Viper and nanoViper Fingertight Fitting Systems - PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Importance of the Topic

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) demand fluidic connections that minimize dead volume and ensure reproducible results. Fingertight fittings such as Viper and nanoViper play a critical role in reducing band broadening, improving peak shape and facilitating reliable method transfer across instruments. Tool-free installation and compatibility with high pressures further support robust chromatographic workflows in research, quality control and proteomics applications.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document reviews the design, performance specifications and application kits of Thermo Scientific’s Viper and nanoViper fingertight fitting systems. It aims to summarize key features, material options, pressure ratings and recommended configurations for standard HPLC/UHPLC setups as well as low-flow nanoLC and LC-MS interfaces.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Viper and nanoViper systems employ a fingertight connection principle that eliminates tools and simplifies capillary installation. Various tubing materials (stainless steel, PEEK, MP35N, PEEK-shielded fused silica) and internal diameters (10–180 μm) address different pressure and flow requirements. Dedicated capillary kits ensure optimal dispersion and dead-volume control for Vanquish, UltiMate 3000, EASY-nLC and RSLCnano instruments.

Main Results and Discussion

• Pressure capacity up to 1 500 bar (22 000 psi) for Viper stainless steel and MP35N, and up to 1 200–1 500 bar for nanoViper fused-silica designs.
• Inner diameters from 10 μm for nanoViper up to 180 μm for Viper allow selection based on flow regime and sample load.
• Temperature tolerance up to 120 °C supports pre-heater and active column compartment integration.
• Dedicated advanced capillaries for thermal insulation and post-column cooling optimize detector performance.
• Comprehensive ordering guides facilitate selection of individual capillaries or complete system kits for Vanquish Core, Horizon, Flex, Neo and UltiMate 3000 platforms.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Zero-dead-volume connections reduce band broadening and enhance chromatographic resolution.
• Tool-free fingertight design speeds installation and maintenance, even in tight valve manifolds.
• Wide compatibility with standard LC modules, valves and columns ensures easy method transfer.
• Application-specific kits support LC-MS coupling, dual LC setups, 2D-LC and automated method scouting.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Advances in UHPLC and nanoLC will drive further miniaturization of capillary fittings and higher pressure ratings. Integration of micro-reactor elements, online sample cleanup and smart torque tools can enhance reproducibility. Expansion of biocompatible materials and low-carryover designs will boost performance in proteomics and pharmaceutical analysis.

Conclusion

Thermo Scientific’s Viper and nanoViper fingertight fitting systems offer a versatile solution for high-pressure, low-dead-volume fluidic connections in modern chromatography. Their broad material and geometry options, combined with dedicated kits, simplify workflows and improve analytical performance across diverse LC and LC-MS applications.