Waters XBridge XP 2.5 µm Columns - Manual (Page 9)

XBridge XP 2.5 µm Columns 9
[ CARE AND USE MANUAL ]
d. Column Use
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 XBridge 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 3 – 4
days. Alternatively, store excess bulk quantities in a
refrigerated environment.