Beifen Sanpu LH-10A Adsorption Tube Aging Instrument
| Brand | Beifen Sanpu |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Model | LH-10A |
| Temperature Control Range | Ambient to 400 °C |
| Gas Flow Rate | 0–1000 mL/min |
| Tube Capacity | 10 tubes |
Overview
The Beifen Sanpu LH-10A Adsorption Tube Aging Instrument is a dedicated thermal conditioning system engineered for the controlled activation and decontamination of sorbent-packed sampling tubes used in thermal desorption–gas chromatography (TD–GC) workflows. It operates on the principle of precisely regulated convective heating under inert gas purge, enabling the removal of residual volatiles, moisture, and background contaminants from adsorbent beds (e.g., Tenax TA, Carbopack B/C, Carboxen, or multi-bed configurations) prior to analytical use. Designed for laboratory environments requiring compliance with EPA Method TO-17, ISO 16017-1, and ASTM D6196, the LH-10A ensures batch consistency and trace-level readiness of sampling media—critical for achieving low method detection limits (MDLs) and minimizing carryover in ambient air, indoor air, and occupational hygiene monitoring.
Key Features
- Independent dual-zone temperature control: Each of the 10 tube positions features uniform axial heating with PID-regulated setpoint accuracy of ±2 °C across the full 25–400 °C operating range—no external oven or controller required.
- Integrated mass-flow–calibrated gas delivery: Built-in needle valve and digital flow meter support precise, repeatable inert gas (N2 or He) purging at 0–1000 mL/min, with visual analog display and fine-tuning capability for optimal desorption kinetics.
- Programmable aging cycles: Timer resolution of 1 second supports durations from 1 minute to 99 hours 59 minutes; audible end-of-cycle alert ensures operator awareness without manual supervision.
- Standardized tube compatibility: Accommodates stainless steel or quartz thermal desorption tubes ≥110 mm in length and 1/4″ OD (6.35 mm), including common formats compliant with UNITY™, Ultra-TD™, and Markes International specifications.
- Compact benchtop architecture: Dimensions of 225 mm (H) × 265 mm (W) × 345 mm (D) and net weight of 7.5 kg enable seamless integration into QC labs, environmental testing facilities, and accredited calibration suites.
- Energy-efficient design: Rated input power <300 VA at 220 VAC / 50 Hz; thermally insulated chamber minimizes ambient heat dissipation and improves energy recovery during sequential runs.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LH-10A is validated for conditioning single- and multi-bed sorbent tubes used in regulated volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. It supports preparation of tubes packed with polymers (e.g., Tenax GR), graphitized carbons (Carbopack X, Carboxen 1000), and carbon molecular sieves—ensuring thermal stability up to 400 °C without bed degradation or bleed. The instrument meets mechanical and electrical safety requirements per GB 4793.1–2019 (equivalent to IEC 61010-1) and is suitable for laboratories implementing GLP or ISO/IEC 17025 quality systems. While not certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its deterministic timer and fixed flow/temperature parameters support audit-ready documentation when paired with lab-controlled SOPs.
Software & Data Management
The LH-10A operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded microprocessor or data logging capability. All operational parameters—including set temperature, elapsed time, and flow rate—are manually configured and visually monitored via analog dials and LED indicators. This design prioritizes reliability, electromagnetic immunity, and long-term serviceability over digital connectivity. Users are expected to record aging conditions (tube ID, lot number, temperature, duration, flow) in paper-based or LIMS-integrated logbooks per internal QA protocols. For automated traceability, integration with external programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or SCADA systems is possible via optional dry-contact relay outputs (available upon request).
Applications
- Pre-conditioning of sorbent tubes prior to field deployment in EPA TO-14A/TO-15/TO-17 sampling campaigns.
- Regeneration of spent tubes following thermal desorption analysis to restore adsorption capacity and reduce blank levels.
- Method development studies evaluating optimal activation temperature and purge duration for novel sorbent combinations.
- Quality assurance in contract environmental labs performing ISO 16017-1–compliant indoor air VOC profiling.
- Calibration standard preparation where ultra-low background integrity is essential (e.g., reference gas generation, permeation tube validation).
FAQ
What sorbent tube dimensions does the LH-10A support?
The instrument accepts standard 1/4″ OD (6.35 mm) metal or quartz tubes with minimum length of 110 mm. Tubes must be straight-walled and compatible with conventional TD autosampler ferrules.
Is the flow rate calibrated against a primary standard?
The integrated flow meter is factory-calibrated using NIST-traceable volumetric standards and provides ±5% full-scale accuracy across 100–1000 mL/min; users should verify calibration annually using a wet-test meter or bubble flowmeter.
Can the LH-10A be used for baking out GC inlet liners or traps?
No—it is mechanically and thermally optimized exclusively for sorbent tube conditioning. Its airflow path, heater geometry, and temperature uniformity profile are not designed for non-tube geometries.
Does the unit include over-temperature protection?
Yes: a redundant mechanical high-limit thermostat cuts power if chamber temperature exceeds 420 °C, independent of the main PID controller.
What maintenance is required?
Routine inspection of O-rings, cleaning of heater block grooves with lint-free swabs, and annual verification of flow meter linearity and temperature sensor drift using certified reference sources.
