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(GCMS) Guard Column Installation
(GCMS) Guard Column Installation
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Answer
1. Cut the deactivated fused silica tube (guard column) to approx. 2 m.
![](/usr/file/attachment/KEgbwEjtjHSJBAkj.png)
2. Using the capillary cutter, cut the connecting sections of the guard column and analysis column at right angles.
NOTE: Using the loupe, check that the connecting sections have been cut properly.
![](/usr/file/attachment/dqbwxurasiUkzgi5.png)
3. Wipe off any dirt from the seals at the connecting sections of both columns using gauze, for example, moistened with toluene, methanol or other organic solvent.
NOTE: Wetting column tips with solvent makes them more slippery and easier to insert into the press-tight connector.
![](/usr/file/attachment/3RToBOuV8rmR7skL.png)
![](/usr/file/attachment/3RToBOuV8rmR7skL.png)
4. Applying moderate pressure, insert the guard column tip until it is firmly inserted into the press-tight connector (see the photo on the left).
![](/usr/file/attachment/roSLArw042Y8eMhm.png)
NOTE: Note that exerting excessive pressure might crush the column tip.
![](/usr/file/attachment/roSLArw042Y8eMhm.png)
5. Following the same procedure, also insert the tip of the column for analysis from the opposite side of the press-tight connector.
![](/usr/file/attachment/C5atQo4c9HuZjzY8.png)
6. Appropriately wind the guard column onto the capillary gauge of the analysis column to prevent it from coming into contact with the oven inner wall.
NOTE: In the case of an analysis column made by RESTEK, the analysis column becomes stable by untying the string fastening the column and using that string to re-tie the guard column onto the gauge.
![](/usr/file/attachment/p2QhoGTMFif04Tal.png)
7. Attach the column onto the GC as for a regular column and start up the GC.
![](/usr/file/attachment/zqvunHVlQz6cUvX2.png)
8. In the Peak Monitor sub-window, monitor the water and hydrogen to check for any leaks.
NOTE: We recommend checking for leaks at the connection sections of the press-tight connector using a leak detector.
![](/usr/file/attachment/tpnTsgV7e9yjKY9X.png)
9. Age the columns under the following data acquisition settings:
[Fixed Pressure Mode] 40ºC → (10ºC/min) → 220ºC (60min) → (-10ºC/min) → 40ºC
[Fixed Pressure Mode] 40ºC → (10ºC/min) → 220ºC (60min) → (-10ºC/min) → 40ºC
NOTE: Measurement values may shift out of allowable ranges when heating or cooling is suddenly applied.
![](/usr/file/attachment/IJKW0NCOI7wZp3Zt.png)
10. Check for leaks again.
NOTE: Prevent the operating temperature of the column from exceeding the upper temperature limit of the press-tight connector (325ºC).
![](/usr/file/attachment/g0fAsSrFdkqKzcGD.png)
![](/usr/file/attachment/Gn80hpb7Q1UYmaT8.png)
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