GC Carrier Gases – Alternatives to Helium

The helium shortage in the USA doesn’t seem to be getting any better for chromatographers. If your gas supplier is actually able to supply your lab with helium, the costs have probably increased. We (tech service) seem to be getting more calls, however, from customers who are currently not able to purchase helium from their gas supplier, and have no choice but to look for an alternative carrier gas.   Our advice, first check with your instrument manufacturer to see if they have literature, webinars, videos or any other types of information on converting your instrument.  Planning ahead will often same time and frustration.