Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) Spotters: Principles, Brands,Usage, and Common Fault Repairs

Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) Spotters: Principles, Usage, and Common Fault Repairs

I. Overview

Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) Spotters are precision instruments specifically designed for TLC analysis. They play a crucial role in accurately and uniformly applying samples onto TLC plates, significantly enhancing the precision and repeatability of sample application. This, in turn, boosts the accuracy and efficiency of TLC analysis through automation.

II. Principles

The working principle of TLC Spotters is based on precise control and positioning technology. The main components include a sample injection system, a moving platform, a control system, and an application needle. During operation, the control system precisely controls the movement and sample release of the application needle according to preset parameters such as sample volume, application position, and application speed. The needle releases the sample solution at a constant speed and pressure onto the specified position on the TLC plate, forming uniform and regular sample spots.

III. Usage

Preparation:

• Ensure the TLC plate is clean, flat, and placed on the moving platform of the spotter.
• Prepare an appropriate amount of sample solution based on analytical requirements.

Parameter Setting:

• Set parameters such as sample volume, application position, and application speed through the spotter’s control interface.
• Ensure these parameters meet analytical requirements.

Sample Loading:

• Inject the sample solution into the sample injection system of the spotter.
• Check for bubbles or impurities in the sample to avoid affecting application quality.

Starting Application:

• Start the spotter, and the control system will automatically control the movement of the application needle to the specified position, releasing the sample solution at the set speed and pressure.
• Observe the movement trajectory of the needle and the formation of sample spots during the application process.

Completing Application:

• After application, turn off the spotter and remove the TLC plate for subsequent analysis.
• Check the uniformity and consistency of the applied spots.

IV. Common Faults and Repair Methods

Uneven Application:

• Causes: Blocked needle, bubbles or impurities in the sample solution, too fast or too slow application speed.
• Repair Methods: Clean the needle, ensure the sample solution is pure and free of impurities, adjust the application speed to an appropriate range.

Offset Application Position:

• Causes: Inaccurate positioning of the moving platform, control system failure.
• Repair Methods: Calibrate the moving platform to ensure accurate positioning; check control system connections and settings, and repair or replace if necessary.

Sample Leakage:

• Causes: Poor sealing of the sample injection system, damaged needle.
• Repair Methods: Inspect and replace sealing components, repair or replace the damaged needle.

Control System Failure:

• Causes: Power supply failure, software errors, hardware damage.
• Repair Methods: Check power supply connections and stability, restart or upgrade the software; for severe hardware damage, contact the manufacturer or professional repair personnel for replacement or repair.

Other Faults:

• Faults such as mechanical component jamming and excessive noise should be investigated and repaired based on specific situations.

V. Brands and Models of TLC Spotters Repaired by Longi Electromechanical

1. CAMAG
   • Linomat 5: Manual TLC Spotter
   • Automatic TLC Sampler (ATS 4): Automatic TLC Spotter
   • Nanomat 4: Manual Spotter for Small Volume Samples
2. Analtech
   • Spiral Plater: Automatic TLC Spotter
   • Spotter 9: Automatic Spotter for Routine Applications
3. Desaga (SARSTEDT)
   • AS 30: Automatic TLC Spotter
   • AS 3000: High-Throughput Automatic Spotter
4. Merck (MilliporeSigma)
   • TLC Autosampler: Automatic TLC Spotter
   • Automatic TLC Sampler 4 (ATS 4): High-Precision Automatic Spotter
5. Shimadzu
   • Chromatopac C-R6A: High-Precision Spotter with Analytical Functions
6. Biostep
   • Digisampler: Digitally Controlled Automatic TLC Spotter
7. Knauer
   • BlueSpotter: Automatic TLC Spotter for Rapid Application and High-Throughput Analysis
8. SiliCycle
   • SiliTLC: Manual Spotter for Various Applications
9. Sciencix
   • TLC Spotter: Available in both manual and automatic models, suitable for various sample types
10. IKA
    • TLC Spotting Station: Modular design suitable for various experimental needs

Longi Electromechanical Company has nearly 30 years of experience in repairing TLC spotters and can quickly repair various types of instruments. Additionally, we offer recycling and sales services for various TLC spotters. Please feel free to consult us.