Need help finding the correct Ferrule to install your GC Column? Part 2: Bruker/Varian GCs

You’re ready to install a column into your GC and realize you do not have ferrules to do the job. Which ferrule do you choose?  The parameters to consider when choosing the correct ferrule are instrument make and model, nut size and type, ferrule material, and column ID.  A visit to our GC Nut/Ferrule Compatibility Table page will provide a general overview of various ferrules offered by Restek.  By navigating the page, you can narrow the selection by choosing these parameters.  This post will cover Bruker/Varian systems.

 

Capillary Columns:

Although Bruker/Varian GCs can come equipped with many injector options, selection of nuts and ferrules is simpler than my previous post on Agilent ferrules. These injectors all use Bruker/Varian style Capillary nuts and standard 1/16 inch compression ferrules to install capillary columns.  The detectors on Bruker/Varian GCs that are designed for capillary columns use the same nuts and ferrules as the injectors.

Capillary Ferrules Capillary Ferrules: Vespel/Graphite	Bruker/Varian Capillary Nuts

For chart on ferrule size in relation to column ID and a table on ferrule material description, please review "Need help finding the correct ferrule to install your GC column? Part 1: Agilent GC ferrules"

A word on ferrule material choice: I found using Bruker/Varian nuts with 100% graphite ferrules, upon tightening the nut the graphite material will start to extrude out the nut hole.

 

Packed Columns:

Bruker/Varian GCs can come equipped with two different packed column ports.

The 1040/1041- On-column Isothermal injector for 0.53mmID capillaries and packed columns. You will need to verify your current installation hardware before you begin. The 1041 comes equipped with 0.53mmID installation hardware. Adaptor kits for 1/8 inch packed columns and 1/4 inch packed columns are sold separately. These kits include adaptors for both Injector and detector sides. Restek does not sell these adaptor kits. Packed columns for this injector should have a void in the inlet side to allow the needle to inject directly into the column.

The 1060/1061 Flash Vaporization Isothermal for 0.53mmID capillaries and packed columns. This inlet has an adaptor with a deactivated glass insert. Restek does not sell this adaptor or inserts. You will need to verify your current installation hardware before you begin. The 1061 comes standard with 0.53mmID installation hardware. Adaptor kits for 1/8 inch packed columns and 1/4 inch packed columns are sold separately. These kits include adaptors for both Injector and detector sides. Restek does not sell these adaptor kits. Packed columns for these inlets can be packed full with no inlet void needed.

• The nuts and ferrules required to install the packed columns would be standard compression ferrules with compression style nuts.
• To install a packed column into a capillary injection port, you would use a “pigtail” setup.
• Use Bruker/Varian nut and standard compression ferrules to install capillary columns.
• Know the ID of your column to match with the correct ferrule size.
• For packed columns: know which packed column adaptor you have in your GC.
• Match the correct packed column OD with the ID of the ferrule.

My next post Part 3 of the series, I will discuss Perkin Elmer ferrules, nuts, and helpful hints. Thank you for reading.