HPLC columns are a critical component of chromatographic systems for the effective separation and analysis of components across a wide range of applications. Each HPLC column has a limited lifespan, and to maximize its utility, proper care is essential, which can extend its usage time. It is recommended to regularly monitor the column's efficiency and separation capabilities using standards. If you plan to store the column for an extended period, use a mobile phase that inhibits microbial growth (such as mobile phases containing sodium azide or higher concentrations of methanol, acetonitrile, etc.).To achieve optimal HPLC column performance and longevity, follow these recommendations:<ul><li>#1 Check the column‘s efficiency on a regular basis.</li><li>#2 Always sure that both mobile phases are well miscible when changing them.</li><li>#3 Avoid salts from precipitation in the column, e.g. high content of the organic component in the buffer.</li><li>#4 Use only perfectly filtered and degassed mobile phases.</li><li>#5 Keep the column from drying out. Close securely when not in use.</li><li>#6 For long-term preservation, use a mobile phase to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria, for example, by adding NaN3.</li><li>#7 Use the column according in direction on the label. Reverse flow of 5 - 10 column volumes can assist in clearing a clogged inlet frit when there is a significant column backpressure.</li><li>#8 Use guard column to protect your analytical column from particulates, solvent impurities and retained sample components.</li></ul>The right column choice is as essential for successful analysis as is its subsequent care. Watrex Praha offers a broad portfolio of HPLC columns, which they prepare in-house at their laboratory.<h3>Types filling of and Applications for HPLC Columns</h3><h4>1. Reversed Phase</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?s=deltasil+100+c18&amp;post_type=product&amp;dgwt_wcas=1?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex reversed-phase columns</a> use high-quality silica-based stationary phases modified with C18 alkyl chains, with effective endcapping to deactivate residual silanol groups.They are ideal for the separation of slightly polar to nonpolar compounds across a wide range of products, including components of medicines, food products and supplements, environmental pollutants or other natural products.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Figure_1_Chromatogram_1_Column_Watrex_Ion_Plus_TM_CS_19_200x4mm_36d35a09a4.jpg" alt="Watrex: Figure 1: Chromatogram 1 - Column: Watrex IonPlus CS19, 200x4mm; Mobile phase: 4mM HNO3; Flowrate: 1.0 ml/min; Detection: Conductivity without suppression. Chromatogram 2 - Column: Watrex IC Anion I; Mobile phase: 4mM Na 2 CO 3 + 1mM NaHCO 3 + 0.1mM NaSCN; Flowrate: 1,2 ml/min; Pressure: 54 bar; Detection: Conductivity with suppression; Injection: 20 μl." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Figure_1_Chromatogram_1_Column_Watrex_Ion_Plus_TM_CS_19_200x4mm_36d35a09a4.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2419" height="1181"><ul><li>Column Dimensions: Depending on customer requirements – from standard analytical columns (2.1 - 4.6 mm diameter, typical lenght 100 mm to 250 mm) packed with strictly monodisperse particles sized 3 or 5 μm. Preparative columns suitable for the separation and purification of biomolecules (peptides, amino acids, nucleotides, etc.) with larger porosity are available in semi-preparative (8 mm diameter) and preparative (20 mm diameter) formats.</li><li>Example Applications: Analysis of pharmaceuticals, environmental analyses, food composition.</li></ul><h4>2. Ion-Exchange Columns</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?s=ionplus&amp;post_type=product&amp;dgwt_wcas=1?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex ion-exchange columns</a> are designed for the separation of ionic compounds, based on interactions between ions in the stationary phase and analytes. These columns are suitable for the separation of inorganic ions, amino acids, or proteins.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Figure_2_Chromatogram_3_Column_Watrex_Deltasil_100_C18_258df30fcd.jpg" alt="Watrex: Figure 2: Chromatogram 3 - Column: Watrex Deltasil 100 C18; Mobile phase: 85% ACN; Flowrate:0.65 ml/min; Pressure: 54 bar; Detection: 254 nm; Injection: 2 μl." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Figure_2_Chromatogram_3_Column_Watrex_Deltasil_100_C18_258df30fcd.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2419" height="1181"><ul><li>Column Dimensions: Columns available in various dimensions.</li><li>Example Applications: Analysis of ions, biomolecules, peptide separation.</li></ul><h4>3. Ion-Exclusion Columns</h4>These <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?s=polymer+iex&amp;post_type=product&amp;dgwt_wcas=1?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex Polymer IEX HPLC columns</a> are suitable for the separation of weak organic acids and carbohydrates, based on ion exclusion principles. The basis is polymer monodisperse particles with a size of 8 μm modified by sulfonation and supplied in various ionic forms.<ul><li>The H-form is intended for the determination of weak organic acids in food or agricultural and veterinary products.</li><li>The Ca- and Pb-forms are typically used for the determination of mono-, di- and oligosaccharides in the food industry.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Figure_3_Chromatogram_4_Column_Watrex_Polymer_IEX_Ca_250x8mm_Chromatogram_5_Column_Watrex_Polymer_IEX_H_c3818e4cc1.jpg" alt="Watrex: Figure 3: Chromatogram 4 - Column: Watrex Polymer IEX Ca 250x8mm; Eluent: H2O; Flow-rate: 0.5 ml/min; Pressure: 26 bar; Inj. Volume: 20 μl; Concentration: 20 ppm; Temperature: 90 °C; Detection: RI. Chromatogram 5 - Column: Watrex Polymer IEX H 250x8mm; Eluent: 9mM H2SO4; Flow-rate: 0.5 ml/min; Pressure: 45 bar; Inj. Volume: 20 μl; Concentration: 20 ppm; Temperature: ambient; Detection: UV 210 nm." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Figure_3_Chromatogram_4_Column_Watrex_Polymer_IEX_Ca_250x8mm_Chromatogram_5_Column_Watrex_Polymer_IEX_H_c3818e4cc1.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2419" height="1181"><ul><li>Column Dimensions: 8 mm diameter and lengths of 250 or 300 mm.</li><li>Example Applications: Analysis of organic acids in food products, fermentation processes.</li></ul><h4> 4. Gel Permeation/Size Exclusion Chromatography (GPC/SEC) Columns</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?s=deltagel&amp;post_type=product&amp;dgwt_wcas=1?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">Watrex gel permeation chromatography (GPC) columns</a> are used for separating highmolecular-weight compounds, typically synthetic or water-soluble polymers, based on molecule size. Smaller molecules penetrate more deeply into the porous structure of the sorbents and thus elute later than larger molecules.According to the type of stationary phase, the columns are usually divided into Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) columns used in the separation of synthetic polymers with organic mobile phases (e.g. tetrahydrofuran, THF, DMF, toluene THF) on polystyrene - divinylbenzene sorbents with defined porosity.In contrast, the term Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) typically refers to columns for the separation of water-soluble polymers, biomacromolecules (e.g. peptides or proteins), which occur in buffered aqueous phases on porous hydrophilic sorbents (e.g. based on agarose or methacrylate particles modified with hydrophilic groups).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Figure_4_Chromatogram_6_Delta_Gel_TM_Mixed_C_Chromatogram_7_Delta_Gel_TM_Mixed_D_541ef2ed25.jpg" alt="Watrex: Figure 4: Chromatogram 6 - DeltaGelTM Mixed C. Chromatogram 7 - DeltaGelTM Mixed D." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Figure_4_Chromatogram_6_Delta_Gel_TM_Mixed_C_Chromatogram_7_Delta_Gel_TM_Mixed_D_541ef2ed25.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2419" height="946"><ul><li>Column dimensions: Watrex GPC/SEC columns are available in analytical (8x250 mm or 8x300 mm) and preparative configurations (20x300 mm).</li><li>Examples of use: Separation of synthetic polymers, peptides, proteins, polysaccharides.</li></ul><h3>Advantages of Watrex HPLC columns</h3>Columns manufactured directly in the Watrex laboratory provide several fundamental advantages:<ul><li>High quality at friendly prices. Thanks to the fact that they produce the columns themselves, they can offer top quality at very affordable prices.</li><li>A wide range of sizes and types. It offers columns adapted to various chromatographic techniques, including analytical and preparative applications.</li><li>Flexibility in applications. Watrex columns are compatible with a variety of mobile phases and can be used for the separation of ionic compounds, organic acids, polymers and biomolecules.</li></ul><h3>Conclusion</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=48&amp;distributorItems=59&amp;manufacturerItems=93">Watrex HPLC and GPC/SEC columns </a>are a highly reliable solution for a wide range of chromatographic applications and combine high quality with a favorable price. Whether you need columns for reverse phase, ion exchange, ion exclusion, size exclusion chromatography (SEC) or gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Watrex products guarantee you excellent separation properties and reproducible results.For more information, feel free to contact Watrex <a href="(watrex@watrex.com">(watrex@watrex.com</a>) or visit their website (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/cs/uvod/?utm_source=labrulez">www.watrex.com</a>).

8 points on how to care for HPLC columns

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez">The P102 Pump</a>, version 2024, from Watrex Praha is revolutionizing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and wider laboratory applications. As a “legend that has returned”, it is gaining a place in the market thanks to its unique combination of reliability, precision and affordability. This article presents the key features and benefits of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/obchod/chromatography/pumps/isocratic-pumps/p102-hplc-pump-dual-head-stainless-steel/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_produkty">P102 pump</a>.<h3>Twin-piston pump technology</h3>One of the main pillars of the P102 design is the use of overlapping linear cams and a high- precision stepper motor. This technology allows for:<ul><li>Minimal pulsation: Ensures smooth liquid flow, which is key for stable chromatographic analyses.</li><li>Low noise: Contributes to quiet operation in the laboratory environment.</li><li>High flow accuracy: Supports gradient formation during high- and low-pressure liquid mixing.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Picture_1_Pistons_in_the_P102_pump_8be3175d75.jpg" alt="Watrex: Picture 1: Pistons in the P102 pump" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Picture_1_Pistons_in_the_P102_pump_8be3175d75.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2840" height="1584">The integrated diaphragm-type pulse dampener further minimizes any residual pulsations, resulting in a smooth baseline of chromatograms.<h3>Advanced Digital Control</h3>The P102 pump features intuitive digital controls via front panel keypads. Users can easily set:<ul><li>Current pressure and flow.</li><li>Upper and lower pressure limits.</li></ul>The display provides an overview of key operating parameters, while the PRIME function facilitates rapid flushing at maximum flow. For advanced applications, the pump can be controlled via the Clarity Data Station, which allows precise control of the high-pressure gradient.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Picture_2_P102_pump_with_stainless_steel_heads_e7e2c4b76c.jpg" alt="Watrex: Picture 2: P102 pump with stainless steel heads" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Picture_2_P102_pump_with_stainless_steel_heads_e7e2c4b76c.jpg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1814" height="1207">Safety Mechanism: When the maximum pressure (determined by the pump head type) is exceeded, the device automatically shuts down, preventing damage.<h3>Self-flushing piston mechanism</h3>Self-flushing pump heads provide continuous washing of the piston surface without the inconvenience of a manual flush or gravity feed arrangement. The self-flushing pump head uses a secondary seal and set of check valves to create a continuous and positive flow in the area behind the high-pressure pump seal. The flushing solution washes away any buffer salts that have precipitated onto the piston. If not removed, these precipitates can abrade the high-pressure seal and cause premature seal failure, leakage, and can possibly damage the pump.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Picture_3_Picram_of_the_piston_in_the_P102_pump_1c5a47eaa6.jpg" alt="Watrex: Picture 3: Detailed diagram of the piston in the P102 pump" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Picture_3_Picram_of_the_piston_in_the_P102_pump_1c5a47eaa6.jpg 225w," sizes="100vw" width="1862" height="1292"><h3>Modular design and optional versions</h3>The P102 pump offers high flexibility through easy exchange of pump heads. Key options include:<ol><li>Analytical stainless steel version: Ideal for standard HPLC applications.</li><li>Analytical PEEK version: Suitable for biocompatible and corrosive applications.</li><li>Preparative version: Optimized for larger sample volumes.</li></ol><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Picture_4_A_close_up_view_of_the_stainless_steel_pump_heads_of_the_P102_bc9796de8a.jpg" alt="Watrex: Picture 4: A close-up view of the stainless steel pump heads of the P102" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Picture_4_A_close_up_view_of_the_stainless_steel_pump_heads_of_the_P102_bc9796de8a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1800" height="1012">The basic red design of the P102 combined with the modern USB interface for control provides an aesthetically and functionally attractive solution.<h3>Benefits and uses</h3>The P102 pump is a universal tool for:<ul><li>Analytical laboratories: Offers high accuracy and low noise.</li><li>Research institutions: Ensures stable and reproducible results even with complex analyses.</li><li>Industrial applications: Suitable for precise dosing of liquids.</li></ul><h3>Conclusion</h3>The P102 HPLC pump is a modern example of the combination of innovation, performance and affordability. Thanks to its modular design, easy operation and robust technology, it is the ideal choice for a wide range of applications in analytical and industrial environments. With the development of the P102, Watrex Praha has brought to the market a pump that sets a new standard in the field of chromatography with its quality and price.For a non-binding price quote, contact us at <a href="mailto:watrex@watrex.com">watrex@watrex.com</a> or visit our website <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez">www.watrex.com</a> or the dedicated website for the P102 pump <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez">www.hplcpumps.com</a>.

HPLC Pump Watrex P102: Precision and Reliability in Modern Analytics

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">The Watrex P102</a> is a dual-piston HPLC pump designed for precise analytical applications in liquid chromatography. It stands out for its stable flow rate, minimal pulsation, and the option for active piston flushing. Thanks to its modular design and user-friendly interface, it is suitable not only for routine analyses but also for development and research applications.One of the key advantages of the P102 pump is its easy maintenance. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Watrex</a> offers the so-called P102 Seal Kit, which allows quick and safe seal replacement directly by the user. This article provides an overview of the pump’s features along with a detailed guide for seal replacement, including recommendations for commissioning.<h5>Seal Kit Variants</h5>To replace the seals of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">P102 pump</a>, you need to purchase the appropriate seal kit:<ul><li>P102 Seal Kit D2K5042982 (organic) – for organic mobile phases</li><li>P102 Seal Kit D2K5042983 (aqueous) – for aqueous mobile phases</li></ul>Both kits include all components required for the replacement.<h4>Seal Replacement Procedure for the P102 Pump</h4><blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5-lmw-jyNk">Watch the video tutorial</a></blockquote><h5>1. Disconnect the Outlet Capillaries</h5>Start by unscrewing the outlet capillaries from the pump head. This is essential to prevent damage to internal components during disassembly.<h5>2. Loosen the Pump Head</h5>Once the capillaries are removed, unscrew the knurled nuts that secure the pump head to the mechanical part of the pump. It is important to disconnect the capillaries first—doing this in reverse may damage the piston.<h5>3. Remove the Flush Capillaries</h5>Disconnect the capillaries used for active piston flushing. Once they are detached, the pump head can be carefully removed.<h5>4. Disassemble the Flush System</h5>Underneath the pump head is the active flush assembly, which should also be removed.<h5>5. Loosen the Backup Seal Plate</h5>Use the special tool from the Seal Kit to remove the backup plate that holds the high-pressure seal in place.<h5>6. Remove the Piston</h5>The piston can now be carefully extracted. Handle the piston with maximum care—its surface must remain intact.<h5>7. Remove Worn Seals</h5>Use the other end of the Seal Kit tool to remove the old high-pressure seal from the pump head. Do the same for the flush seal.<h5>8. Polish the Piston</h5>The Seal Kit includes a sponge for gently polishing the piston surface. This helps remove microscopic deposits and prolongs the life of the new seals.<h5>9. Install New Seals</h5>Select the new seals from the kit. Press each seal firmly into place using the installation tool provided in the kit.<h5>10. Reassemble the Pump</h5>After replacing all seals, reassemble the pump in the reverse order of disassembly:<ul><li>Reinstall the flush system (inlet at the bottom, outlet at the top)</li><li>Attach the pump head</li><li>Reconnect the capillaries</li><li>Securely tighten the knurled mounting nuts</li></ul><h5>Don’t Forget Conditioning!</h5>After replacing the seals, it’s essential to condition them to ensure they seat properly and adhere correctly to the piston walls. For the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">P102 model</a>, follow these steps:<ul><li>Prepare a mobile phase consisting of 50% isopropanol or methanol and water.</li><li>Run the pump against back pressure to achieve 3.5–4 MPa.</li><li>Let the pump run at a flow rate below 3 ml/min for 60 minutes.</li></ul>These conditions apply specifically to the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">P102 model</a>. For preparative and semipreparative pumps from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">Watrex</a>, refer to the instructions specific to each type.<h4>Summary</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hplcpumps.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">The Watrex P102</a> is a high-quality laboratory tool that allows users to perform maintenance themselves, thanks to the available Seal Kits and straightforward construction. Regular seal replacement is key to the long life and reliability of the device. By following this guide, the replacement process can be completed quickly and safely without needing a service technician.If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us at watrex@watrex.com or visit our website at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky">www.watrex.com</a>.

Watrex P102 – High-Precision HPLC Pump with Simple Maintenance

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WATREX Prague is the distributor and producer of HPLC techniques in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Main Chromatografic and Related Techniques Supported: LC, GPC, IC, IEC, Automated SPE, LC Columns and special column packings, LC method development, Software development, Laboratory Robots.

Watrex P102 – High-Precision HPLC Pump with Simple Maintenance

HPLC Pump Watrex P102: Precision and Reliability in Modern Analytics

8 points on how to care for HPLC columns

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