Abstract: A vial transport apparatus which is capable of storing and retrieving samples and then transporting them from one location in a sampling system to another without the complexity and expense of robotic arms or gripper elements is provided. A passive hook arrangement is utilized to engage the vials for transport and can be operated using a standard three motor system for transport in the X, Y, and Z directions. The hook supports the vial from beneath and at least partially surrounds the vial to entrap it during transport thereof.

Abstract: A degassing system is provided and includes a module for conditioning a liquid to be analyzed. The module includes a container holding a liquid, a degassing chamber, and a holder for the liquid container mounted on top of the degassing chamber. The holder provides stability to the module and contains any liquid spills. In another embodiment, the system includes an autosampler in conjunction with a degassing unit which includes a degassing chamber, a vacuum pump, and tubing for conducting liquid through the degassing chamber, which tubing is permeable to gases in the liquid.

Abstract: An apparatus for effective vacuum degassing of a liquid is provided for liquid chromatography applications. The liquid to be degassed is heated in the vacuum chamber by a radiator of electromagnetic energy, in one embodiment, or is heated before it enters the vacuum chamber. The liquid may also be agitated while in the vacuum chamber. In a preferred form, the vacuum degassing unit includes a vacuum chamber including a vacuum pump for creating a vacuum therein, a source of liquid, and gas permeable tubing for conducting the liquid through said vacuum chamber. The tubing includes first and second larger diameter blocks having at least one hole therein interconnected by at least one length of small diameter tube to form a leak-tight seal therewith.

Abstract: A syringe of relatively simple construction which is capable of both accurate and reproducible sample volume withdrawals, including volumes of 1.0 .mu.l or less, is provided. The syringe drive mechanism is preferably adapted for use in a liquid sampling apparatus and includes a threaded lead screw, a drive for rotating the screw, and a syringe having a plunger for withdrawing a liquid sample. The plunger is mechanically connected to the rotating lead screw by a nut threaded onto the screw and a slider mechanism associated with the nut which also is secured to the plunger. The nut is designed so that lateral misalignment of the drive screw does not affect the precise linear movement of the slider mechanism, and consequently, the plunger. This provides a mechanism which is less expensive to assemble and align properly, but which has a high degree of accuracy and reproducibility.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for effective vacuum degassing of a liquid are provided for liquid chromatography. The bottles with the liquid are mounted above the vacuum degassing unit to provide a head pressure to the LC pump and physical stability to the bottles. The liquid is heated in the vacuum chamber by a radiator of electromagnetic energy (in one embodiment, infra-red light). Alternatively the liquid is heated before it enters the vacuum chamber. The liquid is in an agitated state in the vacuum chamber. In one variation, the liquid is conducted through the vacuum chamber through tubes wound around bobbins so as to expose a greater portion of the surface area of the tubes to vacuum. Circuitry stops the vacuum pump for a duration of a chromatographic run. The circuitry controls the LC pump and the vacuum pump so as to optimize the chromatographic conditions in the liquid chromatography analytical system.