GE AKTA GO (01) PDF Document

In order to operate the GE AKTA GO system according to its intended purpose, it is important that the following prerequisites are followed:

• you have a general understanding of how the computer and the Microsoft® Windows® operating system work.

• you understand the concepts of liquid chromatography.

• you have read and understood the Safety instructions chapter in ÄKTA go Operating Instructions.

• a user account has been created according to UNICORN Administration and Technical Manual.

The user documentation for the GE AKTA GO contains the following safety notices:

WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. It is important not to proceed until all stated conditions are met and clearly understood.

CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. It is important not to proceed until all stated conditions are met and clearly understood.

NOTICE: Indicates instructions that must be followed to avoid damage to the product or other equipment.

Follow the steps below to install or replace a module or module panel on your GE AKTA GO. Module panels must be used in positions not occupied by modules.

Step 1: Disconnect power from the instrument by using the instrument power button.

Step 2: If a module is to be replaced, loosen the tubing connectors and remove the tubing from the existing module.

Step 3: Loosen the screw in the module or module panel with a Torx T20 screwdriver.

Step 4: Remove the module or module panel and disconnect the cable at the back.

Step 5: Connect the cable to the new module or module panel.

Step 6: Insert the module or module panel and fasten it with a Torx T20 screwdriver.

Note: When an optional module is removed or a new module is installed, the system configuration must be updated in UNICORN.

When an optional module is removed or a new module is installed on your GE AKTA GO, the system configuration must be updated in UNICORN. Follow the steps below:

Step 1: On the Tools menu in the Administration module, click System Properties or click the System Properties icon to open the dialog. The System Properties dialog is displayed.

Step 2: Select the system of interest in the System Properties dialog and click Edit. The Edit dialog is displayed.

Step 3: Select the type of module installed/uninstalled from the Component types list. The available modules are shown in the Component selection list. Note: Instrument modules are referred to as Components in UNICORN.

Step 4: Select the appropriate checkbox and click OK to apply the changes. Note: If applicable, choose the appropriate option in the Property column.

Follow these steps to connect the tubing to the F9-R fraction collector:

Step 1: Remove the tubing connector from the delivery arm and insert the tubing through the tubing connector.

Step 2: Use the tube adjustment cavity on the delivery arm to expose the correct length of tubing from the tubing connector. Insert the tubing into the tube adjustment cavity and slide the connector down, towards the delivery arm.

Step 3: Re-install the tubing connector on the delivery arm.

Step 4: Adjust the position and height of the delivery arm. Use the adjustment knob to place the tube sensor in the correct position for the used tubes. See Fraction collector F9-C and F9-R Operating instructions for detailed instructions.

Step 5: Connect the tubing from the fraction collector to the Frac port on the outlet valve.

Step 6: Adjust the delay volume setting in UNICORN to the volume of the tubing. Note: The default delay volume is correct and does not need to be set if standard tubing is used.

The delay volume is the retention volume that has to be dispensed before collecting the fractions indicated in the chromatogram. It corresponds to the volume in the flow path from the UV monitor to the fraction collector. If a module has been installed after the UV monitor or if the tubing dimensions have been changed, the delay volume has to be adjusted.

You can access the settings through the System Control module in UNICORN by selecting System → Settings.

In the System Settings dialog, select Fraction collection → Delay volume and type in the correct volume for:

• Detector – Frac

• Restrictor volume

• pH cell volume

The Pause and Continue buttons of the Instrument control panel on the GE AKTA GO can be locked or unlocked. To do this in UNICORN, select Advanced → Instrument control panel in the System Settings dialog, in System control.

The GE AKTA GO has a power-save mode that the instrument enters after being in a Ready state for a set period. To enable Power-save in UNICORN, select Advanced → Power-save in the System Settings dialog. Note: To activate Power-save, the system must be connected and in a Ready state.

Wash settings, including wash volumes and flow rates, are defined by default and optimized for the system. To change the volume and the flow rate for pump wash and system wash in UNICORN, select Wash settings in the System Settings dialog.

There are three techniques for sample application in the GE AKTA GO: using a sample loop, a Superloop, or the pump. The suitable sample volumes for each technique are:

• Sample loop injection: 25 µL to 10 mL

• Superloop injection: 1 to 150 mL

• Pump injection: > 5 mL

The pros and cons for each technique are as follows:

Prepare the Superloop:

To avoid injecting air into the flow path of the instrument, the Superloop should be prefilled with buffer manually before attaching it to the system. See the corresponding Superloop instructions for information on how to assemble and prefill a Superloop with buffer.

Connect the Superloop:

Step 1: Attach the Superloop to the instrument using a column holder.

Step 2: Connect the top tubing from the Superloop to the LoopE port on the injection valve.

Step 3: Connect the bottom tubing from the Superloop to the LoopF port on the injection valve.

Fill the Superloop:

Step 1: In the Process Picture, make sure that the injection valve is in position Load. (Note: Load is the default position for the valve.)

Step 2: Fill a syringe with sample.

Step 3: Connect the syringe to the Syr port in the injection valve. (Note: Make sure that there is no air in the syringe before connecting it.)

Step 4: Load the sample by emptying the syringe into the injection valve.

Step 5: Disconnect the syringe and plug the Syr port with a stop plug. (Note: Always plug the Syr port on the injection valve with a stop plug after loading a Superloop.)

Use the pump to load large volumes of sample (recommended minimum 5 mL) onto the column using the Sample inlet on inlet valve K9.

To prepare for pump injection, prime the sample manually to the inlet valve. For instructions, refer to ÄKTA go Operating Instructions.

Make sure to load the sample remaining in the flow path between the inlet valve and the injection valve onto the column. This is done by pumping buffer from the A inlet onto the column after loading the sample. When using predefined methods, this is done by clicking the “Finalize Sample injection” tick box.

For multiple sample injections, you can install an optional sample inlet valve and connect it to the Sample inlet of valve K9. Load all sample in the flow path by selecting the “Finalize Sample injection” option in the predefined methods.

For complete sample loading, place the air sensor on the sample tubing connected to the Sample inlet on inlet valve K9. Install the air sensor at a minimum distance of 150 mm from the inlet valve when working at maximum flow rate (100 mm is sufficient for flow rates of 5 mL/min or less). Disable the air sensor alarm in the method and program it so that when air is detected, sample loading stops and the remaining sample is loaded onto the column with buffer from the A inlet. This is done by selecting “Inject all sample using air sensor” and then “Finalize sample injection” in the predefined method.

To detect when a buffer is finished, place the air sensor between inlet valve K9 and the pump. The air sensor alarm needs to be activated. This is done by default in predefined methods. For a manual run, activate the “Air sensor alarm” in System Settings. After replacing the empty buffer bottle, prime the inlet tubing and perform a pump wash to remove the air from the flow path before continuing the run.

System wash: This function fills the system with a chosen buffer, for example, to change buffer concentration before an elution step. It consists of two parts: a 15 mL wash at a default flow rate of 25 mL/min, followed by a 6 mL wash at the same flow rate as the prior run. During a system wash, any running method is set to Hold.

Pump wash: This function is used to wash the pump and the flow path between the inlet valve and the injection valve. By default, it uses 65 mL of buffer at a flow rate of 65 mL/min to remove sample from this section of the flow path.

Pressure control regulates the flow rate if the pressure approaches a defined limit, which can prevent method stops due to pressure alarms. This is useful during sample application if the sample’s viscosity is higher than the buffer’s.

To enable pressure control when creating a method, select “Control to avoid Overpressure” in the Method Settings phase in the Method Editor.

To enable pressure control during a manual run, select Manual instructions → Pump → Flow in System Control.

The PI (proportional-integral) parameters for pressure control can be optimized in System Settings → Advanced → Pressure control parameters.

When performing a run in a cold environment, pressure can increase by up to 60% compared to room temperature due to increased liquid viscosity. To protect the column, you should decrease the flow rate and set appropriate pressure limits. To automatically decrease the flow rate, select “Reduce for Cold Room” in the Method Settings phase in the Method Editor. This option reduces the flow rate to 50% of the previously set flow rate.

The conductivity temperature compensation factor can be set in System Settings to ensure a stable conductivity signal, especially during runs at different temperatures or in a refrigerator. By default, it is set to 2.0%.

Follow these steps to set the compensation factor:

Step 1: Open the System Settings dialog by selecting System → Settings in the System control module.

Step 2: Select Conductivity → Cond temp compensation.

Step 3: Set the Compensation factor to the desired value.

Note: Do not set the conductivity temperature compensation to zero, as this can generate a fluctuating signal. When running performance tests, a compensation factor of 2.1% should be used.

Performance tests on the GE AKTA GO can be run at any time as required. The following table provides recommendations for when to run performance tests:

Before running a performance test on your GE AKTA GO, the following aspects should be considered:

• Disconnect all columns from the flow path. Columns should not be used when running a performance test.

• Make sure that the correct path length is set for the UV flow cell. The correct path length is set by default, but has to be set if the flow cell is changed to a 5 mm flow cell.

• Set the temperature compensation factor to 2.1%, which is suitable for a solution of 1 M NaCl 1% acetone.

If a performance test fails on your GE AKTA GO, review the test report to check which part of the test failed and consult the troubleshooting sections for possible causes and corrective actions. If a failed performance test cannot be corrected by the suggested actions or if it indicates a malfunction not listed, the module may need repair or replacement. After performing corrective actions, verify the fix by rerunning the test.

The user should perform the following periodic maintenance on the GE AKTA GO:

Additionally, the following maintenance should be performed when required:

• Clean the instrument surfaces

• Run System CIP (System cleaning-in-place)

• Clean and store the pH electrode

• Clean the conductivity flow cell

• Calibrate the conductivity monitor

• Calibrate the temperature sensor

• Reset the pressure sensors

• Replace tubing and connectors

• Replace the UV flow cell

• Replace pump rinsing system tubing

• Replace main fuses

Exchange the online filter every week, or when required (e.g., if clogged). Use forceps and gloves to avoid contamination.

Step 1: Unscrew the nut from the online filter.

Step 2: Remove the old filter (1) using forceps. Replace the support net (2) if damaged.

Step 3: Mount the new filter. Carefully push the filter onto the holder (3).

Step 4: Refit the nut and tighten the online filter by hand.

Clean the mixer membrane if the mixer performance test fails or if system pressure is high. Replace the membrane if the problem persists, and replace the O-ring if damaged. Use gloves to avoid contamination.

Step 1: Disconnect all tubing to the mixer.

Step 2: Unscrew the top section of the mixer.

Step 3: Remove the O-ring from the top section.

Step 4: Remove the inner components of the mixer (membrane and O-ring).

Step 5: Clean the membrane (1) based on usage:
• For biological agents: Immerse in 20% ethanol in an ultrasonic bath for a few minutes, then repeat with distilled water.
• For salt buffers: Rinse with distilled water.

Step 6: Remove the O-ring (2) from the bottom section.

Step 7: Wet the new O-ring with 20% ethanol and fit it into position.

Step 8: To reassemble, hold the top section upside-down and place the membrane on top, fitting the indentations to the protrusions.

Step 9: Place the bottom section on top of the membrane, ensuring alignment.

Step 10: Screw the metal section onto the inner components and connect the tubing.

Note: Incorrect assembly can cause leaks.

Clean the UV flow cell every six months or when required. Do not allow solutions to dry out in the flow cell.

Step 1: Disconnect all tubing from the UV monitor.

Step 2: Replace the top fingertight connector with a Luer connector and connect a piece of waste tubing to the bottom of the UV monitor, directing it to a waste container.

Step 3: Fill a syringe with distilled water and connect it to the Luer connector.

Step 4: Inject the distilled water through the UV flow cell carefully. Disconnect the syringe.

Step 5: Fill a syringe with a 10% surfactant detergent solution. (Tip: Heat the solution to 40°C to improve cleaning.)

Step 6: Connect the syringe and inject the detergent solution. Repeat this step about five times.

Step 7: Disconnect the syringe and leave the detergent solution in the flow cell for at least 20 minutes.

Step 8: Fill a syringe with distilled water and connect it to the Luer connector.

Step 9: Inject the distilled water to rinse the flow cell. Disconnect the syringe.

Step 10: Disconnect the Luer connector and waste tubing. Reconnect the original tubing to the UV monitor.

Follow these steps to replace the UV flow cell. Ensure the used cell is thoroughly flushed with a bacteriostatic solution (e.g., NaOH) and distilled water before service.

Step 1: Switch off the instrument.

Step 2: Disconnect the tubing from the UV flow cell.

Step 3: Unscrew the wheel at the bottom of the UV monitor and press it upwards to release the flow cell.

Step 4: Pull the flow cell upwards out of the monitor. Hold it by the top part with the O-ring and do not touch the optical surfaces.

Step 5: Insert a new flow cell into the monitor.

Step 6: Tighten the wheel firmly.

Step 7: Connect the tubing to the new flow cell.

Step 8: Switch on the instrument.

Step 9: If a cell with a different path length is used, update the UV flow cell path length in the Calibrate dialog in System Control. If a real cell path length is needed, calibrate the new cell instead of using the nominal value.

After replacement, run a system performance test to verify proper function.

Replace tubing and connectors when required, for example if a tubing is clogged or kinked.

Step 1: Unscrew the connectors and disconnect the tubing.

Step 2: If the old tubing has labels, remove them to use with the new tubing.

Step 3: Cut the new tubing to the same length as the old tubing using a tubing cutter for a straight angle cut. (CAUTION: The tubing cutter is very sharp.)

Step 4: Put the old labels on the new tubing.

Step 5: Mount the new connectors on the tubing.
• For fingertight connectors, slide the connector onto the tubing.
• For 1/8″ tubing connectors, slide the connector onto the tubing, then slide the ferrule onto the tubing with the thick end towards the tubing end.

Step 6: Insert the tubing with the connector into the port, ensuring it is fully inserted to the bottom.

Step 7: Tighten the connector fully. Use the fingertight wrench for areas that are difficult to access.

If your GE AKTA GO instrument does not turn on, check the following possible causes and perform the corresponding actions:

If the GE AKTA GO has a high internal temperature, consider these causes and actions:

If you observe leakage around a connector on your GE AKTA GO, follow these troubleshooting steps:

If you encounter higher than expected pressure or a pressure alarm on your GE AKTA GO, consult the following table for causes and solutions:

If you experience erratic flow, pressure, or other pump-related issues with your GE AKTA GO, use the following guide to troubleshoot:

For issues with the UV monitor on your GE AKTA GO, refer to this troubleshooting table:

If you are experiencing problems with the conductivity monitor on your GE AKTA GO, use the following guide:

For issues related to the pH monitor and pH valve on your GE AKTA GO, refer to the table below:

To manually interact with the GE AKTA GO system using Manual instructions, follow the steps below:

Step 1: In the System Control module, select Manual → Execute Manual Instructions or use the shortcut Ctrl + m.

Step 2: In the Manual instructions dialog that opens, do the following:
a. Click the + symbol to expand the instruction group you want to modify.
b. Select the specific instruction.
c. Enter the new values for the instruction.

Step 3: To execute several instructions at once, select and edit an instruction, then click Insert. Repeat for additional instructions.

Step 4: To update parameter fields during a method run, check the “Auto update of parameters during run” box.

Step 5: To perform the instructions, click Execute.

To check or change the Node ID of a module on your GE AKTA GO, follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove the module according to its respective instruction.

Step 2: The Node ID is set by the position of an arrow on one or two rotating switches at the back of the module.
a. The first switch, labeled A, sets the tens digit.
b. The second switch, labeled B, sets the units digit.
For example, to set a Node ID of 6, switch A should be set to 0 and switch B to 6.

Step 3: Check the current Node ID and compare it with the listed Node IDs for core and optional modules.

Step 4: To change the Node ID, use a screwdriver to turn the arrows of the switches to the desired numbers.

Step 5: If applicable, re-install the module in the instrument.