Chu Ding BSZ-16 Electronic Timer-Controlled Fraction Collector
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Product Origin | Domestic (PRC) |
| Model | BSZ-16 |
| Collection Capacity | 16 × 100 mL tubes |
| Timing Range | 1 minute to 24 hours (adjustable in 1-minute increments) |
| Power Failure Data Retention | ≥10 years |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 260 × 250 × 340 mm |
Overview
The Chu Ding BSZ-16 Electronic Timer-Controlled Fraction Collector is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for automated, time-based fractionation of eluent streams in liquid chromatography (LC), gel filtration, ion exchange, and affinity chromatography workflows. Operating on a microprocessor-controlled timing mechanism, the BSZ-16 executes sequential collection into up to 16 standard test tubes (each accommodating up to 100 mL), eliminating manual intervention and minimizing operator-induced variability. Its core function is to partition continuous effluent—typically delivered by peristaltic or syringe-based pumps—into discrete temporal fractions, enabling downstream analysis of compound elution profiles, peak resolution validation, and fraction pooling for purification. The device integrates seamlessly with common LC accessories including Chu Ding HL-series constant-flow peristaltic pumps and TH-series gradient mixers, supporting both standalone operation and synchronized system configurations.
Key Features
- Microcontroller-based timing circuitry with 1-minute resolution and programmable collection intervals from 1 minute to 24 hours
- Robust mechanical indexing carousel accommodating 16 × 100 mL round-bottom or flat-bottom test tubes (standard 16 mm or 18 mm outer diameter)
- Non-volatile memory retention ensuring full parameter preservation for ≥10 years after power loss—critical for long-term unattended runs and GLP-compliant record integrity
- Compact footprint (260 × 250 × 340 mm) optimized for benchtop integration within fume hoods or chromatography workstations
- Front-panel LED display with intuitive push-button interface for real-time monitoring and parameter adjustment
- Universal tube rack design compatible with common borosilicate glass and polypropylene tubes; optional silicone gasket inserts available for enhanced leak resistance during volatile solvent handling
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BSZ-16 is engineered for compatibility with aqueous buffers, organic solvents (e.g., methanol, acetonitrile, chloroform), and mild acidic/basic eluents typical in analytical and preparative chromatography. All wetted components—including the collection tray, tube holder, and drip shield—are constructed from chemically resistant ABS plastic and stainless-steel fasteners, ensuring durability under repeated exposure. While not certified to IEC 61000-6-3 or UL 61010-1 as a standalone unit, the BSZ-16 meets general electrical safety requirements for laboratory use in non-explosive environments. Its deterministic timing architecture supports traceable, auditable fractionation protocols required under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories and aligns with data integrity expectations outlined in FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems.
Software & Data Management
The BSZ-16 operates without proprietary software—its embedded firmware handles all timing logic locally, reducing cybersecurity surface area and eliminating driver dependencies. All operational parameters (start time, interval, total cycle count, pause/resume status) are stored in EEPROM and persist across power cycles. For laboratories requiring digital documentation, the device’s timing logs can be manually transcribed into LIMS or ELN platforms. Optional RS-232 serial output (available on upgraded firmware versions) enables basic command-and-response communication with external controllers, supporting integration into automated chromatography suites compliant with ASTM E2500-17 system lifecycle management principles.
Applications
- Time-resolved fraction collection in size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) for molecular weight distribution analysis of proteins and polymers
- Peak fractionation in reversed-phase HPLC for compound isolation prior to NMR or MS characterization
- Gradient elution monitoring in ion-exchange chromatography to map binding/elution pH and conductivity thresholds
- Preparative purification of natural products, monoclonal antibodies, and oligonucleotides where temporal resolution exceeds detector sampling rate
- Educational demonstrations of chromatographic theory in undergraduate biochemistry and analytical chemistry laboratories
FAQ
What is the maximum tube diameter supported by the BSZ-16 carousel?
The standard tube holder accepts tubes with outer diameters of 16–18 mm. Custom inserts are available for 13 mm or 20 mm formats upon request.
Can the BSZ-16 be triggered externally via TTL or relay signal?
No—the base model supports timer-only operation. External triggering requires the BSZ-16T variant with opto-isolated input port.
Is the device suitable for use with corrosive solvents such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)?
Short-term exposure (<1 hour) is permissible; prolonged contact with strong acids or halogenated solvents is not recommended due to potential degradation of ABS housing.
Does the BSZ-16 meet GLP requirements for audit trails?
It maintains immutable timing metadata in non-volatile memory but does not generate electronic audit trails. Full GLP compliance requires integration with a validated ELN or LIMS platform.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual inspection of stepper motor coupling alignment and cleaning of the tube positioning sensor with isopropyl alcohol is recommended. No lubrication is required.
