Thermo Scientific AFC-3000, Operating Instructions Manual

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UltiMate 3000 Series:
AFC-3000 Automated Fraction Collector
Page 14 Operating Instructions
2.2 Operating Principle
The AFC-3000 Automated Fraction Collector collects fractions from the UltiMate 3000 or
any other HPLC system. A solenoid diverter valve directs the flow either to the waste or to
the fraction collection tubes. When Chromeleon sends a trigger signal to the AFC-3000
calling for fractions to be collected, the diverter valve moves over the assigned collection
tube and is then switched to route eluent flow into the tube.
During any movements, all tubes remain stationary while the moving diverter valve assembly
positions the drop former over the appropriate tube or above the rinse station.
The fraction collector includes the following fluidic components:
Component Description
Sample inlet capillary Eluent is supplied from the detector outlet to the common (inlet) port of the
diverter valve through this tubing.
Diverter valve This valve directs the eluent from the detector to either waste or to a collection
tube.
Drop former This component is attached to the diverter valve and forms droplets or a jet of
eluent for collection into tubes.
Waste tubing This tubing connects the waste outlet port of the diverter valve to a waste
container or to a drainage system.
Rinse station A tube-like shaped port, which is mounted to the head of the fraction collector.
The outlet of this station is connected to a waste container or a drainage
system through a tubing.
Collection tube The tube into which eluent/sample is collected.
The fraction collector includes the following axis components:
Axis Component Description
X When facing the front of the unit, the left to right movement axis of the
fraction collector arm.
Y When facing the front of the unit, the fore and aft movement axis of the
diverter valve assembly on the fraction collector arm.
Z The manually adjustable height axis of the diverter valve assembly.