Installation of the HPLC Column

HPLC columns are manufactured and tested to exacting standards. If you use and maintain a liquid chromatography column with the following information, you will not only get better results but also extend the life of your HPLC column. The installation of the HPLC column, such as C18 Alkaline HPLC Columns, CN HPLC Column, SCX HPLC Column, Silica HPLC Column, PFP HPLC Column, C18 Low pH HPLC Column, and other HPLC Columns, should be carried out in the following three steps:

a. Unpack the HPLC column and confirm the type, size, date of manufacture, and solvent stored in the column.

b. Unscrew the sealing plug from the joints at both ends of the column and put it back in the box for spare.

c. According to the flow direction indicated on the HPLC column, connect the inlet end of the column to the outlet of the injection valve through the connecting pipe (if the conditions permit, it is recommended to use the guard column in front of the column); the outlet of the column is connected with the detector. The connecting pipe is a stainless steel pipe having an outer diameter of 1.57 mm and an inner diameter of 0.1 to 0.3 mm.

Notice:
Check that the column and instrument connections and piping are matched. In order to reduce the dead volume, the inner diameter of the connecting pipe between the injection valve, the column, and the detector should be as small as possible, and the length of the connecting line between the injector, the HPLC column, and the detector should be controlled. Before installing the LC column, verify that the solvent in the flow path system is normal. It is recommended to install a guard column for more complex samples.

In order to achieve the best connection between the HPLC column and the instrument system, the nut and tapered joint matching the LC column interface should be used as much as possible. For example, the original joint is long-term matched with other types of LC columns. Check the match before connecting the new HPLC columns to avoid damage to the HPLC column or leakage due to the mismatch in the HPLC column.

The use of PEEK material universal joints, only need to hand tighten without the need for a specific wrench, the use of pressure is 5000psi; the use temperature must not exceed 100 °C.

Both ends of the connecting tube have a hollow screw and a sealing ring for sealing. Always try to reduce the dead volume outside the column when taking over. After the connecting tube passes through the hollow screw and the pressure ring, insert it as far as possible into the end, then tighten the hollow screw clockwise until it stops, then use the wrench to continue to screw 1/4-1/2 turn clockwise, remember not to use too much force.

If the HPLC column is leaking after being pressurized by the mobile phase, use a wrench to continue to turn 1/4 turn clockwise until it does not leak.