VICI VALCO - Tools for science and medicine

Význam tématu

Analytical systems in chromatography and instrumentation rely on high‐precision fluid handling components to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and chemical compatibility. Modern methods such as UHPLC, HPLC, GC, and flow injection analysis demand fittings, valves, and tubing that minimize dead volume, prevent sample carryover, and withstand high pressures and temperatures. This enhances sensitivity, throughput, and method robustness in applications ranging from trace gas analysis to biocompatible liquid separations.

Cíle a přehled studie / článku

This summary reviews the Valco/Cheminert catalog of fluidic components for analytical and life science instrumentation. Key product families are covered: UHPLC fittings, HPLC fittings and injectors, GC fittings and valves, low‐pressure polymeric components for LC/FIA, ultra‐high pressure injectors, and specialty tubing. The goal is to highlight design features, performance specifications, and practical uses of each component class.

Použitá metodika a instrumentace

Instrumental components described include:

• 360 µm, 1/32″, 1/16″, and 1/8″ fittings for fluidic connections, machined to high tolerances and cleaned by deionized steam.
• Valve families: two‐position injectors (4–14 ports), multiposition selectors (4–16 streams) in various flowpath styles (dead‐end, common‐outlet, flow‐through, trapping).
• UHPLC injection modules: 6‐port ultra‐high pressure injector (40 000 psi) and nanovolume (<150 µm bore) fittings to reduce transfer volume and improve efficiency.
• Cheminert polymeric fittings and valves (PEEK, PTFE, FEP, CTFE) for biocompatible, metal‐free flowpaths up to 500 psi and 125 °C.
• High‐pressure PEEK valves (5000 psi) with quick‐mount finger‐tight nuts and collapsible ferrules.
• Precision tubing: electroformed nickel‐clad fused silica, stainless steel, PEEK, PTFE, FEP, ETFE in custom and pre‐cut lengths.
• Inline filters, frits, and screens for gas and liquid filtration at critical points (screens 2–10 µm, frits 0.5–10 µm).
• Accessories: tubing cutters, wrenches, hex keys, tubing organizers, and valves with internal purge for trace gas analysis.

Hlavní výsledky a diskuse

The catalog demonstrates a comprehensive range of low‐dead‐volume fittings and valves that address common challenges in high‐performance fluidics: thermal stability (operation to 330 °C), chemical resistance (metal and polymer options), mechanical reliability (10 000 to 40 000 psi), and minimal internal volume. Key innovations include the nanovolume fittings for true nanoscale separations, the collapsible “no‐twist” ferrule for finger‐tight biocompatible connections, and internally purged valve designs for ultra‐trace gas applications. The availability of both metal and polymeric materials allows users to tailor systems to corrosive or biocompatible requirements.

Přínosy a praktické využití metody

The products enable:

• Reduced band broadening through precise, low‐dead‐volume connections in UHPLC and capillary GC.
• High‐pressure operation for advanced separations (SFC, SFE, nano-LC).
• Biocompatible flowpaths for pharmaceutical, proteomics, and cell analysis without metal contamination.
• Streamlined method development with modular injector, valve, and selector options.
• Ease of maintenance and component replacement, reducing instrument downtime.

Budoucí trendy a možnosti využití

Future directions include further miniaturization for single-cell analysis and microfluidics, enhanced integration of pump–valve assemblies for lab-on-chip platforms, and adoption of smart materials for self-cleaning or leak-monitoring fluidics. Advances in additive manufacturing may enable custom fluidic manifolds with integrated frits and fittings. Online diagnostics and remote interface protocols will simplify system control in automated laboratories.

Závěr

The Valco/Cheminert portfolio provides a versatile toolkit for constructing high-performance, reliable chromatographic and analytical systems. By combining precise machining, innovative designs, and a wide choice of materials, these components address evolving needs in trace analysis, high pressure separations, and biocompatible workflows. Selection of appropriate fittings, valves, and tubing is critical to achieving optimal system performance and reproducibility.

Reference

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