Gilson ASPEC User Manual

ASPEC® Positive Pressure Manifold

User's Guide

This Page Is Intentionally Left Blank

Gilson,Inc.

All rights reserved. All product and/or company names are trademarks of their
respective holders. Use of the trademark(s) in this document does not imply any
aliation with or endorsements by the trademark holder(s).

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

Safety | 6

Symbols, Signs, and Notices | 6
Chemical Hazards | 7
Flammable Solvents | 7
Replacement Parts | 7
Signs of Damage | 7
Site Requirements | 7
Storage and Movement | 7

Sécurité | 8

Symboles et Notes | 8
Risques Chimiques | 9
Solvants Inflammables | 9
Pièces de Remplacement | 9
Signes de Détérioration | 9
Exigences du Site | 9
Stockage et Déplacement | 9

Introduction | 10

Description | 10
Technical Specifications | 19

Setup | 20

Set up or Replace the Manifold | 20
Connect the Gas Supply | 21

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

CONTENTS

Operation | 22

Setup for Flow to Waste | 22
Setup for Flow to Collection | 23
Seat the Manifold | 24
Unseat the Manifold | 24
Control the Flow | 25
General Flow Guidelines | 27
Basic SPE Technique | 28

Maintenance | 31

Clean the ASPEC PPM | 31
Install or Replace the O-Ring | 31
Replace the Manifold Gasket | 31
Maintenance Parts | 31

Troubleshooting Table | 32
Repair and Return Policies | 36

Before Calling Us | 36
Warranty Repair | 36
Non-Warranty Repair | 36
Return Procedure | 37
Unit End-of-Life | 37

Replacement Parts and Accessories | 38
Configuration Kits | 39
ASPEC Positive Pressure Unit | 39

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

SAFETY

Safety

Read this section before installing and operating the instrument.

Only trained technical personnel in a laboratory environment may use the
instrument for non-medical, liquid handling purposes. For safe and correct use
of the instrument, operating and service personnel must follow all instructions
contained in this guide when installing, cleaning, and maintaining the instrument.
All safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, service,
and repair of the instrument.

Failure to comply with these precautions or with warnings described in the user’s
guide violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the
instrument. Gilson assumes no liability for customers failing to comply with these
requirements.

Refer to the rear panel label on the instrument for the current standards to which
the instrument has been found compliant.

Read all documentation and safety information for accessories, peripherals, and
other instruments that may be used with this instrument before operating the
system.

Symbols, Signs, and Notices

Safety Notices

The following safety notices may appear in this document:

WARNING

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in personal injury.

CAUTION

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in equipment damage.

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

SAFETY

Hazard Symbols

The following hazard symbol may appear on the instrument or in this document:

Symbol Explanation Explication Erläuterung

Caution Attention Vorsicht

Chemical Hazards

Any chemicals used for analysis should be handled according to good laboratory
practice (GLP). They should also be stored, used, and disposed of in accordance
with the manufacturer’s specifications, as well as local and national regulations.
Potentially hazardous chemicals can be used with the instrument. Use care when
handling chemicals and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE),
such as safety glasses, gloves, etc.

The responsible individual must ensure that personnel are not exposed to
hazardous levels of toxic substances as outlined in the material safety data sheets
(MSDSs), or any documentation provided by local governing bodies such as The
Health Protection Agency (United Kingdom) or The Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (United States).

Flammable Solvents

Secure all flammable solvents. The temperature of liquids inside the system must
be 25°C (77°F) below the lowest flame temperature of any solvents used.

Replacement Parts

Be sure to use only replacement parts mentioned in this user’s guide. Refer to

Replacement Parts and Accessories on page 38.

Signs of Damage

Do not attempt to use the instrument if there are visible signs of damage.

Site Requirements

Do not operate the instrument if site conditions are not within specifications.
Refer to Technical Specifications on page 19 for more details.

Storage and Movement

Empty the drain well before moving the instrument.

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

SÉCURITÉ

Sécurité

Veuillez lire attentivement ce paragraphe avant toute installation ou utilisation de
l’instrument.

Cet instrument est exclusivement destiné à être utilisé dans un environnement de
laboratoire, par un personnel qualifié, à des fins de manipulations de liquides non­médicales. Pour une utilisation correcte et en toute sécurité de l’instrument, il est
nécessaire que le personnel qui utilise et réalise la maintenance de l’instrument,
suive les instructions contenues dans ce guide lors de l’installation, du nettoyage
et de la maintenance de l’instrument. Toutes les consignes de sécurité doivent
être respectées durant toutes les phases de fonctionnement, d’entretien ou de
réparation de l’instrument.

Le non-respect de ces précautions ou des avertissements spécifiques mentionnés
dans ce guide compromet les normes de sécurité de conception, de fabrication
et d’utilisation prévue de l’instrument. Gilson décline toute responsabilité en cas
d’incapacité du client à se conformer à ces exigences.

Merci de vous reporter aux indications mentionnées sur le panneau arrière de
l’instrument pour connaître les normes auxquelles l’instrument a été déclaré
conforme.

Veuillez lire toute la documentation et les informations relatives à la sécurité pour
les accessoires, périphériques, et autres instruments pouvant être utilisés avec cet
instrument avant de faire fonctionner le système.

Symboles et Notes

Notes de Sécurité

Les notes de sécurité suivantes peuvent apparaître dans ce document:

AVERTISSEMENT

Une situation potentiellement dangereuse qui, si
elle n’est pas évitée, peut entraîner des dommages
corporels.

AT TENTION

Une situation potentiellement dangereuse qui, si
elle n’est pas évitée, peut entraîner des blessures
mineures ou légères.

AVIS

Une situation potentiellement dangereuse qui, si
elle n’est pas évitée, peut entraîner des dommages
matériels.

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

SÉCURITÉ

Symbole de Dangers

Le symbole de dangers suivants peuvent apparaître sur l’instrument ou dans ce
document:

Symbol Explanation Explication Erläuterung

Caution Attention Vorsicht

Risques Chimiques

Tous les produits chimiques utilisés pour l’analyse doivent être manipulés
conformément aux bonnes pratiques de laboratoire (BPL). Ils doivent être
stockés, utilisés et éliminés conformément aux recommandations du fabricant
ainsi qu’aux réglementations locales et nationales. Manipuler les produits
chimiques avec précaution et porter un équipement de protection individuelle
adapté (EPI) comme des lunettes de sécurité, des gants, etc.

Le responsable doit veiller à ce que le personnel ne soit pas exposé à des niveaux
dangereux de substances toxiques comme indiqué dans les fiches de données
de sécurité (fDS), ou toute documentation fournie par les instances locales telles
que l’agence de protection de la santé (Royaume-Uni) ou l’administration de la
sécurité et de la Santé (Etats-Unis).

Solvants Inflammables

Prendre garde aux solvants inflammables. La température des solvants
à l’intérieur du système doit impérativement être inférieure de 25°C à la
température de flamme la plus basse des solvants utilisés.

Pièces de Remplacement

Utiliser exclusivement les pièces détachées mentionnées dans ce guide utilisateur.
Faire référence aux Replacement Parts and Accessories on page 38.

Signes de Détérioration

Ne pas utiliser le système en cas de signes de détérioration visibles.

Exigences du Site

Ne pas faire fonctionner l’instrument si le site présente des conditions non
conformes aux spécifications. Faire référence aux Technical Specifications on
page 19.

Stockage et Déplacement

Vider le conteneur d’evacuation des solvants usages avant de deplacer l’appareil.

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

Description

The ASPEC® Positive Pressure Manifold provides uniform and consistent
flow rate control for the cleanup of low or high viscosity samples, improves
solid-phase extraction (SPE) reproducibility and recovery. The ASPEC®PPM
incorporates easily into laboratory workflows and provides a fast and simple
way to prepare several samples for later analysis by chromatography.
The ASPEC manifold offers a cost-effective approach to automation for
environmental, clinical, forensic, and food or beverage testing laboratories. It
is also an ideal choice for SPE cleanup prior to LCMS for bioanalyses.

Drain Well

Refer to page 12 for

a detailed description.

SPE Racks

15-, 24-, and
96-positions available.

Figure 1

Standard Components of the ASPEC™ Positive Pressure Manifold (Left View)

SPE Collection Racks

15-, 24-, and 96-positions available.

Pressure
Gauge

Monitors the
operating
pressure of the
system, which
should not
exceed 15 psi.

SPE Control Dial

Switch between Low Flow and High Flow when

the process control dial is set to SPE. Refer to

page 12 for a detailed description.

Process Control Dial

Switch between SPE and

Dry controls to adjust gas

flow. Refer to page 12
for more information.

Manifold

Locking Lever

Forms the seal

between the

manifold and SPE

cartridge when

locked. Refer to

page 14.

Safety Shield

Protects users
from solvents.

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Figure 2

Standard Components of the ASPEC™ Positive Pressure Manifold without Shield

Flow Adjustment Locks

Used to lock in flow
adjustments made with the
low and high flow regulator

knobs. Refer to page 13.

High Flow
Adjustment Knob

Used to fine tune flow
when High Flow is
selected on the SPE
control dial. Refer to

page 13.

Low Flow

Adjustment Knob

Used to fine tune

flow when Low Flow

is selected on the

SPE control dial.

Refer to page 13.

Manifold
Positioning Lever

Raises and lowers the
manifold over the SPE
cartridge holder. The
manifold locking level
must be unlocked to
move this lever.
Refer to page 14.

Locator Plate

Refer to page 14 for a

detailed description.

Thumbscrews

Manifold

Retaining Clip

Holds the manifold

in place. Refer to

page 20.

Manifold

Available in three
configurations: 15- or
24-cartridge holders and
96-well plate holders.

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

INTRODUCTION

Control Dials

Process Control Dial

Used to select SPE (activates
the SPE control dial to control
high or low flow) or Dry
(maximum flow).

SPE Control Dial

Used to select Low Flow,

High Flow, or Off (to stop flow)

when the process control dial is
set to SPE.

Drain Well

Used primarily to
flow the preparation
solvents and matrix
to waste. Ensure
that the waste
outlet tubing flows
to a large waste
container.

Ejection Plate

Used to quickly eject all the SPE
cartridges from the cartridge rack.

Slide the ejector plate through the
standoffs on the SPE cartridge
rack, and then push the plate up
to eject the SPE cartridges.

Figure 3

Process Control Dial

Figure 4

SPE Control Dial

Figure 5

Collection and Drain Well with Waste Outlet Tubing

Front

Rear

Waste
Outlet

Tubing

Barbed

Fitting

Standos

SPE Cartridges

Ejector

Plate

Figure 6

Ejecting SPE Cartridges

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Flow Adjustment Knobs

Used to fine tune flow when Low Flow or High Flow is selected on the
SPEcontrol dial.

Turn the adjustment knobs clockwise to open the valve and begin flow or to
increase flow.

Turn the adjustment knobs counterclockwise to decrease flow or to close the
valve and stop flow.

NOTE

The loss of tension in the adjustment knobs indicates that the
valve is fully closed.

Flow Adjustment Locks

Used to lock in flow adjustments made with the low and high flow
adjustment knobs.

Turn the flow adjustment locks clockwise to lock the low or high flow
adjustment knobs.

Turn the flow adjustment locks counterclockwise to unlock the low or high
flow adjustment knobs.

Figure 7

Low and High Flow Adjustment Knobs and Locks

Low Flow

Adjustment Knob

Flow Adjustment Locks

High Flow

Adjustment Knob

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

INTRODUCTION

Locator Plate

The front position of the locator plate
is used as the active position, whereas
the rear position accommodates the
drain well when not in use.

Manifold Locking Lever

Forms the seal between the manifold and SPE cartridge holder when locked.
Push the lever back to unlock (Red Lock Symbol, unlocked), and pull the

lever forward to lock (Green Lock Symbol, locked).

Manifold Positioning Lever

Raises and lowers the manifold over the SPE cartridge holder. The manifold
locking lever must be unlocked to move this lever.

Push the lever back to lower the manifold (toward the Down position), and
pull the lever forward to raise the manifold (toward the Up position).

Figure 8

Locator Plate on the ASPEC PPM

Rear

Position

Front

Position

Front

(Locked)

Rear

(Unlocked)

Figure 9

Manifold Locking Lever

Front

(Up)

Rear

(Down)

Figure 10

Manifold Positioning Lever

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Pressure Gauge

Monitors the operating pressure of the system, which should not exceed
15psi.

SPE Cartridge Plugs (Optional)

Used to fill empty positions in the SPE cartridge racks (15- and 24-position).

Figure 11

Pressure Gauge

Plugs

Rear Rows

Empty

Position

SPE Cartridges

(Front Row)

Figure 12

Plugs on 24-Position Rack

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

INTRODUCTION

Unpacking

The ASPEC® Positive Pressure Manifold is delivered as a base unit
(along with the safetyshield) with one or more configuration kits for:
96-wellSPEmicroplates (PN37417014), 15-position SPE cartridge racks
(6mL,PN37417013), and 24-position SPE cartridge racks (1mL,PN37417011
or 3mL,PN37417012).

To safely remove the ASPEC PPM and accessories:

1. Open the top of the shipping container.

2. Remove the packing slip and bag containing the documentation, which
will include: a printed user’s guide, USB drive with video, items included
checklist, and a quality control checklist.

3. Read the user’s guide.

4. Remove the box containing the standard equipment and accessory kit,
and then set it aside.

5. Check that all items specific to the configuration ordered and listed in

Standard Equipment on page 17 are present.

6. Remove the safety shield nested in the foam, and then set it aside.

7. Grab the base of the ASPEC PPM firmly with two hands on opposing
sides, and gently lift the ASPEC PPM out of the shipping box, and
then set it on a laboratory bench that meets the site requirements on

page 19.

NOTE

The ASPEC PPM ships and is nested within four molded
foam pieces: two on the front and two on the back.

Do not grip the ASPEC PPM by the manifold carrier or by
the levers.

8. Hold the base of the ASPEC PPM, and then gently slide the molded foam
pieces away from the base.

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Standard Equipment

The following items are considered standard equipment and
are provided with the ASPEC PPM. For part numbers, refer to

Replacement Parts and Accessories on page 38.

All Configurations

• Drain well (qty. 1)

• Gas supply tubing, 1/4" (OD), (qty. 1)

• Locator plate, dual position (qty. 1)

• O-ring manifold seal (qty. 1)

• Safety shield (qty. 1)

• Waste outlet tubing, Tygon® 0.25" (OD), 3 ft. (qty. 1)

Documentation

• ASPEC® Positive Pressure Manifold User’s Guide (qty. 1)

• USB drive with video of a sample protocol (qty. 1)

Configuration Kit: 96-Position SPE Manifold Kit (PN37417014)

• Gasket with adhesive-backed seal, 96-position (qty. 2)

• Manifold, SPE, 96-position (qty. 1)

• O-ring manifold seal (qty. 1)

• SPE plate adapter (qty. 1)

15-Position SPE Manifold Kit (6 mL, PN37417013)

• Cartridge rack, SPE, 15-positions, 6 mL (qty. 1)

• Ejection plate for SPE cartridges (qty. 1)

• Gasket with adhesive-backed seal, 15-positions (qty. 2)

• Manifold, SPE, 15-positions (qty. 1)

• O-ring manifold seal (qty. 1)

• Tube rack for SPE collection, 6 mL (qty. 1)

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

INTRODUCTION

24-Position SPE Manifold Kit (1 mL, PN37417011)

• Cartridge ejection plate (qty. 1)

• Cartridge rack, SPE, 24-positions, 1 mL (qty. 1)

• Gasket with adhesive-backed seal, 24-positions (qty. 2)

• Manifold, SPE, 24-positions (qty. 1)

• O-ring manifold seal (qty. 1)

• Tube rack, SPE collection, 1–3 mL, 12 x 75 mm (qty. 1)

24-Position SPE Manifold Kit (3 mL, PN37417012)

• Cartridge ejection plate (qty. 1)

• Cartridge rack, SPE, 24-positions, 3 mL (qty. 1)

• Gasket with adhesive-backed seal, 24-positions (qty. 2)

• Manifold, SPE, 24-positions (qty. 1)

• O-ring manifold seal (qty. 1)

• Tube rack, SPE collection, 1–3 mL, 12 x 75 mm (qty. 1)

Recommended Accessories

All Configurations

• Gas pressure regulator, 15 psi, external (qty.1)

96-Position

• Microplate for SPE collection, 96-position, 1mL (qty.10)

• Microplate for SPE collection, 96-position, 2mL (qty.10)

15-Position

• Plugs to fill empty SPE cartridge spaces, 6mL (qty. 15)

• Tubes, glass, collection, 10 mL, 15 x 85 mm (qty.250)

24-Position

• Plugs to fill empty SPE cartridge spaces, 1mL (qty. 24)

• Plugs to fill empty SPE cartridge spaces, 3mL (qty. 24)

• Tubes, glass, collection, 5 mL, 12 x 17 mm (qty.250)

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Technical Specifications

Specification Description

Dimensions (W x D x H)

33 x 48.3 x 44.2 cm
(13x19 x 17.4 in.)

Liquid contact materials

Description Material

Gasket Neoprene

Locator plate Ertalyte

Site requirements

Specification Definition

Environment

Indoor use only. If
using volatile solvents,
use a vent hood.

Inert gas supply

Maximum pressure of
15psi. Use 1/4" (OD)
tubing.

Weight 14.54 kg (32lbs.)

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

SETUP

Setup

Set up or Replace the Manifold

1. Pull the manifold positioning lever forward (toward the Up position)
until the manifold is fully raised.

2. Remove the manifold shield covering the manifold carrier, and then set
it aside.

3. Turn (but do not remove) the thumbscrews counterclockwise to free the
manifold retaining clip. Set the manifold retaining clip aside.

4. If necessary, remove the pre-installed manifold.

NOTE

Ensure that the O-ring does not fall out while removing the
manifold.

5. Slide the new manifold into the manifold carrier with the orange O-ring
on the back of the manifold facing the rear.

6. Reinstall the manifold retaining clip.

7. Turn the thumbscrews clockwise until finger tight.

8. Replace the manifold shield, and ensure that the standoff screws are
seated properly on the manifold carrier.

Figure 13

Exploded View of Shield and Manifold Carrier

Manifold
Retaining Clip

Thumbscrews

Manifold

Manifold

Shield

Manifold

Carrier

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

SETUP

Connect the Gas Supply

1. Locate the gas tubing supplied in
the accessory kit. Connect the
tubing from the rear quick
connect port on the manifold to
the quick connect port on the
upper right side on the rear of the
ASPEC PPM.

2. Insert the gas wall supply tubing (1/4" OD, not provided) into the

Gas Inlet quick connect port on the back of the instrument.

NOTE

The orange plunger insert will automatically engage
the tubing. Pull back the tubing to check for proper
engagement. Depress the orange plunger insert to release
the tubing.

NOTICE

Ensure that the process control dial is set to Dry and
the SPE control dial is set to O before connecting the
gas supply.

Do not exceed 15 psi inlet pressure.

3. Use an external regulator to slowly increase pressure to the system
upto15psi.

4. Switch the process control dial to SPE.

Figure 14

Gas Supply Connection (Rear View)

Figure 15

Quick Connect Port with Tubing

Plunger Insert

Gas Tubing

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

OPERATION

Operation

Ensure that the following conditions are met before operating the
ASPECPPM:

• The SPE control dial is set to Off.

• The process control dial is set to SPE.

• The low and high flow adjustment knobs are closed. Refer to

Flow Adjustment Knobs on page 13.

• The gas supply connection and regulator are properly installed. Refer to

Connect the Gas Supply on page 21.

Setup for Flow to Waste

1. Slide the locator plate to the front of the locator bed.

2. Place the drain well on
the front position of the
locator plate.

3. Connect the waste outlet
tubing to the barbed
fitting on the back of the
collection and drain well.

4. Set the appropriate
SPE cartridge rack with
cartridges on the drain
well.

NOTE

If your experiment does not require the full use of the 15- or
24-position rack, use plugs to fill the empty spaces. Refer to

SPE Cartridge Plugs (Optional) on page 15.

Figure 16

Flow to Waste Setup

Locator

Plate

(Rear)

Waste
Outlet

Tubing

Barbed

Fitting

Collection

and Drain

Well

SPE CartridgeRack

(24-Position)

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

OPERATION

Setup for Flow to Collection

96-Position

1. Slide the locator plate to
the front of the locator bed.

2. Move the drain well to the
rear position of the locator
plate.

3. Place the 96-position well
plate on the front position
of the locator plate.

4. Set the plate spacer on the
96-position well plate.

5. Set the appropriate SPE
plate on the plate spacer.

15- or 24-Position

1. Slide the locator plate to
the front of the locator bed.

2. Move the drain well to the rear
position of the locator plate.

3. Place the 15- or 24-position
tube rack with tubes on the
front position of the locator
plate.

4. Set the appropriate 15- or 24-position SPE cartridge rack on the tube
rack assembly.

NOTE

If your experiment does not require the full use of the 15- or
24-position rack, use plugs to fill the empty spaces. Refer to

SPE Cartridge Plugs (Optional) on page 15.

Figure 17

Flow to Collection Setup (96-Position)

96-Position

Well Plate

Locator

Plate

SPE CartridgeRack

(96-Position)

Plate Spacer

Collection and

DrainWell

Front

Rear

Figure 18

Flow to Collection Setup (24-Position)
(15-Position SPE Rack Not Shown)

Collection
Tubes and

Tube Rack

SPECartridge

Rack

(24-Position)

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

OPERATION

Seat the Manifold

1. Push the manifold locking lever back to the
fully unlocked position (Red Lock Symbol,
unlocked).

2. Pull the manifold positioning lever forward
to the fully raised position (toward the Up
position).

3. Slide the locator plate back so that the SPE
cartridges are directly below the manifold.

NOTICE

If you encounter
interference with the
safety shield, remove, and
then replace the shield
after positioning the
locator plate.

4. Slowly push the manifold positioning lever
back to lower the manifold (toward the Down
position) until the manifold makes contact
with the tops of the SPE cartridges.

5. Pull the manifold locking lever forward to the
fully locked position (Green Lock Symbol,
locked) to create a seal between the manifold and the SPE cartridges.

NOTICE

Do not use the manifold positioning lever to tighten
theseal.

If the plate does not seat properly, unlock the manifold
with the manifold locking lever, and then raise the
manifold slightly with the manifold positioning lever.
Repeat steps 1 through 5.

Unseat the Manifold

1. Push the manifold locking lever back to the fully unlocked position
(Red Lock Symbol, unlocked).

2. Pull the manifold positioning lever forward to the fully raised position
(toward the Up position).

3. Slide the locator plate forward to the front of the locator bed.

Figure 19

Manifold Locking Lever

Front

Rear

Front

Rear

Figure 20

Manifold Positioning Lever

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ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

OPERATION

Control the Flow

The ASPEC PPM
features three different
gas pressure controls
(low flow, high flow,
and dry) with fine tune
adjustments available
for low and high flow.
The following provides a
basic overview of control
options. For step-by­step instructions, refer to

page 28.

Flow Adjustment

1. Turn the adjustment knobs clockwise to open the valve and increase
flow.

2. Turn the adjustment knobs counterclockwise to reduce flow and close
the valve. The loss of tension in the adjustment knobs indicates that the
valve is fully closed.

High Flow

Recommended for SPE cartridge wetting during conditioning and for
washing.

To turn on high flow:

1. Switch the process control dial to SPE.

2. Switch the SPE control dial to High Flow.

3. Turn the high flow adjustment knob clockwise until the flow reaches 4 to
5 drops per second.

4. To turn off high flow, switch the SPE control dial to Off.

Figure 21

Flow Controls Overview

SPE Control Dial

Process Control Dial

Low Flow

Adjustment

Knob

High Flow

Adjustment

Knob

Flow

Adjustment

Locks

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

OPERATION

Low Flow

Recommended for conditioning (after initial SPE cartridge wetting with
highflow), sample loading, and elution.

To turn on low flow:

1. Switch the process control dial to SPE.

2. Switch the SPE control dial to Low Flow.

3. Turn the low flow adjustment knob clockwise until the flow reaches 1 to 2
drops per second.

4. To turn off low flow, switch the SPE control dial to Off.

Dry

Recommended for drying the SPE cartridges with maximum flow.
To turn on the dry setting:

1. Ensure the SPE control dial is switched to Off.

2. Switch the process control dial to Dry.

3. To turn off the dry setting, switch the process control dial to SPE.

NOTICE

Turn o the manifold between process steps.

Shut o the external gas supply when the manifold is
notinuse.

Disconnect the manifold from the gas supply when storing
the machine.

27

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

OPERATION

General Flow Guidelines

The following table provides general process and flow guidelines.

Table 1

SPE Process and Control Guidelines for SPE Steps

SPE Steps

Process
Control
Setting

SPE Control Setting

NOTE

For all low and high flow recommendations, refer to the
SPEFormat Flow Guidelines table below.

Condition SPE High Flow, and then switch to LowFlow

Load SPE Low Flow, based on viscosity

Wash SPE High Flow, based on viscosity

Dry Dry O

Elute SPE Low Flow, based on viscosity

Table 2

SPE Format Flow Guidelines

SPE Format

High Flow
(drops per second)

Low Flow
(drops per second)

6 mL 3 to 5 1

3 mL 1 1 drop per 2 to 3 seconds

1 mL
microplate

0.5 to 1 1 drop per 3 to 4 seconds

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

OPERATION

Basic SPE Technique

1. Ensure that the necessary conditions for
operation are met. Refer to page 22.

2. Follow the instructions to

Setup for Flow to Waste on page 22.

Initial Condition Step

3. Pipette the appropriate volume of
conditioning solvent into each available
SPE cartridge.

4. Seat the manifold. Refer to

Seat the Manifold on page 24.

5. Switch the SPE control dial to High Flow.

6. Turn the high flow adjustment knob
clockwise until the desired flow rate is
achieved.

7. When the solvent levels decrease to
2mm above the fastest eluting cartridge
of any one of the SPE cartridge/s, quickly
switch the SPE control dial to Low Flow.

8. Turn the low flow adjustment knob clockwise until the flow slowly
restarts.

9. When the solvent levels lower to the top frits of all of the SPE cartridges,
quickly switch the SPE control dial to Off. Allow the solvent to return to
atmospheric pressure.

NOTE

In some cases, positive pressure can remain in the
SPEcartridges, even after the SPE control dial has been set
to O. Unseat the manifold to stop unwanted flow.
Refer to page 24.

Figure 22

SPE Cartridge Diagram

SPE Sorbent

Top Frit

Bottom Frit

29

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

OPERATION

Additional Condition Steps

10. Unseat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

11. Repeat steps 3 through 9 for the appropriate number of conditioning
steps.

NOTE

If using an identical solvent for subsequent conditioning
steps, use the flow adjustment locks to ensure the same
pressure values are used.

Sample Load Steps

12. Pipette the appropriate volume of sample into each available
SPEcartridge.

13. Seat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

14. Switch the SPE control dial to Low Flow.

15. Turn the low flow adjustment knob clockwise until the desired flow rate
is achieved.

16. When the sample stops dripping from the SPE cartridges, turn the
SPEcontrol dial to Off.

17. Unseat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

Wash Steps

18. Pipette the appropriate volume of washing solvent into each available
SPE cartridge.

19. Seat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

20. Switch the SPE control dial to High Flow.

21. Turn the high flow adjustment knob clockwise until the desired flow rate
is achieved.

22. When the washing solvent stops dripping from the SPE cartridges, turn
the SPE control dial to Off.

23. Unseat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

24. Repeat steps 18 through 23 for the appropriate number of washing
steps.

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USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

OPERATION

Dry Steps

25. Switch the process control dial to Dry.

26. When the solvent stops dripping from the SPE cartridges, wait an
additional 10 seconds, and then switch the process control dial to SPE.

27. Unseat the manifold. Refer to page 24.

Elution Steps

28. Follow the instructions to Setup for Flow to Collection on page 23.

29. Pipette the appropriate volume of eluent into each available
SPEcartridge.

30. Switch the SPE control dial to Low Flow.

31. Turn the low flow adjustment knob clockwise until the desired flow rate
is achieved.

32. When the eluate stops dripping from the SPE cartridges, turn the
SPEcontrol dial to Off.

33. Repeat steps 28 through 32 for the appropriate number of elution steps.

34. If needed, add additional dry steps.

Final Steps

35. Eject the SPE cartridges. Refer to Ejection Plate on page 12.

36. Follow all necessary maintenance procedures after operation is
complete. Refer to Maintenance on page 31.

31

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance

Clean the ASPEC PPM

The instrument should be cleaned occasionally, using a dry, clean cloth. If
necessary, use a cloth dipped in soapy water. If liquid is accidentally spilled
on the instrument, wipe it up immediately.

Install or Replace the O-Ring

1. Remove the manifold from the manifold carrier.

2. Gently remove the O-ring from the rear of the manifold with your
fingers. If necessary, free the O-ring with a flathead screwdriver.

3. Insert a new O-ring into the circular depression in the rear of the
manifold.

Replace the Manifold Gasket

1. Remove the manifold from the manifold carrier.

2. Set the manifold down with the gasket facing up.

3. Peel the gasket away, starting from the corner. Discard the gasket.

4. Clean off any excess adhesive from the manifold using methanol.

5. Locate the replacement gasket.

6. Peel away the adhesive backing on the new gasket, starting from the
corner. Discard the backing material.

7. Align the new gasket with the four corners of the manifold before
attaching the gasket with the adhesive side facing down.

Maintenance Parts

Description Part Number

Gasket, 96-position for SPE manifold (qty. 10) 37417005

Gasket, 24-position for SPE manifold (qty. 10) 3741700 6

Gasket, 15-position for SPE manifold (qty. 10) 37417007

O-ring for manifold seal (qty. 5) 37417008

3332

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | User's GUideUSER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

TroUbleshooTinG Table

TroUbleshooTinG Table

Troubleshooting Table

Symptoms Possible Causes SPE Steps Solutions

Lack of flow

No inlet pressure.

All

Check that the gas pressure source is set to 15 psi.

O-ring damaged or missing. Replace the O-ring. Refer to page 31.

Damaged process control dial.

Replace the front panel. Contact your local Gilson representative. Refer to

page 36.

Liquid flows unevenly

Channeling inside the sorbent
of the SPE cartridge/s.

Condition

Specific Causes Specific Solutions

Drying of the cartridge/s. Repeat the condition step.

Insucient condition volume. Increase the condition volume.

Excessive flow rate. Reduce the flow rate.

Clogged SPE cartridge/s.

Condition Replace the SPE cartridge/s.

Load

Reconsider the sample preparation workflow; e.g., sample filtration,
centrifugation, etc.

Heterogeneous viscosity
inside the SPE cartridge/s,
caused by the use of
dierent liquids in successive
SPEsteps.

Condition

Reduce the residual level of liquid above the frit to 1 to 2mm before
conditioning with another type of liquid.

Wash and
Elute

Before using a new solvent, ensure that all euent has been expelled from
the SPE cartridges.

Leak in the manifold gasket. All Replace the manifold gasket. Refer to page 31.

Liquid continues to flow,
even after the SPE control
dial has been set to O.

The process control dial is set
to Dry.

All

Switch the process control dial to SPE.

Residual positive
pressure remains in the
SPEcartridge/s.

Switch the SPE control dial to Low Flow before stopping. Unseat the
manifold. Refer to page 24.

3534

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | User's GUideUSER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

TroUbleshooTinG Table

TroUbleshooTinG Table

Symptoms Possible Causes SPE Steps Solutions

Contamination

Previous samples overflowed. Load Replace the manifold gasket. Refer to page 31.

Unclean collection tubes.

Elution

Replace the collection vessels.

Elution solvent splashed. Reduce the elution flow rate.

Lower recoveries than
usual for an optimized SPE
protocol.

SPE cartridge packing
material dried.

Condition

When the liquid level on the fastest eluting SPE cartridge reaches
2mm above the top frit (High Flow), switch to the SPE control dial to
Low Flow, and then slowly turn the low flow adjustment knob clockwise
until flow restarts and the liquid level equilibrates for all cartridges.

Not enough time for
extraction to be completed.

Load Decrease the flow rate to better extract analytes from the sample matrices.

Elution Decrease the flow rate to better extract analytes from the solid phase.

Residual trace of the washing
solvent inside the packing
material of the SPE cartridge/s
prior to the elution step.

Wash

Switch the process control dial to Dry after the last washing step for
several minutes.

Fewer interferents
removed than usual for an
optimized SPE protocol.

Residual trace of the washing
solvent inside the packing
material of the SPE cartridge/s
prior to the elution step.

Wash

Turn the process control dial to Dry after the last wash step. Thoroughly dry
the SPE cartridges for several minutes.

Not enough time to remove
interferents.

Decrease flow rate.

A new batch of
SPEcartridges.

Elution Replace the SPE cartridges with a new batch.

36

USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

REPAIR AND RETURN POLICIES

Repair and Return Policies

Refer to the following information and then contact your local
Gilson representative. Specific contact information can be found at

www.gilson.com.

Before Calling Us

Your local Gilson representative will be able to serve you more efficiently if
you have the following information:

• Serial number and model number of the instrument, located on the rear of
the base.

• List of concise symptoms

• List of operating procedures and conditions you were using when the
problem arose

Warranty Repair

Units covered under warranty will be repaired and returned to you at no
charge. If you have any questions about applicability, contact your local
Gilson representative.

Non-Warranty Repair

For out-of-warranty repairs, contact your local Gilson representative who will
discuss service options with you and can assist in making arrangements to
return the equipment, if necessary.

37

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

REPAIR AND RETURN POLICIES

Return Procedure

Contact your local Gilson representative to obtain authorization before
returning any Gilson equipment. To return a piece of equipment:

• Carefully pack the unit to prevent damage in transit. Check with your
local Gilson representative regarding proper method of shipment. No
responsibility is assumed by Gilson or your local Gilson representative
for damage caused by improperly packaged instruments. Indicate the
authorization on the carton and on the packing slip.

• Always insure for the replacement value of the unit.

• Include a description of symptoms, your name, address, phone number,
and purchase order to cover repair costs, return and shipping charges, if
your institution requires it.

Unit End-of-Life

When a unit reaches the end of its useful life, refer to www.gilson.com for
directions and information on the end-of-life policy. This is in accordance
with the European Union Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and
Electronic Equipment (WEEE).

38

USER’S GUIDE | ASPEC™ POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD

REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

Replacement Parts and Accessories

Description Part Number

1 mL plugs for 24-position racks (qty. 24) 37417017

3 mL plugs for 24-position racks (qty. 24) 37417016

6 mL plugs for 15-position racks (qty. 15) 37417015

96-well collection plate, 1 mL (qty. 10) 543506004

96-well collection plate, 2 mL (qty. 10) 543506005

96-well plate adapter (qty. 1) 37114005

Collection and drain well (qty. 1) 37117000

Ejection plate for SPE cartridges (qty. 1) 37114006

External gas regulator, 15 psi (qty. 1) 37117100

Gasket, manifold, 96-positions (qty. 10) 37417005

Gasket, manifold, 24-positions (qty. 10) 3741700 6

Gasket, manifold, 15-positions (qty. 10) 37417007

Manifold, 96-positions (qty. 1) 37117296

Manifold, 24-positions (qty. 1) 37114000

Manifold, 15-positions (qty. 1) 37117215

O-rings, manifold seals (qty. 5) 37417008

SPE cartridge rack, 1 mL (qty. 1) 37114002

SPE cartridge rack, 3 mL (qty. 1) 37114003

SPE cartridge rack, 6 mL (qty. 1) 37114004

Safety shield (qty. 1) 37117200

Tubes, 12 x 75 mm, 5 mL, glass (qty. 250) 2954726

Tubes, 15 x 85 mm, 10 mL, glass (qty. 250) 2954729

39

ASPEC® POSITIVE PRESSURE MANIFOLD | USER'S GUIDE

CONFIGURATION KITS

Configuration Kits

Description Part Number

96-position 37417014

24-position, 1 mL 37417011

24-position, 3 mL 37417012

15-position, 6 mL 37417013

ASPEC Positive Pressure Unit

Description Part Number

ASPEC positive pressure unit 37012000

LT380170-01

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