CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector

Overview

The CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector is a precision-engineered liquid-phase fractionation module designed for integration with preparative HPLC, flash chromatography, and gravity-fed column chromatography systems. It operates on a dual-signal triggering principle—accepting analog UV/VIS absorbance outputs from detectors (e.g., Spectra/Chrom280) to enable peak-responsive collection, while simultaneously supporting independent drop-count, time-based, or calibrated volume-based fractionation. Its low-power (<10 W), thermally neutral architecture allows uninterrupted operation inside refrigerated chambers (0–40 °C), eliminating condensation risk and minimizing thermal load on cold-room infrastructure. Constructed from anodized aluminum and stainless steel, the CF-2 delivers mechanical stability and corrosion resistance essential for long-term use in solvent-rich laboratory environments.

Key Features

• Three programmable collection modes: drop-count (1–9999 drops, 1-drop increment), time-based (6 sec–999 min 59 sec, 1-sec resolution), and volume-derived collection via user-defined drop-to-volume calibration.
• Real-time peak-triggered fractionation: when paired with analog-output UV detectors, the CF-2 interprets baseline deviation signals to initiate collection at user-defined threshold levels—enabling differential volume allocation between peak and non-peak regions.
• High-speed tube indexing: ≤0.35 s switching time between adjacent 12/13 mm tubes ensures minimal sample carryover and preserves chromatographic integrity during rapid elution events.
• Modular expandability: optional accessories include 3-way flow diverters (for peak-only collection or end-of-run flow redirection), 2-way shut-off valves (to halt flow during tube changes), 4-column adapter (29 fractions per column, total 116 fractions), and extendable rear mounting brackets for detector alignment.
• Low-noise, maintenance-free stepping motor drive system with positional feedback—designed for unattended overnight runs without drift or misalignment.
• CE-compliant electrical design with dual-voltage capability (115 VAC / 230 VAC, 50/60 Hz) and built-in overcurrent protection.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CF-2 accommodates standard chromatographic consumables including glass or polypropylene test tubes (10–18 mm diameter), scintillation vials (28 mm), and custom flash vials. Its open mechanical interface supports integration with third-party systems—including Teledyne ISCO, Biotage, Gilson, and custom-built columns—without proprietary lock-in. All tubing paths are chemically inert (PTFE, PEEK, or stainless steel), compatible with common organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate) and aqueous buffers. When deployed in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical QC labs), the CF-2 meets foundational requirements for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when used with validated detector software that provides electronic signatures, audit trails, and secure data export—though the collector itself does not store or process chromatograms.

Software & Data Management

The CF-2 operates as a hardware controller without embedded firmware-based data logging. Instead, it receives TTL or analog trigger inputs from external detectors and executes preconfigured collection logic locally. Full experimental metadata—including start/stop timestamps, trigger thresholds, tube mapping, and mode selection—is recorded externally by the host chromatography data system (CDS). This architecture ensures traceability under GLP and GMP frameworks: all parameters are set prior to run initiation, and no runtime modifications are possible without manual intervention and procedural documentation. Optional USB-to-serial adapters enable ASCII command-line control for automated script integration (e.g., Python or LabVIEW), supporting batch method deployment across multi-system laboratories.

Applications

• Preparative purification of natural products, synthetic intermediates, and peptide libraries using gradient HPLC or medium-pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC).
• Automated fraction harvesting in metabolomics workflows where reproducible sub-fractionation of complex eluates is required for downstream NMR or MS analysis.
• Method development support—rapid iteration of collection windows based on real-time UV response without re-injecting samples.
• Cold-chain compound isolation: stable performance at 4 °C enables collection of thermolabile biomolecules (e.g., enzymes, oligonucleotides) without thermal degradation or condensate formation.
• Multi-column parallel processing in high-throughput screening (HTS) setups using the 4-column adapter, reducing cycle time per compound class.

FAQ

Does the CF-2 support volume-based collection without a flow meter?
Yes—via drop calibration. Users define the average volume per drop for their specific pump/tubing configuration, enabling accurate volume-derived collection without inline flow sensors.
Can the CF-2 be operated inside a −20 °C cold room?
No—the specified operating range is 0–40 °C. While it functions reliably at 4 °C, sub-zero ambient temperatures may impair stepper motor torque and cause condensation inside non-sealed electronics.
Is the tube rack included with all configurations?
No—only models 124845 and 124846 include the 174-position rack (12/13 mm). Rack options (10–18 mm tubes, 28 mm vials) are sold separately under part numbers 124853–124856.
What is the maximum flow rate compatible with the standard 3-way diverter valve?
The standard valve (p/n 124849) is rated for ≤5 mL/min. For flows up to 25 mL/min, the high-flow variant (p/n 124838) with 3/32″ porting is recommended.
Does the CF-2 generate its own chromatogram or store run data?
No—it is a hardware actuator only. All signal acquisition, peak detection, and data archiving must be handled by the upstream detector and CDS software.