ECOM ECP201LG GRADIENT PREPARATIVE PUMP

Importance of the topic

Preparative liquid chromatography plays a critical role in isolating and purifying target compounds on a larger scale, supporting pharmaceutical development, bioprocessing and industrial purification workflows. A robust high-pressure gradient pump is essential to achieve precise solvent delivery, reproducible gradient formation and efficient sample processing in preparative applications.

Objectives and overview

This application note presents the ECP201LG gradient preparative pump designed for high-flow, high-pressure separations. Key goals include delivering up to 1000 mL/min at pressures up to 15 MPa, supporting complex solvent gradients with up to four low-pressure gradient valves and ensuring compatibility with buffered solvents via piston back-washing.

Methodology

The ECP201LG employs two parallel pistons (20 mm diameter) to maintain stable high-flow rates under pressure. Gradient formation is achieved using up to four low-pressure valves (labeled A–D) mounted in an external gradient box, enabling precise mixing of mobile phase components. The pump supports incremental flow rate adjustments in 1 mL/min steps, with repeatability of ±1% and accuracy of ±2%. Buffered solvents are accommodated through an optional back-washing routine to protect seals and maintain long-term performance.

Instrumentation

• Pump head: Dual-piston gradient pump, maximum 15 MPa at 2–1000 mL/min
• Gradient valves: Four-position low-pressure valve assembly, up to 0.2 MPa
• Materials in contact: Stainless steel, PEEK, Tefzel™, Kalrez®, ceramic
• Software control: ECOMAC (basic version included) and Clarity; interfaces via RS232, LAN, USB and digital I/O
• Display and user interface: 2.4″ OLED screen with 128×64 pixels and 10-button keypad
• Power and dimensions: 100–240 V AC, 500 VA; 340×170×640 mm; 30 kg

Main results and discussion

The ECP201LG delivers stable flow rates across a wide range (2–1000 mL/min) under high pressure, demonstrating tight control over gradient profiles and excellent repeatability. The dual-piston design ensures pulsation-free delivery, while back-washing extends seal lifetime when using buffers. Integration with ECOMAC and Clarity software simplifies pump operation, data logging and remote control.

Benefits and practical applications

• High throughput purification of pharmaceuticals, peptides and natural products
• Consistent gradient formation for reproducible separations
• Reduced maintenance through back-washing feature
• Flexible control via multiple communication interfaces and user-friendly software

Future trends and possibilities

Advances may include tighter integration with automated fraction collectors and lab information management systems, enhanced software algorithms for adaptive gradient optimization, miniaturized high-pressure components for reduced footprint, and developments in low-maintenance sealing materials to further extend operational intervals.

Conclusion

The ECP201LG gradient preparative pump offers a reliable, high-pressure solution for large-scale chromatographic separations. Its robust design, precise flow control and gradient flexibility meet the demanding requirements of industrial and preparative laboratories, ensuring efficient purification workflows and consistent results.

References

No references were provided in the original document.