CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector

Overview

The CoMetro CF-2 Fraction Collector is an electromechanically actuated, stepwise fraction collection system engineered for integration into preparative liquid chromatography (prep-LC), gravity-fed column chromatography, and open-bed layer chromatography workflows. It operates on a deterministic collection logic—triggered by time intervals, discrete drop counts, or calibrated volumetric thresholds—enabling precise spatial segmentation of eluent streams across standardized receptacles. Unlike continuous or gravity-driven collectors, the CF-2 employs a servo-controlled carousel and precision stepper-motor-driven tube indexer to ensure repeatable positioning accuracy and minimal carryover between fractions. Its low-power consumption (<10 W) and thermally neutral design permit stable operation inside refrigerated environments (e.g., cold rooms at 4 °C), without inducing condensation or imposing thermal load on external cooling infrastructure. The device functions as a hardware-level interface between detection signals (e.g., UV absorbance peaks from Spectra/Chrom280 detectors) and physical sample partitioning—supporting both peak-triggered and baseline-scheduled collection protocols.

Key Features

• Three programmable collection modes: time-based (6 sec to 999 min 59 sec, 1-sec resolution), drop-count-based (1–9999 drops, 1-drop increment), and volume-derived (via user-defined drop-to-volume conversion)
• High-speed tube indexing with ≤0.35 s switching time for 12–13 mm diameter tubes—minimizing fraction overlap and preserving chromatographic integrity
• Modular tube rack system supporting multiple configurations: 174 × 12/13 mm tubes, 116 × 10–11 mm tubes, 116 × 17/18 mm tubes, or 42 × 28 mm flash vials
• Integrated optical drop counter for real-time effluent monitoring and synchronization with detector output signals
• Low-noise, brushless DC motor drive and sealed mechanical architecture ensure long-term operational stability and minimal maintenance
• Optional accessories include 3-way flow diverters (standard and high-flow variants), 2-way shut-off valves, dust-resistant acrylic cover, extendable rear mounting bracket, and 4-column adapter for parallel multi-column collection (29 fractions per column)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CF-2 is compatible with a broad range of chromatographic systems—including but not limited to Shimadzu, Waters, Agilent, and custom-built open-column setups—provided they generate TTL-compatible trigger outputs or analog voltage signals interpretable by the collector’s input interface. It supports seamless integration with UV-Vis, fluorescence, and conductivity detectors possessing peak-detection or threshold-output functionality. From a regulatory standpoint, the CF-2 itself does not store or process analytical data; however, when paired with validated chromatography data systems (CDS) compliant with 21 CFR Part 11, its hardware-triggered events can be logged with electronic signatures, audit trails, and time-stamped metadata—fulfilling core requirements for GLP and GMP environments. Its construction materials (anodized aluminum, 316 stainless steel fasteners) resist corrosion from common organic solvents and aqueous buffers used in HPLC, flash, and ion-exchange chromatography.

Software & Data Management

The CF-2 operates via front-panel keypad navigation and LED display—requiring no host PC for basic operation. All collection parameters (mode, threshold values, dwell times, rack type) are stored in non-volatile memory and persist through power cycles. For advanced workflow automation, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interfaces enable bidirectional communication with third-party CDS platforms. When synchronized with detectors featuring peak-picking algorithms (e.g., Spectra/Chrom280), the CF-2 can execute conditional collection rules—such as assigning distinct fraction volumes to peak apexes versus trough regions—or activate diversion valves only during retention time windows meeting predefined absorbance criteria. Audit-ready event logs—including start/stop timestamps, tube position changes, valve actuation sequences, and error codes—are exportable in CSV format for traceability and quality review.

Applications

• Purification of natural products, synthetic intermediates, and biologics via prep-HPLC and flash chromatography
• Isolation of metabolites or degradation products for structural elucidation (NMR, MS)
• Fractionation of protein eluates in FPLC-based purification workflows
• Automated solvent gradient fractionation in environmental or pharmaceutical impurity profiling
• Multi-column parallel screening in method development studies, enabled by the 4-column adapter
• Unattended overnight runs in regulated laboratories where reproducible, timestamped fraction assignment is critical for batch record integrity

FAQ

Can the CF-2 collect fractions based on UV peak detection?
Yes—when connected to a compatible UV detector with TTL or analog peak-trigger output (e.g., Spectra/Chrom280), the CF-2 executes real-time fraction switching aligned to chromatographic peaks.
Does it support volume-based collection without a flow meter?
Volume-based collection is achieved indirectly via calibrated drop counting—users define the average volume per drop for their specific tubing and flow rate, enabling reliable volumetric estimation within ±3% typical uncertainty.
Is cold-room operation validated?
The unit is rated for 0–40 °C ambient operation; internal thermal management ensures no condensation forms at 4 °C, and power draw remains stable under refrigerated conditions.
What safety certifications does the CF-2 hold?
It complies with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and meets CE marking requirements for EMC and low-voltage directives.
Can I retrofit an existing chromatography system with the CF-2?
Yes—the device accepts standard 5 V TTL triggers and 0–10 V analog inputs; mechanical mounting is flexible via optional brackets and adapters, accommodating most benchtop LC configurations.