ELGA water purification system PURELAB Quest
The ELGA water purification system PURELAB Quest has been specially developed to provide high-purity water in laboratory environments in type I, II and III purity levels. With its compact design and simultaneous treatment of different purity levels, it is predestined for laboratories that require maximum flexibility with limited space. The integrated 7-liter storage tank, intuitive operation via a color display and the optional UV lamp (185/254 nm) for low TOC values make this system particularly efficient. Without the need for complex additional modules, the device reliably supplies laboratory water for a wide range of applications, such as sample preparation, buffer production or cell culture media. Similarly designed solutions for laboratories such as the [Merck Millipore RiOs] also offer multi-stage concepts for water treatment, but the system presented here combines several purity stages in an extremely space-saving unit.
Performance and technical features
This device is designed to produce type I and II pure water and type III RO permeate water directly from drinking water in just one system. The highest purity is achieved at a fixed extraction point (type I) with an electrical resistance of 18.2 MΩ-cm at 25 °C and a TOC load of up to less than 5 ppb (in the UV version). In addition, the periodic recirculation mode supports constant water quality. If required, water with a purity of >1 MΩ-cm at 25 °C can be drawn from the type II outlet. This allows the device to cover numerous applications - from simple rinsing tasks to the preparation of high-purity solutions.
The integrated reverse osmosis for type III water works with a retention rate of >96 % for inorganic substances and >99 % for particles, bacteria or organic compounds (MW >200 Da). This enables a production rate of 10 l/hour and ensures a conductivity of <20 µS/cm. The combination of continuous quality monitoring, UV lamp (optional) for UV oxidation and disinfection and the advantageous USB connection or remote monitoring via Hubgrade allows continuous reliable process control. Systems with comparable functionality, such as the [Thermo Scientific Barnstead], meet similar laboratory standards, but the solution presented here stands out due to its lower maintenance requirements and an integrated storage tank.
Important features at a glance:
- Easy dispensing with up to 1.2 l/min
- Integrated 7-liter storage tank for space-saving installation
- Retention rates of >96 % for inorganic substances and >99 % for microorganisms
- Choice of table or wall mounting (with optional wall bracket)
- Low energy requirement of just 120 VA and quiet operation (<40 dBA)
- Convenient remote monitoring using the Hubgrade platform
- Suitable for drinking water with up to <2000 µS/cm conductivity
The system can be used in both smaller and larger laboratories that require several quality levels but only want a compact solution. Large sequencing laboratories benefit in particular from the low bacterial concentration (<0.1 CFU/ml for type I) for sensitive applications.
Certifications and standards
Although no explicit certifications such as DIN or CE are listed in the data, the device complies with typical laboratory guidelines. The filtration components and materials used represent high quality standards, meaning that regulatory requirements can be easily met in most laboratories.
Concrete application examples
- Preparation of buffer solutions: Type I water facilitates the exact adjustment of the pH value and avoids contamination.
- Trace analysis with HPLC or ICP-MS: Low TOC values (<5 ppb in the UV version) and reliable purity protect columns and detectors.
- Cell culture: Thanks to minimal endotoxin values (<0.001 EU/ml), sensitive cell lines can be cultivated safely.
- General purification tasks: Type II or type III water can be used to pre-rinse laboratory glassware.
FAQs
Is it difficult to connect to existing laboratory equipment?
No, the system only requires a drinking water supply and a drain with an outer diameter of 8 mm. The feed water pressure should be between 2 and 6 bar; regulation to 4 bar is ideal.
How much maintenance is required
The system monitors itself and indicates maintenance intervals on the color display and via Hubgrade remote monitoring. Depending on water consumption, only the treatment cartridges and filters need to be replaced at the recommended intervals.
What happens with high daily consumption
The appliance is designed for up to 30 liters (type III) and up to 10 liters (type I/II) per day. If these quantities are significantly exceeded, the cartridge service life is reduced.
Do I necessarily need the UV lamp?
The UV lamp (185/254 nm) is optional. It reduces TOC values to <5 ppb and contributes to disinfection. It is highly recommended for applications in trace analysis or research laboratories with corresponding purity requirements.
Conclusion
The water treatment system combines high pure water capacity, precise controllability and flexible installation in a compact overall package. Type I, II and III water are available in a single device so that a wide range of applications can be realized - from sensitive biological and analytical applications to general laboratory tasks. Thanks to the robust design, intelligent remote monitoring and extensive filter stages, quality and reliability are guaranteed over the long term.
