What Kind of Damages may occur to the Fused Silica Capillary Column?

While you are an industrial employee or an industrialist in the field of GC or gas chromatography, it is really important that you understand when you have to install a new Capillary column or when you have to make changes in the setup. It all depends upon the lifespan of the column. It is important to note that the life span of a fused silica capillary column is finite. But it is an expensive item. It is also quite delicate. Thus, while you are about to make any specific decision, make sure that you have had enough knowledge about the same. It is important to understand that what kind of damages may occur to your column and based on that you need to check the wear and tear that may happen with this item.

There can be thermal damage

When the column is exposed to too much heat and high temperatures then you will see that there will be some amount of thermal damage. With a Fused silica capillary column you have to be pretty safe and hence save the column from long durations of elevated temperature. If you wish to switch off carrier gas then make sure that the column has become cool. While the column is hot and you switch off the carrier gas, there will be issues for sure. So, make sure that you follow these relevant steps for avoiding thermal damage to the GC capillary column.

Be careful of breakage

It is important that you take good care of the column as any kind of damage will create problems for sure. If you handle the column roughly then there can be scratches and abrasions which may create problems for the column. There will be reduction in the life span also.

There can be chemical damage also

It is important to determine that what kind of compounds are used inside the capillary column. If there are volatile compounds then this can have degradation of the columns. If at all such volatile compounds are used, there will be a need to rinse the column first. This will ensure that there will be no degradation.

There can be wear and tear if you do not store the GC column properly

It is vital that you store the column well and in the same box where it was kept initially. This will save it from wear and tear. Make sure that you plug the ends of the column while you keep it in the box. This will ensure that there is no debris and dirt getting in. If the column is stored properly then it will be useful for many years to come.

There are many benefits that you will come across if you take good care of the delicate column. This means that you will have to be extra careful about the other options. You need to be clear about how to store the same and how to enhance the efficiency of the column.

You will have to check the condition of the column once in a while. You will also have to be sure of checking the gas lines and connections. With all these things in sync, you will know whether there are any leaks or any issues that you have to work upon.

If you follow the right protocols then there will be better options in the line. A fused silica capillary column helps in making things perfect in your laboratory. But you have to take good care of the same. This will reduce the effect of damage and perhaps it will also enhance the levels of efficiency.

GC column is quite expensive and if you want it to be with you, you should store it well. This will ensure better solutions. When you come across the initial symptoms of the damage, you will know what you should do and how you need to work out on things. While the column has been used for a long, you also should be agile about switching the same off so that there is a proper cooldown. Also, inspect the column at regular intervals so that you can save the area from all sorts of leaks.