CoMetro CP-LDI Precision Constant Flow Pump
| Brand | CoMetro |
|---|---|
| Model | CP-LDI |
| Flow Rate | 10 mL/min (adjustable range: 0.001–200 mL/min) |
| Maximum Pressure | 6000 psi |
| Pump Head Configuration | Parallel Dual-Head |
| Flow Accuracy | ±1% |
| Flow Precision | ≤0.1% RSD |
| Pressure Units | PSI, MPa, bar |
| Control Options | Front-panel keypad, PC via RS-232/USB, or analog input (0–5 V / 4–20 mA) |
| Compressibility Compensation | Adjustable |
| Auto-Purge & Self-Cleaning Mode | Supported for buffer-salt applications |
Overview
The CoMetro CP-LDI Precision Constant Flow Pump is a high-pressure, dual-head reciprocating piston pump engineered for demanding liquid chromatography applications—including analytical HPLC, semi-preparative, and preparative-scale separations. Based on positive displacement principle with precision-machined sapphire-ruby check valves and stainless-steel pump heads, the CP-LDI delivers stable, pulse-free solvent delivery under sustained high backpressure. Its modular architecture supports both single-pump operation and scalable multi-pump configurations (2-, 3-, or 4-pump systems), enabling binary, ternary, or quaternary gradient formation without external mixing hardware. Designed to meet the mechanical and regulatory expectations of modern analytical laboratories, the CP-LDI integrates real-time pressure monitoring, programmable pressure limits, and active compressibility compensation—ensuring consistent volumetric delivery across solvent viscosity and compressibility variations.
Key Features
- Dual parallel piston heads with independent stroke control minimize flow pulsation and enhance long-term stability (≤0.1% RSD over 24 h at 10 mL/min, 6000 psi)
- Wide adjustable flow range: 0.001–200 mL/min in three calibrated ranges (0.001–12 mL/min, 0.1–100 mL/min, 0.1–200 mL/min), each optimized for resolution and linearity
- Maximum operating pressure up to 6000 psi (414 bar), validated per ISO 11553-1 for high-pressure fluid handling equipment
- Front-panel LED interface with adjustable brightness, supporting remote visual verification of flow rate, real-time pressure, and system status
- Programmable low/high pressure limits with automatic shutdown and audible alert—compliant with IEC 61000-6-2 electromagnetic immunity standards
- Onboard compressibility compensation algorithm corrects for solvent elasticity effects, improving retention time reproducibility in gradient elution
- Integrated auto-purge and self-cleaning cycle for pump heads—reducing seal wear and extending service intervals in phosphate- or acetate-buffered mobile phases
- Flexible control architecture: local keypad, host PC (via RS-232 or USB virtual COM port), or analog signal (0–5 V DC or 4–20 mA) for PLC integration
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CP-LDI is compatible with common HPLC solvents (water, acetonitrile, methanol, THF, IPA) and aqueous buffers (pH 2–10). All wetted parts—including pump heads, inlet/outlet manifolds, and check valves—are constructed from 316L stainless steel, sapphire, ruby, and PEEK—ensuring chemical resistance and minimal metal leaching. The pump meets CE marking requirements (2014/30/EU EMC Directive and 2014/35/EU LVD Directive) and conforms to ISO/IEC 17025 calibration traceability guidelines when used with certified flow meters. For regulated environments, firmware supports audit-trail-enabled operation when paired with compliant chromatography data systems (CDS), satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures.
Software & Data Management
The CP-LDI operates standalone or as part of a networked LC system via CoMetro’s optional ChromoControl™ software (Windows-based, .NET 6.0 runtime). Software features include method-driven parameter scheduling (flow, pressure limits, purge cycles), real-time pressure/flow trending with CSV export, and event-logged diagnostics (e.g., valve actuation count, pressure deviation alerts). All parameter changes are timestamped and user-ID tagged; configuration backups and firmware updates are performed via signed binary packages to ensure integrity. Remote monitoring is supported through Modbus TCP protocol for integration into lab-wide SCADA or MES platforms.
Applications
- Analytical HPLC method development and validation (ICH Q2(R2), USP )
- Semi-preparative purification of peptides, natural products, and synthetic intermediates
- Preparative isolation of chiral compounds using polysaccharide-based columns (e.g., Chiralpak®, Lux®)
- Method transfer between analytical and preparative scales with matched dwell volume and gradient delay compensation
- Multi-solvent gradient elution in affinity chromatography and ion-exchange purification workflows
- Continuous feed in coupled techniques such as LC-GC, LC-MS prep fraction collection, and inline UV/Vis reaction monitoring
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable backpressure for continuous operation?
The CP-LDI is rated for continuous operation up to 6000 psi (414 bar) at ambient temperature (15–35 °C) and flow rates ≥0.1 mL/min.
Can the pump be used with corrosive solvents such as hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide solutions?
Only within strict concentration and pH limits: ≤0.1 M HCl (pH ≥2) and ≤0.05 M NaOH (pH ≤10); extended exposure requires optional Hastelloy C-276 pump head upgrade.
Is gradient delay volume characterized and compensatable?
Yes—gradient dwell volume is measured per ASTM D7985-15 and stored in method files; software applies dynamic dwell correction during method loading.
Does the CP-LDI support GLP-compliant audit trails?
When operated with ChromoControl™ v3.2+ and a validated Windows domain environment, full electronic audit trail (user actions, parameter changes, error logs) is generated and exportable in PDF/A-2 format.
How often should the pump seals be replaced under normal use?
With proper buffer maintenance and use of the auto-clean function, sapphire-ruby check valves and PTFE-coated pistons typically exceed 6,000 operating hours before replacement—verified by scheduled performance qualification (PQ) tests.
