Column analyzer system and improved chromatograph column for use in the

Abstract

An analyzer system for automatic column chromatography includes chromatographic columns which are mounted in a rack. A drop removal mechanism system shakes the rack to transfer the last drop of eluate from the tip of a chromatographic column to a receptacle below the tip before the column is repositioned over another receptacle and another fluid or operation is introduced into the column. This prevents one eluate from contaminating another. The chromatographic column may have an upper end which is sealed by a foil member. During use, the foil member is ruptured by lowering a pressure cylinder with a seal-punching head against it. The pressure cylinder, which is part of the pressure tip unit, is then withdrawn so that fluid can be introduced into the column via the ruptured foil member. The pressure tip unit is then lowered into sealing engagement with the column so that pressure can be applied via a bore in the pressure cylinder. The column may also have a tip portion which is originally sealed by a removable cap. The rack has a plate with aperture that is configured to receive the tip portion of the column and to provide a bearing surface for a spring member which removes the cap. This spring member is lowered through the aperture, and the bearing surface forces it toward the tip portion so that the cap can be pushed off.