What are the typical components of an HPLC system?
HPLC systems can be as varied as the type of analyses that can be performed. However, the typical system can be broken down to some basic components which are easily identified in most systems. The best way to identify system components is to follow the flow path of the mobile phase from beginning to end, which usually correspondingly identifies components from left to right in the system. First, there is the MOBILE PHASE RESERVOIR, which houses the solvent mixture used during the analyses. The second component is the PUMP, which offers back-pressure regulator controlled flow of the mobile phase through the rest of the system. Incidentally, it is vitally important that a pump function very well in order to insure reproducibility in chromatographic data. The third component is the injection valve, used to introduce a set volume of sample into the solvent stream. Fourth is the COLUMN, often referred to as the “heart” of the HPLC system. It is here that the actual separations occur; witho
