Bio-Rad Bio-Scale™ MT High-Resolution Empty Columns - Manual (Page 12)

8 Bio-Scale MT Column Instruction Manual
Section 3
Care of the Bio-Scale MT Columns
3.1 Frit Removal
The top frit may need to be replaced after extensive column use or
if increasing backpressures are noticed. Each column is supplied
with a frit removal tool, polyethylene frit, and distribution screen.
The screen assists in distributing the sample over the entire column
surface and also acts as a pre-filter. The screen should be replaced
every time the frit is changed, refer to Figure 1.
1. Remove the upper and lower end fittings from the column
2. Remove the upper lock nut from the top end cap.
3. Unscrew the lower end cap from the protective shield and
slide out the glass column.
4. Remove the upper bed support from the glass column.
5. Using the frit removal tool, remove the distribution screen and
frit by pressing the hook into the frit in a sideways motion with
slight downward pressure.
6. Add 5 mm of buffer to the top of the resin bed. Place a new
frit and screen into the tube. Insert the upper bed support
and use it to carefully push down the frit and screen until it just
touches the top of the resin bed.
7. Holding the upper end cap assembly upside down, insert the
glass tube and gently rotate it until the upper bed support
locks in place.
8. Attach the lower end cap to the protective shield.
9. Gently turn the lock nut until the upper bed support is in the
desired position.
10. Equilibrate the column at the desired flow rate.
3.2 Column Bed Top-Off
If the top of the bed becomes fouled and column performance is
not restored by a cleaning procedure and frit change, then a few
millimeters of the bed should be removed and replaced with fresh
media.