To apply pressure to the columns/wells to be processed, you must first lower the pressure
manifold onto the top of the consumables. Applying additional force to the manifold creates a
gas-tight pressure seal, pushing the gasket on the lower manifold surface onto the consumables
to be processed. After a processing step completes, you can then raise the manifold to access
the rack of columns or plates and add the next liquid in the extraction protocol. An internal
stepper motor-driven manifold elevator mechanism raises and lowers the manifold.
The manifold height is self-adjusting to accommodate SPE columns and collection racks of
varying heights. On the first processing of a new consumable stack underneath the manifold, the
manifold lowers until it detects the height of the new stack. After this first processing step
completes, the manifold retracts (raises) upward only a short distance above the consumable
stack. This distance is high enough to allow you to slide the plate or column rack out of the
processing area, but only minimally higher than the top of the consumable stack. This system
feature is for safety and is fully addressed in the section
3.3 Plate slider
The plate slider is a simple tray mechanism that allows you to easily move the extraction
consumables underneath and back out from beneath the pressure manifold. Typically, you load
the consumables onto the slider while in its forward position, and then slide the consumable stack
to the rear position (underneath the manifold) for processing.
Confirmation that the slider is fully rearward, in the correct position to align columns/wells with the
ports on the manifold, is provided via a magnetic micro-switch located inside the unit at the rear
of the plate slider. This micro-switch senses if the slider is not fully rearward and the manifold
does not lower until you correct this condition.
Notice:
The plate slider in the Otto SPEcialist PPM has a recess in the base to aid in
locating the consumable stack correctly in the slider tray. Ensure that any consumable
stack in use is properly positioned within this recess or damage to the consumables
may result from the pressure manifold.
Requirement:
Use only consumables that fit properly into the recess in the slider tray, such as
standard commercial ANSI-profile plates and Waters racks. If a consumable does not fit into the
tray recess, Waters may be able to supply you with a custom slider tray for your particular
consumables (see section
).
3.4 Safety features
Warning:
Observe Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) at all times, particularly when
working with hazardous materials. Consult the Safety Data Sheets regarding the
solvents you use. Additionally, consult the safety representative for your organization
regarding its protocols for handling such materials.
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