Waters offers a comprehensive range of analytical system solutions, software, and services for scientists. Liquid Chromatography. Mass Spectrometry. Waters is the leading provider of lab equipment, supplies and software for scientists across the world. Easily research and order everything your lab needs! Waters offers a comprehensive range of analytical system solutions, software, and services for scientists. Liquid Chromatography. Mass Spectrometry. Waters is the leading provider of lab equipment, supplies and software for scientists across the world. Easily research and order everything your lab needs!
Waters eConnect tag-enabled columns use near-field communication (NFC) technology that provides an automated solution for identifying and tracing HPLC columns and their usage history. To ensure high-quality chromatographic data, replace the column annually, or any time you notice peak shape problems or loss of resolution.
Warning: To avoid personal contamination with biologically hazardous or toxic compounds, wear clean, chemical-resistant, powder-free gloves when performing this procedure.
Warning: To prevent burn injuries, allow sufficient time for the column to cool before opening the compartment door. The column, compartment, tubing, fittings, and door liner can be hot.
To remove the existing column:
If installing a Waters-branded column, this procedure requires no tools. You can easily replace it using the column clips and fittings.
Open the column compartment door.
Note: Before removing the column, verify that the compartment temperature is sufficiently cool.
Remove the column from the two black clips that secure it in place:
Locate the fitting on the bottom of the column, and then pull the bottom of the column out of the black clip.
Next, remove the upper part of the column. Holding the bottom of the column in one hand, locate the fitting on the top and use your other hand to pull the top part of the column out of the black clip.
Figure 1: Removing the column from the black clips
Top black clip
Bottom black clip
Locate the fasteners that secure the tubing at the top of the column compartment, and then remove the tubing from fasteners 2 through 4 only.
Tip: You will not remove the tubing from fastener 1 because it secures the tubing to another module and should remain connected.
Figure 2: Four fasteners that secure the tubing
Unscrew the fitting located on the bottom of the column and set it aside to install the new column.
Unscrew the fitting located on the top of the column and set it aside to install the new column. Follow the remaining steps to install the new column.
Remove the protective plugs from the top and the bottom of the new column, and then place them in the column shipping carton for future use.
Orient the column so that the outlet faces up (see the arrow on the column) and the inlet faces down.
Screw the column inlet and column outlet fittings you set aside earlier onto the column finger-tight.
If necessary, adjust the lower column clip to match the size of the new column.
Install the tubing by routing it into fasteners 2 through 4 located at the top of the column compartment.
Insert the column into the upper and lower black clips, ensuring that each black clip grasps the exposed threads on the fitting.
Figure 3: Installing the replacement column
Close the column compartment door.
Note: Verify that the tubing is situated inside the compartment before you close the column compartment door.
Column heater maintenance procedures
