Pumps - GE AKTA avant User Manual

3 Standard instrument modules

3.1 Pumps

3.1

Pumps

Introduction
The ÄKTA avant instrument is fitted with three high precision pumps. There are two
system pumps, System pump A and System pump B, and one Sample pump. The system
pumps can be used individually, or in combination to generate isocratic or gradient
elution in purification methods. The Sample pump is dedicated for direct loading of
sample onto a column, or for filling of sample loops.
This section describes the pumps and their functions, and also the pump piston rinsing
systems.
Function of the pumps
Each pump module consists of two pump heads. The individual heads are identical but
actuated in opposite phase to each other by individual stepper motors, controlled by a
microprocessor. The two pistons and pump heads work alternately to give a continuous,
low pulsation, liquid delivery.
To ensure delivery of correct volume, the pumps must be free from air. The purge valve
on each of the pump heads is used to remove air. For instruction on how to purge the
pumps, see Section 5.4 Prime inlets and purge pump heads, on page 165.
The following table contains the operating limits and labels of the system pumps of ÄKTA
avant 25 and ÄKTA avant 150, respectively.
Configuration
ÄKTA avant 25
ÄKTA avant 25
56
Label
P9 A and P9 B
P9-S
Pump Flow rate
type
P9 0.001 to 25
ml/min
Note:
When running
the Column
packing flow
instruction, the
maximum flow
rate is 50
ml/min.
P9-S 0.01 to 50
ml/min
ÄKTA avant User Manual 29035184 AE
Max.
pressure
20 MPa
10 Mpa