Optimizing Chromatograph Performance with Advanced Chromatography Valves and Solutions

Gas and liquid chromatography are critical techniques in pharmaceutical and clinical fields for the separation, identification, and quantification of complex mixtures. These methods offer high sensitivity and precision, essential for analyzing a wide range of substances, from small organic compounds to large biomolecules. Achieving optimal performance in these systems requires advanced flow control components that deliver accurate and reproducible results.

Challenges in Achieving Accuracy

Creating new chromatographic systems presents challenges, primarily in the precise control of gas and liquid flow. Inconsistent flow rates can compromise separation, detection limits, and quantification, impacting the integrity of analytical results. Advanced technologies like electronic pressure control (EPC) in gas chromatographs and precision dosing in liquid chromatographs help maintain consistent flow rates. Additionally, real-time monitoring and feedback systems adjust parameters dynamically to ensure flow stability.
Temperature stability is also crucial. Fluctuations affect the viscosity of the mobile phase and the interaction between analytes and the stationary phase, leading to inconsistent retention times. Precise temperature control systems, such as oven temperature programming or thermostat-controlled column compartments, mitigate these issues.

Enhancing Durability and Maintenance

The demand for high-throughput analysis and point-of-care testing drives the need for compact, automated chromatographic systems. Microfluidic technology and automated sample preparation and injection systems reduce sample and reagent consumption, improve throughput, and enable portable applications. Robust build quality and simple maintenance procedures are vital for equipment longevity and cost-effectiveness.
The choice of valve significantly affects maintenance costs and process availability. For instance, Bürkert valves, capable of achieving 100 million operations, greatly extend service life and reduce maintenance time compared to conventional valves. This results in substantial cost savings and increased productivity.

Addressing Individual Challenges

In liquid chromatography, precise valve switching is essential for accurate mixing in the mobile phase and maintaining a correct gradient. High-quality valve blocks, designed and manufactured with precision, are crucial. Customizable options for materials and valves ensure the most effective design for specific applications. Features like pulse valves enable solvent changes during operation, saving time and enhancing efficiency.
For gas chromatography, designing compact, reliable analysis equipment is complex. Partnering with experts like Bürkert simplifies this process. They offer complete solutions, from design to testing, ensuring devices optimized for performance and reliability. These systems include multi-channel mass flow controllers, bespoke manifolds, and integrated control systems, designed for seamless integration with existing protocols.

Achieving Precision Results

Chromatographs are indispensable for clinical and pharmaceutical research and development. Precision in gas and liquid flow control is paramount for reliable analytical results. Overcoming development challenges requires advanced technologies and innovative solutions. With expert support from companies like Bürkert, the pharmaceutical and clinical sectors can continue to rely on chromatography for critical analyses, ensuring drug safety and efficacy and the accuracy of clinical diagnostics.

To find out more about how we can help create a bespoke solution for your chromatography application please contact sales.uk@burkert.com.

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