Introduction To The Autosampler - Agilent Technologies G1329A User Manual

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Introduction to the Autosampler

Introduction to the Autosampler

Introduction to the Autosampler
Three models of Agilent 1200 Infinity Series autosamplers are available;
within this introduction they will be referred to as the standard autosampler
(G1329A), the standard autosampler SL (G1329B) and the preparative
autosampler (G2260A). Unless otherwise stated all information in this section
is valid for all models.
The Agilent 1100 Series autosamplers and Agilent 1200 Infinity Series
autosamplers are designed for use with other modules of the Agilent 1200
Infinity Series LC system, with the HP 1050 Series, or with other LC systems if
adequate remote control inputs and outputs are available. The autosamplerss
are controlled from the Agilent 1200 Infinity control module (G4208 A Instant
Pilot) or from the Agilent ChemStation for LC.
Three sample-rack sizes are available for the autosamplers. The standard
full-size rack holds 100 × 1.8 ml vials, while the two half-size racks provide
space for 40 × 1.8 ml vials and 15 × 6 ml vials respectively. Any two half-size
rack trays can be installed in the autosamplers simultaneously. A specially
designed sample-rack holding 100 × 1.8 ml vials is available for use with
thermostatted autosamplers. The half-size racks trays are not designed for an
optimal heat transfer when they are used with a thermostatted autosampler.
The autosamplers transport mechanism uses an X-Z-Theta movement to
optimize vial pick-up and return. Vials are picked up by the gripper arm, and
positioned below the sampling unit. The gripper transport mechanism and
sampling unit are driven by motors. Movement is monitored by optical sensors
and optical encoders to ensure correct operation. The metering device is
always flushed after injection to ensure minimum carry-over.
The standard analytical head device provides injection volumes from
0.1 – 100 µl. Two preparative head devices provide injection volumes from
0.1 – 900 µl. One head is limited by a system pressure of 200 bars, the other by
a system pressure of 400 bars. The G1329B autosampler SL uses an analytical
head providing injection volumes from 0.1 – 100 µl for pressures up to 600 bar
as used in rapid resolution systems.
The six-port injection valve unit (only 5 ports are used) is driven by a
high-speed hybrid stepper motor. During the sampling sequence, the valve unit
bypasses the autosamplers, and directly connects the flow from the pump to
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