Replica (1:10 scale) HPLC Machine

HPLC or High Performance Liquid Chromatography machines are common workhorses in many chemistry and biology labs as well as diagnostic testing centers around the world. They work by pumping samples through columns to achieve separation based on certain properties of the molecules or proteins like size, purity, charge, hydrophobicity, intermolecular interactions and more! Agilent is just one of the many companies that make HPLCs, but from experience their systems are very user-friendly, versatile, and dependable.

This model is 1:10 scale of an actual HPLC and makes for a fun replica to have at your office desk or lab bench. Like real HPLCs, the model is split into 5 parts, much like a real-life HPLC:

• The pump (to move sample and buffers)
• The Autosampler (a tube rack with a robot arm and needle to inject the samples)
• The column component: where the magic (separation) happens
• DAD: or Diode Array Detector, this measures the material coming off the column, usually by detecting absorbance at a certain wavelength
• Tray: This holds buffer bottles and provides secondary containment in the event of spills or leaks

Each module snaps on top of each other. Parts were separated based on color to avoid excessive purge waste. The "Interiors" of each  module can be glued into place and the "window" pieces slide over the slots in the doors for a tight fit that likely will not need any glue. Note: fully remove the brim from the windows or they won't fit properly

UPDATE: A maker with a sharp eye noticed that the orientation of the Autosampler hotel and interior was mirrored from the real thing. I've corrected the orientation so the replica is more exact (no impact on printability).