How to perform the flow rate accuracy test on a 515 pump - WKB110504

OBJECTIVE or GOAL

Check the flow rate accuracy of a 515 pump.

ENVIRONMENT

• 515 HPLC Pump

PROCEDURE

Procedure from page 10 of the 515 Performance Maintenance Protocol: 

Tools/Materials required

• Graduated cylinder, 10 mL
• Pin plug
• Timer (calibrated)
• 100% HPLC-grade methanol 
• Powder-free nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

Caution: Never change directly between immiscible solvents or between buffered solutions and organic solvents. Buffered solutions and organic solvents in combination can result in salt precipitation in the gradient proportioning valves, pump heads, check valves, and other parts of the system. Confirm that all fluidics in the system are miscible with methanol.  

Flow rate accuracy

1. Connect a length of 0.009-inch tubing to the outlet of the system that will provide a 1000–2000 psi  back pressure at 1 mL/min.
2. Prime and flush the system with methanol. 
3. Using a thoroughly dry 10-mL graduated cylinder or similar container, measure the flow output at 1 mL/min for three minutes.
4. Start the pump flow, allow the cylinder to fill to the 1 mL mark, and then start the timer.
5. Stop the timer when the solvent reaches the 4 mL mark on the cylinder. Record the result.
6. Set the flow to 0.
7. The time to fill the container should be correct within 9 seconds. 

Expected result within 2:51–3:09 minutes

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION