AZURA® HTQC UHPLC System
High-Throughput
Quality
Control: Speed, simplicity and robustness
Fast UHPLC up
to 1240 bar with short cycle times
Parallel column reconditioning during run
Innovative column switching and backflushing valve: A new level of automation
Liquid handler for precision and speed in sample introduction
Store 390 sample vials or six well plates at 4–40 °C per Robotic cooler
Compatible with all common HPLC detectors incl. MS/MS
ClarityChrom®, OpenLab® or SCIEX OS. You name it. We have it!
Never waste time between runs with intelligent "Prep-ahead" function
Increase your sample throughput by high speed UHPLC methods, device- and software-related automation and intelligent parallel column processing. View our brochure
Efficient Offline Column Re-Equilibration for
Increased Throughput in HPLC
KNAUER’s HPLC systems are designed to meet the demanding requirements of pharmaceutical quality control laboratories, where high throughput and reproducible results are critical. One key innovation is the ability to perform offline column re-equilibration in backflush mode, significantly reducing overall analysis cycle times.
Concept and Functionality
In gradient HPLC, column re-equilibration is required after each analysis to restore the stationary phase to the initial mobile phase conditions. Traditionally, this step occurs inline, directly after the gradient run, which extends the total method duration and limits sample throughput.
KNAUER systems address this limitation by implementing a second binary gradient pump dedicated exclusively to column re-equilibration. This second pump operates independently of the main gradient pump, which delivers the mobile phase for the analytical separation.
The re-equilibration is performed in backflush mode, meaning the mobile phase flows in reverse direction – from the column inlet directly to waste – without passing through the full column bed. This setup ensures that residual matrix components do not traverse the entire column, minimizing potential contamination or buildup on the stationary phase.
Advantages for Pharmaceutical QC Laboratories
Time
Savings
By carrying out re-equilibration independently and in parallel to the next sample run, the overall analysis cycle can be shortened by at least 30%. This significantly increases sample throughput, especially in routine workflows with large batch sizes.
Improved Column Protection
The backflush configuration prevents matrix materials from being flushed through the entire column during re-equilibration. This helps protect the stationary phase from contamination, extending column lifetime and reducing replacement frequency.
Consistent Retention Times
Performing the re-equilibration with a dedicated pump under controlled flow and solvent conditions ensures consistent and reproducible retention times between injections, which is essential in regulated environments.
Independent
Flow Paths
The decoupling of analytical separation and re-equilibration enables flexible method programming and efficient system utilization, without compromising chromatographic performance.
Application Scope
This feature is particularly beneficial in pharmaceutical QC laboratories where large sample series must be analyzed under validated conditions. The offline re-equilibration option is fully compatible with standard reversed-phase HPLC methods using aqueous-organic gradients, and it integrates seamlessly into automated workflows.
AZURA® HTQC UHPLC System
Boost your productivity and get more done in less time!
