HPLC Pumps - A deeper look into their types

High performance liquid chromatography, now-a-days, is widely used in biochemistry and analytical chemistry laboratories. The ultimate objective HPLC analysis is to identify, separate and quantify compounds in a sample. HPLC Product comprises of various components, each having its own crucial role to play. HPLC Pump is considered to be one of the most important of such components. Without a pump, the chemical analysis cannot be carried out. Why? Well, because this HPLC part provides the required pressure that drives the sample through the column.

HPLC Accessories such as the pump come in different sizes and types. However a powerful pump has the capacity to produce a pressure up to 6,000 psi, or pounds per square inch, which is applied after the sample is injected. What happens is that it allows the sample to pass through the column more quickly and efficiently than if it were to drip through using only the force of gravity. Before buying HPLC Tools and specifically pump, you should look into various parameters such as flow rate, pressure generation, suitability to different solvents, ease of use etc. Discussed below are some main types of HPLC pumps available in the market today –

1. Reciprocating Pump – It is one of the most popular pumps used in HPLC. The mobile phase is pushed back & forth action of piston action present about a cylindrical chamber. It is highly sought after because of its constant flow rate, low space occupancy, excellent pressure generation and it is useful for both isocratic & gradient runs.
2. Pneumatic Pump – One of the simplest of pumps, the Pneumatic Pump as the name goes uses gas to pressurize the mobile phase that is present in a collapsible solvent container. These are considered to be some of the most cost-effective of all HPLC accessories.
3. Syringe Type HPLC Pump - These pumps generally consist of a cylinder that holds the mobile phase which is expelled by a piston. Now, the piston is advanced by a motor connected through worm gears, to provide smooth pulse less flow. These types of HPLC pumps have their own advantages. Their pressure capability is usually quite high (up to 78,000 psi) and maintenance is infrequent since there are no fluctuating check valves; gears are simple and strong.

It is recommended to purchase HPLC accessories such as the pumps from a renowned & established supplier. The benefits you can get are immense. First, the products offered by such suppliers are best in quality & appropriately priced as well. Next, you can get continuous technical support in one or the other way from professional HPLC spare parts suppliers. So, consult an experienced HPLC supplier, to get the best accessories for your HPLC product.