3
Column Modules
52
User Guide
To Install an In or Out Segment to the Column
Module Union
After installing the LTM column module to the LTM oven door, next install the In segment and
Out segment to connect the LTM column to the GC inlet, flow splitter, or detector.
“To Attach a CFT Nut and Ferrule to a Capillary Column”
.
1
Determine the size of uncoated fused silica to use for the in and out segments. See
Select In and Out Column Segments”
2
Gather the following:
•
Appropriate diameter uncoated fused silica
•
UltiMetal ferrules sized for the column diameter
•
2 Internal nuts, one for each LTM column connection
•
Appropriate ferrules and fittings for the other connection (to the GC inlet, detector,
splitter, or other device)
3
On the GC touchscreen, go to
Maintenance > Instrument > Perform Maintenance >
Maintenance Mode > Perform Maintenance
to cool down the GC ovens, inlets and
detectors.
4
Measure a section of fused silica column a few centimeters longer than needed (to allow
for trimming).
•
Consider the length needed carefully. Use some extra length to allow for future trimming
and reuse, but avoid extra lengths that may allow the column to get caught in the LTM
oven door, or to touch the GC oven walls.
•
In some cases a minimum length is needed to reduce the chance of cold spots, where
the columns touch the GC oven walls. The minimum final length is 25 cm to 27 cm,
which will allow the GC oven door to open between 1/4 to 1/3 of its full amount.
5
Install the In segment into the GC inlet.
6
Install the Out segment into the GC detector (or other device).
7
Cut the In and Out segments to final length. If needed, verify that each length is sufficient
by closing the oven door. The column segments should reach the CFT unions on the
transfer line module while the door is still open enough for you to install them.
8
Measure the segment lengths.
9
Prepare the open ends of the column segments for connection to the CFT union on the
transfer line module. See
“To Attach a CFT Nut and Ferrule to a Capillary Column”
.
10
Connect the In and Out segments to the CFT unions at the module assembly. Close the
oven door enough to make the connections.
•
When tightening, use one wrench to keep the CFT union steady, and a second wrench
on the internal nut.
•
Tighten only 15 to 20 degrees after you feel the ferrule first contact the fitting.
