| abstract |
A temperature controlled sample carrier, usable in liquid chromatography apparatus, includes a rotating sample rack having a circumferential array of upward facing sample holes adjacent its periphery for receiving sample vials and orbiting same sequentially past a sampling station. The rack is a solid cylindrical block of heat conducting material which forms a massive heat sink. An insulative cup receives the sample block and rotates therewith. A temperature control device carries a controlled temperature fluid in heat conductive contact with the central portion of the sample block and is overlaid by an insulative cover device which rotates with the block. An insulative cover ring is fixed with respect to the sampling station, overlies the array of sample holes in the block, and extends between the peripheral wall of the cup and the cover device. A circumferentially narrow opening in the cover ring permits access by a sampling device at the sampling station to the upper ends of sequentially presented sample vials rotating therepast with the sample block. |