CoMetro R1/R2 Fraction Collector for Preparative Liquid Chromatography

Overview

The CoMetro R1/R2 Fraction Collector is an engineered solution for automated, high-integrity fraction collection in preparative liquid chromatography (prep-LC) and gravity- or pump-driven column chromatography systems. Designed around a precision fluidic switching valve and programmable logic control architecture, it operates on volumetric, temporal, drop-count, or UV/peak-triggered collection protocols—enabling reproducible isolation of target eluents across diverse separation workflows. Its modular rack system supports standardized and custom tube formats, ensuring compatibility with downstream analytical or purification steps including lyophilization, NMR sample preparation, and bioassay screening. The device meets the mechanical and electrical safety requirements of IEC 61010-1 and is constructed to support GLP-compliant laboratory environments where traceability, consistency, and low carryover are essential.

Key Features

• Multi-mode collection logic: Select volume-based (e.g., 0.5–50 mL increments), time-based (1 s–999 min intervals), drop-count (programmable per channel), or peak-synchronized collection using analog TTL or RS-232 input from external detectors.
• Low-latency valve actuation: <150 ms tube-switching response time minimizes band broadening and maximizes recovery of narrow peaks, critical for high-resolution prep-LC applications.
• Modular tube rack ecosystem: Interchangeable racks accommodate 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 13 mm and 16 mm round-bottom test tubes, 25 mm and 50 mL conical tubes, and standard 96-well microplates—supporting up to 144 fractions per run without manual intervention.
• Dual-rack configuration (R2 model): Enables parallel collection into primary and backup racks or sequential staging for extended runs, reducing operator dependency during overnight or unattended operation.
• Integrated safety architecture: IP20-rated enclosure with leakage detection circuitry, reinforced tubing clamps, and isolated power supply prevent fluid ingress and electrical fault propagation under continuous operation.
• Low-noise operation (<45 dB(A)) and maintenance-free stepper-motor-driven valve mechanism ensure stable performance in shared instrumentation labs and cleanroom-adjacent spaces.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The R1/R2 collector interfaces seamlessly with both OEM and third-party LC systems—including Shimadzu, Waters, Agilent, and custom-built gradient systems—via standard analog (0–10 V, ±5 V) or digital (TTL, RS-232) trigger inputs. It complies with ISO 9001 manufacturing controls and conforms to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards per EN 61326-1. All wetted components contact only PTFE, PEEK, and borosilicate glass—ensuring chemical resistance to common organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol, THF), aqueous buffers (pH 2–12), and mild acids/bases. No internal fluid path contains metal or elastomeric seals that could leach or swell, eliminating risk of sample contamination or cross-run carryover.

Software & Data Management

While the R1/R2 operates autonomously via front-panel keypad and LCD interface, optional USB-to-serial connectivity enables integration with CoMetro’s FractionLink™ PC software (Windows 10/11). This application provides method storage (up to 99 protocols), real-time run monitoring, audit-trail logging (user ID, timestamp, collected volume/time/drop count), and export to CSV for LIMS ingestion. Data records comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used with validated electronic signatures and role-based access control—making the system suitable for regulated QC/QA environments in pharmaceutical and contract research organizations.

Applications

• Purification of natural products and synthetic intermediates in medicinal chemistry pipelines.
• Isolation of monoclonal antibody fragments, peptides, and oligonucleotides following ion-exchange or size-exclusion chromatography.
• Automated collection of fractions for subsequent MALDI-TOF MS or HPLC-MS/MS analysis.
• High-throughput fractionation in combinatorial library deconvolution and hit-to-lead optimization.
• Offline coupling with GC, CE, or spectroscopic detectors requiring discrete sample handling.

FAQ

What types of chromatographic systems can the R1/R2 integrate with?
It supports all major prep-LC platforms and open-column systems via analog voltage, TTL pulse, or RS-232 communication—no proprietary drivers required.
Does the R1/R2 support gradient-aware collection?
Yes; when triggered by detector output (e.g., UV absorbance or conductivity), it initiates collection upon user-defined threshold crossing or peak apex detection.
Can I use non-standard tube sizes or custom plates?
Yes; CoMetro offers OEM customization services for bespoke rack geometries and mounting fixtures—including deep-well plates, vial trays, and cryogenic tube arrays.
Is firmware upgradeable in the field?
Yes; firmware updates are delivered via USB stick and applied through the device menu—no service engineer required.
What is the maximum allowable backpressure at the collection valve?
The integrated PEEK/PTFE valve assembly is rated for continuous operation at ≤10 bar (145 psi), compatible with most medium-pressure prep-LC conditions.