What is the difference between Capillary Column and the Packed Column?

Quadrexcorp
3 min readMar 15, 2021

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GC Columns would be needed in many types of manufacturing solutions. Thus, there would be a need for special capillary columns or packed columns depending upon the need. But, there should be some amount of technical knowledge on the part of the buyer or the user so that they know what would be the best decision for them. Knowing the basic difference between the capillary and the packed columns would be vital. So, just look down at the features given below.

Know about the basic differences between the two columns

· In the packed column, the packing of the stationary phase is done in the cavity. In the capillary option, the cavity has an inner coating. The former option will be perfect when there are liquid extractions in the picture. The latter option would be perfect for Gas chromatograph.

· When it comes to sampling, the packed option will need a large number of samples. In the other case that is the capillary option, there will be a need for a small number of samples.

· If you are concerned about the pressure within the capillary columns will suit you as they have less pressure inside. Whereas, the packed columns would be of high pressure from within.

· The size and dimensions are different in both cases. The packed columns are supposed to be short whereas the capillary ones are the longer ones.

· It is true that the packed solutions are less expensive than the capillary ones. But then, when the need of the hour is to install the capillary options only then you have to take this one as the prime leader.

Both these options are useful in GC

When it comes to gas chromatography, both the options namely the packed columns and the capillary ones are useful. Because of these columns, the mixtures can be separated in the right way. When it comes to Gas chromatograph most of the manufacturers would prefer using the capillary option as that is more efficient as compared to the packed column option. As far as the resolutions are concerned, you will find that the capillary ones are quite good in resolution too. But if you are looking for rugged and robust options then perhaps the packed ones would be good for you. The packed columns are made with metals and hence they are rough and tough in use. On the other hand, the columns with capillaries are made with glass tube and hence they are breakable and fragile.

Get an idea about what options would be practical for you

Both capillary and packed columns are helpful in packing the stationary phase. But, if you are a manufacturing unit and have to use them for the required purposes then you need to figure out the options well. Just check what seems to be more practical for your manufacturing unit and get ahead with the final solutions. You will have to consider the budget and the cost options as well. If you are looking for something that would be helpful in enhancing the feel of the product then you can rely on the expensive option and thus the capillary columns would give you the best options. You have to be clear about the services and the companies which would provide you with these best solutions. So, take charge of things in such a way that you know what options would be good enough for you. Take the relevant options and make way for the basic things which would help in taking things to the next level. Understand the meaning of the products and the raw materials in-depth and then you know what options would be suitable for you.

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Quadrexcorp
Quadrexcorp

Written by Quadrexcorp

Quadrex Corporation has been a privately owned GC column manufacturer and distributor of GC-related hardware and consumables.

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