Liquid collects in the GLS (Gas-Liquid Separator) of SFC Prep 15. - WKB109851

SYMPTOMS

• Liquid collects in the GLS (Gas-Liquid Separator) of the SFC-Prep system

ENVIRONMENT

• SFC Prep 15

• SFC Prep 30

• SFC Prep 100

• SFC Prep 150AP

CAUSE

There are various causes for liquid to collect in GLS.

• Low level of remaining CO2 gas
• Large amount (ratio) of liquid delivered by Co-Solvent pump
• High viscosity of organic solvent
• Water is mixed
• The CO2 pump is not working.
• MBPR pressure is low

FIX or WORKAROUND

If you see liquid collecting inside the GLS, check the following.

The items are listed so that they can be easily checked from the top.

1. Check the value on the internal pressure regulator (MBPR) of the GLS (gas-liquid separator). The liquid that has entered the inside of the GLS is discharged by the internal pressure of the GLS. Make sure the MBPR pressure is at least 40psi. The pressure of MBPR changes depending on the measurement conditions, but it does not fall below 20psi under normal measurement conditions.
2. As the amount (ratio) of liquid delivered by the Co-Solvent pump increases, the flow rate of CO2 inevitably decreases. As a result, the liquid that enters GLS increases. When the amount of liquid that enters the GLS exceeds the liquid that is discharged from the GLS, the liquid begins to accumulate inside the GLS. The flow rate (ratio) of the Co-Solvent pump on the SFC-Prep system is up to 55%.
3. The viscosity of organic solvents varies depending on the type. When using a highly viscous organic solvent, monitor the inside of the GLS.
4. The use of water in supercritical systems should basically be avoided. Since CO2 (liquefied carbon dioxide) and water cannot be mixed, a condition similar to clogging occurs. Currently the operation of the system with use of water up to 5% is guaranteed.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION