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How to Select the Right Guard Column

Guard columns are installed between the injector and the analytical column and are used to protect the analytical column.

 
GL Sciences Guard-columns
 

Types of Guard Columns

There are two types of guard column shapes: cartridge type guard columns and packed guard columns

The cartridge type guard columns utilize a replaceable cartridge guard column inside a dedicated holder. This is recommended for those who want to replace guard columns frequently. Only the cartridge guard column inside can be replaced. (Note: Dedicated holders vary depending on the type of guard column. The respective holders are not interchangeable.) Packed guard columns have packing material in a stainless steel tube that is similar to an analytical column.

GL Sciences cartridge type guard column

GL Sciences cartridge type guard column

GL Sciences Packed guard column

GL Sciences Packed guard column

 
 

How to Select Guard Column Specifications

The specifications of an appropriate guard column mainly lies in its compatibility with the analytical column it is to be paired with. In general, most of the specifications of the guard column will match the analytical column:

  1. Column material: Same as analytical column
  2. Packing material: Same as analytical column
  3. Particle size: Same as analytical column
  4. I.D.: Same as analytical column
  5. Length: A short guard column is typically recommended. A longer size is recommended if there are many contaminants and the guard column is replaced frequently.
 

Connecting to an Analytical Column

Connect a guard column to an analytical column using pre-column couplers, piping and other connectors. 

Pre-column Coupler W (PCTFE)

Pre-column Coupler W (PCTFE)

Pre-column Coupler SUS

Pre-column Coupler SUS

Column Coupler for UHPLC

Column Coupler for UHPLC

 

For more fittings choices, check out the HPLC Fittings section

 

Type of End Fittings

End-fitting styles differ among various manufacturers and have different seating depths. Always make sure to select the appropriate end-fittings, otherwise, chromatographic performance will be negatively impacted due to extra dead volume.

Fittings no void
Fittings with void
 
 

Influence of Extra Dead Volume on Chromatographic Performance

Effect of dead volume in guard columns
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