Thermo Scientific Dionex nanoViper Fingertight Fitting System - Product Specifications

Importance of the Topic

High-performance nano liquid chromatography (LC) requires ultralow dead-volume connections to preserve chromatographic resolution, minimize gradient delay, and avoid peak broadening. Reliable, user-friendly fittings are critical for reproducible operation in proteomics, metabolomics, and trace analysis.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note introduces the Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ nanoViper™ fingertight fitting system. The goals are to demonstrate how preassembled, virtually dead-volume-free connections improve nano LC performance, simplify setup, and maintain high pressure stability up to 1,000 bar.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Connections with classical nut-ferrule assemblies were compared to nanoViper fittings in terms of peak width at half height (PWHH) and pressure stability. A series of 30 columns were pressurized from 0 to 850 bar and held for one hour to assess leak-free performance. Chromatograms illustrate the theoretical 20% increase in peak capacity achieved with nanoViper.

Instrumentation

• Thermo Scientific Dionex nanoViper fingertight fittings
• PEEK-shielded fused silica capillary tubing (20–150 µm ID)
• UHPLC systems capable of 100 MPa (1,000 bar) operation
• Nano and capillary columns preconfigured with nanoViper connections

Main Results and Discussion

Compared to conventional PEEK sleeve and ferrule assemblies, nanoViper fittings:

• Reduce dead volume by sealing at the tubing tip rather than at a compressed ferrule
• Eliminate the need for manual alignment of multiple components
• Deliver consistent backpressure stability across multiple columns
• Improve peak capacity by approximately 20%

Pressure tests showed stable maintenance of 850 bar over one hour on 30 different columns without fluctuation or leaks. Preassembled trapping and cartridge columns demonstrated streamlined workflows with only two fingertight connections required.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By integrating nanoViper fittings, laboratories gain:

• Tool-free, rapid assembly reducing setup time and training requirements
• Universal compatibility with valves and columns from any manufacturer
• Enhanced reproducibility and reduced maintenance from metal wear
• Flexible application in direct injection, preconcentration, and 2D LC kits

These advantages support high-throughput proteomics, small-molecule analysis, and QA/QC workflows.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances may include:

• Integration with automated sample preparation and microfluidic platforms
• Higher pressure and temperature capabilities for faster separations
• Expanded compatibility with novel stationary phases and monolithic columns
• Digital monitoring of connection integrity and predictive maintenance

Further miniaturization and system integration will drive wider adoption of nano LC in life-science research and industrial analytics.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Dionex nanoViper system offers a robust, fingertight solution to eliminate dead volume in nano LC connections. Its preassembled design, high pressure tolerance, and universal compatibility deliver improved chromatographic performance, simplified workflows, and reliable operation for both novice and expert users.

References

No peer-reviewed literature cited in this application note.