Gas chromatography consumables ordering guide

Importance of Topic

• Gas chromatography (GC) relies on high-quality consumables to maintain sensitivity, accuracy and reproducibility.
• Proper selection of syringes, liners, septa, ferrules and columns minimizes bleed, contamination and carry-over.
• Optimized consumables extend instrument lifespan and reduce downtime in routine QA/QC and research environments.

Objectives and Overview of the Guide

This guide aims to help users of Thermo Scientific TRACE 1300/1600 GC systems, AI/AS and TriPlus RSH autosamplers, and associated detectors and headspace modules select compatible consumables. It categorizes products by function, compatibility and recommended application to streamline ordering and ensure peak instrument performance.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

The guide is structured by system component and consumable type. Key instrument platforms covered include:

• TRACE 1300 and 1600 Series Gas Chromatographs
• AI/AS 1310/1610 Liquid Autosamplers
• TriPlus RSH and RSH SMART Autosamplers
• TriPlus 500 Headspace Autosampler
• GLD Pro Gas Leak Detector and GFM Pro Gas Flowmeter

The selection criteria combine material compatibility, temperature limits and gas-tight performance.

Main Consumable Categories and Discussion

• Syringes and SPME Arrows/Fibers – Volumes from nanoliter to milliliter, gas-tight and fixed/removable plungers for split, splitless, PTV and headspace injections.
• Injection Port Components – Septa (BTO, TR-green, Marathon), liners (split, splitless, quartz wool, baffles), base seals, ferrules and nuts optimized for SSL and PTV inlets.
• MS Transfer Line Connections – Graphite/vespel ferrules and spring-loaded nuts for robust GC-MS interfaces.
• Gas Management – Super Clean and Click-On filters for moisture, oxygen and hydrocarbon removal. Leak detector and flowmeter for preventative maintenance.
• GC Columns – Application-specific phases (PAH, PBDE, dioxins), non-polar (TG-1MS), mid-polar and polar phases, and TracePLOT PLOT columns.
• Column Connectors – GuardGOLD and HydroGOLD guard columns, SilFlow microfluidic devices, SilTite unions and finger-tight fittings allow secure, inert connections.
• Sample Handling – SureSTART vials and caps for liquid and headspace with high-security closures and MS-compatible septa.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By following this guide, laboratories can reduce method development time, improve chromatography quality and ensure regulatory compliance. Using recommended consumables enhances peak shape, lowers background noise and prolongs column and inlet life.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging needs for ultra-low carry-over and minute sample volumes will drive advances in microfluidic connectors and nanoliter syringe technologies. Integration of smart consumables with RFID tracking and predictive replacement algorithms will further automate maintenance and inventory management.

Conclusion

Selecting the correct GC consumables according to system compatibility and application requirements is crucial for robust analytical results. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to optimize GC workflows and support future innovations in chromatographic science.