HPLC guard columns

[brendandamm]

Hello all,

Recently I've noticed a big spike in pressure when running my LC methods. We have a guard column attached and I'm positive that it is the reason for the recent spike in pressure. My question is this, can I do a backwards flush with the guard column on to help regenerate it? Or does that only work for the column alone? I have a spare guard column but I would prefer to not use it until absolutely necessary so if I can decrease the pressure by doing a back-flush of the column with the guard column attached I would rather try that first. Thoughts/comments/concerns? Thanks!

Brendan

[skunked_once]

I routinely reverse my guard column and backflush it to remove accumulated junk. Eventually the crud will be irreversibly bound and you will have to replace it. Be sure to disconnect the guard column from the column so that you don't flush the junk onto it.