mikron 31photometer

mikron 31 photometer
Operations manual2© 2018Wissenschaftliche Gerätebau „F. F. Runge“ GmbH(“F. F. Runge” Scientific Instruments)
David-Gilly-Straße 114469 Potsdam
Germany
Telephone +49 (0) 3 31 / 96 79 75 00
Telefax+49 (0) 3 31 / 96 79 75 02

E-Mailinfo@ff-runge.deInternet

www.ff-runge.deWe reserve the right to make changes
Reprints – even for excerpts – not permitted
Runge is a registered trademark of Wissenschaftliche Gerätebau „F. F. Runge“ GmbH.
Any other marks and protected trademarks named in the following are the property of their respective owners.
Printed in Germany

31.6A0.1803.en

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Table of contents
Introduction............................................................................................................................................................ 5
Safety regulations............................................................................................................................................... 6
Intended use...................................................................................................................................... 6
Occupational safety......................................................................................................................... 7
Ambient conditions........................................................................................................................... 7
An overview of the detector........................................................................................................................... 8
Technical data....................................................................................................................................................... 9
Method of measurement.............................................................................................................................. 10Equipment delivered...................................................................................................................... 11
Setting up............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Mounting, fastening....................................................................................................................... 12
Liquid connectors.......................................................................................................................... 14
Electrical connection..................................................................................................................... 15en

4Operation.............................................................................................................................................................. 16
Switching on and off...................................................................................................................... 16
Display of the operating status.................................................................................................... 16
Switching between the light sources......................................................................................... 17
Rapid scanning of two wavelengths........................................................................................... 18
Zero adjustment.............................................................................................................................. 18
Switching over the type of signal................................................................................................ 18
Choice of scanning rate, integration time, data rate and time constant.............................19
Replacing the measurement cell................................................................................................. 21
Replacing a light source............................................................................................................... 22
Adding a light source.................................................................................................................... 23
Trouble shooting............................................................................................................................................... 24
Annexe 1: Spare parts list............................................................................................................................ 27
Annexe 2: GLP detector specifications.................................................................................................. 29
Conformity declaration.................................................................................................................................. 31

5Introduction
Thank you for deciding for a Runge detector.
Our mikron apparatus differs both in its concept and size from traditional detectors: it gives
you the the performance of advanced laboratory detectors in the form of a test head. This
gives you new application possibilities. Important aims in its development were durability,ease of maintenance and a good price/performance ratio.
We develop and produce all Runge instruments in Germany. We rely on competentsuppliers in Brandenburg and in Berlin. We hope that you will be satisfied with our detector
in its day to day usage and that we can gain your long-term custom.

en6Safety regulations
This detector meets the prescribed safety regulations. Incorrect operation can however leadto injury and damage. Consequently read these operating instructions carefully before putting the detector into operation.
Runge cannot accept responsibility for damage caused by not following these instructions.
Intended use
This detector is to be used in analytical and preparative liquid chromatography equipment
and in general for the photometric analysis of liquids. The insertion and operation of thedetector shall only be carried out by trained laboratory technicians with knowledge in thisfield and experience in handling the chemicals used.

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Occupational safety
When using the apparatus observe the health and safety regulations (among others thoseconcerning protective clothing and laboratory equipment). In the United Kingdom, relevant
information is provided by the Health and Safety Executive. In Ireland it is the Health andSafety authority, in Australia, Safe Work Australia and in New Zealand, Worksafe. In theUnited States of America it is the OSHA, in Canada the CSC.
Ambient conditions
The detector is to be operated only in the following conditions:• Temperature 3...45 °C (37.4...113 °F)• Humidity 0...90 %, non-condensing• Atmosphere: air in room, inert gas, no explosive or corrosive fumes• No direct sunlight (danger of overheating)• No ignition sources in the vicinity of flammable solventsen8

An overview of the detector
5568

13234755

1 end cap
2 measurement cell (various types can be supplied)
3 light source (one or two)
4 detector block

Fig. 1: The mikron 31 detector

5 liquid joint
6 status indicator
7 electrical connection (USB-C), max. 500 mA
8 name plate9Technical data
Typemikron 31, UV/Vis/IR photometerNo. of wavelengths

1; 2Construction typeportable

Wavelengthnm

240 … 1050 nm discrete values

Accuracy of wavelengthnm+/– 2.5

Precision of wavelengthnm+/– 0.5

Scanning rateHz

1 … 100

Noise levelAU

typ. < ±10–5at 255 nm, time constant 1 s, depending on λLinearity range

AUtyp. > 2.5at 255 nm, depending on λOptical band widthnm< 15Power take-up

W< 2.5en

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Method of measurement
The individual components dissolved in a liquid absorb light of a particular wavelength(ultraviolet, visible light or infrared) of various intensities. The detector is fitted with one or
two light sources of particular wavelengths (monochromatic light).
The intensity of the light beam after passing through the sample is measured by aphotodiode and compared with that of a reference beam which has not passed through thesample.

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I1
I235Fig. 2: Photometry with reference channel(78A = log 1012345
6light source
beam splitter
mirrorobject beamreference beamsample

I2(2I1+ KZA[A] = AU

7 object signal photodiode8 reference signal photodiodeI1 object signal intensity
I2 reference signal intensity
KZAconstant zero adjustment

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If the detector is equipped with two light sources, two wavelengths can be measured
simultaneously by rapid switching between the two sources. This rapid scanning type ofoperation is available otherwise only by significantly larger table instruments with a discharge lamp and monochromator.
Equipment delivered• Runge mikron 31 (UV/Vis/IR) photometer• connecting cable for USB-C to USB-A, 1.5 m• operating instructions• two pairs of liquid screw joints of the appropriate size (according to the measurement cellsupplied)• size 3 Allen key• table mounting1• instrument case1

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only in the delivered equipment for end users

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Setting up
Mounting, fastening
With the table mounting delivered, the mikron 31 detector can be operated in a laboratory,
but can also be inserted into a device insofar as the ambient conditions (temperature,humidity, composition of the atmosphere) are maintained.
When inserting the apparatus into a device, fastening it at the front of the detector block is
recommended (see Fig. 4), as this would not constrict the cross-section and otherwise thehousing would be deformed. A suitable means of fastening is, for example, pipe clips
conforming to DIN 3015.
As liquid only flows through the measurement cell, a leak can occur in the cell. To avoid
damage to electronic parts of the detector through the presence of liquid, it is recommended when inserting the measurement cell vertically or at an angle to ensure that its end
cap is located at the deepest point. In the case of horizontal insertion the longitudinalalignment groove should be situated at the bottom along with the overflow channels of the13

measurement cell (Fig. 6). As leakages are not recognised by the detector, care must be
taken that leakages are discovered in time.

enFig. 3: Table mounting

Fig. 4: Preferred position for fastening clip
1 outlet overflow
2 alignment groove2

Fig. 5: Measurement cell at the bottom

1Fig. 6: Alignment groove at the bottom

14Liquid connectors
The mikron 31 detector can be fitted with various measurement cells. These cells use thefollowing joints:Part number

Measurement cell

OD Capillary tube (mm)Joint

00.240.0001.x

analytic 10 µl

1.5875 (1/16 inch)

10-32 UNF

cone

00.240.0002.x

preparative

3.1750 (1/8 inch)

1/4”-28 UNF

cone

00.240.0003.x

analytic 2,5 µl

1.5875 (1/16 inch)

10-32 UNF

cone

Two pairs of appropriate joints are supplied with the apparatus. The order of the joints isshown in Fig. 7.
Stainless steel joints are tightened with a torque of 5 Nm, PEEK joints with a torque of0.5 Nm. Joints of PEEK (polyether ether ketone) are not suitable for all operating pressuresand solvents.

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1/16”
AF 1/4” 10-32 UNF
2.5 mm1/8”
1/4”-28 UNF AF 5/16”
2.5 mmFig. 7: Liquid joints, alignment of the parts

enElectrical connection
The mikron 31 is connected to a computer via a USB connector and is controlled andsupplied with energy via the connector. The USB-C type plug is constructed symmetricallyand hence can be plugged in in two directions.

16Operation
Switching on and off
The detector is supplied via the USB connector with power and is switched on as soon as
the supply voltage is applied, i.e. as soon as the connected computer or active USB hub isswitched on. The light source(s) are switched on and off via a separate command.
Display of the operating status
The mikron 31 detector can only be remotely controlled via a computer. The apparatus has a
3-coloured status display. This can show the following three operating states:ColourTypeMeaning

green

steady light

operational

green

flashing lightmeasurement in process

17ColourType

Meaningyellow

steady lightstartup test in processredsteady lighterror

Switching between the light sources
If the detector is fitted with two light sources it is possible to switch to an fro between them.
The light sources are queried when the detector is being tested by its control electronics,
and signal their wavelengths and other specifications to the control electronics. All
specifications required by the guidelines of good laboratory practice (cf. Annexe 2) can beshown in the chromatography program.
The apparatus driver sorts the light sources internally in ascending order of wavelength,
irrespective of the order the cassettes are located in the apparatus. Consequently, whencreating a method, it is always the wavelength which is used for selecting a light source andnot the channel number. This means that when the detector has other light sources than theone required by a method this situation is recognised when the method is created.

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Rapid scanning of two wavelengths
If the detector is fitted with two light sources, both wavelengths can in practice bemeasured at the same time as a result of the rapid scanning. The scanning rate for thismode of operation is at the most 100 Hz.
Zero adjustment
If a command is issued for zero adjustment, the current numerical value of the signal level issubtracted from this value and all following values. A zero comparison is carried out automatically also at the commencement of each measurement.
Switching over the type of signal
The measurement signal output can be positive, inverted or, for two light sources, as theratio of the signal wavelength 1 to wavelength 2 and vice versa (amplitude rating).

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Choice of scanning rate, integration time, data rate and time constant
The scanning rate reflects the quantity of measurements of light intensity for each interval oftime. The integration time is the reverse value of this rate and corresponds to the exposure
time of photography. Similarly a short integration time (high scanning rate), along with aweak light intensity leads to a poor signal/noise ratio. On the other hand, a long integration
time together with a high light intensity can lead to saturation of the signal amplifier. The
detector determines the integration time by measurung the light intensity when it is switchedon and, by command, renews it.
Data rate and time constants concern the processing of the measured signal in the detector
before outputting to the computer. The data rate determines the quantity of data points per
second on the time axis of the chromatogram, and the time constant defines thecommunication of the signal within the chosen time interval. The longer the interval, thelower the noise level, and the time-based resolution is also lower. This should be kept inmind when choosing the constant.
A data rate is recommended which is more than double the reverse value of the time
constant, so that at least two data points are located in an interval of the time constant. Aten

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the same time the data rate should be so chosen that the narrowest expected peak in thechromatogram is defined with at least 20 data points.
Time constant τ (ms)

Data rate (Hz)Peak width (s)40> 50< 0,420> 100< 0,2

In the case of an unknown duration of the signal peaks it is recommended to make achromatogram with time constant τ = 0 ms or τ = 10 ms and to choose a time constantshorter than half of the narrowest amplitude.

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Replacing the measurement cell
Before disassebmling the detector it must be ensured that it is not under electric tension(plug removed). After the Allen screws visible at the end cap have been loosened they canbe removed using the spanner supplied.

enmeasurementcellsize 3 Allen key

Fig. 8: Replacing the measurement cell

centering pin,alignment grooves22

If, in spite of these instructions, the detector is disassembled when it is still underelectric tension and the light source is still switched on, there is a danger of damage
to eyes and burns resulting from optical radiation.
The detector has now been disassembled and separated into three components: the end
cap, measurement cell and the combination of detector block and cassettes. The loose
parts must be prevented from falling out as the optical properties and the density would
suffer. When reassembling the apparatus with a new measurement cell of one of the same
type, centering pins and alignment grooves aid the correct settings of the cell.
Replacing a light source
The apparatus is switched off and then disassembled. (cf. Fig. 8).
Light source cassette(s) and detector block remain attached to each other as a result of thespring tension of the plug even after the screws have been loosened. The alignment
depends on the positions of plug and socket. When being tested, the light sources arerecognised automatically by the detector indepen-dently of their order.

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The plug and socket strips of the electronic modules are protected against
accidental contact. When objects are inserted which conduct electrical current theelectronics can be damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge.

1 cassette: DIN 912 – M4 x 60
2 cassettes: DIN 912 – M4 x 80

Fig. 9: Replacing the light sourceensocketplugalignment grooves

Adding a light source
The detector can be fitted with 2 light sources. Retrofitting is carried out, analogously to thedescription in the preceding section, simply by plugging in a second light source cassette.
More than 2 light sources are not supported.
As a result of adding light sources the length of the apparatus changes. Consequently thetraction bolts must be replaced by longer types (DIN 912 – M4x80) (cf. Fig. 9). These are24

supplied, for retrofitting, in a cassette. By changing back from two light sources to one, only
the shorter bolts (DIN 912 – M4x60) may be used.

Trouble shooting
The following table helps when correcting faults occuring in daily use
Error description

Possible cause

Explanations and action taken

Status indicator red

no light source(s) recognised

Are the plugs firmly in the sockets?

wrong type of cassetterecognised

Have only light source cassettes been
inserted?

extraneous light present

Are the various modules positioned
so that there are no gaps between
them? Bolts/screws tightened up?

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Error description

Possible cause

Explanations and action taken

Status indicator red

light source too brightLight source current set too high.
Inform customer service.

measurement cell soiled orcontains air bubbles

Measurement cell soiled?
Rinse through measurement cell withacetonitrile or methanol; then switch theapparatus off and on.
Are air bubbles in the cell?
Remove the bubbles with a spray.

Light source too dark
because of age

How long is the service life?
UV light sources should be replaced
after 5,000 hours

Signal value always
zeroIntegration time too shortHave integration time newly determined.

light source not switched on

Switch on light source.

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Error description

Possible cause

Explanations and action taken

Unsettled or fadingbase line

extraneous light present

Are the various modules positioned sothat there no gaps between them?
Bolts/screws tightened up?

measurement cell soiled

Rinse through measurement cell withacetonitrile or methanol; then switch theapparatus off and on (automatic determination of the integration time).

weak light source

Light source aged?
Light source currently set too low.
Inform customer service.
Integration time too short?
Increase, have integration time determined automatically (switch off and on).

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Annexe 1: Spare parts list
The spare parts listed can be ordered directly from Runge or one of Runge's distributors.
Part number

Designation

00.240.0001.x

measurement cell absorption, analytic, 10 µl,
x: 1=stainless stell, 2=titanium, 3=PEEK

00.240.0002.x

measurement cell absorption, preparative, 1.6...6.4 µl

00.240.0003.x

measurement cell absorption, analytic, 2.5 µl

30.241.0002

end cap

31.241.0002.xxx

cassette with LED light source, wavelength λ = xxx nm

31.6A0.1803.en

mikron 31 operating instructions, English

G2.241.0003

Long mikron table mounting

00.311.DIN912.M04x60

Short bolt, DIN 912 – M4x60

00.311.DIN912.M04x80

Long bolt, DIN 912 – M4x80

en28Part number

Designation

00.521.0001

spanner, size 3 Allen key

00.522.0001

USB-C to USB-A cable, length 1.5 m00.321.0031

10-32 UNF cone joint for capillary tube da=1/16”, for CR, stainless steel

00.321.0032

10-32 UNF cone joint for capillary tube da=1/16”, one piece, PEEK

00.321.0033

1/4“-28 UNF cone joint for capillary tube da=1/8”, for CR, stainless steel

00.321.0041

Cutting ring (CR) for 10-32 UNF cone joint, stainless steel

00.321.0042

Cutting ring for 1/4”-28 UNF cone joint, stainless steel

00.321.0043

Cutting ring for 1/4”-28 UNF cone joint, PEEK29Annexe 2: GLP detector specifications
Component

Specification

apparatus

serial numberfirmware version
number of switching cycles
operating hours
date of last maintenance by customer service
date of last validity check

moduleserial numberoperating hours
highest value of operating current though illuminants (indication of demands.)

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For ordering and technical support, please contact:
Europe: Biotech AB Tel: +46 (0)300-56 91 80. info@biotechfluidics.com
USA: Biotech USA LLC Tel: +1 612 703 5718. sales@ biotechfluidics.com
www.biotechfluidics.com

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Conformity declaration
Manufacturer:

Wissenschaftliche Gerätebau „F. F. Runge“ GmbHDavid-Gilly-Straße 114469 Potsdam, Germany

Model:

UV/Vis/IR photometer mikron 31 (Typ 31)

We declare hereby that the preceding designated product conforms in its conception and type of construction andalso the design lauched on the market to following directives:
2014/35/EU
2014/30/EU
2011/65/EU
2012/19/EU
DIN EN 61000-3-2:2014
DIN EN 61010-1:2001
DIN EN 61326-2-3

Low-tension directive
EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) directive
Directive on the restriction of hazardous substances in electric and electronic equipment
Directive regarding waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directive – limits für harmonic current emissions
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use
EMC – Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use

Potsdam, 1st of March 2018
Ernst Eimer(managing partner)en32