Jiapeng TH-500A Gradient Mixer

Overview

The Jiapeng TH-500A Gradient Mixer is a benchtop laboratory instrument engineered for precise, reproducible generation of linear solvent or concentration gradients in analytical and preparative applications. It operates on the principle of controlled dual-reservoir fluid blending—where two independently held solutions (e.g., buffer A and buffer B) are metered at adjustable, synchronized flow rates into a common mixing chamber. This enables continuous, time-programmable variation of composition—critical for techniques such as column chromatography (including ion exchange, size exclusion, and affinity purification), gradient elution in HPLC method development, and stepwise pH or ionic strength modulation in protein refolding or crystallization trials. Unlike passive gradient formers, the TH-500A incorporates active magnetic stirring within its integrated mixing chamber to ensure rapid homogenization and eliminate laminar segregation, thereby delivering high compositional fidelity across the full 1000 mL gradient volume.

Key Features

• Linear gradient generation with continuously adjustable output flow rate—enabling precise control over gradient slope (e.g., 0.5% to 100% B over 5–120 minutes)
• Dual independent reservoir support with balanced siphon design—maintains consistent head pressure and minimizes flow drift during extended runs
• Integrated magnetic stirrer function: when used standalone, accommodates standard glass beakers (up to 1000 mL) with sealed magnetic stir bars; speed digitally displayed and adjustable from 0–1200 rpm
• Chemically resistant fluid pathway construction—including PTFE tubing, borosilicate glass mixing chamber, and solvent-compatible seals—validated for compatibility with acetonitrile, methanol, chloroform, DMSO, and aqueous acidic/basic media (pH 1–13)
• LED digital display showing real-time rotational speed (rpm) of the magnetic drive unit—providing immediate operational feedback without external instrumentation
• Compact footprint (270 × 170 × 90 mm) and lightweight chassis (1.2 kg)—optimized for space-constrained fume hoods, cold rooms, or mobile lab setups

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TH-500A is designed for use with standard laboratory-grade solvents, buffers, and mobile phases encountered in separation science workflows. Its wetted materials meet USP Class VI and ISO 10993–1 biocompatibility guidelines for short-term contact applications. While not certified to IEC 61010–1 for hazardous area operation, it complies with general safety requirements for Class I, Division 1 laboratory electrical equipment under AC 220 V, 50/60 Hz supply. No regulatory certification (e.g., CE, UL, FDA 510(k)) is claimed; users are responsible for verifying suitability per local institutional biosafety and chemical hygiene plans. The device supports GLP-aligned documentation when paired with external logging tools (e.g., USB data loggers recording display output via photodiode sensors).

Software & Data Management

The TH-500A is a manually operated, analog-controlled instrument with no embedded microprocessor, network interface, or proprietary software. All operational parameters—including gradient start/stop timing, flow rate adjustment, and stir speed—are set via front-panel rotary dials and monitored via the LED display. For traceability in regulated environments, users may integrate third-party timer relays or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to automate sequence initiation or synchronize with fraction collectors or UV detectors. Audit trails must be maintained externally via laboratory notebooks or electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems referencing batch-specific run logs, including initial reservoir volumes, target gradient duration, and observed display stability.

Applications

• Preparative chromatography: linear gradient formation for protein purification on FPLC or AKTA systems
• HPLC method scouting: rapid evaluation of solvent strength effects on retention and resolution
• Gel filtration calibration: controlled salt gradient delivery to assess column performance
• Enzyme kinetics studies requiring gradual cofactor or inhibitor titration
• Cell lysis optimization: staged detergent or osmotic gradient application
• Standalone magnetic stirring: homogeneous suspension of precipitates, catalysts, or viscous polymer solutions up to 1000 mL volume

FAQ

Can the TH-500A generate nonlinear (e.g., concave or convex) gradients?
No—the device is mechanically configured for linear gradient output only. Nonlinear profiles require external pump controllers or multi-channel syringe pump integration.
Is the mixing chamber removable for cleaning or sterilization?
Yes—the borosilicate glass mixing chamber is threaded and detachable; it may be autoclaved at 121 °C for 20 minutes or cleaned with 70% ethanol and dried under nitrogen.
Does the unit include tubing and connectors?
Standard configuration includes two 1.5 m lengths of PTFE tubing (1.6 mm ID) and barbed fittings compatible with 6 mm OD reservoir bottles; additional fittings or custom-length tubing must be sourced separately.
What is the minimum recommended gradient volume for reliable performance?
For optimal flow consistency and gradient accuracy, a minimum total gradient volume of 300 mL is advised—below this, capillary effects and residual air pockets may affect linearity.
Can the TH-500A be operated inside a nitrogen-purged glovebox?
Yes—its passive electromechanical design (no internal fans or venting) and absence of outgassing plastics make it suitable for inert atmosphere operation; verify seal integrity of external tubing connections prior to enclosure.