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Ferrules
Ferrules for HPLC and GC are used in chromatography to help prevent leaks. The ferrule forms a strong, permanent, airtight seal around the column. Ferrules for HPLC and GC by well-known manufacturers such as Agilent Technologies, Grace, Upchurch Scientific, Vici Valco and many more are available in our shop.
We have a large selection of high quality ferrules for liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) to ensure optimal separation efficiencies. The choice of which ferrule to use in your system depends on a number of parameters. Tubing size, pressure requirements, connecting nuts and most importantly, the geometry of the connecting ends must be considered when choosing the right ferrule for any given application. Materials such as PEEK, PCTFE and stainless steel are often used to manufacture ferrules for high pressure applications. Softer polymers, including EFTE and polypropylene, are used in lower-pressure applications.
Ferrules have the purpose to seal the joint of the column or of the liner with the GC system. If an unsuitable ferrule or ferrule of poor quality is used for sealing the column, unstable and unreliable chromatography analysis may be the result. Through the use of unsuitable ferrules leaks can arise, which allow the entry of air and contaminants into the GC system and thus cause interference to the column and the detector.
Ferrules are suitable for gastight and temperature resistant sealing of fused silica, glass and metal columns. We also stock SilTite FingerTite ferrules for Agilent GC's. These new ferrules faciliate easy, leakless and airless installing of the capillary column – you do not even need tools. This leads to higher air tightness and less noise when working with sensitive MS applications.
Differences between ferrules of different material
| Material | Uses | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| 100% Graphite | FID, NPD |
- easy-to-use stable seal - higher temperature limit - easily removable - re-usable |
- unsuitable for MS or oxygen-sensitive detectors - soft, easily deformed or destroyed - contamination of the system is possible |
| 85% Vespel/ 15% Graphite | MS and oxygen-sensitive detectors |
- long lifetime - high temperature limit - compatible with MS |
- not re-usable - must be re-tightened after initial temperature cycle |
| SilTite Metal | MS and oxygen-sensitive detectors |
- long lifetime - high temperature limit - compatible with MS |
- not re-usable |
Replacement time of the ferrule
The regular exchange of ferrules is essential for proper operation of the GC system. If you are not sure whether you need to replace the ferrule already, keep an eye out on these indicators:
- The head of the ferrule has been abraded by repeated retightening
- The head of the ferrule has been compressed around the column and distorted
To get the most from your ferrules, some criteria should be considered. A strong abrasion can occur if the ferrule is overtightened and a porous ferrule can interfere with your apllication results. Furthermore ensure that the ferrule is completely clean before use and avoid any kind of contamination before and during use as much as possible. Replace the ferrule when a new column or new parts of injectors and detectors are installed. Lastly, the use of the appropriate ferrule for the size of the installed column is extremely important.
Questions about our products? Our expert team will be happy to advise you.