A comprehensive guide to troubleshooting HPLC systems
High Performance Liquid Chromatography systems better known as HPLC devices are commonly used by life sciences companies to segregate molecules from mixtures for their research and development purposes. The HPLC market around the world is witnessing a steady growth rate, thanks to many advantages offered by HPLC components and HPLC spare parts. HPLC systems are complex in nature. There may arise times when different parts of your HPLC systems encounter technical problems. So, what should be done in such a situation? Well, this article acts as your guide for troubleshooting your HPLC devices.
First of all you need to adopt a logical approach towards resolving issues with HPLC systems. You need to isolate, identify and correct the problems faced by the parts of an HPLC device. One needs to check whether there are any leakage issues with the HPLC system. Most of the devices come equipped with a leakage detector that automatically shuts down the system in case of leaks and moisture. Next, you need to flush the HPLC device and do the replacement for transfer lines. It may happen that the HPLC system might encounter a technical issue due to bacterial growth. The solvents used in your HPLC device don’t have an expiry date but in case the system has not been used for a long period of time, it might lead to bacterial growth. This affects the column in your HPLC device.
For inspecting the column of your HPLC system, you need to monitor the pressure in it for minimum five minutes. For the correct functioning of the column the pressure needs to be stable. The column is an integral part of the HPLC system as the separation of the molecules happens in it. If you find that the column has problems, you need to immediately flush it using hexane and isopropanol. Here you need to remember that the column again needs to be re-flushed with isopropanol before you re-attach it to the hplc product. If all this does not solve the issue, considering replacing the column.
Further, it is important to check the lens of the detector in your HPLC system every month. Regular maintenance and check helps solve many technical problems even before they arise. Also, if you feel that certain components such as piston, check valve, hplc pumps are not functioning in the desired manner, consult your equipment manufacturer, and consider replacing the HPLC components in case of major defects and functional flaws.
Use Hitachi HPLC systems and Hitachi HPLC parts for replacing your existing HPLC components. You can also go for Agilent HPLC parts. Using these HPLC spare parts will help function your HPLC device in the most seamless manner. The HPLC replacement parts offered by these manufactures are excellent in terms of performance, quality and pricing.