Hanuo YC-2 Chromatography Refrigerated Cabinet

Overview

The Hanuo YC-2 Chromatography Refrigerated Cabinet is an engineered environmental control system specifically designed to support low-temperature chromatographic workflows in academic, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology laboratories. Unlike standard refrigerated storage units, the YC-2 integrates structural, thermal, and ergonomic specifications aligned with the operational demands of column-based separation techniques—including gel filtration, ion exchange, affinity, and size-exclusion chromatography. Its core function is to maintain a stable, uniform temperature environment between 1 °C and 10 °C—within ±0.5 °C accuracy—across the full internal volume, minimizing thermal gradients that could compromise buffer viscosity, column packing integrity, or biomolecular stability during extended runs. The cabinet employs a high-efficiency imported hermetic refrigeration compressor, coupled with optimized airflow distribution and high-density polyurethane insulation (≥80 mm thickness), ensuring consistent thermal performance even under continuous 24/7 operation and frequent door access.

Key Features

• Stainless steel interior chamber (AISI 304 grade) with seamless welds and rounded corners—resistant to corrosion from organic solvents, aqueous buffers, and cleaning agents used in chromatography protocols;
• Dual-pane tempered glass door with magnetic gasket seal and integrated mechanical lock—provides full visual monitoring while maintaining thermal integrity and meeting laboratory security requirements;
• Ergonomic vertical clearance of 1700 mm enables safe, unobstructed handling of chromatography columns up to 1.5 m in length without disassembly or tilting;
• Two vertically adjustable stainless steel support rods and two open-grid, load-rated shelves (capacity: 50 kg per shelf, uniformly distributed) accommodate modular column racks, fraction collectors, peristaltic pump manifolds, and ancillary instrumentation;
• Dedicated internal 230 V AC power outlet (IEC 60320 C13), independently fused and isolated from main control circuitry, permits direct connection of pumps, detectors, or fraction collectors without external extension cords;
• Integrated dual-spectrum lighting: white-light LED array for procedural visibility and UVC germicidal lamp (254 nm, 15 W) for periodic decontamination of interior surfaces—compliant with ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom-compatible maintenance practices;
• Intelligent alarm system with audible/visual indicators for over-temperature events and differential-temperature deviation (>2 °C between sensor zones), supporting GLP-compliant record-keeping when paired with optional RS-232 data logging.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The YC-2 is validated for use with common chromatographic media—including Sephadex®, Sepharose®, Toyopearl®, and SOURCE™ resins—as well as pre-packed columns (e.g., HiLoad®, Tricorn™, and Econo™ series). Its non-condensing, low-humidity operating regime prevents ice formation on column frits or detector flow cells. The cabinet conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and meets electromagnetic compatibility standards per EN 61326-1:2013. While not certified as a medical device, its temperature stability profile aligns with USP Analytical Instrument Qualification guidelines for “Category B” environmental support systems. Documentation packages include Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports, temperature mapping validation summaries (per ISO 14644-3 Annex B), and material traceability for wetted components.

Software & Data Management

The YC-2 operates via a microprocessor-based digital controller with real-time display of setpoint, actual chamber temperature, and alarm status. Though it does not include embedded software or touchscreen interface, its optional RS-232 port supports ASCII protocol communication for integration into centralized laboratory infrastructure. When connected to a host PC running compliant data acquisition software (e.g., LabVIEW™, WinCC OA, or custom Python-based SCADA), users can log temperature history at user-defined intervals (1–60 min), trigger email/SMS alerts via gateway middleware, and generate audit-trail-ready CSV reports satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—provided the host system implements electronic signatures, audit trails, and data integrity controls. Calibration certificates for the dual NTC temperature sensors are provided with each unit and traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China).

Applications

• Low-temperature purification of thermolabile proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and viral vectors using FPLC/AKTA systems;
• Storage and equilibration of pre-packed columns prior to use, reducing run-to-run variability;
• Simultaneous operation of multi-column chromatography setups requiring synchronized thermal conditioning;
• Buffer and reagent cold storage adjacent to analytical workstations—eliminating transport-induced temperature excursions;
• Environmental staging for QC/QA testing under controlled conditions per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 5.4.2;
• Supporting GMP-aligned process development studies where equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) of ancillary systems is required.

FAQ

What is the recommended ambient operating environment for the YC-2?
The cabinet is rated for installation in rooms maintained between 15 °C and 32 °C with relative humidity ≤75% non-condensing. Ventilation clearance of ≥100 mm must be maintained around rear and side panels.
Can the YC-2 be used for cryogenic applications below 0 °C?
No. The YC-2 is not designed for sub-zero operation. Its refrigeration cycle, insulation specification, and condensate management system are optimized exclusively for the 1–10 °C range.
Is the UV germicidal lamp interlocked with the door switch?
Yes. The UVC lamp automatically deactivates upon door opening and requires manual reset via front-panel key switch after closure to prevent accidental exposure.
Does the unit include validation documentation for GxP environments?
Standard delivery includes FAT report and temperature uniformity mapping summary. Full IQ/OQ documentation packages—including protocol templates, executed reports, and calibration records—are available as optional add-ons upon order placement.
What maintenance schedule is recommended?
Condenser coil cleaning every 6 months (or more frequently in dusty environments); annual verification of temperature sensor calibration; biannual inspection of door gasket integrity and caster locking mechanisms.