BS-16A Automatic Fraction Collector (Standard Model)
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | BS-16A |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
| Tube Capacity | 16 × 100 mL |
| Time-Based Collection Range | 1 s – 99 min 59 s |
| Power-Fail Data Retention | 10 years |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 260 × 250 × 340 mm |
Overview
The BS-16A Automatic Fraction Collector (Standard Model) is a precision-engineered liquid handling instrument designed for automated, time-triggered fractionation of eluent streams in liquid-phase chromatographic separations. Operating on the principle of programmable time-based collection, it replaces manual fraction collection during column chromatography—particularly in gel filtration, ion exchange, affinity, and size-exclusion applications—ensuring consistent sample segmentation without operator intervention. Its modular architecture enables seamless integration with peristaltic or syringe-driven constant-flow pumps (e.g., HL-series) and gradient mixers (e.g., TH-series), supporting both standalone operation and synchronized multi-instrument workflows. The device complies with fundamental laboratory automation requirements for reproducibility, traceability, and operational continuity under intermittent power conditions.
Key Features
- 16-position tube rack accommodating standard 100 mL collection tubes (e.g., 16 × 16 mm or 18 × 150 mm formats), optimized for medium-volume eluate capture in preparative and analytical-scale separations.
- Precise time-based triggering with adjustable collection intervals from 1 second to 99 minutes and 59 seconds, configurable in 1-second increments for high-resolution temporal fractionation.
- Non-volatile memory retention system preserving all user-defined timing parameters and operational history for up to 10 years following power loss—critical for unattended overnight or weekend runs.
- Compact benchtop footprint (260 × 250 × 340 mm) engineered for compatibility with standard fume hoods, cold rooms, and chromatography workstations without spatial compromise.
- Robust electromechanical actuator design with low-noise stepper motor control, ensuring repeatable tube indexing and minimal cross-contamination risk between fractions.
- Front-panel LED interface with intuitive button navigation—no external computer required for basic operation—supporting rapid setup and real-time status monitoring.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BS-16A is compatible with aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent eluents commonly used in HPLC, FPLC, and gravity-fed column chromatography systems. It accepts standard borosilicate glass or polypropylene tubes meeting ISO 8536-1 and ASTM D2572 specifications. While the unit itself does not carry CE, UKCA, or FDA 510(k) certification, its operational logic and data retention architecture align with GLP-compliant documentation practices when integrated into validated chromatography workflows. Users implementing this collector in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical QC labs) are advised to perform IQ/OQ validation per internal SOPs and reference relevant sections of USP , ISO/IEC 17025, and ICH Q5C for fraction integrity assessment.
Software & Data Management
The BS-16A operates via embedded firmware without proprietary software dependency; however, it supports optional RS-232 serial output (available on select firmware versions) for logging collection timestamps and cycle completion signals to external PCs or LIMS platforms. When paired with compliant data acquisition systems, timestamped event logs can be archived with audit-trail capability satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records—provided the host system implements appropriate user authentication, electronic signatures, and change-control protocols. No onboard data export or USB storage is included in the standard configuration.
Applications
- Automated fraction collection in protein purification workflows using AKTA or Bio-Rad FPLC systems.
- Time-resolved metabolite isolation during reversed-phase or hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC).
- Preparative-scale natural product isolation from crude extracts via silica or C18 columns.
- Quality control of monoclonal antibody elution profiles in process development laboratories.
- Educational use in undergraduate biochemistry and analytical chemistry laboratories for teaching chromatographic theory and practice.
- Integration into custom-built continuous-flow reaction monitoring setups requiring sequential sampling at fixed intervals.
FAQ
Can the BS-16A be used with high-pressure HPLC systems?
No—it is designed for low-to-medium pressure liquid delivery (≤ 2 bar), typically driven by peristaltic or syringe pumps. Direct connection to HPLC pump outlets requires pressure-reduction manifolds and flow-splitting configurations.
Does the device support volume-based collection?
No—the BS-16A offers time-based collection only. Volume-triggered fractionation requires integration with a flow meter and external controller or upgrade to advanced models (e.g., BS-100A with optional flow sensor interface).
Is calibration required before use?
No routine calibration is specified; however, users should verify tube positioning accuracy and timing synchronization using a calibrated stopwatch and visual inspection prior to critical experiments.
What tube dimensions are supported?
Standard 16 mm outer diameter × 150 mm length tubes (max. 100 mL fill volume); custom racks may be fabricated for alternate formats upon request.
Can data be exported to Excel or LIMS?
Only via optional RS-232 output and third-party serial logging software—no native CSV or database export functionality is built into the unit.
