CoMetro R1 Automated Fraction Collector

Overview

The CoMetro R1 Automated Fraction Collector is a precision-engineered, volume-triggered fraction collection system designed for integration into preparative liquid chromatography (prep-LC), flash chromatography, and gravity-fed column chromatography workflows. It operates on a robust solenoid-actuated valve mechanism that enables deterministic, reproducible fraction switching in response to user-defined volumetric thresholds—ensuring consistent eluate segmentation without reliance on UV signal intensity or retention time variability. Unlike analog timers or drop-counting-only systems, the R1 supports multi-parameter triggering logic (volume, time, drop count, or external peak signal), making it suitable for both method development and routine purification where fraction purity, yield recovery, and inter-run repeatability are critical. Its compact footprint (31 × 33 × 35.5 cm) and low acoustic emission (<45 dB(A)) support deployment in shared analytical labs, cleanrooms, and regulated environments where spatial efficiency and operational quietness are prerequisites.

Key Features

• Multi-mode collection logic: programmable triggers based on cumulative volume (mL), elapsed time (s/min), drop count (user-calibrated), or external TTL-compatible peak signal from UV/VIS or conductivity detectors
• High-fidelity valve actuation: stainless-steel fluid path with PEEK tubing interface; <100 ms valve switching latency ensures minimal band broadening and maximal fraction integrity at flow rates up to 100 mL/min
• Modular tube rack compatibility: accepts standardized racks including 144-13 (144 × 13 mm tubes), 100-16 (100 × 16 mm), 72-18 (72 × 18 mm), 36-25 (36 × 25 mm), 60-1.5 (60 × 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes), and 36-50 (36 × 50 mL centrifuge tubes)
• Non-volatile method storage: retains up to 20 user-defined collection protocols with independent trigger parameters, dwell times, and rack positioning sequences
• Safety-integrated design: built-in leak detection circuitry, isolated power supply, and grounded chassis compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards
• Tool-free rack mounting: quick-release mechanism allows reconfiguration between linear (left-to-right) and serpentine collection patterns without recalibration

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The R1 accommodates aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent mobile phases common in reversed-phase, normal-phase, and ion-exchange chromatography. All wetted materials—including valve stators, rotor seals, and fluidic manifolds—are chemically resistant to acetonitrile, methanol, THF, DCM, and 0.1 M HCl/NaOH solutions. The system meets CE marking requirements under Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD). When integrated with validated chromatography data systems (CDS) supporting 21 CFR Part 11, the R1’s external trigger interface enables electronic signature–enabled fraction logging, timestamped audit trails, and secure method archiving—supporting FDA-regulated stability studies, QC release testing, and extractables/leachables profiling per USP .

Software & Data Management

The R1 operates autonomously via front-panel keypad navigation and LCD display, eliminating dependency on host PC software. However, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface enables bidirectional communication with third-party CDS platforms (e.g., Chromeleon, Empower, OpenLab CDS) for synchronized method loading, real-time status polling, and automated fraction labeling. All collection events—including start/stop timestamps, total collected volume per tube, and active trigger mode—are logged internally and exportable as CSV files for LIMS integration. No proprietary drivers or cloud services are required; firmware updates are performed via USB memory stick using signed binary packages.

Applications

• Purification of natural product isolates (alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes) from crude extracts using medium-pressure flash systems
• Buffer exchange and desalting of monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins in FPLC-based polishing steps
• Collection of discrete oligonucleotide synthesis fractions during trityl-on purification
• Automated solvent fractionation in phytochemical screening workflows aligned with ISO 21569:2019 (food authenticity testing)
• Time-resolved metabolite harvesting in preparative-scale HILIC separations for NMR structural elucidation

FAQ

Does the R1 support gradient elution synchronization?
Yes—the external peak trigger input accepts TTL-level signals from compatible UV or conductivity detectors, enabling precise fraction cuts aligned with gradient transitions or compound elution windows.
Can the R1 be used with high-viscosity solvents like glycerol/water mixtures?
It is rated for viscosities up to 20 cP at 25°C; for >20 cP applications, flow rate must be reduced below 50 mL/min to maintain volumetric accuracy and prevent valve stalling.
Is method validation documentation available for GMP environments?
CoMetro provides IQ/OQ protocol templates and factory calibration certificates traceable to NIST standards; PQ execution requires site-specific testing per ASTM E2500-13.
What is the minimum programmable volume increment?
0.1 mL, with ±1% volumetric accuracy across the 0.5–100 mL/min flow range when calibrated with certified syringe pumps.
Are replacement valves and tubing kits supplied as spare parts?
Yes—valve rotor/stator assemblies (P/N VAL-R1-KIT), PEEK capillary sets (P/N TUB-R1-PEEK), and rack adapters are stocked globally through authorized distributors.