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ÄKTAexplorer
Y Y Y Y
ÄKTAexplorer 100
For over a decade, ÄKTAexplorer has been the industry standard for fast and robust method development. It's versatility and reliable operation have made it the preferred choice for laboratories involved in method and process development.
Building on this legacy and close dialog with our customers, we have recently introduced ÄKTA avant 25 and ÄKTA avant 150, inspired to take liquid chromatography to the next level.
Following the introduction of ÄKTA avant, ÄKTAexplorer 10 and 100 have been discontinued. ÄKTAexplorer has been our flagship system for preparative protein purification since 1996, and we recognize the importance that it still has for many of our customers. Therefore, we have extended the service and support of ÄKTAexplorer to seven years after discontinuation.
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Plasmid Select process with ÄKTAexplorer
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ÄKTA 3D Kit together with ÄKTAexplorer 100
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| Application note |
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Automated pilot scale purification of synthetic oligonucleotides; ÄKTAexplorer
Summary
This application note describes a convenient and simple protocol for the
purification of synthetic phosporothioate oligonucleotides, using ion exchange
chromatography on an automated ÄKTAexplorer 100 system. These data show that
ÄKTAexplorer 100, controlled by UNICORN™, is a convenient way of obtaining
reliable and reproducible results, which can also be scaled-up.
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Method optimization and scale-up of the purification of recombinant bovine carbonic anhydrase with IMAC Sepharose 6 Fast Flow
Summary
This study demonstrates that IMAC Sepharose™ 6 Fast Flow is well adapted for
laboratory- to process-scale purification of untagged proteins with good
selectivity and recovery of the target protein. No problems where encountered
in the scaleup of the capture step for purification of r-BCA from E. coli
extract.
The elution of the target protein was conveniently performed with a simple,
stepwise pH gradient resulting in a concentrated fraction upon elution. This
elution method is also economically sound and environmentally friendly. For
some proteins that are sensitive to exposure to low pH, elution with a linear
or stepwise gradient of imidazole is a good alternative.
Zn2+ was found to be the best metal ion for use in this application at
process-scale since it is less toxic and more environmentally friendly than
Ni2+ and Cu2+. The amount of Zn2+ that co-eluted with the target protein was
very low, less than 5%. The Zn2+ ions that leaked from the column were easily
removed from the target protein solution by a desalting step, leaving only the
Zn2+ ion anchored at the active site of the protein.
The scale at which the chromatographic separation was performed did not have
any significant effect on the selectivity, recovery, and purity of the target
protein. In all instances, the recovery of enzymatic activity of the target
protein was about 90%.
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Oligonucleotide purification by ion exchange chromatography: process development, optimization and scale-up
Summary
The purification method development, optimization and scale-up of a 20-mer
oligonucleotide by anion exchange chromatography on SOURCE 30Q is described.
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One-step purification of monoclonal IgM from cell culture supernatant
Summary
The development of a general purification protocol for immunoglobulin M (IgM)
has met with problems, as the unique variation in the amino acid sequence of
the variable regions give different monoclonal antibodies different
chromatographic characteristics. This problem can be circumvented by using
thiophilic interaction chromatography for the purification of IgM. The exact
mechanism for thiophilic interaction between protein and ligand is not fully
understood, but water-structuring salts promote adsorption. The HiTrap™ IgM
Purification column is packed with a thiophilic adsorption medium consisting of
the ligand 2-mercapto-pyridine coupled to Sepharose™ High Performance. This
column is well suited for purification of IgM, and the main application area
for the HiTrap IgM Purification column is purification of monoclonal IgM from
hybridoma cell culture supernatants.
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Process scale-up from HiScreen to HiScale columns
Summary
In this study two capture purification steps were scaled up from HiScreen to
HiScale columns in order to evaluate process reproducibility and robustness.
The two media used, MabSelect SuRe™ and Capto™ Q showed strong reproducibility
and high yield (> 96%) during scale-up, demonstrating the excellent performance
and consistency of HiScreen and HiScale columns as well as the BioProcess™
media.
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Purification of Synthetic peptides by RPC; ÄKTAexplorer
Summary
A general strategy for purification of synthetic peptides was used for rapid
method optimisation and scale up, using ÄKTAexplorer and UNICORN ™. The
strategy is described in detail for the purification of crude myelin basic
protein (89-101), synthesised using FMOC technique, and of hemorphin-7,
synthesised by the tBoc technique. Media screening and method development were
done on 3 ml columns and the optimal purification method was scaled up to
purification of 500 mg of material on a 99 ml column. All work was done on the
same system.
Media screening was done using RESOURCE ® RPC 3 ml, Sephasil ® C8 prep grade
4x250 mm and Sephasil C18 prep grade 4x250 mm. Method optimisation was
continued on the Sephasil C8 prep grade 4x250 mm column and the final
purification was done using the same medium in a 22.5´250 mm column. The same
strategy, media and columns were used for purification of hemorphin-7,
synthesised using the tBoc technique. The purified material was analysed by
plasma desorption mass spectrometry (PDMS) and micro-HPLC (SMART ® System).
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Purification of histidine-tagged Maltose Binding Protein with Ni Sepharose 6 Fast Flow - method optimization and scale-up
Summary
The work presented here describes the process optimization for the capture step
for purification of MBP-(His)6 protein at high sample load using Ni Sepharose 6
Fast Flow. By reducing the concentration of imidazole in the binding buffer to
5 mM no leakage of MBP-(His)6 was observed in the flow through and the washing
fractions even at high protein loading (88% of the binding capacity of the
medium).
Samples containing more than 500 mg MBP-(His)6 were purified with high recovery
using HisPrep FF 16/10. The protocol was then scaled-up 10-fold using AxiChrom
50 column packed with 210 ml of Ni Sepharose 6 Fast Flow. At this scale, 5500
mg protein was loaded and purified with a 94% target protein recovery using
ÄKTApilot system.
The results from the SDS-PAGE showed similar purity at the different scales.
The results clearly demonstrate the scalability of the method and that Ni
Sepharose 6 Fast Flow is suitable for high productivity capture purification
of histidine-tagged proteins.
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Rapid development of a purification process for a recombinant antigen binding fragment expressed in E. coli
Summary
This Application Note describes a systematic approach to process development
using ÄKTAexplorer with UNICORN™ control. The purification of a recombinant
antigen-binding fragment (Fab), expressed in E. coli, was used as a model.
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ÄKTA 3D Kit - A great way to start the day
Summary
ÄKTA™ 3D Kit increases throughput when multiple samples of purified proteins
are needed.
ÄKTA 3D Kit is a new development aimed specifically at providing automated
preparative purification of soluble His6 (polyhistidine)- and GST (Glutathione
S-transferase)-tagged target proteins for structural genomics and proteomics
applications.
ÄKTA 3D Kit includes a combination of hardware and software, which, together
with ÄKTAexplorer 100, enables the automatic purification of many samples of
proteins using protocols with up to 3 chromatographic steps.
ÄKTA 3D Kit offers flexibility with five automated purification protocols to
choose from. Up to 6 samples can be purified in a single run, with protocols
containing one or two steps. When a protocol with three steps is selected, up
to 4 samples can be purified. Automatic runs can be set up conveniently one
after another as you don’t need to be present during the purification.
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ÄKTA user kit
Summary
Details the ÄKTA user kit, a handy box of all the connectors, tubes and
ferrules required to keep an ÄKTA system running smoothly.
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ÄKTA™ Protein purification by design
Summary
With the ability to purify virtually any biomolecule, the ÄKTAdesign platform
can handle the simplest and the toughest of challenges. It gives you speed,
ease of use and flexibility whatever your purification application or scale.
The platform covers all major chromatographic and cross flow filtration
techniques, from the research laboratory to process development and
manufacturing.
Systems in the ÄKTAdesign platform work with intelligent UNICORN™ software,
which makes it simple to control every stage of your purification process. A
broad range of prepacked columns, media and filters provides more options for
the best results.
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Äutomation
Summary
Are you purifying synthetic peptides or nucleic acids? Native or recombinant
proteins? In today’s multi-disciplined research labs, protein purifi cation is
a fundamental tool.
The ÄKTAdesign™ platform provides versatility, high quality and built in
knowledge to lighten the process of protein purifi cation. There are many ways
it can add further functionality to make your everyday work even simpler and
more rewarding. Standard ÄKTA™ confi gurations can easily be expanded into
advanced setups to meet your individual purifi cation needs, increase
reproducibility and reduce timeconsuming steps.
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| Cue card |
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ÄKTA 3D Kit, System preparation
Summary
This document about automated protein purification include the following parts :
(His)6 Affinity - Gel filtration
GST Affinity - Gel filtration
(His)6 Affinity - Desalting - AIEX (anion IEX)
(His)6 Affinity - Desalting - CIEX (cation IEX)
GST Affinity – Desalting – AIEX (anion IEX)
GST Affinity - Desalting - CIEX (cation IEX)
System preparations
Column preparations
System maintenance and column cleaning
Results and Evaluation
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Monitor pH/C-900
Summary
Monitor pH/C-900 is a combined unit for accurate, on-line monitoring of pH and
conductivity in a wide range of liquid chromatography applications. Its
accurate response coupled with high precision over a wide measuring range makes
it ideal for use in all chromatography techniques, from reversed phase with
very low conductivity eluents to hydrophobic chromatography in high salt
solutions.
- On-line measurement of pH and conductivity – two monitors combined in one unit
- Accurate readings of elution conditions – measures conductivity and pH with
temperature compensation
- Accurate and reliable day-to-day performance – automatic self-diagnosis
- Easy-to-use – controlled by UNICORN™ control system or by a single dial
- Suitable for a wide range of applications – from reversed phase with very low
conductivity eluents to high salt separations at flow rates up to 100 ml/min
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Pump P-901
Summary
Introduction Pump P-901 is a high performance gradient pump for chromatography
applications requiring accurate flow control with low pulsation. The pump is
simple and reliable to use, either as part of the chromatography system ÄKTA™
explorer, or as a stand-alone unit. Pump P-901 is an eluent pump, but it may
also be used to apply samples. The use of inert, biocompatible materials plus
its low dead volume, which minimises sample dilution, make it suitable for
sample application. Automatic buffer preparation, BufferPrep, is available when
the pump is used in ÄKTAexplorer under the control of UNICORN™ with Mixer M-900
and two 2-way switching valves, SV-903.
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ValidationCare
Summary
Datafile describing the content and benefit of our new Validation Care
Service. Validation Care is a NPI within Validation Support, a IQ/OQ + GxP
validation service contract to be sold through our sales force, targeting
pharma customers in a regulated environment having the following systems from
GEHC; ÄKTA Pilot, ÄKTA Avant, ÄKTA Explorer and later also ÄKTA Process* .
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ÄKTAdesign Test and Calibration Certification
Summary
• Helps meet GLP/GMP and quality requirements for documented instrument
calibration
• Saves time and money as an alternative to developing own SOPs and training
staff
• Confirms that instruments meet factory-set quality standards and performance
specifications
• Increases confidence in results
• Performed by trained and certified service engineers
• Traceable to national and international standards
• Available as an upgrade to a Service Support Agreement
Instruments used to develop and manufacture pharmaceuticals must adhere to GMP
(Good Manufacturing Practice) and GLP (Good Laboratory Practice). Both
regulations clearly state that laboratory instruments must be tested and
calibrated, and that this should be well-documented. For example, GMP requires
that ‘‘... equipment ... shall be routinely calibrated, inspected, or checked
according to a written program designed to assure proper performance’’.
Similarly, GLP requires ‘‘Equipment used for the generation, measurement, or
assessment of data shall be adequately tested, calibrated and/or standardized”
and “Written records shall be maintained of all inspection, maintenance,
testing, calibrating and/or standardizing operations”. The PDA (Parenteral Drug
Association) also states that ‘‘Maintenance and calibration procedures should
be written and approved for every system component that requires preventive
maintenance and calibration ...’’ and that ‘‘... calibration is done in
accordance with engineering recommendations’’.
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ÄKTAdesign system: Customization
Summary
ÄKTA™design systems exist in many standard configurations to suit specific
needs and applications. A range of possibilities are available to enable
conversions between standard ÄKTAdesign systems. However, when a standard kit
is not suitable, we are pleased to offer customized upgrades. To ensure the
same high quality of performance from a new system, every kit is installed on
site by our fully trained personnel. All costs are included in one single
payment.
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ÄKTAdesign system: Pressure range
Summary
Users of standard ÄKTAexplorer™ 100 systems can convert to an ÄKTAexplorer 10S,
to provide a maximum pressure of 25 MPa with a maximum flow rate 10ml/min. This
conversion allows optimum running conditions for all modern high performance
analytical media. New pre-programmed method templates and pre-packed column
information are supplied, together with all instrument components, to ensure a
fast, convenient start. Instruction manuals and accessory kits for ÄKTAexplorer
10S are included. Every kit is installed on site by fully trained personnel.
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ÄKTAexplorer ancillary equipment
Summary
The chromatography system ÄKTA™explorer is supported by a full range of
dedicated ancillary equipment, including the following items; motor valves for
sample injection, column selection, sample and eluent switching, fraction
collection and other flow operations, a gradient mixer and a fraction
collector. The schematic flow-path indicates their positions in ÄKTAexplorer.
All ancillary equipment is controlled via UNICORN™ control system. The operator
can program the units via one easy-to-use interface as well as monitor the
status of their operation. The equipment ensures efficient and smooth operation
of ÄKTAexplorer, making even complex applications easy to manage. The
components are resistant to all buffers commonly used in liquid chromatography
and are fully biocompatible, ensuring high recovery and no loss of activity.
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ÄKTAexplorer chromatography systems
Summary
ÄKTAexplorer™ chromotography systems are designed for fast development and
optimization of any biomolecular purification, using one working platform for
all techniques and samples. The method wizard and optimized system
configurations, allow rapid media screening, method scouting, method
optimization, and scale-up experiments.
Standard system configurations are available to suit most purification needs,
but are easily modified if required. Systems can be used at flow rates up to
100 ml/min (pressure 10 MPa) to ensure minimized run times at maximum flow
rates or at 10 ml/min (pressure 25 MPa) for applications routinely using
columns that generate higher backpressures. Preparation times are minimized
while accuracy and reproducibility of results are assured.
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Discontinuation of ÄKTAexplorer
Summary
Following the introduction of ÄKTA avant, we will discontinue ÄKTAexplorer 10
and 100 on December 31st, 2010.
ÄKTAexplorer has been our flagship system for preparative protein purification
since 1996, and we recognize the importance that it still has for many of our
customers.
Therefore, we will extend the service and support of ÄKTAexplorer to seven
years after discontinuation.
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| Handbook |
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Purifying Challenging Proteins - Principles and Methods
Summary
This handbook is intended for students and experienced researchers with an
interest in the isolation of integral membrane proteins, multiprotein
complexes, or in refolding proteins from inclusion bodies. The aim is to
present tools, strategies, and solutions available to meet the purification
challenges associated with these three classes of proteins.
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ÄKTAdesign Purification, Method Handbook
Summary
This handbook is intended to help you make full use of your ÄKTAexplorer™ or
ÄKTApurifier™ chromatography system. Rather than being a text book in
separation science, the handbook is instead a collection of useful step-by-step
protocols to aid your everyday purification work. Detailed instructions and
recommendations are presented in a straightforward format, which should be easy
to follow without needing a high level of expertise in programming or in
chromatography.
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| Installation guide |
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CU-950
Summary
This instruction describes CU-950 and provides information on how to install it
with ÄKTAbasic™, ÄKTAexplorer™, ÄKTApurifier™, ÄKTAFPLC™ ,ÄKTApilot™ and
ÄKTAmicro™
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ÄKTAexplorer
Summary
ÄKTAexplorer is assembled and fully tested before shipping. For safe
transportation, however, some components have been detached and thus need to be
remounted. Cables, capillaries, accessories, column holder, etc. are enclosed
in paper boxes or in Box-900 located at the top of the instrument pile. This
guide describes how to install ÄKTAexplorer. The guide is divided into two
parts; one describing the installation and one describing how to run the
installation test. After the installation procedure has been performed, your
ÄKTAexplorer is ready for purification work. For full details of
specifications, methods, maintenance, etc., refer to the respective User
Manuals and Instructions.
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Control Units CU-950 and CU-960
Summary
The Control Units CU-950 and CU-960 are used as the controlling interface
between a UNICORN™ workstation and the components of an ÄKTA™ system.
CU-950
This instruction describes CU-950 and provides information on how to install
this control unit with ÄKTAexplorer™, ÄKTApurifier™, ÄKTAFPLC™, and ÄKTApilot™.
CU-960
CU-960 is the standard control unit delivered with ÄKTAprocess™ and ÄKTAready™
systems.
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Valve INV-917
Summary
Valve INV-917 is a motorised rotary 7-port valve. The valve is used in ÄKTA™
design systems. It is powered from P-900 series system pump, and controlled
from UNICORN™ control system.
The valve has 3 positions used for:
- loading a sample loop
- injecting the sample onto the column
- washing the system pump.
In ÄKTAmicro™ system, INV-917 is also used as a Flow direction valve.
Features:
• Smooth flowpath minimises eluent or sample ”memory effect”.
• Flow rates up to 10 ml/min.
• All wetted parts are plastic PEEK.
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Automated Protein Purification for Structural Studies
Summary
Structural studies require fairly large amounts (milligram scale) of pure and
homogeneous target proteins. To ease the enormous task of performing these
studies in a high-throughput mode, a reliable and easy-to-handle purification
system is needed. This paper describes the automated purification of (His)6 and
glutathione S-transferase (GST)-tagged recombinant proteins using the ÄKTA™ 3D
kit with the ÄKTAexplorer 100 chromatography system. With this combination, it
is possible to automatically purify up to six proteins within a single day.
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| Magazine article |
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An automated three-step purification of the VEGFR2 kinase domain using ÄKTAexplorer (from Life Science News, issue 6)
Summary
A histidine-tagged VEGFR2 kinase domain was expressed in baculovirus infected
Trichoplusia ni cells and purified using a three-column step procedure (metal
chelate affinity, anion exchange, gel filtration). The purification procedure
was developed and performed using ÄKTA™ explorer Chromatography System. The
method can be run in less than 24 hours and reproducibly yields 50–100 mg of
highly pure protein suitable for use in X-ray crystallography.
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Automated protein purification for structural studies (1)
Summary
ÄKTA™ 3D Kit enables automated, unattended purification of samples with up to
three purification steps in each protocol. The kit is complete with special
software that simplifies the procedure and allows the purification of up to six
proteins per day. Two examples of how the ÄKTA 3D Kit is being used to automate
protein purification for structural studies are presented. One comes from
AstraZeneca’s Biotech Laboratory
in Södertälje, Sweden, the other from Novartis Pharma AG, Central Technology -
Biomolecules Production Unit in Basel, Switzerland.
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ÄKTAdesign - One platform from basic research to process development (from Life Science News, issue 3)
Summary
ÄKTAdesign selection guide
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Purification of the Spinach Mitocondrial Processing Peptidase/bc 1 Complex using HiTrap® and HiPrep® Columns
Summary
The mitochondrial processing peptidase (MPP)/bc 1 complex, from the spinach
mitochondrial inner membrane, is a bifunctional enzyme involved in both
electron transport and post-translational processing of mitochondrial precursor
proteins. Although the enzyme already has been extensively studied, a method
providing larger amounts of protein with improved purity is required, as
compared to the method previously used. We present an improved purification
protocol using ion exchange- and gel filtration chromatography with ÄKTA™
explorer system.
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| Software |
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UNICORN software strategy ÄKTAexplorer 100 Frac 900/920
Summary
The installation program downloads a strategy for ÄKTAexplorer 100 with
UNICORN™ version 5.01 and higher.
28928377AA is used together with Frac-900 and Frac-920 fraction collectors.
Double-click on the file and follow the instructions on the screen.
After the installation the new strategy can then be chosen in UNICORN Manager
by going to Administration - System Setup - Edit system and then choosing the
new strategy.
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UNICORN software strategy ÄKTAexplorer 100 and Frac-920 or Frac-900
Summary
The installation program downloads a software strategy for UNICORN 4.12 or
higher, ÄKTAexplorer 100 and Frac-920 or Frac-900. Double-click on the file and
follow the instructions on the screen.
After the installation the new strategy can then be chosen in UNICORN Manager
by going to Administration - System Setup - Edit system and then choosing the
new strategy.
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UNICORN software strategy ÄKTAexplorer 100 and Frac-950
Summary
The installation program downloads a software strategy for UNICORN 4.12 or
higher, ÄKTAexplorer 100 and Frac-950. Double-click on the file and follow the
instructions on the screen.
After the installation the new strategy can then be chosen in UNICORN Manager
by going to Administration - System Setup - Edit system and then choosing the
new strategy.
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UNICORN v.5.x Global Columns File Setup
Summary
UNICORN Global Columns File Setup
Purpose:
This installation program updates the global columns file for UNICORN.
After this Setup program has been executed, the information in the previously
installed global columns file can be restored. The Setup program creates a
backup
of the old file. The next time a user login to UNICORN a dialogue is shown to
the
user where the columns from the old columns file can be moved to the new
columns
file before the backup file is removed from the system.
NOTE!
Only global columns are affected by this Setup program. Personal columns are
not
affected at all.
Installation:
Before installing the new global columns file, backup the current global
columns file so that it can be restored if anything happens during the
installation of the new global columns file.
1. The UNICORN Global Columns File Setup program is created with the software
InstallShield Professional and compressed for distribution with the
program InstallShield PackageForTheWeb.
InstallShield PackageForTheWeb will uncompress the installation program
to a TEMPORARY folder (e.g. %Temp%\UNICORN Global Columns File\).
When all files have been transferred to the selected folder, the
installation
program will be started automatically. To start the installation of the
Global Columns file, double-click on the executable and follow the
instructions
on-screen.
2. After the installation has been completed, UNICORN have to be restarted for
the changes to take effect.
The UNICORN development team.
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| Software change description |
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UNICORN 5.2 vs 5.11
Summary
This document describes the changes implemented in UNICORN™ 5.2 compared to the
previous version 5.11.
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| User manual |
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Fraction Collector Frac-950
Summary
This manual comprises two parts: a practical part (sections 1–5) and a
reference part (sections A-D). Sections 1–5 contain the necessary information
for operating the instrument. Fraction Collector Frac-950 is an automated
fraction collector for use in ÄKTA™ design chromatography systems. It is
intended to be operated as an integrated part of an ÄKTAdesign chromatography
system running UNICORN™ version 3.2, or higher. Frac-950 is equipped with an
accumulator to eliminate spillage at high flows. A drop sensor that can be used
to control tube change at low flows is also included.
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Getting Started with ÄKTAexplorer™
Summary
This guide is written for users who are not familiar with UNICORN™ software and
ÄKTAexplorer. Here you will learn the basics of UNICORN and how to operate
ÄKTAexplorer from UNICORN
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Interface EIC-900
Summary
The External Instrument Connection EIC-900 is an interface unit between
UNICORN™ control system and free standing instruments. The housing has the same
design as all ÄKTA™ components. EIC-900 has analogue and digital outputs/inputs
to monitor and control a range of external devices and signals. EIC-900 has 2
permanent high resolution analogue inputs, 4 configurable analogue
inputs/outputs and 8 configurable digital inputs/outputs. Configuration is made
at request. Configuration of this particular instrument is described in the
document System specific wiring and instructions enclosed.
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Pump P-900, Short Instructions
Summary
Short instructions for the Pump P-900 and menu overview (2 pages):
Switch on the instrument by means of the mains switch on the rear panel.
Press OK to start synchronisation.
The main operating menu is shown.
Set the flow rate.
Start the pump by setting it in RUN-mode.
The main operating menu is shown.
Start a gradient by setting the Gradient Length and Gradient Target.
Stop the pump by setting it in END-mode.
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UNICORN v3.00
Summary
This manual provides a full reference to UNICORN™ version 3.00 from Amersham
Biosciences. UNICORN is a complete package for control and supervision of
chromatography systems, suitable for use with Amersham Biosciences systems for
the ÄKTA™ design platform (ÄKTAdesign systems), BioProcess™ System and
BioPilot™ System. UNICORN consists of software which runs on an IBM-compatible
PC under Microsoft Windows NT 4.00, and hardware for interfacing the
controlling PC to the chromatography liquid handling module. The manual is
organised in 15 chapters and 6 appendices.
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UNICORN v4.0
Summary
This manual provides a reference to User functionality in UNICORNTM version 4.0
from Amersham Biosciences.
UNICORN is a complete package for control and supervision of chromatography
systems, suitable for use with Amersham Biosciences' systems for the ÄKTATM
design platform (ÄKTAdesign systems), BioProcessTM System and BioPilotTM
System. UNICORN consists of software which runs on an IBM-compatible PC under
Microsoft Windows NT 4.00 or Microsoft Windows 2000, and hardware for
interfacing the controlling PC to the chromatography liquid handling module.
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UNICORN v4.0 - Administration and Technical Manual
Summary
This manual provides a reference to UNICORN version 4.00 from Amersham
Biosciences. UNICORN is a complete package for control and supervision of
chromatography systems, suitable for use with Amersham Biosciences' systems for
the ÄKTAdesign platform (ÄKTAdesign systems), BioProcess System and BioPilot
System. UNICORN consists of software which runs on an IBM-compatible PC under
Microsoft Windows NT 4.00, and hardware for interfacing the controlling PC to
the chromatography liquid handling module.
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ÄKTAexplorer 10 to ÄKTAexplorer 100, Upgrade Kit
Summary
The ÄKTA™explorer 10 to ÄKTAexplorer 100 upgrade kit converts the flow rate
from 10 ml to 100 ml and maximum pressure from 25 MPa to 10 MPa (P-903 is
converted to P-901). It adds new functions such as automatic sample application
(P-910 and PV-908) and reversed flow through column ( INV-907). The kit also
includes new software and new manuals as well as capillaries and other
components in the flowpath.
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ÄKTAexplorer, making your first runs
Summary
This guide is written for users who are not familiar with UNICORN™ software
and ÄKTAexplorer™. Here you will learn the basics of UNICORN and how to
operate ÄKTAexplorer™ from UNICORN.UNICORN is a software package for control
and supervision of the ÄKTAexplorer chromatography system. It runs on an
IBM-compatible PC under Windows, and includes hardware for interfacing the
controlling PC to the chromatography liquid handling parts of ÄKTAexplorer.In
this guide you will learn how to:create methodsprepare the system for
runsperform runsmake simple evaluationsmake reportsperform automatic method
optimization (Scouting)prepare automatically buffers of any pH
(BufferPrep)Follow the guide from page to page in front of the computer. The
time will be well spent.
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ÄKTAexplorer™, ÄKTApurifier™ and ÄKTAmicro™ Operating Instructions - Original instructions
Summary
The Operating Instructions provides you with the instructions needed to handle
the ÄKTAexplorer, ÄKTApurifier and ÄKTAmicro systems in a safe way.
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Technical Support
Find your local representative contact information
Frequently Asked Questions.
Product Related FAQs
ÄKTAbasic 100, ÄKTAexplorer 100, ÄKTAexplorer 100 Air, ÄKTApurifier 100
and ÄKTApurifier 100 UPC
Please consider that the maximum flow rate for these systems is 100 ml/min and
maximum pressure is 10 MPa.
Columns
BPG 100
C 10
C 16
C 26
FineLINE Pilot 35
HR 16, High Resolution Column
K 9
PD-10, Disposable Column
SR 25, Solvent Resistant Column
Tricorn 5, High Performance Column
Tricorn 10, High Performance Column
XK 16
XK 26
XK 50
HiScale 16
HiScale 26
HiScale 50
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ÄKTAbasic, ÄKTAexplorer, ÄKTAFPLC, ÄKTAmicro, ÄKTAprime, ÄKTAprime plus, ÄKTApurifier, Ettan LC, Ettan microLC, Ettan nanoLC and Ettan MDLC
Generally: The wetted parts are resistant to organic solvents and salt buffers commonly used in chromatography of biomolecules, except 100% Ethyl acetate, 100% Hexane and 100% Tetrahydrofuran.
Chemical resistance guide and chemical compatibility
The chemical resistance to some of the most commonly used chemicals in liquid chromatography is indicated in the table below.
The ratings are based on the following assumptions:
1. The synergistic effects of the chemical mixtures have not been taken into account.
2. Room temperature and limited over-pressure is assumed.
Note: Chemical influences are time and pressure dependent. Unless otherwise stated, all concentrations are 100%.
| Chemical | Exposure < 1 day |
Exposure up to 2 months |
Comments |
| Acetaldehyde | OK | OK | |
| Acetic acid, < 5% | OK | OK | |
| Acetic acid, 70% | OK | OK | |
| Acetonitrile | OK | Avoid | FFKM, PP and PE swell. PEEK is affected by long term use |
| Acetone, 10% | OK | Avoid | PVDF is affected by long term use |
| Ammonia, 30% | OK | OK | Silicone is affected by long term use |
| Ammonium chloride | OK | OK | |
| Ammonium bicarbonate | OK | OK | |
| Ammonium nitrate | OK | OK | |
| Ammonium sulphate | OK | OK | |
| 1-Butanol | OK | OK | |
| 2-Butanol | OK | OK | |
| Citric acid | OK | OK | |
| Chloroform | OK | Avoid | ECTFE,CTFE, PP and PE are affected by long term use |
| Cyclohexane | OK | OK | |
| Detergents | OK | OK | |
| Dimethyl sulphoxide | Avoid | Avoid | PVDF is affected by long term use |
| 1, 4-Dioxane | Avoid | Avoid | ETFE, CTFE, PP, PE and PVDF are affected by long term use |
| Ethanol | OK | OK | |
| Ethyl acetate | OK | Avoid | Silicone not resistant. Pressure limit for PEEK decreases. |
| Ethylene glycol | OK | OK | |
| Formic acid | OK | OK | Silicone not resistant |
| Glycerol | OK | OK | |
| Guanidinium hydrochloride | OK | OK | |
| Hexane | OK | Avoid | Silicone not resistant. Pressure limit for PEEK decreases. |
| Hydrochloric acid, 0.1 M | OK | OK | Silicone not resistant |
| Hydrochloric acid, > 0.1 M | OK | Avoid | Silicone not resistant. Titanium is affected by long term use |
| isopropanol | OK | OK | |
| Methanol | OK | OK | |
| Nitric acid, diluted | OK | Avoid | Silicone not resistant |
| Nitric acid, 30% | Avoid | Avoid | Elgiloy is affected by long term use |
| Phosphoric acid, 10% | OK | Avoid | Titanium and aluminium oxide are affected by long term use |
| Potassium carbonate | OK | OK | |
| Potassium chloride | OK | OK | |
| Pyridine | Avoid | Avoid | ETFE, PP and PE not resistant |
| Sodium acetate | OK | OK | |
| Sodium bicarbonate | OK | OK | |
| Sodium bisulphate | OK | OK | |
| Sodium borate | OK | OK | |
| Sodium carbonate | OK | OK | |
| Sodium chloride | OK | OK | |
| Sodium hydroxide, 2 M | OK | Avoid | Titanium, PVDF and borosilicate glass are affected by long term use |
| Sodium sulphate | OK | OK | |
| Sulphuric acid, diluted | OK | Avoid | PEEK and titanium are affected by long term use |
| Sulphuric acid, medium concentration |
Avoid | Avoid | |
| Tetrachloroethylene | Avoid | Avoid | Silicone, PP and PE are not resistant |
| Tetrahydrofuran | Avoid | Avoid | Silicone, ETFE, CTFE, PP and PE are not resistant |
| Toluene | OK | Avoid | Pressure limit for PEEK decreases |
| Trichloroacetic acid, 1% | OK | OK | |
| Trifluoroacetic acid, 1% | OK | OK | |
| Urea | OK | OK | |
| o-Xylene p-Xylene |
OK | Avoid | Silicone, PP and PE are affected by long term use |
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| System | Height (mm) |
Footprint (mm x mm) |
Weight (kg) |
Flow rate (ml/min) |
Pressure limit (MPa) |
| ÄKTA avant 25 | 660 |
860 x 710
|
116
|
0.001-25
|
20
|
| ÄKTA avant 150 |
660
|
860 x 710
|
116
|
0.001-150 (normal range)
0.001-300 (column packing flow) |
5
|
| ÄKTAexplorer 10 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.001-10
|
25
|
| ÄKTAexplorer 100 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.01-100
|
10
|
| ÄKTAFPLC |
470
|
380 x 480
|
50
|
0.05-20
|
5
|
| ÄKTAmicro |
610
|
480 x 450
|
55
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| ÄKTApilot |
900
|
750 x 540
|
114
|
4-400 (full gradients)
4-800 (limited gradients) |
2
|
| ÄKTAprime plus |
530
|
400 x 450
|
13
|
0.1-50
|
1
|
| ÄKTApurifier 10 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.001-10
|
25
|
| ÄKTApurifier 100 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.01-100
|
10
|
| ÄKTAxpress |
660
|
490 x 250
|
30
|
0.1-65
|
3
|
| Ettan LC |
610
|
480 x 450
|
55
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan MDLC |
710
|
700 x 640
|
105
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan microLC |
1150
|
650 x 500
|
77
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan nanoLC |
1150
|
650 x 500
|
77
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
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Why should I have REGULAR, PLANNED MAINTENANCE on my system?
With the pressure on producing sample or results, the condition of your ÄKTAdesign or Ettan system is critical and regular servicing will mean you can depend on your system to perform as expected. Planned maintenance can be part of a service agreement, scheduled to service your system before it is in need of attention. We can help you design a schedule and routine to allow you to maintain your system, please contact your local GE Healtcare service representative.
So what can you expect from a planned maintenance visit from GE Healthcare service representative?
- Thorough inspection and cleaning of system components
- Update of system firmware to ensure full compatibility of your system and UNICORN software
- Replacement of damaged or corroded seals, valve springs and solenoids
- Replacement of items that are reaching the end of their expected life – preventing future breakdowns
- Advice and guidance on proper daily use, cleaning and care of your system
- All work is documented and reported to help make any regulatory audits easier.
A complete overhaul, once a year, ensures that your instrument is running at peak performance so you can be confident of your scientific results. In addition, wear and tear on systems under constant use by multiple end users is minimized, giving the system a longer life and better value for money.
To find out more about service possibilities contact your local GE Healtcare service representative.
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How can I determine the delay volume?
Three different methods are described below:
Method I - Determining the delay volume of your system by measuring different retention volumes
| 1) Check that the pump is delivering the correct flow at 1 ml/min. If the measured flow rate differs the retention volumes need to be corrected. 2) Mount a small loop, e.g. 100 µl, and prepare a solution of 5% acetone in water to use as sample. 3) Fill the system with clean water. Run manually or make your own method. Start the pump at 1 ml/min and inject the sample. The measured retention volume is called Volume 1. 4) Re-configure your system. Dismount the tubing from the UV flow cell and insert a low dead volume connector, e.g. a female-female Valve connector, in the flow path (replaces the UV flow cell). Mount the “tubing end” of the frac outlet into the UV flow cell and mount a waste-tubing to the bottom of the UV flow cell. 5) Set Frac size to a very large volume, e.g. 100 ml, so that the valve is in the Frac position during the entire run. Start the pump at 1 ml/min and inject the sample. The measured retention volume is called Volume 2. Delay volume = Volume 2 – Volume 1. |
Method II - Determining the delay volume of your system with the help of another ÄKTA system
| This method is more accurate than the one described above, but demands one more system. 1) Check that the pump on your chosen ÄKTA system is delivering the correct flow at 1 ml/min. If the measured flow rate differs the retention volumes need to be corrected. 2) Mount a small loop, e.g. 100 µl, and prepare a solution of 2-5% acetone to use as sample. 3) Fill the system with clean water. Run manually or make your own method. Start the pump at 1 ml/min and inject the sample. The measured retention volume is called Volume 1. 4) Re-configure your system. In e.g. an ÄKTAprime system dismount the tubing from the UV flow cell to the Fraction collector including the restrictor, the Cond cell and the Frac valve. In the other ÄKTA system, e.g. ÄKTApurifier or ÄKTAexplorer, mount the “prime tubing kit” between the tubing to the UV flow cell and the UV flow cell. To do this a low dead volume connector, e.g. a female-female Valve connector, is needed. 5) In order to have the correct flow path the Frac valve in the “prime tubing kit” must be activated. This can be achieved be connecting it to the Valve B port of the P-900 pump in the ÄKTApurifier or ÄKTAexplorer system. The valve is activated by setting Pump B inlet to the B2 position. 6) Start the pump at 1 ml/min and inject the sample. The measured retention volume is called Volume 2. Delay volume = Volume 2 – Volume 1. |
Method III - Determining the delay volume by balancing eluted water
| Manually set the flow path to the direction of the fraction collector. Unscrew the tubing that is connected to inlet of the UV flow cell and insert a luer adaptor instead. Fill a syringe with water and inject water into flow cell unless it drops at the outlet of the fraction collector (in which case you have likely exceeded the pressure in the tubing which might be more than 4 bar, depending on configuration and flow restrictor used). Now fill the syringe with air (at least 20 ml because of compression) and displace the water. Collect eluting water in a small cup. Determine the system delay volume by balancing the cup before and after elution. Repeat two times for calculation of a mean value. Enter the mean value in "system settings" in UNICORN. |
The performance of all UNICORN controlled ÄKTA systems can be checked by using the installation test that is part of each systems strategy. The installation test checks the function of the liquid delivery and UV monitor systems and can be performed at any time to check the condition of the system.
Correct gradient formation is tested by producing a linear and step gradient of acetone and water. The UV monitoring system is tested by monitoring the absorbance of the acetone at 265, 254 and 280 nm.
Each installation test is designed to be run with the system under pressure as this ensures the efficient opening and closing of the check valves. For systems based on the pumps P-901 and P-903 this pressure is provided by internal restriction in the pumps.
For sanitary systems such as the ÄKTApilot™ the required pressure is provided by the column. Therefore, when performing the ÄKTApilot installation test you must provide pressure to the system, either by using a standard FR-902 flow restrictor or by fitting a length of capillary tubing that gives >0.1 MPa of back pressure.

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We ship the most recent available manual and support documentation at the time
we ship the software to you. Retain this manual as it is the correct one for the version
of software you purchased. Early versions of UNICORN had paper manuals,
but more recent versions have manuals included on CD.
| System | Height (mm) |
Footprint (mm x mm) |
Weight (kg) |
Flow rate (ml/min) |
Pressure limit (MPa) |
| ÄKTA avant 25 |
660
|
860 x 710
|
116
|
0.001-25
|
20
|
| ÄKTA avant 150 |
660
|
860 x 710
|
116
|
0.001-150 (normal range)
0.001-300 (column packing flow) |
5
|
| ÄKTAexplorer 10 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.001-10
|
25
|
| ÄKTAexplorer 100 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.01-100
|
10
|
| ÄKTAFPLC |
470
|
380 x 480
|
50
|
0.05-20
|
5
|
| ÄKTAmicro |
610
|
480 x 450
|
55
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| ÄKTApilot |
900
|
750 x 540
|
114
|
4-400 (full gradients)
4-800 (limited gradients) |
2
|
| ÄKTAprime plus |
530
|
400 x 450
|
13
|
0.1-50
|
1
|
| ÄKTApurifier 10 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.001-10
|
25
|
| ÄKTApurifier 100 |
620
|
500 x 460
|
75
|
0.01-100
|
10
|
| ÄKTAxpress |
660
|
490 x 250
|
30
|
0.1-65
|
3
|
| Ettan LC |
610
|
480 x 450
|
55
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan MDLC |
710
|
700 x 640
|
105
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan microLC |
1150
|
650 x 500
|
77
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
| Ettan nanoLC |
1150
|
650 x 500
|
77
|
0.001-2
|
35
|
How can I CLEAN my system?
ÄKTAexplorer
Cleaning the system
The protocols described below are for system cleaning.
| WARNING! When using hazardous chemicals, make sure that the entire system has been flushed thoroughly with bacteriostatic solution, e.g. NaOH, and distilled water before service and maintenance. |
The column selection valves should be set to column bypass position. If the column is to be left in the flow path, please observe the rated maximum flow and pressure for the column.
For column cleaning procedures and column storage instructions, please refer to the Instruction supplied with the column.
At the end of the day
If the system will be used with the same buffers next day, let the system run isocratic at a low flow rate (10% of the used flow rate).
If the system will be used with other buffers next day, rinse the pump and the system with distilled water using the pumpWashExplorer instruction as follows:
- Submerge the inlet tubings in distilled water.
- Run the pumpWashExplorer instruction. Refer to the UNICORN User Manuals for detailed instructions.
It is also possible to perform a SystemWash. During the SystemWash the system is set to Pause, the column position to Position 1 Bypass, and the flow is diverted to Waste via the outlet valve.The valves and the flow rate will return to their previous settings after the wash:
Note: The pumps must be purged prior to SystemWash.
- Choose an Inlet A1 prior to SystemWash.
- Run the SystemWash instruction. Refer to the UNICORN User Manuals for detailed instructions.
Leaving for a few days
Perform a pumpWashExplorer with distilled water. Repeat with a
bacteriostatic solution, 20% ethanol (not the pH electrode, see separate instruction below).
Alternatively perform a SystemWash, see instructions above.
pH electrode (if applicable): The pH electrode should always be stored in a 1:1 mixture of pH 4 buffer and 2 M KNO3 when not in use. When the pH electrode is removed from the flow cell, the dummy electrode (supplied) can be inserted in the flowpath.
| CAUTION! Never leave the pH electrode in the electrode holder for any period of time when the system is not used, since this might cause the glass membrane of the electrode to dry out. Remove the pH electrode from the flow cell and fit the end cover filled with a 1:1 mixture of pH 4 buffer and 2 M KNO3. Do NOT store in water only. |
Additional wash of outlet valve and sample valve inlet tubing
A SystemWash does not include wash of the outlet and sample valves*.
Wash the valves as follows:
Outlet valve:
In system control, start the system flow rate. Rinse the valve
by switching between the ports manually from system control.
Sample valve:
Place all the sample inlet tubing in the washing solution.
Start the sample pump and rinse the valve by switching between the ports manually from system control.
Monthly cleaning
Clean the system every month or when problems such as ghost peaks
occur.
Wash with 1M NaOH using the SystemWash instruction. Immediately wash the system with distilled water to rinse the system from NaOH.
Cleaning-in-place
After repeated separation cycles, contaminating material might
progressively build up in the system and on the column. This material
may not have been removed by the cleaning step described above. The nature and degree of contamination depends on the sample and the chromatographic conditions employed. These should be considered when designing a cleaning protocol.
A method for cleaning-in-place, CIP, is available in the UNICORN MethodWizard. It gives many possibilities to design a powerful cleaning protocol for individual problems, with up to 9 cleaning segments.
* The sample valve is optional in ÄKTAexplorer 10 and 10 XT.
ÄKTAexplorer
ÄKTAexplorer Installation Guide
ÄKTAexplorer System Manual
ÄKTAexplorer Making your first runs
Purification Method Handbook
Optional Configurations ÄKTAexplorer User Manual
Pump P-900 User Manual
Short Instructions P-900
Monitor UV-900 User Manual
Short Instructions UV-900
Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual
Short Instructions pH/C-900
Pump P-960 User Manual
Mixer M-925 Instructions
Valve INV-907 Instructions
Valve IV/PV-908 Instructions
Valve SV-903 Instructions
Using UNICORN with Windows XP Service Pack 2
Getting Started with UNICORN
UNICORN User Reference Manual chapter 1-11
UNICORN User Reference Manual chapter 12-15
UNICORN Administration and Technical Manual
System certificate
Module certificates for
Pump P-900
Pump P-960
Monitor UV-900
Monitor pH/C-900
Valve IV-908
2 x Valve INV-907
4 x Valve PV-908
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Purifying some samples at room temperature can lead to increased levels of degradation; performing your purifications at 4C can help. All our ÄKTA systems, Ettan LC, Ettan microLC, Ettan nanoLC and fraction collectors are suitable for use in the temperature range of 4-40C.
The computer systems are not however cold room compatible, and can be damaged by being placed at 4C.
When installing an ÄKTA system in a cold room the computer can be positioned up to 15 m away, allowing it to be positioned outside the cold room. Cold cabinets can provide an effective solution to running your ÂKTA system in the cold whilst protecting the PC. When moving a system to or from a cold room, time must be allowed for the system to adjust to its new temperature. You may also find that you need to tighten the connectors on your system slightly to prevent leaks when you bring a system out from the cold, and loosen them slightly before you put a system into the cold to prevent pressure build up.
Changes in temperature can also affect the viscosity of your buffers so keep a close eye on your back pressure.
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How long should the UV LAMP on my system Last?
I am getting the error message ‛Error 71: WARNING low light intensity’.
The ÄKTAbasic, ÄKTApurifier, ÄKTAexplorer, ÄKTAmicro and Ettan LC systems contain a
UV-900 monitor, the light source for which is a xenon flash lamp. Xenon lamps
emit a high intensity continuous spectrum of light, your chosen wavelengths are
selected using a monochromator. The lamp is triggered only when needed,
this extends its lifespan, meaning the average lamp can withstand many years
of normal use.
The UV monitoring system of the ÄKTAprime, ÄKTAxpress, ÄKTAFPLC, Ettan
microLC, Ettan nanoLC and the Ettan MDLC uses a Zn lamp for monitoring at 214 nm and a Hg lamp
at all other wavelengths. Wavelengths are selected using a band pass filter. When
the system is operated at room temperature with a wavelength of 254 nm, the average
Hg lamp lifetime is 7000 hours. In the cold room the average lifetime is reduced to
2000 hours.
One of the most common causes for the error message
‛Error 71: WARNING low light intensity’ is not lamp failure but a dirty flow cell.
Therefore, the first thing that you should do if you get this message is give your
system a good clean. If you are using an ÄKTAFPLC, ÄKTAxpress or ÄKTAprime
this error can also be caused by incorrect positioning of the lamp. There are two
positions for aligning the Hg lamp with the filter housing, one for 280 nm
(marked by a filled white circle) and one for all other wavelengths
(marked by a white ring). Having the lamp and filter housings incorrectly aligned
can result in a low light intensity warning.
Please read Method example in UNICORN Users Reference Manual.
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Requirements for software upgrade.
ÄKTAbasic, ÄKTAexplorer, ÄKTApurifier
UNICORN upgrade
Please check that you have the required version of Module Software (EPROM) for the pump, fraction collector, or UV monitor you are using.
You can check your Module Software version by clicking on System Control/System/Maintenance on the ÄKTA system computer, then select component and double click on General and find the Module software version.
Alternatively you can create a system report, which will list all components and the current Module Software version.
| Supported Operating System |
Verified Operating System Service Pack |
Supported Control Unit |
Demanded Module Software (EPROM) versions, Installed by service |
Minimum Computer Requirements for running UNICORN 5.20 |
| Windows XP™ | Service Pack 3 for Windows XP | CU-950 | Pump P-900 EPROM version 1.40.00 or any higher version | PC: Pentium 4, 2,5 GHz or higher Memory: 256 MB RAM for one system 512 MB RAM for two or more systems Hard disk: 500 MB available hard disk space |
| Windows Vista™ Business 32-bit EN | Service Pack 1 for Windows Vista | CU-960 | Pump P-960 EPROM version 01.02.00 or any higher version | |
| Pump P-950 EPROM version 1.13.01 or any higher version | ||||
| Frac-950 EPROM version 01.20.00 or any higher versions | ||||
| Frac-920 EPROM version 1.02.00 or any higher version | ||||
| Frac-901 EPROM 1.14.00 or any higher version | ||||
| UV-900 EPROM version 2.01.00 or any higher version |
For a complete package please contact your local GE Healthcare service representative.
| # | Product Name | Product Code | Price | Qty |
|---|
Maintenance instructions and procedures.
ÄKTAexplorer
Periodic maintenance
Regular maintenance is important for safe and trouble-free operation of your instrument. The user should perform daily and monthly maintenance. Preventive maintenance should be performed on a yearly basis by qualified service personnel.
For maintenance of a specific component, carefully read the component manual and follow the instructions. To avoid personal injury when performing maintenance on the ÄKTAexplorer instrument, follow the instructions below.
|
Warning! For continued protection from fire hazard, replace only with same type and rating fuse. |
|
Warning! Disconnect power. Always disconnect power from the instrument before replacing fuses. |
|
Warning! After assembly, the piping system must be tested for leakage at maximum pressure for continued protection against injury risks due to fluid jets, burst pipes or explosive atmosphere. |
|
Warning! Make sure that the piping system is completely leakage free before performing any CIP on the system. |
|
Warning! NaOH is corrosive and therefore dangerous to health. When using hazardous chemicals, avoid spillage and wear protective glasses and other suitable personal protective equipment. |
|
Warning! Before disassembly, check that there is no pressure in the piping system. |
|
Notice! Cleaning. Keep the instrument dry and clean. Wipe regularly with a soft damp tissue and, if necessary, a mild cleaning agent. Let the instrument dry completely before use. |
|
Notice! When using hazardous chemicals, take all suitable protective measures, such as wearing protective glasses and gloves resistant to the chemicals used. Follow local regulations and instructions for safe operation and maintenance of the system. |
|
Warning! Do not perform any type of maintenance work while the system is powered electrically or when the piping system is pressurized. Note that the piping system can be pressurized even when the system is closed down. |
|
Warning! Hazardous chemicals during maintenance. When using hazardous chemicals for system or column cleaning, wash the system or columns with a neutral solution in the last phase or step. |
|
Warning! Disconnect power. Always disconnect power from the instrument before replacing any component on the instrument, unless stated otherwise in the user documentation. |
|
Warning! Electrical shock hazard. All repairs should be done by service personnel authorized by GE Healthcare. Do not open any covers or replace parts unless specifically stated in the user documentation. |
Maintenance operations should be performed by the user at regular intervals
- Inspect the complete system for eluent leakage.
- The system can be left filled with buffer overnight. If you are not using the separation unit for a few days, wash the flow path with distilled water. Remove the column and the pH electrode (if applicable). Replace the column by a bypass capillary and fit the pH dummy electrode. Then wash the system with
20% ethanol and store it in 20% ethanol. Make sure that all tubing and all flow paths used are rinsed.
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Refer to the Calibrate the pH electrode procedure below.
Close- Check for leakage. If there is a sign of liquid leaking between the pump head and the housing side panel or increased or decreased volume of rinsing solution, run the Replace the piston seals procedure.
- When changing eluent, it is important to remove trapped air and run the Purge the pump procedure. If there is still air in the inlet tubing, stop and run the Removing trapped air bubbles from the pump procedure.
Note: If air is allowed to enter the columns, their performance can be heavily altered or destroyed.
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Check the inlet filters visually and replace them if necessary.
CloseReplace the on-line filter.
Close- Change rinsing solution. Always use 20% ethanol as rinsing solution.
- If the volume of rinsing solution in the storage bottle has increased, it can be an indication of internal pump leakage. Run the Replace the piston seals procedure.
- If the volume of rinsing solution in the storage bottle has decreased significantly, check if the rinsing system connectors are mounted properly.
- If the rinsing system connectors are not leaking, the rinsing membranes or piston seals may be leaking. Run the Replace the membranes and piston seals procedure.
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Check that flow restrictor generates the following back-pressure:
- FR-904: 0.4 ±0.05 MPa
- FR-902: 0.2 ±0.05 MPa
Check the back-pressure as follows:
- Disconnect the flow restrictor.
- Connect a capillary (approx. 1 m, i.d. 1 mm) to a free port in valve V2. Set the valve manually to this port. Put the open end in a waste container.
- Run the pump at 10 ml/min with water. Note the back-pressure (Bp1) on the pump display, or in the Run Data window.
- Connect the flow restrictor to the open end of the capillary (observe the IN marking). Put the flow restrictor in the waste container.
- Run the pump at 10 ml/min with water. Note the back-pressure (Bp2) on the pump display, or in the Run Data window.
- Calculate the back-pressure generated by the flow restrictor. Replace it if it is not within limit.
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Run the Cleaning the flow cell and optical fiber connectors procedure below.
Close- Refer to the Clean the flow cells procedure below. Cleaning the flow cells might be required more often if crude samples are reqularly used.
- Check the pH electrode. Replace the pH electrode if necessary. Refer to the Installing the pH electrode procedure below.
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Check that the mixer chamber is clean and without damage. Check the tubing connectors. Replace if required.
Close- Run the Replace piston seals and piston procedure.
- Run the Clean or replace the inlet and outlet check valves procedure.
- Calibrate the pressure sensor.
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- Run the Clean the conductivity flow cell procedure.
- Run the Clean the pH electrode flow cell procedure.
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The pressure offset of Pump P-960 must be calibrated whenever the running conditions are changed, e.g. viscosity of sample or buffer, temperature, back-pressure etc.
CloseDetailed procedures
If there are signs of liquid leaking between the pump head and the housing side panel or the volume of the rinsing solution has increased or decreased, replace the piston seal of the leaking pump head.
| CAUTION! Do not disassemble the pump head unless there is good reason to believe that the seal is leaking. Always ensure that sufficient spare components are available before attempting to replace the piston seal. It is not possible to reinstall a used piston seal after removal. |
Note: The power must be switched OFF when removing and refitting the pump heads.
Note: Always replace the piston seals on both pump heads at the same time. An even better practice is to replace all four piston seals.
Spare parts and tools required
Seal kit containing:
- 2 or 4 piston seals
- 2 or 4 rinse membranes
- 1/4 inch wrench (supplied with the pump)
- 3 mm allen key (supplied with the pump)
- Screwdriver (supplied with the pump)
Note: After a new seal has been installed, the pump should be run in. Run the Running-in a new piston seal procedure.
Note: Before disassembling the pump heads move all input buffers bottles below the level of the pump heads to prevent siphoning.
| CAUTION! Read the following instructions carefully. The individual parts of the pump head can be assembled incorrectly. Take care to ensure that the orientation of each part is correct before continuing with the next instruction. |
- Switch off the pump at the mains power switch on the back panel. Remove the piston seal rinsing system. The connectors are simple plugin fittings
- Completely loosen the tubing connector on the outlet valve.

- If the pump is equipped with Switch Valves SV-903, first remove the switchvalves and disconnect the tubing. Unscrew the two white knurled screws under the pump to release the support bracket locking the inlet manifold into the inlet valve. Gently lower and remove the complete manifold. 1

- Using the Allen key, unscrew and completely remove one of the two Allen screws locking the pump head in position.

- When unscrewing the second locking screw, push firmly on the front face of the pump head to compensate for the pressure of the piston return spring. Hold the pump head firmly to prevent it from twisting. Remove the second screw and, without allowing the pump head to twist sideways, carefully pull it out.
- Place the pump head face down on the bench. Pull out the piston together with the return spring.

- Inspect the piston and return spring for sign of damage. If damaged, they should be replaced.
- Wipe the piston with a clean cloth. If salt solutions have been used the piston may be slightly corroded. This corrosion can be removed with a rubber eraser. If it cannot be wiped or rubbed clean, scrape off any deposits with a scalpel or razor blade. Inspect the piston with a magnifying glass for scratches. Replace with a new piston if any scratches or cracks are found.
- Remove the two screws securing the drain plate and the rinse chamber. Remove and discard the rinsing membrane. Remove the rinse chamber. For P-903, remove also the support washer.


- Gently withdraw the piston seal. Discard the used seal.

- The pump head, rinse chamber and drain plate should be carefully rinsed or cleaned in an ultrasonic bath, if available. If dirt can be seen on any surfaces, the inlet and outlet check valves should be removed and cleaned separately. Run the Clean the inlet and outlet check valves procedure.
- Wet the new seal slightly and place it in the hole on the pump head and press it down into position with a hard flat object For P-903, refit the support washer on top of the new seal.
- With the pump head still facing downwards on the bench, place the rinse chamber onto the head with the rinse ports in line with the inlet and outlet check-valves. The conical depression in the rinse chamber should be facing upwards, ready to accept the new rinsing membrane. Fit the rinsing membrane with the conical face downwards.


- Place the drain plate on top of the assembly. Use the two screws to lock
the complete assembly together.
Note: Align the drainage hole in the drainage plate with the inlet check
valve (the opposite side of the pump head marked OUT/UP). - Wipe clean the piston and remove all finger prints. Wet the piston and then insert it into the return spring. With the pump head facing downwards on the bench, insert the piston into the pump head by pushing it gently but firmly vertically downwards into the seal.

CAUTION! Do not push the piston at an angle to the head and DO NOT twist the piston. - Turn the head so that the inlet valve and drainage hole are facing downwards and the text UP/OUT on the pump head is facing upwards. Mount the complete pump head over the locating pins on the front panel. Locate the metal end of the piston and the spring towards the drive cam.
Hold the pump head firmly against the side panel of the housing with one hand. Do not allow the assembly to twist under pressure from the return spring. Using the Allen key, fit and tighten one of the Allen screws. Fit and tighten the remaining Allen screw.

WARNING! Incorrectly fitted tubing may loosen, causing a jet of liquid to spray out. This is especially dangerous if hazardous chemicals are in use. Connect the tubing by first inserting the tubing fully, then tightening the connector fingertight. Finally tighten the connector a further 1/4 turn using the key supplied.

- Reconnect the outlet tubing to the outlet check valve and the manifold block as described above.
- Reconnect the inlet manifold and, if used, the switch valves.
- Refit the tubing of the piston seal rinse system.
- The pump should now be purged and the new piston seal carefully run-in as described in the Running-in a new piston seal procedure.
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| CAUTION! To prevent precipitation of crystals when changing from a saltcontaining buffer to organic solvent, always flush through the system with water as the intermediate liquid. |
When changing from one eluent to another, it is extremely important that the two eluents are totally miscible with one another. If the two eluents are immiscible, the pump should be flushed first with an intermediate liquid, which is miscible with both eluents. Failure to do this will cause a wrong flow of eluent from the pump.
When changing from a salt-containing buffer to an organic solvent, use water as the intermediate liquid to prevent precipitation.
- Stop the pump by setting it in Pause mode.
- Transfer the inlet tubing into the new eluent or into the intermediate liquid.
- Run the pump at a flow rate and time as specified in the table.
Pump Flow rate Time P-901 40 ml/min 10 minutes P-903 4 ml/min 10 minutes - Stop the pump. If an intermediate liquid is being used, transfer the inlet tubing into the final eluent and repeat step 3 with the new eluent.
In UNICORN, select instruction PumpWash in System Control:Manual:Pump.
WARNING! When using hazardous chemicals, make sure that the entire system has been fl ushed thoroughly with bacteriostatic solution, e.g. NaOH, and distilled water before service and maintenance.
If the conductivity measurements are not comparable to previous results, the electrodes in the flow cell may be contaminated and require cleaning. To clean the flow cell:
- Pump 15 ml of 1 M NaOH at 1 ml/min through the flow cell either by using a pump or a syringe.
- Leave it for 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with 50 ml de-ionised water.
Note: If the flow cell is totally blocked, the blockage can be broken using a thin needle or a piece of string with a diameter less than 0.8 mm.
CloseRemove the pH electrode and install the dummy electrode in the pH flow cell.
Pump a cleaning or sanitizing agent through the flow cells. The standard recommendation is to pump 1 M NaOH for 30 minutes and then wash out with buffer.
WARNING! NaOH is injurious to health. Avoid spillage
CloseLamp intensity
- Select menu Check, press OK.
- Select menu Check Lamp Intensity.
If the lamp intensity is < 20%, contact your local GE Healthcare service representative for lamp replacement or change of internal optical fiber.
Lamp on-time
Check Lamp Run Time 200h
- Select menu Check, press OK.
- Select menu Check Lamp Run Time.
If the lamp ontime is > 4000 hours, contact your local GE Healthcare service representativefor lamp replacement.
Check Flip Time 50h
The flip time is the time the monochromator stepper motor has been in operation.
- Select menu Check, press OK.
- Select menu Check Flip Time.
If the flip time is > 2000 hours, contact your local GE Healthcare service representative for maintenance.
UV flow cell
This menu shows the set path length and the serial number of the UV flow cell.
Select menu Check and press OK.
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Replacement kits, Valve kit IV-908 and Valve kit PV-908, are available see Spare parts recommended to keep on site in the spare part section for code no.
- Ensure that the valve is disconnected from the pump and the tubing are disconnected.
- Remove the 4 screws on the front using the supplied 3 mm Allen key. Loosen each one equally in turn so the distribution plate comes off parallel to the valve body.
- Slide the screws out.
- Remove the distribution plate containing the 8 peripheral ports.
- Remove the old channel plate and insert a new one.
- Remount a new distribution plate so that the text i/o is horizontal and to the right of the central tubing connection. Using the Allen key, tighten the 4 screws in turn, a little at a time, until the distribution plate is fixed to the valve body.
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| WARNING! NaOH is injurious to health. Avoid spillage. |
A replacement kit, Valve Kit INV-907, is available, see Spare parts recommended to keep on site in the spare part section for code no.
- Ensure that the valve is in position 1 and then disconnect it from the pump
- Remove the 4 screws on the front using the supplied 3 mm Allen key. Loosen each one equally in turn so the distribution plate comes off parallel to the valve body.

- Slide the screws out.
- Remove the distribution plate containing the ports.
- Remove the old channel plate and insert a new one.
- Remount a new distribution plate so that the text 3 is horizontal and to the right of the central tubing connection. Using the Allen key, tighten the 4 screws in turn, a little at a time, until the distribution plate is fixed to the valve body.
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Recycling This symbol indicates that the waste of electrical and electronic equipment must not be disposed as unsorted municipal waste and must be collected separately. Please contact an authorized representative of the manufacturer for information concerning the decommissioning of equipment. |
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When calibrating with the electrode fitted in the flow cell in ÄKTApurifier, follow the above procedure. Before adjusting the pH monitor, ensure that the pH has stabilized. Leave the pump running while calibrating. Switch to the other standard buffer solution and repeat the procedure. For a description of calibration from UNICORN with the electrode fitted in the flow cell, see section 6.6 in UNICORN User Manual.
CloseWhen calibrating the electrode out of the flow cell and changing from one buffer to another, rinse the electrode tip with distilled water and dab it carefully with a soft tissue to absorb the remaining water. Do NOT wipe the electrode as this may charge it and give unstable readings.
The steps below describe the procedure used with the electrode removed from the flow cell.
Note: The Monitor must be unlocked if connected to a UNICORN control system.
- Remove the pH electrode from the flow cell and immerse the electrode in the 1:st standard buffer solution (normally pH 7.0).
- Select main menu Calibrate pH. The display shows the current low and high calibrated pH value. Press OK.
- Select sub menu Calib pH Buffer 1, press OK. When the pH value has stabilized, the Please wait message will disappear.
- Adjust the pH value in the display using the dial, so that it corresponds to the known pH value of the 1:st buffer solution, press OK. The sub menu Calib pH Buffer 2 is shown.
- Rinse the electrode tip with distilled water and then immerse the electrode in the 2:nd standard buffer solution (e.g. 4.0 or 9.0), press OK.
- When the pH value has stabilized, the Please wait message will disappear.
- Adjust the pH value in the display using the dial, so that it corresponds to the known pH value of the 2:nd buffer solution, press OK.
- The sub menu Calibrated Electrode Slope shows the slope of the calibration curve where 100% corresponds to 59.16 mV per pH step at 25 °C. The asymmetry potential at pH 7 is shown as a mV value. Press ESC to return to the main menu.

- Before use, rinse the electrode using distilled water.
A new electrode has a slope of, typically, 95–102% and an asymmetry potential within ±30 mV. As the electrode ages the slope decreases and the asymmetry potential increases.
As a rule, when an electrode has an asymmetry potential outside of ±60 mV and a slope lower than 80%, and no improvement can be achieved by cleaning, it should be replaced.
An electrode is still usable at lower slopes and higher asymmetry potentials but the response will be slower and the accuracy diminished.
A good laboratory routine is to calibrate the instrument once a day, when the electrode is replaced and if the ambient temperature is changed. The pH monitor is calibrated using standard buffer solutions in a two point calibration. The two buffer solutions can have any pH value as long as the difference between them is at least 1 pH unit. Calibration can also be performed from UNICORN. In UNICORN select System Control:System: Calibrate. Select the pH monitor. The calibration procedure can be done with the pH electrode either fitted in or removed from the flow cell.
CloseCAUTION! To protect the piston seals, the pump must never be run with air in the inlet tubing. Follow the procedure below to remove the air.

|
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The piston seal should be run-in using 100% methanol.
CAUTION! To protect the pump seals, always ensure that there is a constant supply of eluent. The pump should never be allowed to run dry.
- Ensure that the reservoir is filled with sufficient eluent. Immerse the
inlet tubing in the eluent. The reservoir should be placed at least 30 cm
above the pump inlet. - Connect a male Luer syringe of about 30 ml to the open end of the
purge tubing. - Connect the male Luer connector at the other end of the purge tubing
to the left purge valve at pump module module A. - Turn the purge valve counterclockwise half a turn to open it and slowly
draw eluent to the syringe. - When fluid starts to enter the syringe continue to draw a few millilitres
before closing the purge valve. Check that there is no air left in the inlet
tubing. - Repeat steps 3 to 5 for pump module B, if fitted.
- Check that the outlet tubings are not blocked.
- Connect a thin capillary or a column that will give sufficient back
pressure. - Run at the following flow rates for 15 minutes:
P-901 1 ml/min (or 2 ml/min 50%B)
P-903 0.1 ml/min (or 0.2 ml/min 50%B) - a
For P-901, run at 20 ml/min (or 40 ml/min 50%B) at a backpressure of
2–5 MPa for 15 minutes.
b
For P-903, run at 2 ml/min (or 4 ml/min 50%B) at a backpressure of
5–10 MPa for 2 hours, or longer if possible (e.g. overnight). - Finally, change the eluent:
Close
| CAUTION! To prevent precipitation of crystals when changing from a saltcontaining buffer to organic solvent, always flush through the system with water as the intermediate liquid. |
When changing from one eluent to another, it is extremely important that the two eluents are totally miscible with one another. If the two eluents are immiscible, the pump should be flushed first with an intermediate liquid, which is miscible with both eluents. Failure to do this will cause a wrong flow of eluent from the pump.
When changing from a salt-containing buffer to an organic solvent, use water as the intermediate liquid to prevent precipitation.
- Stop the pump by setting it in Pause mode.
- Transfer the inlet tubing into the new eluent or into the intermediate liquid.
- Run the pump at a flow rate and time as specified in the table.
Pump Flow rate Time P-90140 ml/min10 minutesP-9034 ml/min10 minutes - Stop the pump. If an intermediate liquid is being used, transfer the inlet tubing into the final eluent and repeat step 3 with the new eluent.
In UNICORN, select instruction PumpWash in System Control:Manual:Pump.
A clean flow cell and optical connectors are essential for ensuring the correct operation of the UV-monitor.
CAUTION! Do not allow solutions containing dissolved salts, proteins or other solid solutes to dry out in the cell. Do not allow particles to enter the flow cell as damage to the flow cell may occur.
Cleaning the flow cell
- Connect a syringe to the inlet of the flow cell and squirt distilled water through the cell in small amounts. Then fill the syringe with a 10% surface active detergent solution like Decon 90, Deconex 11, RBS 25 or equivalent, and squirt five times.
- After five squirts, leave the detergent solution in the flow cell for at least 20 minutes.
- Pump the remaining detergent solution through the flow cell.
- Rinse the syringe and flush the cell with distilled water (10 ml).
Cleaning the optical fiber connectors
Wipe with 30% isopropanol on lens paper.
Instrument housing
Wipe the instrument housing regularly with a damp cloth. Let the instrument dry completely before use.
| WARNING! When using hazardous chemicals, make sure that the entire system has been flushed thoroughly with bacteriostatic solution, e.g. NaOH, and distilled water before service and maintenance. |
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Note: Handle the pH electrode with care.
CAUTION! The tip of the pH electrode consists of a thin glass membrane. Protect it from breakage, contamination and drying out or the electrode will be destroyed. Always store the electrode with the end cover filled with a 1:1 mixture of pH 4 buffer and 1 M KNO3. Do NOT store in water only.
- Unpack the pH electrode. Ensure that it is not broken or dry.
- Prior to first using the electrode, remove the electrode end cover and immerse the glass bulb in buffer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the dummy electrode from the flow cell and store it in the flow cell holder.


- Carefully insert the electrode in the flow cell. Tighten the nut by hand to secure the electrode.
Note: If the electrode is not fully inserted, the system will leak and a dead
volume will occur in the holder. - Connect the pH electrode cable to the rear of the instrument to the socket pH Probe.
Mounting the flow cell holder
- Hook the flow cell holder on the right hand side of the housing. Secure it with the slide clamp.

If the flow cell holder is not used, the flow cell must still be installed at an angle of 30° from the vertical with the outlet placed higher than the inlet to prevent air bubbles being trapped in the cell. The flow direction is marked on the flow cell. - Connect the tubing with the “Fingertight” connectors.
| WARNING! When using hazardous chemicals, make sure that the entire system has been fl ushed thoroughly with bacteriostatic solution, e.g. NaOH, and distilled water before service and maintenance. |
If the conductivity measurements are not comparable to previous results, the electrodes in the flow cell may be contaminated and require cleaning.
To clean the flow cell:
- Pump 15 ml of 1 M NaOH at 1 ml/min through the flow cell either by using a pump or a syringe.
- Leave it for 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with 50 ml de-ionised water.
Note: If the flow cell is totally blocked, the blockage can be broken using a thin needle or a piece of string with a diameter less than 0.8 mm.
Close
During routine operation, the presence of air bubbles in the pump heads is seen as an erratic flow, a noisy detector signal or an irregular pressure recording. With air bubbles trapped in the pump, the pressure reading on the display will fluctuate considerably.
To remove the air from the pump:
- If the air has accumulated because of a leaking connector, correct the fault.
- Ensure that the inlet filter is fully immersed in eluent.
- Purge the pump. Run the Purging the pump procedure
If the problem remains, try to remove the air bubbles in accordance with the method described below. Use 100% methanol.
- Run at 40 ml/min for P-901, or 4 ml/min for P-903.
- Continue to run for 10 minutes, or until the air bubble is removed.
- Change the eluent. Run the Changing eluent procedure.
Before removing the check valves, move all input buffers bottles below the level of the pump heads, to prevent siphoning.
- If the condition of the check valve is not improved by in–place cleaning, disconnect and remove the inlet manifold and outlet tubing.
- Use the 13 mm wrench to remove the valve from the pump head.

CAUTION! Handle the check valves with care when they have been removed from the pump heads to prevent loss of any internal components. - Immerse the complete valve in methanol and place in an ultrasonic bath for some minutes. Then repeat the ultrasonic bath with distilled water.
- Refit the check valves. The inlet check valve (with a lip for the manifold and a larger diameter opening) is fitted to the side marked IN of the pump head. Tighten the valves until fully finger-tight and then use the 13 mm wrench to tighten a further 1/3rd (110o) of a turn. Do not overtighten the valves since damage to the internal components can occur.

WARNING! Incorrectly fitted tubing may loosen, causing a jet of liquid to spray out. This is especially dangerous if hazardous chemicals are in use. Connect the tubing by first inserting the tubing fully, then tightening the connector fingertight. Finally tighten the connector a further 1/4 turn using the key supplied. - Refit the outlet tubing and the inlet manifold.
- Purge the pump carefully and check that the pumping action has been corrected.
Note: Check valves have precision matched components and
should only be disassembled further by a trained service
engineer. If the problem cannot be corrected, the valve should be replaced completely.
Faulty operation of the check valves is usually indicated by irregular flow, very low flow or unstable pressure traces. Probable causes of this are air or dirt in a check valve preventing it from closing to seal and hold the pressure.
Record the pressure according to instructions, Checking the pump pressure, at this end of this document and identify the faulty check valve by observing which pump head is delivering the flow according to check menu at the end of this document.
First try to clean the check valves in–place on the pump head by pumping 100% methanol for approximately 10 minutes. If this does not correct the problem, follow the instructions for removing and then cleaning the valves.
Note: Change solvent to distilled water and flush out all salt before removing the check valves.
Tools required: A 13 mm and a 1/4 inch wrench.
To check the pump function, a recording of the pressure can be made or by checking the pressure in UNICORN. This pressure recording is more sensitive than the reading on the display. By observing the piston stroke indicator in the Check menu together with the pressure trace, the pump head which is functioning abnormally can be identified.
There can be several causes of an abnormal pressure recording, for example:
- Air trapped in the pump heads
- Partially blocked solvent filters
- Leaking connections
- Piston seal leakage
- Check valve malfunction
- Piston damaged
Checking piston stroke
To enable trouble shooting it is possible to check which pump module head that delivers flow.
- Select main menu Check, press OK.
- The display shows the status of the pistons for both pump modules.
A: Left means that the left pump head is delivering flow in the A pump and
B:Right means that the right pump head is delivering flow in the B pump. At the changing point both are displayed. The A pump is closest to the front panel.
Check pump operation time
- Select main menu Check, press OK.
- Select sub menu Check Total Run Time. The display shows the accumulated operation time (Run and Hold mode) for the A and B pumps.
Check number of piston strokes
- Select main menu Check, press OK.
- Select sub menu Check Piston Strokes. The display shows the accumulated number of piston strokes for the A and B pumps.
Check Service Mode
Service information relevant to the instrument can be checked. Information may not be available in all menus.
- Select main menu Check, press OK.
- Select sub menu Check Service Mode, press OK.
- The service telephone number1) is displayed, press OK.
- The service contract number1) is displayed, press OK.
- The instrument serial number is displayed, press OK.
- Instrument name and software version are displayed, press OK.
- The date of the last service is displayed, press OK.
- A test of the instrument buzzer is performed, press OK.
1) Not always pre-programmed. Depends on customer-specific contract.
Calibrate Pressure Offset
- Ensure that the pump is at zero pressure.
- Select main menu Check, press OK.
- Select sub menu Calib Press Offset, press OK. “Working, please wait ...” is displayed until the calibration is completed.
Find solutions to product related issues. For unlisted issues please contact your local GE Healthcare service representative.
General advice to achieve good performance
Before using the system make sure that:
- Correct system has been selected in UNICORN System Control
- Correct wavelength has been set for UV/UPC monitor
- All tubing has been properly connected
- All connectors are free from leakage
- No tubing is folded or twisted
- Online filter, if used, is changed on a regular basis
- Correct buffers are used for the chosen columns and proteins
- All inlet tubing has been immersed in correct buffer solutions
- Enough buffer has been prepared
- Buffers have been equilibrated to the environment temperature
- Buffers/eluents have been degassed if necessary (e.g., in RPC runs)
- Suitable columns have been selected for the target proteins
- Columns have been cleaned and prepared according to column instructions
- Samples have been clarified by centrifugation and/or filtration prior to sample loading
- Samples have been adjusted to binding buffer conditions
- Auto sampler (if used) has been prepared according to user manual
- The fraction collector has been filled with appropriate number of microtiter plates or tubes
- Appropriate arrangement for waste handling has been prepared
Monitor UV-900 unusual appearance
Issues related to Monitor UV-900 unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Mixer chamber volume too small |
Replace the mixing chamber to a chamber with larger volume according to instructions |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
No text on the front display |
Check that the mains cable is connected and the power switch is in ON-position 1. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Monitor UV-900 not properly set up |
Check the entire set up of the monitor according to instructions Monitor UV-900 User Manual |
|
Recorder not properly set up |
Check the chart recorder in accordance with its instructions. |
Mixer unusual appearance
Issues related to Mixer unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Mixer not functioning |
Check the mixer function by placing a stirrer bar on top of the mixer housing. The stirrer bar should rotate when the system is in Run mode. The mixer function can also be checked by running the installation test. |
Monitor pH/C-900 unusual appearance
Issues related to Monitor pH/C-900 unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
No text on the front display |
Check that the mains cable is connected and the power switch is in ON-position 1 |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Recorder not properly set up |
1. Check the chart recorder in accordance with its instructions. |
Sample pump P-960 unusual appearance
Issues related to Sample pump P-960 unusual apperance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air bubbles may be trapped in the pump |
Purge the pump according to instructions in the Pump P-960 User manual. |
|
Check valve is clogged or damaged, causing leakage |
Remove the check valve according to instructions. Clean the check valve in an ultrasonic bath. |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
|
|
Pump inlet or outlet tubing is pinched or damaged |
Check the pump tubing. Replace if necessary. |
|
Solvent filter is clogged |
Check the solvent filter. Clean if necessary |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Check valve is clogged or damaged |
|
|
Pressure offset in the sample pump is not calibrated properly. |
Calibrate the pressure offset according to instructions in the Pump P-960 User manual. |
|
Pump inlet or outlet tubing is pinched or damaged |
Check the pump tubing. Replace if necessary. |
|
The flowrate is too high |
Decrease the flowrate |
|
The pressure limit is too low |
Increase the pressure limit |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Check valve is clogged or damaged |
Remove the check valve according to instructions. Clean the check valve in an ultrasonic bath. If the leakage persists replace the check valve according to instructions in the Pump P-960 User manual. |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
|
|
Inlet or outlet tubing is damaged |
Check the tubing and if necessary, replace the tubing. |
|
O-ring in a check valve or in the connection part is damaged |
Examine the O-rings. If necessary replace them according to instructions in the Pump P-960 User manual. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air bubbles are trapped in the pump |
Purge the pump according to instructions in the Pump P-960 User Manual. |
|
Cavitation might occur due to too high flow rate for the sample application technique used |
Please see the ÄKTAdesign Optimal Configuration User Manual for the recommended flow rates. |
|
Check valve is clogged or damaged, causing leakage |
|
|
The flow rate is not calibrated properly |
Please contact your local GE Healthcare service representative. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
No UniNet-2 communication |
Check the UniNet-2 cable The green indicator on the sample pump shows a steady light when communication is established. |
|
System power is off |
Check that the system power is on. |
Valve SV-903 unusual appearance
Issues related to Valve SV-903 unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
Tighten or replace the connector if necessary. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Damage of the valve interior |
Replace the valve according to instructions in the Valve SV-903 Instructions. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
Tighten or replace the connector if necessary. |
|
Pump is not operating correctly |
Check the pump |
|
Pump is incorrectly programmed |
Check the programming of the pump |
Valve IV-908, PV-908 or INV-907 unusual appearance
Issues related to IV-908, PV-908 or INV-907 unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
Tighten or replace the connector if necessary. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Dirt in the flow path |
|
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Internal parts are worn |
Internal leakage can be detected at the small hole on the underside of the valve body. Change channel plate and distribution plate according to instructions in the |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Valve parts incorrectly reassembled after replacement |
Check that the distribution plate marking i/o (buffer valve) or 3 (injection valve) is horizontal |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
ID-switch on the valve is incorrect |
Check the ID-switch on the valve. The ID number should correspond to the number set in UNICORN. |
|
UniNet cable is worn |
Check the UniNet cable and replace if required. |
|
UniNet connection is incorrect |
Check the connection to the pump. The valve should be connected to the UniNet 2 socket, not to the UniNet 1 socket. |
UV curve
Issues related to UV curve
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air in the eluent or buffers |
Remove the air in the eluent or buffers by degassing. |
|
Dirt and residues in the flow path from previous run |
Clean the system according to instructions in the System Manual. |
|
Poor mixing of the buffers |
Check the mixer function by placing a stirrer bar on top of the mixer housing. The stirrer bar should rotate when the system is in Run mode. The mixer function can also be checked by running the installation test. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air might be trapped in the pump |
Purge the pump according to the Pump P-900 User Manual |
|
Air in the flow cell |
1. Air in the buffers, do degas the buffers before use 2.Check for leaking tubing connections 3. Air accumulates easier in the flow cell if the flow restrictor doesn’t generate enough back-pressure, hence check that the flow restrictor generates the following back-pressure |
|
Contaminated UV-cell |
Clean the UV-cell according to instructions in the Monitor UV-900 User Manual |
|
Incorrect connections of the UV-cell optical fibres |
Check the connections of the UV-cell optical fibres according to instructions in the System Manual |
|
Impure buffer |
Check if the signal is still noisy in water. |
Pump P-900 unusual appearance
Issues related to Pump P-900 unusual appearance
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Recorder not properly set up |
Check the chart recorder in accordance with its manual. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
There could be several causes of abnormal pressure recording. |
Normal and abnormal pressure traces together with comments are shown in the |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Connector incorrectly fitted or worn |
|
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Piston seal or rinsing membrane incorrectly fitted or worn |
Replace or re-install the seal or the membrane. Run-in carefully according to the Pump P-900 User Manual. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Piston is damaged |
If damaged, replace the piston according to instructions in the Pump P-900 User Manual. Remember to also replace the piston seal. |
|
Spring is corroded |
Disassemble pump cylinder and examine the piston spring according to instructions in the Pump P-900 User Manual. If the spring is corroded, check if the piston seal and rinse membrane are intact. Replace if necessary. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
No text on the front display |
Check that the mains cable is connected and the power switch is in ON-position 1 |
Conductivity curve
Issues related to Conductivity curve
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Column is not equilibrated |
Check that the column is equilibrated. If necessary clean the column. |
|
Conductivity flow cell cable is not correctly connected |
Connect the conductivity cell cable to the rear panel of the instrument |
|
If temperature compensation is being used, the temperature sensor might not be calibrated. |
Please calibrate the temperature sensor according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
Poor mixing of the buffers |
Check the mixer function by placing a stirrer bar on top of the mixer housing. The stirrer bar should rotate when the system is in Run mode. The mixer function can also be checked by running the installation test. |
|
System pump doesn’t operate properly |
Check the operation of the pump according to Pump P-900 User Manual |
|
Valve doesn’t operate correctly |
Check the valves according to instructions |
|
If temperature compensation is being used, the temperature sensor might not be calibrated. |
Please calibrate the temperature sensor according to instructions Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Calibration of the conductivity cell is incorrect |
Calibrate the conductivity cell according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
Calibration solution 1.00 M NaCl not correct prepared |
Prepare a new calibration solution and recalibrate the conductivity cell according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
If temperature compensation is being used, the temperature sensor might not be calibrated. |
Please calibrate the temperature sensor according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
If temperature compensation is being used, incorrect temperature compensation factor might be in use. |
Please adjust the temperature compensation factor according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Contaminated conductivity flow cell |
Clean the flow cell according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
The ambient temperature may have decreased. |
The conductivity of the solution changes with temperature.Use a temperature compensation factor according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
The buffer might loose it's characteristics over time |
Change buffer |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air bubbles are passing through the flow cell |
|
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Column is not equilibrated |
Check that the column is equilibrated. If necessary clean the column. |
|
Conductivity flow cell cable is not correctly connected |
Connect the conductivity cell cable to the rear panel of the instrument. |
|
If temperature compensation is being used, incorrect temperature compensation factor might be in use. |
Please adjust the temperature compensation factor according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
Poor mixing of the buffers |
Check the mixer function by placing a stirrer bar on top of the mixer housing. The stirrer bar should rotate when the system is in Run mode. The mixer function can also be checked by running the installation test. |
|
System pump doesn’t operate properly |
Check the operation of the pump according to the Pump P-900 User Manual. |
|
Valve doesn’t operate correctly |
Check the valves according to instructions in the |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air in the flow cell |
1. Air in the buffers, do degas the buffers before use |
|
Column is not equilibrated |
Check that the column is equlibrated. If necessary clean the column. |
|
Contaminated conductivity flow cell |
Clean the flow cell according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
Leaking tubing connections |
Tighten the connectors. If necessary replace the connectors. Please refer to the order information in the System Manual. |
|
Poor mixing of buffers |
Check the mixer function by placing a stirrer bar on top of the mixer housing. The stirrer bar should rotate when the system is in Run mode. The mixer function can also be checked by running the installation test. |
|
System pump doesn't operate properly |
Check the operation of the pump according to the Pump P-900 User Manual. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Dirt or residues in the flow path from previous run |
Clean the system according to instructions in the System Manual. |
|
Mixer motor doesn’t operate resulting in poor mixing |
Check the motor operation. Place the hand on the mixer and start it by starting the pump at low flow rate. You should both hear and feel the mixer motor and stirrer when they are spinning. |
|
The system pump doesn’t operate properly |
Check the operation of the pump according to Pump P-900 User Manual. |
|
The volume of the mixing chamber is too large |
Replace the mixing chamber to a chamber with smaller volume according to instructions in the Mixer M-925 Instructions. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
The mixing chamber contains particles or other impurities |
Clean or replace the mixing chamber according to instructions in the Mixer M-925 Instructions. |
|
The mixer motor doesn’t operate resulting in poor mixing |
Check the motor operation. Place the hand/finger on the mixer and start it by starting the pump at low flow rate. You should both hear and feel the mixer motor and stirrer when they are spinning. |
|
The system pump doesn’t work properly |
Check that the pump is operating and is programmed correctly according to instructions in the Pump P-900 User Manual. |
|
The volume of the mixing chamber is too small |
Replace the mixing chamber to a chamber with larger volume according to instructions in the Mixer M-925 Instructions. |
Connection to UNICORN
Issues related to UNICORN™ 5.2
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Connection problem |
This is an instruction video on how to connect the ÄKTA™explorer or ÄKTApurifier via USB to UNICORN 5.2. The video will help you troubleshoot any connection problem you might face when using ÄKTAexplorer or ÄKTApurifier with UNICORN 5.2. |
pH curve
Issues related to pH curve
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air in the flow cell |
Tap the flow cell carefully or tilt it to remove the air. Alternatively, flush the cell with buffer at 20 ml/min for ½ min. |
|
Broken pH electrode |
Replace the electrode according to instructions Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
Calibration of pH electrode performed at wrong temperature |
Recalibrate at correct temperature |
|
Dirty pH electrode |
Clean the pH electrode according to instructions. If the problem remains, replace the electrode according to instructions in the |
|
Electrode cable is not correctly connected |
Connect the electrode cable to the socket "pH probe" on the rear panel of the instrument. |
|
Interference from static fields |
Connect the pH flow cell and the rear panel of the monitor using a standard laboratory 4 mm “banana plug” cable. |
|
pH electrode used in applications using organic solvents |
In organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol and acetonitrile, stable pH measurements are not possible since dehydration of the membrane will occur. We recommend that the pH electrode is not used in applications using organic solvents. Mount the dummy electrode instead. |
|
Response differ when comparing with response from other pH electrode |
Clean the pH electrode according to instructions. If the problem remains, replace the electrode according to instructions in the |
|
Slope of the calibration curve is outside the range 80-105 % or the asymmetry potential deviates more than 60 mV from 0 mV |
The calibration curve shows the relation between pH and the output signal from the monitor in mV. Read more about the calibration curve in the instructions. Clean the pH electrode according to instructions. Recalibrate and if the problem persists, replace the pH electrode according to instructions Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
System pump doesn't operate properly |
Check the operation of the pump according to the Pump P-900 User Manual |
|
Uncalibrated pH electrode |
Calibrate the electrode according to instructions Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
|
Valve doesn't operate correctly |
Check the valves according to instructions in the |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Electrode cable is not correctly connected |
Connect the electrode cable to the socket "pH probe" on the rear panel of the instrument. |
|
Cracked electrode glass membrane |
Please replace the electrode according to instructions Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
pH values vary with varied back pressure |
Replace the electrode according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Contaminated electrode glass membrane |
Clean the pH electrode according to instructions. If the problem remains, replace the electrode according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
|
Dried membrane |
The electrode may be restored by soaking in buffer over night. If the problem remains, replace the electrode according to instructions in the Monitor pH/C-900 User Manual. |
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Dirty pH electrode |
Clean the pH electrode according to instructions. If the problem remains, replace the electrode according to instructions in the |
Pressure curve
Issues related to Pressure curve
| Possible cause | Suggested Remedy |
|
Air bubbles passing through or trapped in the pump |
|
|
Blockage or partial blockage of flow path |
|
|
Inlet and outlet check valves not functioning correctly |
There might be dirt in the check valves. Clean the valves according to instructions in the Pump P-900 User Manual |
|
Piston seal is leaking |
Replace the piston seal according to instructions Pump P-900 User Manual |



