What is the expected lifetime of a column, guard cartridge or guard column? - WKB65936

ENVIRONMENT

• Columns

ANSWER

The expected lifetime of a column is application-specific.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

There are many variables that go into and contribute to column lifetime. Column lifetime can be highly variable. Some of these contributing variables include:

 

1) How close the method is operating at extremes in column pH and temperature limits

2) How clean the matrix is: i.e. Expectations for drinking water would be much different compared to whole blood   

3) What kind of clean-up is done on the matrix prior to injection on the column  (dilute and shoot - mixed mode SPE)

4) How many compounds are of interest and how well baseline separated are they

5) How tight are your quality control limits 

6) How the column is stored and how often mobile phases, containers, and sinkers are changed and cleaned  

7) How often the instrument is cleaned and serviced

8) Using a guard can prolong the life of a column

9) How often the column is cleaned

 

We will often encourage customers doing method development prior to validation to do a robustness study to see how long the column will last given your specific operating conditions and work flow. The (column) cleaning protocol would be tailored to the application and matrix on choosing the optimal cleaning solvents and conditions. Usually higher temperature help with solubility of chemical contaminates. 

For additional information on column care and handling, consult the appropriate care and use manual for the column brand.