dionex ultimate 3000 manual pdf

The Dionex Ultimate 3000 is a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system designed for analytical and preparative separations. This system features quaternary pumping, automated sample injection, column temperature control, and multiple detection options including UV-Vis, fluorescence, and refractive index detection. Below are key sections covering system overview, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications.

1. System Overview 2. Installation Requirements 3. Initial Setup 4. Technical Specifications 5. Control Panel Operation 6. Method Development 7. Data Analysis 8. Maintenance Procedures 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Compliance 11. Troubleshooting Guide

System Overview

Key components: Quaternary pump, autosampler, column compartment, detector modules, and Chromeleon software interface.

ComponentDescription
Quaternary PumpFour-solvent delivery system with degasser
AutosamplerAutomated sample injection with temperature control
Column CompartmentTemperature-controlled column oven
Detector ModulesUV-Vis, DAD, fluorescence, RI detection options
Software InterfaceChromeleon chromatography data system
Solvent RacksFour-position solvent organizer
Waste ContainerIntegrated waste collection system
Power SupplyUniversal voltage input 100-240V AC
Communication PortsUSB, Ethernet, RS-232 connectivity
Emergency StopSafety shutdown button

Installation Requirements

Unpack and verify all components. Ensure proper laboratory environment.

  1. Site Preparation: Level, stable bench with adequate clearance for maintenance access.
  2. Power Requirements: Dedicated 120V/240V outlet with proper grounding.
  3. Solvent Requirements: HPLC-grade solvents and mobile phase preparation.
  4. Computer System: Windows-based PC with Chromeleon software installation.
  5. Ventilation: Adequate fume hood or laboratory ventilation system.

WARNING! System contains high-pressure components; install in appropriate containment. Use only HPLC-grade solvents.

Initial Setup

Power on system; follow Chromeleon software setup wizard.

  1. System Priming: Prime pump with appropriate solvents to remove air bubbles.
  2. Column Installation: Install and condition chromatographic column according to manufacturer specifications.
  3. Detector Configuration: Set wavelength, response time, and other detector parameters.
  4. Method Development: Create or import separation methods in Chromeleon software.
  5. System Suitability: Run test mixtures to verify system performance.

CAUTION! Always depressurize system before opening fluidic connections. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

Technical Specifications

Control Panel Operation

Access system controls via front panel or Chromeleon software. Front Panel: POWER, RUN/STOP, MENU, navigation keys.

Software Interface: Method editor, sequence table, instrument control, real-time monitoring, data analysis.

Pump Control: Flow rate, pressure limits, solvent composition, degasser operation. Autosampler: Injection volume, wash protocols, temperature control. Column Oven: Temperature setpoint, equilibration time. Detector: Wavelength selection, lamp energy, response time, autozero. Data Acquisition: Sampling rate, run time, data file naming.

Method Development

Create separation methods using Chromeleon method editor.

  1. Define pump parameters: Flow rate, gradient profile, pressure limits.
  2. Set autosampler conditions: Injection volume, needle wash, sample temperature.
  3. Configure column oven: Temperature, equilibration time.
  4. Program detector settings: Wavelength, sampling rate, autozero events.
  5. Establish data acquisition: Run time, data collection parameters.

Tip: Use method templates for common applications to ensure consistency.

Data Analysis

Analyze chromatographic data using Chromeleon data processing.

  1. Peak Integration: Automatic or manual peak detection and integration.
  2. Calibration: Create calibration curves using external or internal standards.
  3. Quantitation: Calculate sample concentrations based on calibration data.
  4. System Suitability: Calculate resolution, tailing factor, plate count.
  5. Reporting: Generate custom reports with chromatograms and results tables.
  6. Data Export: Export data to Excel, PDF, or other formats.
  7. Audit Trail: Maintain complete record of method changes and data processing.
  8. Data Security: User access levels and electronic signatures for compliance.

WARNING! Regular backup of data and methods is essential. Maintain proper documentation for regulatory compliance.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends system lifetime.

Safety Information

Follow laboratory safety protocols. Wear appropriate PPE when handling solvents or biological samples.

CAUTION! High-pressure fluidic system - depressurize before service. Electrical hazard - disconnect power before maintenance.

Regulatory Compliance

Complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records and signatures. CE marked for European market. ISO 9001 quality management system. For technical support, contact Thermo Fisher Scientific at 1-800-532-4752 or visit www.thermofisher.com.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
High pressureColumn blockageReplace guard column; flush system; check for particulate matter.
Pressure fluctuationsAir bubblesDegas solvents; prime pump; check for leaks.
Retention time shiftTemperature variationVerify column oven temperature; check mobile phase composition.
Peak tailingColumn degradationReplace column; check pH compatibility; regenerate if possible.
Baseline noiseDirty flow cellClean detector flow cell; replace lamp if necessary.
No injectionSyringe blockageClean or replace syringe; check sample filtration.
Communication errorCable connectionCheck USB/Ethernet connections; restart Chromeleon services.
LeaksFitting wearTighten or replace fittings; inspect tubing for damage.

Reset: Power cycle system; reinitialize instruments in Chromeleon.

Service: 1-800-532-4752; www.thermofisher.com

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