Installing the Flow Cell
The back-pressure regulator exists after any detectors in the HPLC system. Thus, the detector flow cells (or splitter in the case on an ELSD or Mass Spectrometer), operate at an elevated pressure relative to HPLC.
Agilent Technologies offers a Diode Array Detector (DAD) flow cell that has been extensively optimized for use in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC). This cell is pressure-rated and tested to 400 bar. It contains extensive thermal conditioning not found in standard HPLC flow cells. Agilent Technology’s cell is highly recommended for SFC usage.
The flow cell should already be installed in the DAD/MWD. Carefully examine the inlet and outlet ports of the cells to ensure that flow is in the correct direction. In the DAD/MWD, the outlet port is normally located below the inlet port on the connection block.
The inlet port of the DAD/MWD flow cell enters the stationary portion of the handle. This stationary bar acts as an initial thermal conditioning zone. Normally, this port has a male fitting. The outlet port connects directly to the cylindrical portion of the flow cell. Normally, this connection has a female fitting.
CAUTION
Damage to the flow cell
- Verify that the cell installed in the detector is capable of the high pressures used in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC). Exposing a standard 1260 Infinity II/III flow cell to high pressures will result in leakage or damage to the cell.
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