Waters HSPgel Columns - Manual (Page 3)

[ Care and Use ManUal ]
HSPgel Columns for High Speed GPC Analysis 3
a. Column Connectors
Due to the absence of an industry standard, various column manufacturers use
different styles of chromatographic column connectors. The chromatographic
performance of your separation can be negatively affected if the style of your
column endfittings do not match the existing instrumentation tubing ferrule
setting. This section explains the difference between Waters style and Parker
style endfittings. HSPgel columns have Parker style endfittings.
The two styles of endfittings differ by the length of tubing that protrudes
from the ferrule. Parker style endfittings (e.g., HSPgel columns) require a
0.090-inch ferrule depth. Waters style endfittings (e.g., Styragel
® ) require a
0.130-inch ferrule depth. Examples of each endfitting are given below.
Parker Ferrule Setting
Waters Ferrule Setting
Figure 1. Ferrule settings.
In a proper tubing/column connection the tubing touches the bottom of
the column endfitting with no void between them.
Figure 2. Proper tubing/column connection.
b. Connecting an HSPgel Column
HSPgel columns have Parker style endfittings that require a 0.090-inch
ferrule depth. If tubing with a Waters style ferrule is connected to an HSPgel
column, the end of the tubing will bottom out before the ferrule reaches its
proper seating position and cause a leak. An example of this is given below.
Figure 3. HSPgel column connection.
As mentioned above, connecting a Waters style connector to an HSP-
gel column will leave a gap around the ferrule and create a leak. There
are two ways to correct this problem:
1. Tighten the screw a bit more. The ferrule will move forward, and
reach the sealing surface. Care must be taken not to overtighten
the connection as this may break the screw.
2. Cut the tubing, place a new ferrule on it and re-make the connection.
0.090 inches
Gap