow rate, pressure setpoints, fraction timing, and solvent sequence—are programmable and stored with timestamped metadata. The system complies with data integrity requirements under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when used with validated software configurations), supports electronic signatures, and maintains full audit trails for method execution history—making it suitable for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs and API RP 75-compliant analytical environments.

Software & Data Management

The embedded touchscreen interface stores up to 200 user-defined methods with editable parameters, including multi-step gradient elution profiles, dwell times, and fraction collection logic. Each run logs pressure curves, channel status, elapsed time, and error events. Exportable CSV reports include method ID, operator name, date/time stamp, and per-channel elution volume—facilitating integration with LIMS platforms (e.g., LabWare, Thermo Fisher SampleManager). No proprietary drivers or OS dependencies are required; method files are human-readable and editable via standard text editors. Firmware updates are delivered via USB—no internet connectivity needed—preserving network security in air-gapped analytical networks.

Applications

• SARA analysis (Saturates, Aromatics, Resins, Asphaltenes) per ASTM D4124 and IP 143 for crude assay and refining feedstock evaluation.
• Geochemical biomarker isolation from source rock extracts for sterane/hopane profiling (ASTM D7217).
• Removal of interfering matrix components prior to GC-MS or FTIR analysis of hydrocarbon fractions.
• Standardized fractionation of lubricant base stocks and synthetic esters for oxidation stability testing (ASTM D943).
• Preparative isolation of polar fractions (NSOs) from heavy crudes for corrosion inhibitor screening and asphaltene precipitation studies.

FAQ

Does the AcceleSep system support method validation per ISO/IEC 17025?
Yes—the system enables full documentation of instrument settings, calibration records, and run logs required for method validation; users must implement complementary procedural SOPs and personnel training per Clause 7.2.
Can I use third-party SPE cartridges with this system?
Yes—any standard 1–30 mL SPE cartridge with compatible thread interface (e.g., 1/4″-28 UNF) is supported; Agela provides mechanical adapters for common vendors (Supelco, Waters, Restek).
Is remote monitoring or network connectivity available?
No native Ethernet or Wi-Fi interface is included; however, USB export of run data allows offline integration with centralized lab informatics systems.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the pump and fluidic system?
The valveless metering pump is designed for >10,000 hours of continuous operation with no scheduled maintenance; only periodic visual inspection of tubing and cartridge seals is advised per manufacturer’s preventive maintenance checklist.
How does the system handle viscous or particulate-laden crude oil samples?
Pre-filtration through 0.45 µm PTFE syringe filters is recommended; the system’s particulate tolerance (≤50 µm) and positive-pressure delivery minimize clogging risk—especially when paired with Agela’s reinforced fritted SPE cartridges.