SSI LS LITE High-Pressure Isocratic HPLC Pump (Single-Head, Economy Model)

Overview

The SSI LS LITE High-Pressure Isocratic HPLC Pump is an engineered solution for laboratories requiring robust, repeatable solvent delivery in routine analytical and semi-preparative liquid chromatography applications. Designed around a single-plunger reciprocating mechanism with active low-dead-volume pulse dampening, the pump delivers near-pulse-free flow across its operational range—critical for baseline stability in UV and fluorescence detection. Its isocratic architecture eliminates gradient mixing complexity while maintaining high-pressure integrity up to 6,000 psi (414 bar), enabling compatibility with sub-2 µm particle-packed columns and high-efficiency UHPLC-style separations when operated within specified flow-pressure envelopes. The pump’s mechanical architecture prioritizes long-term seal life and minimal maintenance intervals, with dual-material check valves (sapphire/ruby) and chemically inert fluidic pathways (PEEK, stainless steel, PTFE, UHMWPE) ensuring compatibility with aggressive mobile phases—including acidic, basic, and organic solvents commonly used in pharmaceutical QC, environmental analysis, and biomolecule purification.

Key Features

• Single-head plunger design with integrated low-dead-volume pulse dampener achieving ≤2% pulsation at 1 mL/min and 1,000 psi—validated per ISO 13842:2017 for HPLC pump performance.
• Flow accuracy <2% (at ≥0.20 mL/min, 20% isopropanol/water, 1,000 psi) and precision ≤0.2% RSD—measured under GLP-compliant test conditions using gravimetric flow verification.
• Full front-panel control via interactive keypad: real-time pressure monitoring, programmable run/stop sequences, manual prime/purge activation, and status LED indicators for pressure fault, leak detection, and motor stall.
• Micro-USB interface supports bidirectional communication for remote operation, firmware updates, and audit-trail-capable parameter logging—compatible with third-party LIMS and instrument control software.
• Modular fluid path construction with replaceable sapphire/ruby check valves and PEEK tubing fittings—designed for rapid field servicing without recalibration.
• Integrated outlet filter (0.5 µm stainless steel) and removable drip tray—minimizing contamination risk and facilitating spill containment during column changes or system priming.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LS LITE accommodates a broad spectrum of sample matrices through its chemically resistant fluid path. Stainless steel wetted parts withstand chloride-containing buffers and high-salt mobile phases; PEEK components ensure stability in pH 1–14 environments; sapphire/ruby valves resist abrasion from particulate-laden samples. The pump meets essential safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC 61010-1 (2012) and EN 61326-1:2013. While not certified for GMP production environments, its design supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant data handling when paired with validated USB-logging software and user access controls. It is routinely deployed in laboratories adhering to ASTM E260, USP , and ISO/IEC 17025 quality frameworks for method development, stability-indicating assays, and extractables/leachables screening.

Software & Data Management

The LS LITE operates as a standalone instrument but integrates seamlessly into automated workflows via its native Micro-USB protocol. Driver libraries (Windows/Linux/macOS) enable direct integration with Python-based control scripts, LabVIEW VIs, or commercial chromatography data systems (CDS). All parameter changes—including flow setpoint, run duration, and purge volume—are timestamped and stored in non-volatile memory. When connected to a host PC, the pump logs pressure history, motor current draw, and error codes—supporting root-cause analysis during method transfer or equipment qualification (IQ/OQ). Audit trails include operator ID (if configured externally), change timestamps, and pre/post-change values—aligning with ALCOA+ principles for data integrity.

Applications

• Routine isocratic HPLC for small-molecule quantitation (e.g., residual solvents, preservatives, excipients) per USP monographs.
• Semi-preparative purification of peptides and oligonucleotides where precise flow control minimizes band broadening.
• Mobile phase delivery in dissolution testing apparatus (USP Apparatus II) with continuous flow-through UV monitoring.
• Calibration standard delivery in elemental analysis (ICP-OES/MS) and ion chromatography systems requiring stable eluent flow.
• Reagent metering in automated assay platforms—leveraging its integrated prime/purge valve for accurate bolus dispensing.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended operating pressure for PEEK fluidic components?
PEEK tubing and fittings are rated to 5,000 psi (345 bar) at 25°C. Operation above this limit requires stainless steel or Hastelloy-wetted alternatives.
Can the LS LITE be used in gradient HPLC systems?
No—it is strictly an isocratic pump. Gradient capability requires external low-pressure mixing modules or a dedicated quaternary pump.
Is firmware upgradable in the field?
Yes. Firmware updates are delivered via Micro-USB using SSI’s certified utility and require no hardware modification.
Does the pump support analog output for external pressure monitoring?
No analog outputs are provided; pressure telemetry is accessible only via USB digital interface.
What validation documentation is supplied with the instrument?
Each unit ships with a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report including flow accuracy/precision verification, pressure calibration certificate traceable to NIST standards, and electrical safety test record.