Installation Instruction for ProfIC Vario 8 Anion

Significance of the Topic

The ProfIC Vario 8 Anion system integrates inline sample preconcentration and matrix elimination with sequential suppression to address the growing demand for high-throughput, reliable ion chromatography workflows. This technology streamlines routine analysis of anions in complex matrices by combining automated sample handling, precise eluent delivery and effective suppression, ensuring accurate trace-level determinations in environmental, food and industrial quality control applications.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application bulletin describes the step-by-step installation and configuration of the ProfIC Vario 8 Anion system, including hardware assembly, software setup in MagIC Net, interconnection of the 940 Professional IC Vario with the 858 Professional Sample Processor and preparation of exemplary measurement protocols. Key goals include achieving stable baselines, robust calibration and efficient sample throughput.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The installation follows a defined sequence: hardware unpacking, software installation, accessory kit assembly and system interconnection. Inline matrix elimination uses a preconcentration column to remove uncharged matrix components before analysis. Method setup in MagIC Net covers method import, hardware assignment, temperature control (45 °C column oven) and component definition. Sample injection and suppressor rinsing protocols ensure system purity.
Instrumental setup includes:

• 940 Professional IC Vario with sequential suppressor
• 858 Professional Sample Processor for automated injection
• MagIC Net 3.0 software for control and evaluation
• Metrosep A Supp 16-150/4.0 analytical column and preconcentration column
• Conductivity detector
• Eluent production module and optional liquid handling station

Main Results and Discussion

Exemplary measurements of fluoride, chloride, nitrite, bromide, nitrate, sulfate and phosphate (50 µg/L in 30 % isopropanol) yielded linear calibration curves (20–200 µg/L) with correlation coefficients > 0.9999 and relative standard deviations below 1 %. Precision tests (10 injections at 100 µg/L) demonstrated RSDs ranging from 0.4 % to 2.2 %. These data confirm the system’s high sensitivity, reproducibility and suitability for trace-level anion analysis.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The ProfIC Vario 8 Anion platform offers:

• Fully automated, inline cleanup and concentration
• Reduced sample preparation and manual intervention
• High precision and low detection limits for routine QA/QC
• Flexible configuration with optional modules (LQH Station, eluent production)

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments include integration of advanced eluent generation modules, enhanced suppressor regeneration strategies and expanded software automation for multi-dimensional separations. Coupling with mass spectrometry and real-time data analytics will further broaden application scope in environmental monitoring, biopharmaceuticals and food safety.

Conclusion

The installation and configuration protocol for the ProfIC Vario 8 Anion system enables reliable, high-throughput analysis of common anions in complex samples. Combined hardware automation and sophisticated software control deliver precise, reproducible results with minimal downtime, making this platform a valuable tool for modern analytical laboratories.

Reference

• Application Bulletin 381: Installation Instruction for ProfIC Vario 8 Anion, Metrohm