Elite ASF 5110 Multifunctional Autosampler & Fraction Collector for HPLC Systems
| Brand | Elite |
|---|---|
| Origin | Liaoning, China |
| Manufacturer Type | OEM Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic Instrument |
| Model | ASF 5110 |
| Price Range | USD 7,000–14,000 (FOB) |
| Instrument Type | HPLC Autosampler & Fraction Collector |
| Sample Injection Volume | 0–100 µL (expandable) |
| Injection Precision | RSD < 0.5% (partial-loop), < 0.3% (full-loop), < 1.0% (needle-injection) |
| Linearity | > 0.999 |
| Carryover | < 0.01% |
| Fraction Collection Response Time | 30 ms |
| Collection Vial Capacity | up to 4 mL |
| Compatible Tray Formats | 120-well, 96-well, and 72-well microplates |
| Collection Mode | Time-based fractionation table |
Overview
The Elite ASF 5110 Multifunctional Autosampler & Fraction Collector is an integrated, dual-role automation platform engineered specifically for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC) workflows. Unlike conventional single-function autosamplers or fraction collectors, the ASF 5110 implements a unified fluidic architecture based on precision syringe-driven injection and high-speed valve switching (including a multi-position selector valve and dual 2-position/6-port valves), enabling seamless transition between sample introduction and time-resolved fraction collection without hardware reconfiguration. Its core operational principle relies on programmable sequence control of fluid paths—where the same sample needle serves both as an injector into the analytical flow path and as a dispense probe into collection vials—thereby eliminating cross-system alignment errors and minimizing dead volume. Designed under China’s National Major Scientific Instrument Development Program (Grant No. 2012YQ120044), the system supports fully automated, unattended operation for method development, peak purification, preparative-scale fractionation, and multidimensional separation coupling.
Key Features
- Dual-mode operational flexibility: operates independently as an HPLC autosampler, a time-triggered fraction collector, or in synchronized compound modes—including “fraction collection → autosampling” and “autosampling → fraction collection → autosampling”—enabling iterative analysis loops and closed-loop method optimization.
- High-precision syringe-based injection with selectable loop sizes and partial-loop techniques; validated repeatability of RSD < 0.5% under full-loop conditions and < 1.0% in needle-injection mode, meeting ISO 8655-5 and USP requirements for volumetric accuracy in regulated environments.
- Ultrafast fraction switching: 30 ms actuation response time ensures accurate temporal resolution for narrow chromatographic peaks (e.g., sub-10 s elution windows), critical for retention-time-aligned collection in gradient separations.
- Modular tray compatibility: accommodates standard 120-, 96-, and 72-well microplate formats with vial volumes up to 4 mL; plate positioning is motorized and encoder-verified for positional reproducibility.
- Integrated wash station with dedicated cleaning solvent path and waste reservoir (F and G in system schematic), reducing carryover to < 0.01%—verified per ICH Q2(R2) carryover validation guidelines.
- Robust mechanical design with minimized actuator count: co-integration of sampling and collection functions eliminates redundant stepper motors, solenoid banks, and motion rails, resulting in higher MTBF and lower service frequency compared to cascaded standalone units.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ASF 5110 handles aqueous, organic, and mixed-phase samples compatible with standard HPLC mobile phases (e.g., acetonitrile/water, methanol/buffer). It interfaces natively with Elite P230/P300 series HPLC pumps and UV/VIS detectors, and supports analog/digital trigger input/output (TTL, RS-232, Ethernet) for synchronization with third-party systems including Agilent, Waters, and Shimadzu platforms. The instrument complies with CE electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. Its software architecture supports audit trail generation, electronic signatures, and user access levels aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 requirements when deployed with compliant LIMS or CDS environments.
Software & Data Management
Control is managed via Elite ChromaLink™ 3.0 software—a Windows-based application supporting method scripting, real-time status monitoring, and event-triggered logic (e.g., collect fraction upon UV threshold crossing). All acquisition parameters, injection logs, collection timestamps, and maintenance records are stored in encrypted SQLite databases with optional export to CSV, PDF, or XML. The software includes built-in validation templates for IQ/OQ protocols and generates raw data files compliant with ASTM E1950-20 (Standard Practice for Chromatographic Data Exchange). Audit trails record operator ID, timestamp, parameter changes, and system events with immutable hashing—fully traceable for GLP/GMP audits.
Applications
- Automated fraction collection for natural product isolation, metabolite enrichment, and impurity profiling in pharmaceutical QC labs.
- Interface module for comprehensive 2D-LC (LC×LC), where the ASF 5110 collects first-dimension effluent into discrete vials and re-injects them sequentially onto the second-dimension column.
- Unattended method scouting: sequential injection of calibration standards, QC samples, and unknowns followed by timed fraction capture for post-run mass spectral deconvolution.
- Stability-indicating assays requiring repeated injection of stressed samples with parallel fraction recovery for forced degradation product identification.
- Process analytical technology (PAT) support in biomanufacturing, enabling real-time sampling from bioreactors or purification skids coupled with inline UV detection and fraction archiving.
FAQ
Can the ASF 5110 be used as a standalone autosampler without activating fraction collection?
Yes—the device defaults to autosampler-only mode unless fraction collection parameters are explicitly enabled in the method script.
Does it support pressure-tolerant operation for UHPLC applications?
The ASF 5110 is rated for maximum system backpressure of 40 MPa (5,800 psi) when used with Elite’s UHPLC-compatible needle seats and sealing components; optional high-pressure upgrade kit available.
How is carryover validated during installation qualification?
Carryover testing follows USP Analytical Instrument Qualification protocol using a high-concentration standard followed by blank injections; acceptance criterion is signal ≤ 0.01% of initial peak area.
Is remote monitoring supported over network infrastructure?
Yes—Ethernet interface enables secure HTTP/HTTPS access to real-time status pages, alarm logs, and firmware update portals via browser-based dashboard.
What regulatory documentation is supplied with the instrument?
Each unit ships with Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report, CE Declaration of Conformity, electrical safety test certificate, and complete 21 CFR Part 11 compliance package (including role-based access matrix and electronic signature implementation guide).
