Minimalist and efficient flash chromatograph Orienda ELF

Orienda ELF (Extremely Laconic Flash) is a preparative flash chromatography system developed by the Chinese company Orienda Instruments for the separation and synthesis of compounds using medium-pressure silica gel columns. The instrument was designed as an affordable alternative to traditional column chromatography systems, offering a low price point, minimal maintenance requirements, and high efficiency. A key advantage of this model is its exceptional compactness and low weight. It measures 28 × 32 × 16 cm (width × height × depth) and weighs approximately 16 kg, depending on the configuration. These dimensions allow for multiple units to be placed inside a single fume hood. The solvent delivery system utilizes syringe pumps without check valves, which reduces maintenance needs and ensures a stable flow—even with dichloromethane or viscous liquids—while eliminating the siphon effect. The system supports binary gradients and can be expanded to accommodate up to four solvents. Operation is managed via a touchscreen or a mobile app connected via Bluetooth. The app enables users to convert photographs of TLC plates into flash chromatography methods, monitor chromatograms remotely, and adjust the elution process from a distance of up to approximately 20 meters. According to the manufacturer, the system can be mastered in about two hours, aided by built-in video tutorials. The instrument features a modular design, with various fraction collector options available—including carousel-style collectors (accommodating 40 × 50 mL, 60 × 15 mL, or 80 × 6 mL tubes) and X-Y coordinate-style collectors (accommodating 20 × 1 L, 42 × 250 mL, or 288 × 40/15 mL vessels). The detector is LED-based, single- or dual-wavelength, with a selectable wavelength in the 220–800 nm range.