Bio-Rad - Preparing for a Stress-free QC Audit

New flow monitoring device aims to enhance preparative HPLC efficiency

Continuous flow rate measurement for improved fraction purity and yield

TESTA Analytical has introduced a new device designed to optimise preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) processes. The Prep Flowmeter, a compact instrument for continuous monitoring of preparative HPLC purification and downstream processing systems, offers precise real-time measurement of liquid flow rates up to 650 ml/minute.

Application in pharmaceutical and biochemical research

Preparative liquid chromatography is widely employed in various applications, including purification of chiral drugs, fingerprinting of peptides, proteins, and oligonucleotides, as well as purification of fine chemicals.
The Prep Flowmeter’s ability to accurately monitor flow rates makes it particularly suitable for preparative scale systems used in the production of larger quantities of pure compounds.

Enhancing fraction collection accuracy

The device addresses a common challenge in preparative liquid chromatography: the reliance on volume measurement for fraction collection. By providing precise absolute flow rate measurements, the Prep Flowmeter can potentially improve the purity of separated compounds and optimise the collection process, thereby enhancing the yield of individual fractions.

Technical specifications and features

The Prep Flowmeter utilises a thermal flow sensor, which offers high accuracy, sensitivity, and resolution without interfering with the process measurement. This non-invasive approach allows the device to operate over
a wide dynamic range. The compact instrument is powered via USB connection and includes an integral high-resolution OLED display for easy monitoring of current flow values.

Data management and connectivity

An accompanying PC-based application enables continuous recording and storage of measured flow rates. The device also features data buffering capabilities to prevent data loss in case of temporary disconnection from the PC.

Beyond its primary function in process optimisation, the Prep Flowmeter can also be employed for periodic performance validation and troubleshooting of preparative liquid chromatography systems, potentially offering a versatile tool for laboratory scientists working with these techniques.

For more information on the Prep Flowmeter, visit: https://www.testa-analytical.com/flow-monitoring.html

Digital issue: Please click here for more information

TestaAnalytical Prep Flowmeter