CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector

Overview

The CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector is a precision-engineered, volume- and event-triggered fraction collection system designed for integration with preparative liquid chromatography and open-column chromatography systems. It operates on a robust mechanical actuation platform synchronized with real-time detection signals—primarily from UV-Vis detectors such as the Spectra/Chrom 280—to enable peak-directed fractionation. Its core function is to automate the spatial separation of eluent fractions based on user-defined thresholds, including volumetric thresholds, drop counts, or time intervals. The device employs a high-repeatability stepper-motor-driven carousel and solenoid-actuated tube positioning mechanism, ensuring accurate alignment and minimal carryover between fractions. Constructed from anodized aluminum and stainless steel, the CF-2 exhibits thermal stability and corrosion resistance, supporting operation in cold rooms (0–10 °C) without internal condensation—a critical requirement for temperature-sensitive biomolecule purification workflows.

Key Features

• Multi-mode triggering: Supports volume-based, drop-count-based, and time-based fraction collection with programmable thresholds and incremental resolution (1 µL equivalent per drop; 1-second timer granularity).
• Low-power design (<10 W): Minimizes thermal load in refrigerated environments and eliminates condensation risk inside the instrument housing.
• Modular tube handling: Accommodates up to 174 tubes (12/13 mm OD) using the standard rack (Cat. No. 124853); optional racks support 10–11 mm, 17–18 mm tubes, or 28 mm flash vials.
• Peak-synchronized collection: When interfaced with compatible UV detectors, enables dynamic fraction size adjustment—e.g., smaller volumes during peak apexes and larger volumes in baseline regions—enhancing resolution and sample recovery efficiency.
• Integrated fluid control options: Optional three-way divert valves (Cat. Nos. 124849, 124838) allow peak-only collection or end-of-run flow diversion; two-way shut-off valve (Cat. No. 124848) halts flow during tube switching to prevent overflow and cross-contamination.
• Expandable architecture: Optional 4-column adapter (Cat. No. 124876), used with the rear extension bracket (Cat. No. 124874), supports parallel acquisition from four independent chromatographic columns—ideal for method development or multi-analyte screening.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CF-2 is compatible with standard HPLC, MPLC, and gravity-fed column systems operating at flow rates up to 25 mL/min (with high-flow valve option). Its mechanical design conforms to IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment. While not intrinsically compliant with 21 CFR Part 11, the system supports audit-trail-capable data logging when paired with validated third-party chromatography data systems (CDS) that record trigger events, timestamps, and fraction assignments. All tubing interfaces use standard 1/16″ or 3/32″ compression fittings, ensuring compatibility with common PEEK, stainless steel, and fluoropolymer lines. Materials in contact with eluents are chemically inert (316 stainless steel, PTFE, and borosilicate glass-compatible surfaces), meeting USP Class VI and ISO 10993 biocompatibility expectations for pharmaceutical intermediate handling.

Software & Data Management

The CF-2 operates via front-panel keypad navigation with LED status indicators—no embedded software or firmware updates required. Trigger inputs accept TTL-level pulses (e.g., from detector integrators or peak-sensing modules), enabling seamless synchronization without proprietary drivers. All collection parameters—including start/stop conditions, tube indexing logic, and delay offsets—are stored in non-volatile memory and retained after power cycling. For traceability, users may log run metadata manually or integrate with external CDS platforms via analog/digital I/O ports. Optional accessories such as the 4-column adapter and extension bracket facilitate physical co-location with detectors and fraction tracking hardware, reducing signal latency and improving temporal fidelity in automated purification sequences.

Applications

• Purification of natural products, peptides, and oligonucleotides in academic and industrial labs.
• Method scouting for gradient optimization in reversed-phase and ion-exchange chromatography.
• Automated collection of SEC fractions for molecular weight distribution analysis.
• Parallel isolation of metabolites from multi-column screening arrays.
• Integration into GMP-aligned purification workflows where fraction identity, timing, and positional mapping must be rigorously documented.

FAQ

Can the CF-2 operate in a 4 °C cold room?
Yes—the unit is rated for 0–40 °C ambient operation, features low thermal dissipation (<10 W), and contains no internal condensation-prone electronics or hygroscopic components.
Is the tube switching time adjustable?
No—the mechanical tube indexing time is fixed at 0.35 s for 12/13 mm tubes to ensure reproducible positioning and minimize dwell time-related dispersion.
Does the CF-2 support GLP-compliant data archiving?
The device itself does not generate electronic records, but it provides deterministic, timestamp-synchronized output signals that can be captured and archived by compliant CDS platforms meeting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.
What is the maximum flow rate supported with the standard configuration?
Up to 10 mL/min is recommended for standard valve configurations; high-flow divert valves (Cat. No. 124838) extend compatibility to 25 mL/min without droplet loss or misdirection.
Can I use custom tube racks?
Yes—any rack mechanically compatible with the carousel’s mounting geometry and tube diameter tolerances (±0.2 mm) may be used, though CoMetro-validated racks guarantee positional repeatability and full 174-fraction capacity.