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HPLC Guard Column Manufacturer

HPLC Guard Column OEM Supplier

    uHPLCs is a professional OEM factory producing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) guard columns. These guard columns protect the main column in an HPLC system, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring accurate and reliable results. 

HPLC Guard Column System Connect Diagram by uHPLCs

     uHPLCs’ guard columns are manufactured using the highest quality 316 stainless steel materials and are available in various standard sizes and specifications in the market same like Agilent , Waters , Phenomenex, guard column to meet the needs of different applications.

With our experienced engineers and technicians, uHPLCs can provide guard column custom solution for special Liquid chromatography analysis or preparation lab requirements, Lower dead volume design, higher column efficiency, and more convenient installation method.

     Furthermore, uHPLCs’ guard columns are competitively available, making them an affordable solution for laboratories and research institutions. If you require a high-quality guard column and lower budget for your HPLC lab project , uHPLCs is the ideal choice, believe our HPLC guard Column products can helpful for your later HPLC Projects. 

① Analytical HPLC Guard Column

UHPLC Cartridge Size Option:

5μ, 3μ, 2μ, 1.8μ

② Preparative HPLC Guard Column

Clients Contact Us As Excellent Service

Expertise You Can Count On – Contact Us Now for Professional Assistance with HPLC Guard Columns

Why Buy HPLC Guard Column from us
than Waters, Phenomenex and Agilent

  uHPLCs pride ourselves on being experts in HPLC guard columns, and our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality products and services to customers. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we are the go-to choice for anyone needing top-notch HPLC guard columns. Whether you need a custom solution or a standard product, our team is here to help.

Potential Advantages of uHPLCs Guard Column:

  • Price: uHPLCs may offer lower prices on their guard columns compared to established brands. However, it’s crucial to compare the price per unit performance and factor in potential trade-offs in quality or compatibility.
  • Customization: uHPLCs might offer more customization options, such as specific dimensions or packing materials, although established brands often have a wider variety of standard options.
  • Direct manufacturer support: Depending on the size and structure of uHPLCs, you might have direct access to their technical support team for troubleshooting or inquiries.
 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with all your HPLC guard column needs.

1.High Quality

Our HPLC guard columns are made with the highest quality SUS316L and are manufactured to strict industry standards to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Customizable

We offer a wide range of standard HPLC guard columns, but we also specialize in custom solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of your application.

3. Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on all our guard columns in HPLC system, so you can be sure that you are getting the best value for your money.

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Custom Your HPLC Guard Columns Step by Step

Our HPLC guard columns can be customized to meet your application’s specific needs. Some ways in which we can customize our HPLC guard columns include the following:

  1. Material: Our HPLC guard columns can be made from various materials, such as stainless steel, PEEK, and fused silica, to suit the requirements of your application.
  2. Length: The length of the column can be customized to fit the specific dimensions of your instrument and to optimize the separation of your sample.
  3. Inner diameter (ID): The inner diameter of the column can be customized to match the ID of your analytical column, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer of the sample.
  4. Pore size: The pore size of the guard column can be customized to match the size of your sample, ensuring that any contaminants are effectively removed.
  5. Phase: We can customize the guard column’s phase to match your analytical column’s phase. Just this will helps to improve the separation efficiency of your sample.
  6. End fittings: The end fittings of the guard column can be customized to match the connection type of your analytical column, ensuring a leak-free and secure connection.
  7. Packing: We can customize the packing material of the guard column to match your sample type and the separation mode you are using.

* Please note that the customization may depend on the materials and technology available in our factory. We will be happy to discuss your specific requirements and see how we can best meet your needs.

  • Please note that the customization may depend on the materials and technology available in our factory. We will be happy to discuss your specific requirements and see how we can best meet your guard column needs.

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What Clients Say

FAQ

What is HPLC Guard Column ?

In short, In High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), a guard column is a small, short, and narrow-bore column that is positioned in front of the main analytical column. Its primary purpose is to protect the analytical column from sample matrix components, contaminants, and particulates that may adversely affect column performance and lead to premature column degradation.

Why Use Guard Column in HPLC System ?

Maybe for the first question, You should ask Why You Should to Use a Guard Column in HPLC System?  Here are some reason you should know.

1. Column Protection:

The guard column acts as a sacrificial column, intercepting impurities and particulates present in the sample or mobile phase. By doing so, it prevents these contaminants from reaching the main analytical column, which extends the lifespan and maintains the performance of the expensive analytical column.

2. Cost Savings:

Replacing the guard column is more economical than replacing the entire analytical column. Using a guard column helps minimize maintenance costs and extends the overall lifetime of the HPLC system.

3. Improved Column Efficiency:

By removing unwanted sample components, the guard column ensures that only the desired analytes enter the analytical column. This results in improved peak shapes and separation efficiency, leading to more accurate and reliable results.

4. Reduced Downtime:

The guard column helps to protect the analytical column from blockages and clogging. As a result, it reduces the frequency of maintenance and column replacements, leading to less downtime for the HPLC system.

5. Enhanced Method Robustness:

The presence of a guard column can increase the robustness of the HPLC method by providing an extra layer of protection against variations in sample matrices, which may occur in routine analysis.

6. Compatibility with Various Samples:

Guard columns can be tailored with different sorbent materials and selectivity to suit specific sample types and applications, making them versatile for various analyses.

In summary, using a guard column in an HPLC system is a prudent and cost-effective strategy to safeguard the analytical column, improve separation efficiency, and enhance the overall longevity and performance of the HPLC system.

Why C18 Column Need Guard Column ?

C18 columns in chromatography can benefit greatly from using a guard column.

Here are the main reasons why:

Protection:

  • Particulates: Samples often contain tiny particles that can damage the delicate packing material of the main analytical column. The guard column acts as a filter, trapping these particles before they reach the analytical column, extending its lifespan and performance.
  • Contaminants: Some samples might contain compounds that strongly bind to the analytical column, permanently altering its properties. The guard column sacrifices itself by adsorbing these contaminants, protecting the main column and maintaining its separation efficiency.
  • Overloading: Accidental overloading of the sample can disrupt the separation on the analytical column. The guard column can absorb some of the excess sample, preventing this issue and ensuring cleaner separations.
 

Cost-effectiveness:

  • Replacing a guard column is significantly cheaper than replacing the entire analytical column. By sacrificing the cheaper guard column first, you save money in the long run.
  • Performance consistency: Maintaining a clean and protected analytical column ensures consistent and reliable chromatographic performance, saving time and resources by avoiding unnecessary troubleshooting and re-runs.
 

Additional benefits:

  • Pre-equilibration: The guard column can be pre-equilibrated with the mobile phase while the analytical column is not in use, reducing analysis time and improving peak shapes.
  • Method development: Guard columns can be used to test different mobile phase conditions or sample preparation techniques without risking damage to the main analytical column.
 

It’s important to note that:

  • Not all applications require a guard column. If your samples are well-filtered and free of contaminants, you might not need one. However, it’s often considered good practice to use one as a precautionary measure.
  • The guard column should be packed with the same material as the analytical column to ensure similar selectivity and retention behavior.
  • Guard columns need to be replaced periodically as they become saturated with contaminants.
 

Overall, using a guard column with your C18 column offers significant advantages in terms of protection, cost-effectiveness, and performance consistency. If you’re unsure whether you need one, consulting with a chromatography expert can help you make an informed decision based on your specific application.

HPLC Guard Columns Applications

1.Sample Pre-treatment:

HPLC guard columns can be used as a pre-treatment step before the sample is injected into the analytical column, to remove any impurities or contaminants that may affect the accuracy of the analysis.

2.Reversed-Phase Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in reversed-phase chromatography to remove any ionizable compounds that may interfere with the separation of the sample.

3. Normal-Phase Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in normal-phase chromatography to remove any polar compounds that may interfere with the separation of the sample.

4. Gradient Elution:

HPLC guard columns can be used in gradient elution to remove any compounds that may have low retention time and interfere with the separation of the sample.

4 Commonly Chromatographic Analysis Methods

1.Size Exclusion Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in size exclusion chromatography to remove any large molecules that may interfere with the separation of the sample.

2.Ion Exchange Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in ion exchange chromatography to remove any ions that may interfere with the separation of the sample.

3.Affinity Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in affinity chromatography to remove any non-specific binding proteins that may interfere with the separation of the sample.

4.Multimodal Chromatography:

HPLC guard columns can be used in multimodal chromatography to remove any compounds that may interfere with the separation of the sample by multiple mechanisms.

Types of HPLC Guard Columns

There are two main types of HPLC guard columns: cartridge-type and packed-type.

1.Cartridge-type guard columns

Cartridge-type guard columns are pre-packed with stationary phase and are housed in a disposable cartridge. They are easy to use and install, and they can be replaced quickly and easily. Cartridge-type guard columns are typically used for HPLC applications where high throughput is required.

Cartridgetype guard columns

2.Packed-type guard columns

Packed-type guard columns are similar to analytical columns, but they are smaller in diameter and length. They are filled with stationary phase by the user. Packed-type guard columns are more versatile than cartridge-type guard columns, and they can be used for a wider range of HPLC applications. However, they are also more difficult to use and install, and they require more maintenance.

Direct Connect 4.6mm Guard Column Used in HPLC

The type of guard column that you choose will depend on your specific application. If you need a guard column that is easy to use and install, and that can be replaced quickly and easily, then a cartridge-type guard column is a good choice. If you need a guard column that is more versatile and that can be used for a wider range of HPLC applications, then a packed-type guard column is a better choice.

HPLC guard columns

In addition to the two main types of guard columns, there are also a number of other types of guard columns available, such as:

*Guard cartridges: 

These are similar to cartridge-type guard columns, but they are smaller in diameter. Guard cartridges are typically used for UHPLC applications, where high pressures are used.

*Solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges: 

These can be used as guard columns to remove impurities from samples. SPE cartridges are typically used for preparative HPLC applications.

*Frits: 

These are small discs of porous material that can be used to protect the main column from particulates. Frits are typically used for HPLC applications where very small particles are present in the sample.

The type of guard column that you choose will depend on your specific application. If you are not sure which type of guard column to choose, then you should consult with an HPLC expert.

Frequently Asked Questions

An HPLC guard column is a small column that is placed between the injector and the analytical column in an HPLC system. It is used to protect the analytical column from contamination and to prolong its life. Guard columns are typically packed with the same stationary phase as the analytical column, but they are shorter and have a smaller diameter. This allows them to trap impurities and particulates in the sample before they reach the analytical column.

3.0 Direct Connect in line filter HPLC

Guard columns are used for a variety of HPLC applications, including:

  • Protecting the analytical column from contamination: Guard columns can trap impurities and particulates in the sample before they reach the analytical column. This can help to prevent the column from becoming clogged or damaged, which can extend its lifespan.
  • Improving the performance of the analytical column: Guard columns can help to improve the performance of the analytical column by removing impurities from the sample that could interfere with the separation of the analytes. This can lead to sharper peaks and better resolution.
  • Extending the lifespan of the analytical column: By protecting the analytical column from contamination and improving its performance, guard columns can help to extend its lifespan. This can save you money in the long run.

Guard columns are a relatively inexpensive way to protect your analytical column and improve the performance of your HPLC system. They are an essential part of any HPLC laboratory.

Here are some additional benefits of using HPLC guard columns:

  • They can help to reduce the amount of time and money you spend on column maintenance.
  • They can help to improve the reproducibility of your results.
  • They can help to make your HPLC system more reliable.

If you are using an HPLC system, I highly recommend that you use guard columns. They are a valuable investment that can protect your analytical column, improve the performance of your system, and save you money in the long run.

HPLC guard columns are typically made of stainless steel, PEEK, or fused silica.

1.Stainless steel

Stainless steel is the most common material for HPLC guard columns because it is strong, durable, and inexpensive. However, stainless steel is not as inert as PEEK or fused silica, so it can interact with some samples.

Stain steel HPLCS Guard Column

2.PEEK

Peek is a synthetic polymer that is inert, biocompatible, and resistant to high temperatures and pressures. PEEK guard columns are a good choice for applications where high purity is required.

Peek Guard Column

3.Fused silica

Fused silica  is a type of glass that is very inert and has a high surface area. Fused silica guard columns are a good choice for applications where small molecules need to be separated.

Fused silica HPLC guard column

The material of the guard column should be chosen based on the specific application. For example, if you are analyzing a sample that contains metal ions, then you should use a stainless steel guard column. If you are analyzing a sample that contains proteins, then you should use a PEEK or fused silica guard column.

Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of each material:

MaterialProsCons
Stainless steelStrong, durable, inexpensiveNot as inert as PEEK or fused silica
PEEKInert, biocompatible, resistant to high temperatures and pressuresMore expensive than stainless steel
Fused silicaVery inert, high surface areaMore fragile than stainless steel or PEEK

It depends on the type of sample you are analyzing, the frequency of use and the quality of the guard column. It is recommended to replace the guard column after 50-100 injections or when you notice a decrease in the performance of the column.

Yes, HPLC guard columns can be customized to fit the specific needs of your application, such as the length, inner diameter, pore size, phase, end fittings and packing material.

HPLC guard columns significantly enhance the accuracy of your analysis by protecting the analytical column from contamination and extending its lifespan. They function by intercepting impurities and particulates present in the sample before they reach the analytical column, safeguarding its delicate stationary phase and ensuring consistent analyte separation.

1.Protecting the Analytical Column from Contamination:

Guard columns act as a barrier, intercepting contaminants and particulates that could adhere to the analytical column’s stationary phase. These contaminants can originate from the sample itself, the mobile phase, or even the HPLC system itself. By preventing these contaminants from reaching the analytical column, guard columns maintain its integrity and extend its usable life.

2.Ensuring Consistent Analyte Separation:

When the analytical column is protected from contamination, it can consistently perform its intended function of separating analytes effectively. Guard columns ensure that the stationary phase remains clean and active, preventing ghost peaks, peak broadening, and other detrimental effects on analyte separation.

3.Improving Peak Resolution and Sensitivity:

By maintaining a clean and active stationary phase, guard columns contribute to sharper peaks and enhanced sensitivity in HPLC analysis. Impurities can interfere with analyte interactions with the stationary phase, leading to peak broadening and reduced sensitivity. Guard columns minimize these interferences, ensuring accurate and reproducible peak detection.

4.Reducing Background Noise:

Contaminants can also contribute to background noise in HPLC chromatograms, obscuring analyte peaks and making analysis more challenging. Guard columns effectively remove these contaminants, resulting in cleaner chromatograms with lower background noise and improved signal-to-noise ratios.

5.Enhancing Reproducibility and Reliability:

By protecting the analytical column and ensuring consistent analyte separation, guard columns contribute to the overall reproducibility and reliability of HPLC analysis. Results obtained with guard columns are less prone to variations caused by column contamination or degradation, improving the trustworthyness of your analytical data. 

In summary, HPLC guard columns play a crucial role in improving the accuracy, precision, and reproducibility of HPLC analysis. They safeguard the analytical column, maintain consistent analyte separation, and enhance the quality of chromatographic data.

Yes, HPLC guard columns can be used with any type of HPLC system, including reverse phase, normal phase, size exclusion, ion exchange, affinity, and multimodal chromatography.

Installing an HPLC guard column is relatively simple. It is connected to the analytical column with the same fittings and placed before the analytical column in the mobile phase flow path.

Troubleshooting problems with your HPLC guard column involves identifying the source of the issue and implementing corrective measures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively troubleshoot guard column problems:

1.Identify the Symptom:

Start by clearly defining the problem you’re experiencing. Are you observing peak broadening, reduced sensitivity, increased backpressure, or inconsistent retention times? Understanding the specific symptom will narrow down the possible causes.

2.Inspect the Guard Column:

Visually inspect the guard column for any physical damage, cracks, or leaks. Check the frits at both ends of the column to ensure they are clean and free of particulates. If necessary, replace the guard column with a new one.

3.Check the Sample Preparation:

Examine the sample preparation procedure to ensure proper filtering and removal of particulates. Consider using additional filtration steps or adopting different sample preparation techniques to minimize impurities.

4.Verify Mobile Phase Compatibility:

Ensure that the mobile phase is compatible with the guard column’s stationary phase. Consult the column specifications and avoid using mobile phases that could cause swelling or irreversible modification of the stationary phase.

5.Check for System Contamination:

Inspect the entire HPLC system for potential sources of contamination, including the injector, pump lines, and detector cell. Flush the system with appropriate solvents to remove any accumulated impurities.

6.Evaluate Flow Rate and Pressure:

Verify that the flow rate and pressure settings are within the recommended range for the guard column. Excessive flow rates or pressures can damage the guard column and affect its performance.

7.Monitor Backpressure:

Regularly monitor the backpressure as you run samples. A sudden increase in backpressure could indicate blockage or contamination in the guard column, requiring replacement.

8.Consider Regenerating the Guard Column:

Depending on the type of guard column and the nature of the contamination, in-situ regeneration may be possible. Consult the column manufacturer’s instructions for specific regeneration procedures.

9.Seek Expert Assistance:

If the problem persists or you require further guidance, consult with an HPLC expert or the column manufacturer. They can provide in-depth troubleshooting support and tailored solutions based on your specific HPLC system and application.

Remember, preventive measures are often more effective than troubleshooting. Regularly replacing guard columns according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, maintaining proper sample preparation techniques, and ensuring system cleanliness can minimize guard column problems and enhance the long-term performance of your HPLC system.

When choosing  top-rated guard columns from each brand and highlighting their key features: 

Waters:

  • XGuard Vanguard Cartridge: Popular choice for protecting reversed-phase analytical columns.

  • Offers high purity and durability with various packing materials (C18, Phenyl, etc.) and dimensions to suit different applications.

  • VanGuard Cartridge, Symmetry C18: Specifically designed for protecting Symmetry C18 analytical columns.

  • Provides excellent sample clean-up and protection from contaminants.

    Image of Waters VanGuard Cartridge, Symmetry C18
  • Oasis PRGB Guard Cartridge: Well-suited for protecting columns used in protein and peptide separations.

  • Offers high sample recovery and minimizes non-specific binding.

 

Phenomenex:

  • SecurityGuard ULTRA Cartridges: Versatile option for various HPLC applications. 
  • Features high-purity silica and innovative frit designs for extended column life. 
  • Available in various chemistries and dimensions.
    Image of Phenomenex SecurityGuard ULTRA Cartridges
  • Gemini C18 Guard Cartridge: Designed to protect Gemini C18 analytical columns. 
  • Offers excellent peak shapes and sample recovery.
    Image of Phenomenex Gemini C18 Guard Cartridge
  • Luna Omega Guard Cartridge: High-performance option for protecting Luna Omega analytical columns. 
  • Delivers exceptional chromatographic performance and long column life.
    Image of Phenomenex Luna Omega Guard Cartridge

 

Agilent:

  • ZORBAX Eclipse Plus Guard Cartridges: Popular choice for protecting ZORBAX Eclipse Plus analytical columns. 
  • Offers extended column life and consistent performance with various packing materials and dimensions.
    Image of Agilent ZORBAX Eclipse Plus Guard Cartridges
  • XSelect Guard Cartridges: Versatile option for a wide range of HPLC applications. 
  • Features high-purity silica and innovative frit designs for optimal performance. 
  • Available in various chemistries and dimensions.
    Image of Agilent XSelect Guard Cartridges
  • InfinityLab Poroshell HPHC Guard Cartridges: High-performance option for protecting Poroshell HPHC analytical columns. 
  • Delivers exceptional chromatographic performance and fast analysis times.
    Image of Agilent InfinityLab Poroshell HPHC Guard Cartridges

Remember to consider these factors when making your choice:

  • Compatibility: Ensure the guard column is compatible with your HPLC system and analytical column dimensions.
  • Packing material: Choose a packing material that matches your analytical column and sample chemistry.
  • Dimensions: Select a guard column with appropriate dimensions to avoid band broadening and ensure optimal performance.
  • Price: Compare prices from different brands and consider the cost-effectiveness based on performance and durability.
  • Brand reputation and reviews: Consider the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability, and read online reviews from other users.

 

By carefully considering these factors and researching the specific features of each guard column,

you can make an informed decision and choose the best option for your HPLC needs.

Need Help ?

Contact uHPLCs Today for Any Questions for HPLC / UHPLC 

+(86) 0755-28502380

sales@uhplcs.com

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