Chu Bai CZ1 & CZ2 Vertical Electrophoresis Chambers

Overview

The Chu Bai CZ1 and CZ2 Vertical Electrophoresis Chambers are precision-engineered systems designed for isoelectric focusing (IEF) and sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) applications in molecular biology, proteomics, and nucleic acid research. These chambers operate on the principle of electrophoretic mobility under a stable electric field across vertically oriented polyacrylamide or agarose gels, enabling high-resolution separation of proteins by isoelectric point (pI) or molecular weight. The modular, single-gel architecture supports reproducible analytical and preparative workflows—particularly suited for laboratories requiring consistent gel casting, uniform buffer cooling, and operator safety compliance without reliance on proprietary power supplies. Both models adhere to fundamental electrophoretic design standards aligned with ISO 13485-informed manufacturing practices and support GLP-aligned documentation when integrated into validated laboratory environments.

Key Features

• Monolithic, impact-resistant acrylic construction with thermal stability up to 60 °C and resistance to common electrophoresis buffers (e.g., Tris-Glycine, CAPS, CHAPS).
• Optimized buffer reservoir design: 350 mL (CZ1) and 400 mL (CZ2) capacity ensures effective heat dissipation and pH buffering stability during extended runs (up to 4–6 hours at 100–200 V).
• Tool-free, detachable electrode assembly with platinum-coated stainless-steel electrodes—facilitating rapid cleaning, calibration verification, and replacement without system disassembly.
• Interlocked transparent polycarbonate lid: automatically interrupts power delivery upon lid opening (IEC 61010-1 Class II compliance), eliminating arc-risk and preventing accidental contact with live terminals.
• Universal gel cassette compatibility: accommodates both concave and rectangular glass plates (CZ1: 108 × 120 mm; CZ2: 147 × 138 mm), supporting thickness options of 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm for varied resolution and loading requirements.
• Integrated comb storage and alignment guides ensure repeatable well geometry; included combs offer 11-, 13-, 15-, and 21-tooth configurations for flexible sample multiplexing.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CZ1 and CZ2 chambers are validated for use with standard polyacrylamide gel formulations (T = 8–20%, C = 2.6–5%), immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strips (11–18 cm), and native/SDS denatured protein extracts. They support protocols referenced in ASTM D7282 (electrophoretic mobility measurement), USP (electrophoresis system qualification), and ISO/IEC 17025 Annex B (method validation for analytical gels). Buffer compatibility includes Tris-acetate, Bis-Tris-MES, and urea-based IEF solutions. No internal electronics or firmware are present; therefore, no FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements apply—however, audit trails may be maintained externally via connected power supply logging (e.g., Bio-Rad PowerPac or similar CE/FCC-certified units).

Software & Data Management

As standalone electrophoresis tanks, the CZ1 and CZ2 do not incorporate embedded software, firmware, or digital interfaces. All operational parameters—including voltage, current, time, and temperature—are controlled externally via compatible DC power supplies. Gel imaging and densitometric analysis require integration with third-party systems (e.g., Azure Sapphire, Bio-Rad ChemiDoc, or UVP EC3 Imaging Systems). Raw gel data remain fully portable in TIFF or PNG format; metadata (gel dimensions, comb type, buffer composition) should be recorded manually or via LIMS-compatible templates to satisfy traceability requirements under ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.5.2.

Applications

• Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE): First-dimension IEF using IPG strips; second-dimension SDS-PAGE with precise vertical alignment.
• Western blot transfer preparation: Uniform gel polymerization and flat cathode/anode surfaces minimize electrotransfer artifacts.
• Protein purity assessment and post-translational modification profiling (e.g., phosphorylation, glycosylation) via pI shifts.
• Nucleic acid fragment analysis (≤500 bp) under non-denaturing conditions using low-percentage polyacrylamide gels.
• Teaching laboratories: Robust mechanical design and intuitive assembly reduce training time while maintaining alignment with undergraduate biochemistry curricula (e.g., ASBMB Lab Exchange standards).

FAQ

Are the CZ1 and CZ2 chambers compatible with commercial power supplies?
Yes—both models accept standard banana-jack or alligator-clip connections from regulated DC power supplies rated for electrophoresis (e.g., 0–500 V, 0–500 mA). No proprietary interface is required.
Can I run gradient gels in these chambers?
Yes—gradient mixing and pouring are supported via standard gradient mixers and dual-chamber casting apparatuses; gel thickness uniformity is maintained using included spacers and alignment frames.
Is CE or FCC certification available for these units?
As passive electrophoresis tanks without active electronics, they fall outside scope for CE marking; however, they comply with IEC 61010-1 mechanical and enclosure safety requirements when used with certified power supplies.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Rinse thoroughly with deionized water after each use; inspect electrodes for oxidation monthly; store combs and spacers in labeled, dry containers to prevent warping or contamination.
Do you provide protocol documentation or SOP templates?
Standard operating procedures for gel casting, running, and staining are available upon request in English and conform to ISO/IEC 17025 Annex A guidelines for method documentation.