The Dual-Gradient Rapid Separation Pump is the first pump that combines the ultrahigh-speed and resolution of RSLC with x2 dual technology. Advanced chromatographic techniques such as parallel, tandem, and 2-dimensional LC become realistic, practical options, even at ultrahigh speed. Use the pump to operate conventional or ultrahigh-speed applications, increase sample throughput, achieve higher chromatographic resolutions, or automate sample preparation steps such as analyte enrichment or matrix elimination. Ultrahigh-resolution columns using sub-3 μm and sub-2 μm particle size are the preferred format for this pump, but all conventional HPLC columns are fully supported.
- The Dual-Gradient Pump incorporates two ternary gradient pumps in the footprint of a single LC system
- Control of x2 dual systems with Chromeleon® software ensures ease-of-use, documentation of all instrument settings, and automated startup and shut-down routines.
- Accommodate two different applications on an x2 dual system with different solvents and columns, and switch between applications without replumbing the system.
- Exceptionally wide flow-pressure footprint with flows from 100 µL/min to 8 mL/min and pressures up to 15,000 psi (103.4 MPa), with a flow accuracy of ±0.1%.
- Accurate, precise retention times thanks to the high flow and proportioning precision with ternary low-pressure gradient proportioning.
- Dionex’s mixing concept perfectly balances gradient delay volume against mobile-phase mixing efficiency. Adapting the mixing volume to the application requirements takes just a matter of seconds.
Multiple Benefits of x2 Dual Systems
UltiMate
® 3000 x2 Dual LC and LC/MS systems offer unprecedented levels of flexibility, increased sample throughput, and automation of complex procedures such as on-line SPE-LC. This is made possible with the power of dual-gradient pumps, built-in column switching valves, and features of the Chromeleon
® Chromatography Data System software. UltiMate 3000 Dual-Gradient Pumps (x2) incorporate two ternary gradient pumps in one instrument housing. This allows the use of multiple flow paths in one system independently. Dual-Gradient pumps are available in nano, micro, analytical, and rapid separation versions. Except for micro, all these pumps are compatible with both conventional HPLC and UHPLC applications.
- Double sample throughput with parallel and tandem LC
- Easily switch automatically between two applications
- Automate sample preparation and analysis of complex samples by on-line SPE-LC
- Achieve high selectivity and resolution with 2D-LC
- Enhance MS response with postcolumn addition of organic solvents, pH buffers, and adducts
- Derivatize analytes on-line after the column
In addition, UltiMate 3000 x2 Dual LC and LC/MS systems are compatible with all standard HPLC methods. The unique features in our x2 dual technology offer laboratories many benefits, including:
| Features | Value |
|---|
| x2 Dual systems have a footprint of a single standard HPLC. | - No additional bench space is needed
|
| Dual-Gradient Pumps incorporate two ternary pumps within one housing | - Cost-effective solution for column switching applications
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| RSLC Dual-Gradient Pumps include two ternary pumps with 100 MPa (15,000 psi) pressure rating | - LC solutions available for ultrahigh-pressure applications
|
| Software allows sharing modules between two systems | - Create two systems at low cost; one dual gradient pump, one sampler, one column compartment, and two detectors give you the equivalent of two systems
|
| Column compartment features single or dual switching valves | - Provides optimized tubing connections
- Install one or two valves (stainless steel or PEEK)
- 2-pos 6-port or 10-port
- 6-pos 7-port
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| Built-in wizards for tandem LC and on-line SPE-LC | - No special training is needed to immediately take advantage of this new technology
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| Application kits include all necessary fittings, tubing, and detailed instructions | - Easy, straightforward setup and maintenance
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| AutoQ™ Equipment Qualification | - Instrument qualification and performance verification is automatic
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| Software features optimized instrument control panels | - Process control and monitoring is easy and intuitive
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| Automated documentation of all instrument settings, events, warnings, and errors | - Processes are traceable and easy to optimize
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Optimum Mixing of Solvents with the UltiMate RSLC Pump

Ultrafast gradient separations require a small gradient delay volume to ensure the gradient is correctly applied to the column. However, high mixing volumes are typically required to ensure the mobile phase components are completely mixed.This is particularly important when working with UV detectors, as incomplete mixing may lead to ripple effects in the chromatography baseline.
With very fast separations even small fluctuations in the mobile phase composition can compromise the precision of the peak retention time. Therefore, complete mixing is necessary to achieve a constant, flat baseline, high signal-to-noise ratios, and accurate peak identification.
Different types of applications have different requirements regarding mixing efficiency. Some require almost no mixing, while others require additional mixing volume to achieve a smooth baseline. A water/acetonitrile gradient using TFA as a modifier is an example of this type of gradient that requires precise mixing efficiency
The new proprietary mixing concept from Dionex addresses all these needs with:
- A two-step process of radial mixing followed by longitudinal mixing to ensure the highest possible mixing efficiency.
- Mixing volume that can be easily adapted to fit specific method requirements. The default mixing volume (400 µL) can be easily changed using mixing kits of 35, 200, 800, or 1500 µL (effective mixing volume).
- Available for the UltiMate® 3000 Binary, Quaternary, and Dual-Gradient RSLC pumps providing ultrahigh resolution and ultrafast separations.
| Dual-Gradient Rapid Separation Pump Specifications |
|---|
| Operating Principle | Serial dual-piston |
| Flow Range (Settable Range) | 0.05–8 mL/min (0.001–8 mL/min ) |
| Flow Accuracy | ±0.1% |
| Flow Precision | <0.05% RSD or <0.01 min SD, whichever is greater |
| Pressure Range | 2–103.4 MPa (290–15,000 psi) up to 5 mL/min, 2–80 MPa (290-11,600 psi) up to 8 mL/min |
| Pulsation | Typically: <2 bar or <1% whichever is greater |
| Gradient Formation | Low-pressure proportioning |
| Proportioning Accuracy | ±0.5% |
| Proportioning Precision | <0.15% SD |
| Number of Eluent Lines | 6 (2 × 3) |
| Gradient Delay Volume | 690 μL by default (325–1790 μL with optional mixer kits) |
| Solvent Degassing | External (optional) |
Dimensions (h × w × d) | 16 × 42 × 51 cm (6.3 × 16.5 × 20 in.) |
| GLP Features | Full support of Automatic Equipment Qualification (AutoQ™), Qualification Status, and System Wellness Monitoring. All system parameters are logged in the Chromeleon Audit Trail |
| I/O Interfaces | 2 digital inputs, 2 relay outputs |
| Communications | USB for PC connection; USB hub with 3 sockets integrated; 15-pin D-Sub connector for solvent rack/degasser connection. |
| Hardware |
| DGP-3600RS UltiMate 3000 Dual Ternary Rapid Separation Pump System |
5040.0066 |
| SRD-3600 UltiMate 3000 Integrated Solvent and Degasser Rack, 6 Channels |
5035.9230 |
| Accessories |
| Static Mixer Kit, Micro, 35 µL Mixing Volume |
6040.5000 |