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CAMAG® HPTLC PRO Module APPLICATION

HPTLC PRO
Module Application

CAMAG® HPTLC PRO
Module Application

CAMAG HPTLC_PRO

In a nutshell

Precise and Consistent Sample Application for Reliable Results

[application-large]
The fully automated HPTLC PRO Module APPLICATION is designed for highly precise application of samples as bands onto HPTLC glass plates.
75
samples on up to 5 plates

Controlled by visionCATS HPTLC Software, the autonomous application of up to 75 samples is supported (on up to five HPTLC plates).

  • Part of the fully automated HPTLC PRO SYSTEM
  • Autonomous application of up to 75 samples
  • Spray-on application of samples as bands
  • HPTLC glass plates (20 x 10 cm)
  • Software-controlled by visionCATS
01

Stand-alone operation

With HPTLC PRO, users have the choice to either operate a module as stand-alone or together with other modules in a SYSTEM MODE.

02

SYSTEM
 MODE

In the SYSTEM MODE, a conveyor moves the HPTLC plate from one module to the other, eliminating manual intervention between individual process steps.
HOW IT WORKS

SMOOTH & PRECISE OPERATION


  • HPTLC PRO Module Application Detail

    01

    The HPTLC PRO Module APPLICATION can autonomously apply up to 75 samples across five different plates. For continuous operation, pair it with the Module PLATE STORAGE, which automatically supplies new plates.

  • HPTLC PRO Module Application Detail

    02

    Laser-guided sample application ensures the optimal spraying distance. The needle distance and dosage speed adjust based on the solvent used, guaranteeing precise application of samples as narrow bands.

  • HPTLC PRO Module Application Detail

    03

    To prevent cross-contamination, the syringe creates an effective separation bubble between the rinsing solvent and the sample solution. The syringe is thoroughly cleaned after each sample application.

  • HPTLC PRO Module Application Detail

    04

    Following sample application, the integrated conveyor transfers the plate from the Module APPLICATION to the Module DEVELOPMENT for further processing.

KEY benefits

  • Highly precise application zones through optimized spraying procedure adapted for each sample solvent

  • Advanced cleaning capacities (two rinsing solutions)
  • Improved cleaning procedure and application strategy to prevent cross contamination
  • Minimized sample and solvent consumption

Technical specifications

  • General data

    • Classification of installation and use
      Class I, installation category II, protection class IPX0, Pollution degree 1
    • Nitrogen or clean air pressure
      5 – 8 bar (70 – 110 psi)
    • Operating temperature
      15 – 30 °C
    • Recommended working temperature
      20 – 25 °C
    • Humidity
      Maximum relative humidity 80 % for temperatures up to 30 °C (Humidity and temperature conditions must not cause condensation!)
    • Plate types
      HPTLC glass plates 20 x 10 cm, layer thickness 200 µm
  • Electrical data

    • Operating voltage
      100 – 240 VAC; 50 / 60 Hz Fluctuations ±10 % of the nominal voltage Overvoltage category II
    • Power consumption
      40 W
    • Fuses
      2.0 AT, 250 VAC
    • Max. supply current from power outlet
      8 A
  • Mechanical data

    • Dimensions (W x D x H):
      384 x 550 x 510 mm
    • Weight
      ~ 33 kg

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CAMAG® Automatic TLC Sampler 4 (ATS 4)

CAMAG®
AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4

In a nutshell

The key to quality and reproducibility

The Automatic TLC Sampler 4 initiates the HPTLC process by applying samples, which plays a crucial role in determining analysis quality. Additionally, automation enhances productivity, making the HPTLC lab more efficient. Designed for routine operations and high throughput, the ATS 4 efficiently handles both qualitative and quantitative analyses, as well as preparative separations.

Specifically, the Automatic TLC Sampler 4 applies samples as bands, spots, or rectangles using the spray-on technique. It precisely delivers large volumes and concentrates rectangles into narrow bands with a high-strength elution solvent before chromatography.

Furthermore, the ATS 4 supports “overspotting,” sequentially applying samples onto the same position. This feature proves particularly useful for pre-chromatographic derivatization, spiking, and other similar procedures, enhancing its versatility for a range of applications.

  • Fully automated sample application
  • Application of bands, spots or rectangles
  • Any plate format up to 20 x 20 cm (glass or aluminium foil)
  • Spray-on application or by contact transfer
  • Software-controlled by visionCATS
SOFTWARE INTEGRATION

OPERATION WITH VISIONCATS Software

Accurate sample application is essential for achieving high-quality HPTLC analysis. When paired with visionCATS HPTLC software, the ATS 4 enables fully automated sample application, optimized for routine use and high sample throughput.

The instrument parameters dialog box provides user-friendly default settings. For example, selecting a solvent similar to the one in use allows the software to automatically adjust instrument settings based on viscosity, volatility, and surface tension. Additionally, the filling/rinsing process, which controls syringe rinsing frequency and filling repetition, can be customized for specific tasks.

CAMAG HPTLC Software visionCATS

How the ATS 4 works

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_septum punch

    01

    An application sequence begins with sample uptake. The vial septum is punctured, and the needle is inserted into the sample vial through the puncture. The syringe is then filled with the sample solution.

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_septum punch retraction

    02

    The septum punch retracts, ensuring that the tightly sealed septum wipes off the exterior of the needle.

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_pre-dosage

    03

    Before the first application from a newly filled syringe, a small sample volume is pre-dosed onto a waste plate to ensure consistent conditions at the needle tip. This pre-dosage is performed in the same manner as sample application, either through contact spotting or the spray-on technique.

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_spraying

    04

    The syringe moves to the programmed position of the plate and starts application of the desired sample volume. If several applications of the same sample have been programmed, these are applied in sequence from the same syringe filling, provided the remaining volume is sufficient. Otherwise, the syringe is automatically refilled.

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_syringe emptied

    05

    After the final sample application, the syringe is emptied into the waste bottle.

  • CAMAG AUTOMATIC TLC SAMPLER 4_solvent emptied

    06

    The syringe is filled with rinsing solvent, and the plunger moves beyond the side connection to remove any excess solvent. Once the rinsing solvent is emptied into the waste bottle, the dosing system is prepared for the next application sequence.

Watch the ATS 4 in action

Technical specifications

General data

  • Object support
    For objects up to 20 x 20 cm
  • Stage drive
    X-drive (turret) Stepper motor 1600 steps/rev. 4 steps = 0.1 mm Maximum speed 200 mm/s with acceleration ramp Positions programmable: 5.0 – 195.0 mm in 0.1 mm steps Y-drive (stage) Step motor 3200 steps/rev. 8 steps = 0.1 mm Maximum speed 200 mm/s with acceleration ramp Positions programmable: 5.0 – 195.0 mm in 0.1 mm steps
  • Dosage syringe drive
    Stepping motor 1600 steps/rotation 100 nL = 120 steps with 100 µL syringe or 24 steps with 500 µL syringe
  • Sample dosage syringe
    selectable 100 µL or 500 µL
  • Memory
    10 methods, backup min. 10 years
  • LCD display
    2 lines of 16 characters ea.
  • Power connection
    85–250 V~ 47–63 Hz 30 VA
  • Gas supply
    4–6 bar (60–90 PSI) preferably nitrogen; consumption approx. 1.0 L/min
  • Dimensions (W x D x H)
    360 x 510 x 410 mm
  • Weight
    12.5 kg

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CAMAG® Linomat 5

CAMAG®
Linomat 5

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In a nutshell

Experience Precision and Reproducibility

The CAMAG Linomat 5 provides precise and reproducible sample application, ensuring reliable results for a wide range of TLC workflows. Its semi-automatic design allows for both standalone operation and seamless integration with CAMAG’s visionCATS software, offering flexibility for different analytical needs.

The Linomat 5 applies samples as narrow, uniform bands using a spray-on technique powered by compressed air or nitrogen. This method enhances separation quality and resolution while minimizing sample and solvent consumption.

The Linomat 5 is optimized for efficient and consistent performance, making it suitable for applications in pharmaceuticals, food safety, environmental monitoring, and more.

  • Semi-automatic application
  • Application of spots or bands
  • Any plate format up to 20 x 20 cm
  • Spray-on application
  • Data input through visionCATS software or keypad
HPTLC fingerprint

SPRAY-ON APPLICATION AS BANDS

HPTLC fingerprint (flavonoids) of green and black tea samples representing different geographic origins, applied with the CAMAG Linomat 5.

hptlc fingerprint

HPTLC fingerprint (flavonoids) of green and black tea samples representing different geographic origins.

Track assignment (tracks taken from different plates)

  • Track

    Details
  • 1

    Reference substances with increasing RF: rutin, chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, gallic acid
  • 2 – 8

    Green tea from China
  • 9 – 13

    Green tea from Japan
  • 14 – 15

    Green tea from India
  • For comparison

  • 16 – 17

    Black tea from Sri Lanka
HOW IT WORKS

Operation of the CAMAG Linomat 5


  • visioncats-hptlc-made-easy

    01

    The Linomat 5 is operated by visionCATS HPTLC software, offering easy and convenient instrument handling. Simply select a plate format, fill in the sequence table and start working. With visionCATS, the Linomat 5 can be IQ/OQ qualified and used in a cGMP environment.

  • CAMAG Linomat 5_syringe_02

    02

    The sample liquid is sprayed onto the layer from the tip of the syringe needle. The stage movement is controlled so that the sample is uniformly distributed over the entire length of the band. Samples can also be sprayed-on as spots.

  • CAMAG Linomat 5_frontal_detail_03

    03

    The combination of the special dosage syringe with the spray nozzle of the Linomat 5 ensures the focused spraying-on of samples on very small areas.

  • CAMAG Linomat 5_object_support_04

    04

    The self-adjusting object support enables application onto objects of variable thickness (up to 4 mm) without any adjustment to the spray nozzle. This makes it easy to change between conventional TLC and HPTLC layers (on glass plates or sheets), preparative layers and very thin objects such as membranes. The support accommodates objects up to 20 x 20 cm.

  • CAMAG Linomat 5_visioncats-report

    05

    All data of the current analysis (e.g. information on the chromatogram layout, solvents used, dosage speed or application volumes) is saved by the visionCATS HPTLC software in a report file.

Technical specifications

General data

  • Object support
    For objects up to 20 x 20 cm
  • Stage drive
    Stepping motor 3200 steps/rotation, 8 steps = 0.1 mm Band length 0 (spot) – 190 mm in steps of 0.1 mm Speed approx. 10 mm/s; the speed is automatically adapted such that a whole number of passages is reached with the volume selected.
  • Dosage syringe drive
    Stepping motor 1600 steps/rotation 100 nL = 120 steps with 100 µL syringe 100 nL = 24 steps with 500 µL syringe
  • Sample dosage syringe
    selectable 100 µL or 500 µL
  • Memory
    10 methods, backup min. 10 years
  • LCD display
    2 lines of 16 characters ea.
  • Power connection
    85–250 V~ 47–63 Hz 30 VA
  • Gas supply
    4–6 bar (60–90 PSI) preferably nitrogen; consumption approx. 1.0 L/min
  • Dimensions (W x D x H)
    360 x 510 x 410 mm
  • Weight
    12.5 kg

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CAMAG® Nanomat 4

CAMAG®
Nanomat 4

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In a nutshell

Manual Sample Application for TLC Analysis

The Nanomat 4 is a reliable instrument designed for precise and reproducible sample application onto TLC plates, ensuring uniform distribution for high-quality results. It provides flexibility for a wide range of sample volumes, making it suitable for research and routine analysis.

Equipped with a spring-loaded mechanism, the Nanomat 4 applies controlled pressure to prevent plate damage, ensuring smooth sample transfer. Its user-friendly design makes it easy to operate, saving time and reducing errors in the lab.

The Nanomat 4 is ideal for applications in pharmaceuticals, food testing, cosmetics, and environmental analysis, delivering consistent and accurate results essential for quality control and impurity testing.

Its precision, versatility, and ease of use make the Nanomat 4 an indispensable basic tool for any lab conducting TLC analysis.

  • Manual sample application
  • For plates up to 20 x 20 cm
  • Application of spots by contact transfer
  • Disposable capillary pipette
  • Precise positioning to apply a defined pattern

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CAMAG® smartCut

CAMAG®
smartCut

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In a nutshell

Effortless Precision Cutting

The CAMAG® smartCut is a precision instrument designed for the convenient and accurate cutting of pre-coated TLC and HPTLC glass plates into defined pieces of any format. It accommodates glass plates up to 3 mm thick, ensuring smooth edges without damaging the sensitive layer.

The device features an integrated scale for easy measurement of desired sizes, facilitating precise cuts and reducing material waste. Its user-friendly design enhances laboratory efficiency, making it an essential tool for chromatographic applications.

  • Cuts glass plates with a thickness up to 3 mm
  • Easy on the sensitive layer
  • Desired size can be read directly from a scale
  • Prevents offcuts and thus saves money
  • Easy handling

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HPTLC Plates

CAMAG®
HPTLC Plates

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In a nutshell

HPTLC Plates for high-resolution separations

CAMAG offers a wide range of HPTLC plates, manufactured by Merck, a trusted leader in chromatographic materials.

HPTLC plates from Merck deliver reproducible, high-resolution separations for qualitative and quantitative analyses, making them indispensable in laboratory workflows across industries.

To learn more about Merck HPTLC plates, please visit Merck and Sigma-Aldrich.

  • Pre-coated HPTLC plates on a support of glass or aluminum
  • Silica gel 60, Reversed-phase, Diol-, NH2-, CN-phase
  • Available with F254
  • Layer thickness 100 or 200 µm
  • Available in the formats 20 x 10 cm or 10 x 10 cm

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TLC Plates

CAMAG®
TLC Plates

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In a nutshell

Versatile TLC Plates for Reliable Analysis

CAMAG offers a comprehensive selection of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plates, pre-coated with high-quality sorbent materials on glass or aluminum supports, to meet diverse analytical requirements. 

Utilizing these TLC plates facilitates efficient, reproducible, and high-resolution separations, making them indispensable tools for qualitative and quantitative analyses across various industries.

To learn more about Merck TLC plates, please visit Merck and Sigma-Aldrich.

  • Pre-coated TLC plates on a support of glass or aluminum
  • Silica gel 60 or RP-18 with F254
  • Layer thickness 200 or 250 µm
  • Available in the formats 10 x 20 cm or 20 x 20 cm

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CAMAG® Multipurpose Spotting Guide

CAMAG®
Multipurpose Spotting Guide

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In a nutshell

Accurate Manual Sample Application

The CAMAG® Multipurpose Spotting Guide is an essential tool for setting up chromatograms on standard 20 × 20 cm TLC plates. It features a grooved ruler that allows for precise manual positioning of capillaries, ensuring accurate and reproducible sample application. This guide can be used in conjunction with the Capillary Dispenser system, such as the CAMAG® Nanomat 4, to facilitate convenient manual sample application. By providing consistent sample spots, it enhances the reliability of chromatographic analyses, making it a valuable asset in any laboratory performing thin-layer chromatography.


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