Waters Symmetry Columns - Manual (Page 6)

[ Care and Use ManUal ]
Symmetry Columns 6
In a proper tubing/column connection (Figure 2), the tubing touches
the bottom of the column endfitting, with no void between them.
Figure 2: Proper Tubing/Column Connection
The presence of a void in the flow stream reduces column perfor-
mance. This can occur if a Parker style ferrule is connected to a
Waters endfitting (Figure 3).
Figure 3: Parker Ferrule in a Waters Style Endfitting
Note: A void appears if tubing with a Parker style ferrule is connected
to a Waters style column.
There is only one way to fix this problem: Cut the end of the tubing
with the ferrule, place a new ferrule on the tubing and make a new
connection. Before tightening the screw, make sure that the tubing
bottoms out in the endfitting of the column.
Conversely, if tubing with a Waters ferrule is connected to a column
with Parker style endfitting, the end of the tubing will bottom out
before the ferrule reaches its proper sealing position. This will leave
a gap and create a leak (Figure 4).
Figure 4: Waters Ferrule in a Parker Style Endfitting
Note: The connection leaks if a Waters ferrule is connected to a column
with a Parker style endfitting.
There are two ways to fix the problem:
1. Tighten the screw a bit more. The ferrule moves forward, and
reaches the sealing surface. Do not overtighten since this may
end in breaking the screw.
2. Cut the tubing, replace the ferrule and make a new connection.
Alternatively, replace the conventional compression screw
fitting with an all-in-one PEEK
® fitting (Waters Part Number
PSL613315) that allows resetting of the ferrule depth. Another
approach is to use a Thermo Corporation SLIPFREE
® connector to
always ensure the correct fit.
The fingertight SLIPFREE connectors automatically adjust to fit all
compression screw type fittings without the use of tools (Figure 5).
Figure 5: Single and Double SLIPFREE Connectors
SLIPFREE Connectors Features
• Tubing pushed into endfitting, thereby guaranteeing a void-free
connection
• Connector(s) come(s) installed on tubing
• Various tubing i.d. and lengths available
• Fingertight to 10,000 psi – never needs wrenches
• Readjusts to all column endfittings
• Compatible with all commercially available endfittings
• Unique design separates tube-holding function from sealing
function
Table 4. Waters Part Numbers for SLIPFREE Connectors
Void
Gap
SLIPFREE Type and
Tubing Length Tubing Internal Diameter
0.005˝ 0.010˝ 0.020˝
Single 6 cm PSL 618000 PSL 618006 PSL 618012
Single 10 cm PSL 618002 PSL 618008 PSL 618014
Single 20 cm PSL 618004 PSL 618010 PSL 618016
Double 6 cm PSL 618001 PSL 618007 PSL 618013
Double 10 cm PSL 618003 PSL 618009 PSL 618015
Double 20 cm PSL 618005 PSL 618001 PSL 618017