How much will I extend column lifetime by using VanGuard pre-columns? - WKB92103

ENVIRONMENT

• VanGuard pre-columns

ANSWER

Column life is application-specific.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Due to the wide variety of sample matrices, sample cleanliness, and system cleanliness, Waters cannot guarantee a specific column lifetime with or without a guard.

However, use of a guard will indeed protect the main analytical column.  

For example, if a column would normally last 200 injections without a guard, the guard might last 50 to 150 injections; then, upon guard replacement, the next guard may also last that long, allowing the main analytical column to perform well for an extended period of time. 

However, matrix can also pass through a guard if the guard is oversaturated. This would shorten the overall lifetime of the column, even when using guards.

Waters cannot estimate the true impact that a guard would have on your column lifetime; you would need to fully investigate this in your lab, using your specific method conditions and samples.