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[ CARE AND USE MANUAL ]
In a proper tubing/column connection (Figure 1), the tubing
touches the bottom of the column endfitting, with no void
between them.
Figure 1. Proper Tubing Column Connection.
The presence of a void in the flow stream reduces column
performance. This can occur if a Parker ferrule is connected
to a Waters style endfitting (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Parker Ferrule in a Waters Style Endfitting.
d. eCord Installation
Attach the eCord button for each column to the side of the
column heater module noting their sequence. Up to four
columns can be installed at one time. The eCord button is
magnetized and does not require specific orientation. Once
connected, column identification and usage will be available
though the instrument's control software.
e. Column Equilibration
ACQUITY APC Columns are shipped dry giving the user full
option of the solvent needed for the separation. Equilibrate
the column with a minimum of 20-column volumes, or until
a stable detector baseline is achieved. For a column bank,
use the sum of the column volumes in series to determine
the total equilibration volume. Refer to Table 2 for a listing
of column volumes.
Table 2. Empty Column Volumes in mL
Column Length
Column Internal
(mm)
Diameter (mm)
30
50
75
150
The rigid hybrid particle bed used for the ACQUITY APC
Columns allows the user to rapidly switch solvents without
damaging the column packing material. Changing solvents
works best between compatible solvents. For example, when
changing between two immiscible solvents, an intermediate
solvent/co-solvent that is miscible in both initial and final
conditions should be used. For highly viscous solvents,
reduce the flow rate to avoid over pressuring the system.
Once the exchange is complete, equilibrate the column using
the final solvent conditions with a minimum of 20-column
empty volumes, or until a stable detector baseline is achieved.
III. COLUMN USE
a. Guidelines
ACQUITY APC Columns have a finite lifetime directly related to
their care and use. Column lifetime is reduced by contamination
from samples and eluents; improper handling and storage; and
exceeding operational conditions. To maximize ACQUITY APC
Column lifetime, pay attention to these guidelines:
For best resolution and maximum column life, do not exceed
■ ■
the flow rate recommendations found in Section III c.
Protect the column from vibration and mechanical shock.
■ ■
Avoid precipitation by dissolving samples in the mobile
■ ■
phase. If the sample is not dissolved in the mobile phase,
ensure that the sample, solvent and mobile phase are
miscible to avoid precipitation.
Always use high-quality, particle-free, HPLC-grade solvents.
■ ■
Dedicate, whenever possible, the column to specific
■ ■
applications. Frequent switching of samples and solvents
accelerates column deterioration and loss of resolution.
Exceeding the upper temperature limit of the column.
■ ■
For aqueous mobile phases, take steps to avoid bacterial
■ ■
contamination. For additional information refer to
"Controlling Contamination in UPLC™-MS and HPLC-MS
Systems", Waters part number 715001307.
Volume
(mL)
4.6
0.50
4.6
0.83
4.6
1.25
4.6
2.50
ACQUITY APC Columns
3
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