ECOM ECP2011 and ECP2011P ANALYTICAL SINGLE PISTON HPLC PUMP

Importance of the Topic

Liquid chromatography remains a cornerstone technique in analytical chemistry for separation, purification and quantification of complex mixtures. High-pressure pumps are essential for delivering solvent at constant flow and pressure. An economical, single-piston HPLC pump such as the ECP2011 series provides a practical solution for column washing, regeneration and routine applications where ultra-low pulsation is not critical or can be managed with external dampers.

Aims and Overview

This document presents the design and capabilities of the ECP2011 and ECP2011P analytical single-piston pumps. Key objectives include:

• Delivering a stable flow range from 0.02 to 10.00 mL/min
• Operating at pressures up to 40 MPa
• Offering both standalone and PC-controlled modes
• Providing an optional integrated pressure sensor (ECP2011P)

Methodology

The pumps employ a 1/8″ piston mechanism driven by an electronic control and drive system. Flow accuracy and repeatability are ensured by precise motor control. Pulsation may be reduced with external pulse dampers when required. Back-flushing of the piston allows for maintenance when using buffered solvents.

Instrumentation Used

The ECP2011 series includes two configurations:

• ECP2011 (ACK0000X): Single piston 1/8″, flow 0.02–10 mL/min, no pressure sensor
• ECP2011P (ACL0000X): Same pump with integrated pressure sensor (±2 % accuracy) and adjustable upper pressure limit (1–40 MPa)

Common features:

• Materials in contact with solvent: stainless steel, ceramic, PEEK, PTFE or UHMW-PE seals
• OLED display (2.4″, 128×64) with keypad for flow, purge, brightness and sensor settings
• Communication via RS-232, Ethernet (LAN) or USB
• Power supply 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 60 VA

Main Results and Discussion

Performance testing under 12 MPa water pressure at 1 mL/min showed flow accuracy within ±2 % and repeatability better than ±0.5 %. The optional pressure sensor in ECP2011P achieved ±2 % accuracy across the full range. The pump’s compact design (200×136×230 mm) and moderate weight (4.68 kg) facilitate integration into benchtop systems. OLED feedback enables remote monitoring of flow and pressure.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Cost-effective solution for column washing and regeneration in HPLC workflows
• Versatile use in standalone or fully automated PC-controlled setups
• Wide compatibility with common HPLC solvents and buffers
• Adjustable pressure limits and sensor calibration support method development

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include integration of multi-pump architectures for gradient elution, enhanced pulsation suppression, miniaturized designs for micro-LC, and IoT-enabled remote diagnostics. Further improvements in sensor technology could expand applicability in high-precision QA/QC and process monitoring.

Conclusion

The ECP2011 and ECP2011P single-piston HPLC pumps deliver reliable flow control and pressure performance for routine chromatography tasks. Their modular design, optional pressure sensing and versatile communication interfaces make them suitable for both basic column maintenance and advanced automated systems.

Reference

ECOM spol. s r.o. product specification P/N ACK0000X / ACL0000X, ECP2011/ECP2011P Analytical Single Piston HPLC Pump.