Waters XSelect CSH XP 2.5 µm Columns - Manual (Page 9)

XSelect CSH XP 2.5 µm Columns 9
[ CARE AND USE MANUAL ]
d. Column Use Information
The eCord Intelligent Chip provides the user with specific column
information as well as column use data including: chemistry type,
column dimension, serial number and part number. The overall
column use information includes: total number of samples injected,
total number of injections as well as the maximum pressure and
temperature that the column has been exposed to. Additionally,
detailed column history includes the sample set start date, user name
and system name.
Figure 8: Column use information.
VI. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
a. Tips for Maximizing XSelect CSH XP 2.5 µm Column Lifetime
1. To maximize XP 2.5 µm Column lifetime, pay close attention to:
 Water quality (including water purification systems)
 Solvent quality
 Mobile-phase preparation, storage and age
 Sample, buffer and mobile-phase solubilities
 Sample quality and preparation.
2. When problems arise, systematically troubleshoot potential
causes one variable at a time in a systematic fashion.
3. Always remember to:
 Use an in-line filter unit (Part No. 205000343) or a
VanGuard Pre-Column.
 Discourage bacterial growth by minimizing the use of
100% aqueous mobile phases where possible.
 Discard and re-prepare aqueous mobile phase every
24-48 hours (if 100% aqueous mobile phase is required).
 Add 5 – 10% organic modifier to aqueous buffer to
minimize bacterial growth (adjust gradient profile
as necessary).
 Filter aqueous portions of mobile phase through a
0.2 µm filter.
 Routinely maintain your water purification system to
ensure it is functioning properly.
 Only use ultra-pure water (18 MegaOhm-cm) and highest
quality solvent possible.
 Consider sample preparation (e.g., solid-phase extraction,
filtration, centrifugation, etc.) when possible.
4. Avoid when possible:
 100% aqueous mobile phases
 HPLC-grade bottled water
 ‘Topping off’ your mobile phases
 Using phosphate salt buffer in combination with
high acetonitrile concentrations (e.g., >70%) due
to precipitation.
5. Don’t assume the column is to blame:
 Investigate cause of column failure
 Monitor backpressure
 Mobile-phase age, bacterial contamination,
mobile-phase precipitation...etc.
 Peak splitting
 Sample quality
 Injection solvent strength.
6. Do not prepare excessive amounts of mobile-phase:
 To reduce the chances of mobile-phase contamination
or degradation, prepare enough mobile phase to last for
3 – 4 days. Alternatively, store excess bulk quantities
in a refrigerated environment.