CoMetro R1/R2 Fraction Collector for Preparative Liquid Chromatography

Overview

The CoMetro R1/R2 Fraction Collector is an engineered solution for automated, high-integrity fraction collection in preparative liquid chromatography (prep-LC), flash chromatography, and gravity-fed column chromatography systems. Designed around a robust peristaltic or high-pressure-compatible switching valve architecture, it operates on precise fluidic timing and detection logic to isolate eluent fractions based on user-defined triggers—time, drop count, volumetric threshold, or UV/absorbance peak signals from inline detectors. Its modular design supports integration with third-party HPLC, UHPLC, and medium-pressure LC systems, enabling seamless synchronization with data acquisition software via TTL, RS-232, or analog voltage inputs. The collector’s core function is to preserve sample integrity across sequential fractions by minimizing carryover, reducing dwell time between tube switches (< 300 ms typical), and maintaining consistent flow path geometry—critical for downstream purification, compound isolation, and analytical validation workflows.

Key Features

• Multi-mode triggering: Independent selection of time-based, drop-counting, volume-integrated, or peak-synchronized collection—each configurable with user-defined thresholds and hysteresis to prevent false triggers during baseline fluctuations.
• Modular tube rack system: Interchangeable racks accommodate standard and non-standard labware—including 144 × 12–13 mm test tubes, 100 × 16 mm culture tubes, 72 × 18 mm conical tubes, 36 × 25 mm wide-mouth vials, 60 × 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 36 × 50 mL centrifuge tubes, and 96-well microplates—ensuring compatibility with diverse downstream processing requirements.
• Low-noise, maintenance-optimized actuation: Brushless DC motor-driven carousel and solenoid-actuated valve manifold deliver repeatable positioning accuracy (±0.2°) and < 45 dB(A) operational noise—suitable for shared laboratory environments and continuous overnight runs.
• Leak- and fault-resilient design: Integrated drip tray with level sensor, redundant electrical isolation (reinforced insulation per IEC 61010-1), and automatic valve shutoff upon flow interruption or pressure anomaly detection mitigate risk of solvent exposure and electrical hazard.
• Space-efficient footprint: R1 (compact configuration) fits under standard fume hood sashes; R2 (dual-rack variant) extends only in depth—enabling side-by-side placement with fraction-receiving chillers or evaporators without compromising benchtop ergonomics.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The R1/R2 collector accepts aqueous, organic, and mixed mobile phases commonly used in reversed-phase, normal-phase, and ion-exchange chromatography—including acetonitrile, methanol, THF, DCM, and buffer solutions up to pH 12. All wetted materials (PTFE tubing, PEEK valve rotors, stainless-steel fittings) are chemically inert and USP Class VI compliant. The device meets CE marking requirements under the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU). It supports GLP/GMP-aligned operation when paired with audit-trail-enabled chromatography data systems (CDS), and its deterministic collection logic ensures traceability for regulatory submissions under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with validated software interfaces.

Software & Data Management

The collector operates standalone via front-panel keypad and LCD interface, storing up to 20 method files with full parameter recall—including trigger type, delay offsets, fraction duration, tube indexing logic, and post-collection pause intervals. Optional USB-to-serial adapter enables direct communication with third-party CDS platforms (e.g., Chromeleon, Empower, OpenLAB) for synchronized method loading and real-time status reporting. All collection events—including start/stop timestamps, tube position IDs, and trigger source—are logged internally with UTC timestamping and exportable as CSV for integration into LIMS or ELN systems. No proprietary software installation is required for basic operation.

Applications

• Purification of natural products and synthetic intermediates in medicinal chemistry workflows.
• Isolation of protein fractions following size-exclusion or ion-exchange chromatography.
• Automated collection of metabolite standards from LC-MS-guided fractionation.
• High-throughput library fractionation in combinatorial synthesis support.
• Method development for scale-up processes where reproducible cut points directly impact yield and purity specifications.

FAQ

Can the R1/R2 collect fractions based on UV peak detection?
Yes—via analog voltage input (0–10 V) from compatible UV-Vis or fluorescence detectors; threshold crossing initiates tube switching with adjustable latency and hold-off windows.
Is calibration required before use?
No routine calibration is needed—the system relies on factory-trimmed timing circuits and mechanical indexing; however, users may validate tube alignment using the built-in diagnostic mode.
Does it support gradient elution workflows?
Yes—its trigger logic remains stable across changing flow rates and solvent compositions, provided the detector signal remains within dynamic range and baseline drift is compensated in software.
What safety certifications does it hold?
CE mark per IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and RoHS 2011/65/EU compliance.
Can I retrofit my existing HPLC system with the R1/R2?
Yes—standard TTL, RS-232, and analog I/O ports enable plug-and-play integration with most commercial prep-LC systems manufactured after 2005.