Fitting for fluid coupling in chromatography system

Abstract

The present invention provides a fitting for a fluid coupling in a chromatography system, the fitting comprising: a compression screw (116) comprising an axial bore, a threaded portion, and a drive end; a tube assembly including a tube sleeve (114) and an inner tube (120) disposed through the sleeve (114), the tube sleeve and the inner tube each extending to an end face of the tube assembly, the tube sleeve including an outer surface; a sealing body (110) extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face abutting an end face of the tube assembly, the sealing body comprising an outer surface; and a collar (112) secured to an outer surface of the tube sleeve and an outer surface of the sealing body.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 886,375, filed on August 14, 2019, entitled “Fitting For Fluidic Coupling in a Chromatography System,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to chromatography. More particularly, the present invention relates to fittings for fluid couplings used in chromatography systems. Background Art

[0004] Chromatography is a group of techniques for separating a mixture into its components. Clearly established separation techniques include HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography), UPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) and SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography). HPLC systems use high pressures in the range of traditionally between 1,000 psi (pounds per square inch) to about 6,000 psi to produce the required flow for liquid chromatography (LC) in a packed column. Compared to HPLC, UPLC systems use columns with smaller particles and higher pressures approaching 20,000 psi to deliver mobile phases. SFC systems use highly compressible mobile phases, which typically use carbon dioxide (CO2) as the main component.

[0005] In a typical LC system, the solvent delivery system draws in a mixture of liquid solvents and delivers it to the injection system, where the injected sample waits for the mobile phase to arrive. The mobile phase carries the sample through the separation column. In the column, the mixture of sample and mobile phase separates into bands based on the interaction of the mixture with the stationary phase in the column. The detector identifies and quantifies these bands as they leave the column.

[0006] Typical fluid tube fittings used for fluid connections in LC systems require an open-end wrench for installation. This can cause problems during installation. Without a wrench, the user will not be able to apply enough torque to the fitting to properly tighten it. Even with a wrench, using a tool such as a wrench to install the fitting can be difficult for some users and can result in an over-tightened or under-tightened installation.

[0007] In addition, typical tube fittings for fluid connections in LC systems often generate debris from wear between the compression screw and the washer and / or ferrule. Wear and debris can shorten the life of the fitting. Another problem encountered in fittings is that many fittings allow dead volume between the fitting and the female receptacle of the fluid connection. This dead space allows liquid to accumulate without moving through the fitting and hinders the accuracy of the system. Existing fitting systems also include many loose parts, which can cause problems for users if parts are lost or dropped.

[0008] Accordingly, improved fittings for fluid couplings in LC systems would be well received in the art. Summary of the invention

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, a fitting for a fluid coupling in a chromatography system includes: a compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion, and a driving end; a tube assembly including a tube sleeve and an inner tube disposed through the sleeve, the tube sleeve and the inner tube each extending to an end face of the tube assembly, the tube sleeve including an outer surface; a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the end face of the tube assembly, the sealing body including an outer surface; and a collar fixed to an outer surface of the tube sleeve and an outer surface of the sealing body.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, the pipe sleeve and the inner pipe are welded together at the end faces.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, the end face is a polished surface.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body is made of at least one of high temperature polyimide and polyetheretherketone.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the collar includes a thin wall portion extending from the first end and a thick wall portion extending from the thin wall portion to the second end, wherein a circumferential inner ridge is defined by a difference in thickness between the thin wall portion and the thick wall portion, wherein the circumferential inner ridge defines a surface that contacts an end face of the tube assembly.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, the tube sleeve comprises a reduced outer diameter portion extending from the end face, wherein the thin wall portion of the collar extends over the reduced outer diameter portion of the tube sleeve.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, the thin wall portion of the collar is press fit onto the reduced outer diameter portion of the tube sleeve, and wherein the thick wall portion of the collar is press fit onto the seal body.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the compression screw includes a knurled gripping portion at a gripping end opposite the driving end, the knurled gripping portion being configured to facilitate manual tightening of the compression screw into the receiver fitting.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, the compression screw is made of a wear resistant stainless steel material.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body includes an inner bore having a size equal to or greater than an inner diameter of the inner tube.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body is configured to deform on the second end when compressed against a surface of the receiver fitting.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, the fitting includes a ring welded to the pipe assembly, the ring being configured to be pushed by the compression screw during tightening.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of manufacturing a fitting for a fluid coupling in a chromatography system includes: welding a tube sleeve and an inner tube at an end surface of each of the tube sleeve and the inner tube to create a tube assembly having a welded tube assembly end surface; and polishing the welded tube assembly end surface.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes abutting a surface of a sealing body with an end face of a welded pipe assembly; and securing a collar to an outer surface of the pipe sleeve and an outer surface of the sealing body.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, securing the collar further comprises press fitting the collar to each of an outer surface of the tube sleeve and an outer surface of the seal body.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes maintaining a fluid tight seal between a surface of the seal body and the welded pipe assembly end face so that fluid conveyed through the inner pipe and the axial opening of the seal body does not leak between the pipe sleeve, inner pipe and collar.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for fluid connection in a chromatography system includes: providing a fitting, the fitting including: a compression screw, the compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion and a driving end; a tube assembly, the tube assembly including a tube sleeve and an inner tube disposed through the sleeve, the tube sleeve and the inner tube each extending to an end face of the tube assembly, the tube sleeve including an outer surface; a sealing body, the sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the end face of the tube assembly, the sealing body including an outer surface; and a collar, the collar being fixed to the outer surface of the tube sleeve and the outer surface of the sealing body; and fluidly connecting the fitting to a receiver fitting of the liquid chromatography system by manually tightening the compression screw without a tightening tool.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes maintaining a fluid tight seal between a first end face of the seal body and an end face of the tube assembly; conveying fluid through the inner tube and the axial opening of the seal body; and avoiding any leakage of the fluid between the tube sleeve, the inner tube and the collar.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes deforming the sealing body over the end of the collar when pressed against a surface of the receiver fitting.

[0028] In another exemplary embodiment, a fluid coupling in a chromatography system includes: a fitting for a fluid coupling, the fitting including: a compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion, and a driving end; a tube assembly including a tube sleeve and an inner tube disposed through the sleeve, the tube sleeve and the inner tube each extending to an end face of the tube assembly, the tube sleeve including an outer surface; a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the end face of the tube assembly, the sealing body including an outer surface; and a collar fixed to an outer surface of the tube sleeve and an outer surface of the sealing body; and a receiver fitting having a threaded hole and an inner hole, the inner hole having a sealing surface at an end opposite to the threaded hole, the receiver fitting having a channel extending from the sealing surface to transfer fluid.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, the threaded portion of the compression screw engages the threaded bore of the receiver fitting, thereby urging the second end surface of the seal body against the sealing surface of the receiver fitting.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the seal body creates a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the seal body and the tube assembly end face so that fluid conveyed through the inner tube and the axial opening of the seal body does not leak between the tube sleeve, inner tube and collar.

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment, a fitting for a fluid connector in a chromatography system includes: a compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion, and a drive end; a tube having a body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk hole extending from a front end to a seating surface; and a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the seating surface of the countersunk hole, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk hole.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the compression screw includes a rear end opposite the driving end and at least one countersunk hole extending from the rear end.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, at least one countersunk hole includes a first countersunk hole extending to the first seating surface and a second countersunk hole extending from the first seating surface to the second seating surface, wherein the larger diameter portion is a ring welded to the body of the tube, the ring being sized to fit into the second countersunk hole.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the fitting includes a retainer cap attached to the rear end of the compression screw, the retainer cap being sized to be attached within the first countersunk hole with a press fit between the retainer cap and the first countersunk hole, the retainer cap being configured to contact the ring to drive the tube forward with the compression screw during compression by the compression screw.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, the retainer cap and compression screw are configured to rotate about the tube and the ring during tightening of the compression screw in the receiver fitting.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body is made of at least one of high temperature polyimide and polyetheretherketone.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, the countersunk hole includes a narrow wall portion extending axially from the seating surface toward the front end, the narrow wall portion being configured to receive the first end surface of the sealing body with a press fit.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body extends between the first end face and the second end face over a length that is greater than an axial length of the at least one countersunk hole.

[0039] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body is configured to deform on the front end of the tube body when compressed against a surface of the receiver fitting.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body includes an inner bore having a size equal to or greater than an inner diameter of the tube body.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, the compression screw includes a knurled grip portion at a rear end opposite the drive end, the knurled grip portion configured to facilitate manual tightening of the compression screw into the receiver fitting.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively, the compression screw is made of a wear resistant stainless steel material.

[0043] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for fluid connection in a chromatography system includes: providing a fitting, the fitting including: a compression screw, the compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion and a driving end; a tube, the tube having a main body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk hole extending from a front end to a seating surface; a sealing body, the sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the seating surface of the countersunk hole, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk hole; and fluidly connecting the fitting to a receiver fitting of the liquid chromatography system by manually tightening the compression screw without a tightening tool.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes maintaining a fluid tight seal between the first end surface of the seal body and a seating surface of the tube assembly; and conveying a fluid through the axial opening of the tube and the seal.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, the method includes deforming the sealing body over the front end of the tube when pressed against a surface of the receiver fitting.

[0046] In another exemplary embodiment, a fluid connector in a chromatography system includes: a fitting for a fluid connector in a chromatography system, the fitting including: a compression screw including an axial hole, a threaded portion, and a driving end; a tube having a main body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk hole extending from a front end to a seating surface; and a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face being adjacent to the seating surface of the countersunk hole, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk hole; and a receiver fitting having a threaded hole and an inner hole, the inner hole having a sealing surface at an end opposite to the threaded hole, the receiver fitting having a channel extending from the sealing surface to transfer fluid.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively, the threaded portion of the compression screw engages the threaded bore of the receiver fitting, thereby urging the second end surface of the seal body against the sealing surface of the receiver fitting.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body creates a fluid tight seal between a first end face of the sealing body and a seating surface of the countersunk hole and between a second end face of the sealing body and a sealing surface of the inner hole so that fluid conveyed through the passage of the tube and the axial opening of the sealing body does not leak from the passage of the tube and the axial opening of the sealing body.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body extends between the first end face and the second end face over a length that is greater than an axial length of the at least one countersunk hole.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the sealing body is deformed over the front end of the tube body and compressed against a sealing surface of the receiver fitting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The above and other advantages of the present invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements and features in each of the drawings. For clarity, not every element is labeled in every drawing. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but emphasis is placed on illustrating the principles of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 1 A block diagram of an embodiment of a liquid chromatography system is depicted.

[0053] Figure 2 Depicted Figure 1 Functional diagram of an embodiment of a sample manager of a liquid chromatography system.

[0054] Figure 3 Depicted is an illustration of an embodiment of fluidly coupling tubing to a stator portion of a rotary shear seal valve via a fitting.

[0055] Figure 4 Depicted is a Figures 1 to 3 An exploded perspective view of an exemplary accessory of the accessories.

[0056] Figure 5 Depicted is a Figure 4 Exploded side view of the accessories.

[0057] Figure 6 Depicted is a Figure 4 and Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory.

[0058] Figure 7 Depicted is a Figures 4 to 6 Perspective cutaway view of the accessory.

[0059] Figure 8 Depicted is a device attached to a receiver prior to fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 7 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory.

[0060] Fig. 9 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver after fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 7 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory.

[0061] Fig.10 Depicted is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary accessory according to one embodiment.

[0062] Fig.11 Depicted is a Fig.10 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory.

[0063] Fig.12 Depicted is a device attached to a receiver prior to fastening according to one embodiment. Fig.10 and Fig.11 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory.

[0064] Fig.13 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver after fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 10 to 12 A side cross-sectional view of an accessory. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present teachings. References to specific embodiments within this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0066] This teaching will now be described in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments of this teaching as shown in the accompanying drawings. Although this teaching has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, this teaching is not intended to be limited to such embodiments. In contrast, this teaching encompasses various substitutions, modifications and equivalents, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Those of ordinary skill who can use this teaching will recognize additional embodiments, modifications and embodiments within the scope of this disclosure as described herein, as well as other fields of use.

[0067] High pressure fittings for use in chromatography systems typically include compression members (e.g., ferrules) and compression screws to couple the fluid path in the tube to the fluid passage in the structure, which includes a receiving port for receiving the fitting. Hereinafter, a "compression screw" may be a compression nut or may be configured to engage with the receiving fitting and compress or push the fluid tube into other features in the receiving fitting. During installation, the installer slides the compression screw onto the tube, and then slides the ferrule onto the tube before inserting the tube into the receiving port. The installer tightens the compression screw while maintaining force on the tube to keep the end face of the tube in contact with the sealing surface at the bottom of the receiving port. The installer needs to understand the correct installation technique. If improperly installed or due to wear over time, damage may occur at the end face of the tube in contact with the sealing surface at the bottom of the receiving port. In addition, since the components of the fitting are not fully contained in the assembled state, the components may be misplaced or improperly handled before or during installation.

[0068] In short, the present invention seeks to provide an accessory for a liquid chromatography system that is fully contained and has no loose parts. Embodiments of the accessories disclosed herein are tool-free accessories that eliminate the need for installation tools and can be fully tightened by hand. In addition, the accessories described herein can be configured to eliminate debris generated by wear during tightening. The accessories described herein can be further configured to eliminate pinch points in the female receiver accessories and minimize seal creep and further eliminate dead volume. The accessories described herein can be configured for a variety of installation and tightening sequences without compromising connection integrity.

[0069] Figure 1An embodiment of a liquid chromatography system 10 for separating a sample into its components is shown. The liquid chromatography system 10 can be an HPLC, UPLC or SFC system. The liquid chromatography system 10 includes a solvent delivery system 12, which is in fluid communication with a sample manager 14 (also referred to as a syringe or autosampler) through a fluid pipe 16A. The solvent delivery system 12 includes a pump (not shown) in fluid communication with a solvent (or fluid) reservoir 18, and the pump draws solvent from the reservoir through a fluid conduit 20, which can be a fluid conduit, a pipeline, a tube or a channel. A chromatographic column 22 is in fluid communication with the sample manager 14 through a fluid pipe 16B. Fluid pipe 16C couples the output port of column 22 to a detector 24, such as a mass spectrometer, a UV detector or any other detector. Through fluid pipe 16C, detector 24 receives the separated components from column 22 and generates an output, from which the type and quantity of the analyte can be determined. As described herein, at various locations in the liquid chromatography system 10, fluid tubes 16A, 16B, 16C are connected to system components using high pressure fittings. Each fluid tube 16 refers to a section of tubing, rather than a single tube. Each tubing section may include a single tube or multiple tubes connected in series (e.g., through a valve, a T-fitting, etc.).

[0070] The sample manager 14 includes a syringe valve 26 having a sample loop 28. The solvent manager 14 operates in one of two states: a loading state and an injection state. In the loading state, the position of the syringe valve 26 causes the solvent manager 14 to load the sample into the sample loop 28; in the injection state, the position of the syringe valve 26 changes so that the solvent manager 14 introduces the sample in the sample loop 28 from the solvent delivery system 12 into the continuously flowing mobile phase. With the syringe valve 26 in the injection state, the mobile phase carries the sample into the column 22. To achieve this, the mobile phase reaches the syringe valve 26 through the input port 30 and leaves the syringe valve through the output port 32 together with the sample.

[0071] Various accessories in accordance with the principles of the invention as described below may be present within liquid chromatography system 10. For example, such accessories may be present where fluid tube 16A connects to input port 30 of injector valve 26, where fluid tube 16B connects to output port 32 of injector valve 26 and column 22, and where fluid tube 16C connects to the output end of column 22 and detector 24.

[0072] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, for example, in those embodiments in which the liquid chromatography system 10 is a CO2-based system, the sample manager 14 may also include an auxiliary valve 40 interposed between the solvent delivery system 12 and the syringe valve 26 and between the syringe valve 26 and the column 22. Generally speaking, the auxiliary valve 40 provides a fluid passage through which the syringe valve 26 can discharge. In this embodiment, the fluid tube 16A connects the solvent delivery system 12 to the first input port 42 of the auxiliary valve 40, and the fluid tube 16B connects the second output port 44 of the auxiliary valve 40 to the column 22. Fluid tubes 16D and 16E also connect the auxiliary valve 40 to the syringe valve 26; the fluid tube 16D connects the first output port 46 of the auxiliary valve 40 to the input port 30 of the syringe valve 26, and the fluid tube 16E connects the output port 32 of the syringe valve 26 to the second input port 48 of the auxiliary valve 40.

[0073] When valves 26, 40 are configured for sample injection, the arrows on fluid tubes 16A and 16D show the flow direction of the mobile phase toward the injector valve 26; those on fluid tubes 16E and 16B correspond to the flow of the mobile phase carrying the sample from the injector valve 26 toward the column 22.

[0074] Similar to combining Figure 1 The fluid tubes 16A, 16B, 16C, and additional fluid tubes 16D and 16E may also be coupled at their ends with fittings constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. More specifically, such fittings may be present at the point where the fluid tube 16D is connected to the first output port 46 of the auxiliary valve 40 and the input port 30 of the syringe valve 26, and at the point where the fluid tube 16E is connected to the output port 32 of the syringe valve 26 and the second input port 48 of the auxiliary valve 40.

[0075] Figure 3 An example of how a fluid tube 16B is coupled to a stator portion 52 of a rotary shear seal valve using a fluid coupling 50 through one of the receiving ports 54 is shown. For clarity, only one fitting connection is shown, but it should be understood that other fluid tubes 16B can be coupled to other receiving ports 54 of the stator portion 52 in a similar manner. The fluid tube 16B is shown extending into a compression screw 70. The compression screw 70 may also be described as a compression nut. Although the fluid tube 16B is shown for exemplary purposes, Figure 3 However, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be combined to connect any of the fluid tubes 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, 16E (collectively referred to as 16) of the liquid chromatography system 10 and a receiver or any other fluid system having fluid accessories.

[0076] Figure 4 Depicted is a Figures 1 to 3An exploded perspective view of an exemplary accessory in the accessory 100 is shown. Figure 5 Depicted is a Figure 4 100 is an exploded side view of an accessory. Accessory 100 can be configured to be connected to various liquid chromatography systems, such as 6 thousand pounds per square inch (ksi) systems, 10ksi systems and / or 20ksi systems. Accessory 100 can be configured to be used anywhere in liquid chromatography system 10, such as in a pump, a sample manager, a column module and / or its detector. Accessory 100 can be a tool-free accessory, which eliminates the need for installation tools and can be fully tightened by hand. Accessory 100 can be configured to eliminate the debris generated by wear during tightening. Accessory 100 can be further configured to eliminate the pinch point in the female receiver accessory and minimize seal creep and further eliminate dead volume. Accessory 100 can be configured for a variety of installations and tightening sequences without compromising connection integrity. All parts of accessory 100 can remain motionless once assembled as described herein, without loose parts that can fall or lose during use.

[0077] The fitting 100 is shown to include a seal body 110, a collar 112, a tube sleeve 114, a compression screw 116, a retainer ring 118, and an inner tube 120. Hereinafter, the combination of the tube sleeve 114 and the inner tube 120 will be referred to as the tube assembly 114, 120. The fitting 100 is shown with its component parts prior to manufacture, which may include welding, finishing, and / or crimping the various components 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 in an assembled state, as described herein below and in Figures 6 to 9 as shown in .

[0078] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the sealing body 110 of the fitting 100 extends between a first end face 122 and a second end face 124. The sealing body 110 includes an outer surface 126 and an inner bore 128. The inner bore 128 of the sealing body 110 may include an inner diameter in a range between 0.003 inches and 0.020 inches, depending on, for example, the inner diameter of the tube assembly 114, 120 and / or the female receiver fitting or the pressure requirements of a given application. The sealing body 110 may be made of, for example, a high temperature polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material. The sealing body 110 may also be made of a deformable material configured to be compressed under axial stress. However, in higher pressure applications, the sealing body 110 may be made of a metallic material (such as tantalum or niobium metal). The yield strength of the material of the sealing body 110 may be lower than the yield strength of the material of the components of the tube assembly 114, 120. The seal body 110 may be made of a creep resistant material and the seal body 110 may be fully constrained by the collar 112 when assembled to prevent creep and the need to periodically re-tighten the fitting 100 .

[0079] The fitting 100 also includes a tube sleeve 114. The tube sleeve 114 includes an outer surface 130 and extends between a front face 132 and a rear end 134. Extending within the tube sleeve 114 between the front face 132 and the rear end 134 is an inner passage 146 configured to receive the inner tube 120. The tube sleeve 114 includes an outer reduced diameter portion 136 extending from the front face 132. The collar 112 is configured to extend over the outer reduced diameter portion 136 when the fitting 100 is assembled, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 shown.

[0080] The tube sleeve 114 also includes a conical or tapered surface 138 that expands the outer diameter of the tube sleeve 114. The conical or tapered surface 138 extends to a push surface 140 that is configured to receive an axial load from the surface of the compression screw 116. The push surface 140 is a circumferential surface that extends perpendicular to the axial direction of the tube sleeve 114 and the fitting 100. The push surface 140 extends radially to a circumferential seating portion 142 that is configured to be received by a corresponding countersunk hole of the compression screw 116. The conical or tapered surface 138, the push surface 140, and the circumferential seating portion 142 are shown as component elements of the tube sleeve 114. However, in some embodiments, the tube sleeve 114 having the dimensions shown may be composed of two or more separate components that are welded or otherwise attached together.

[0081] The tube sleeve 114 extends to the rear end 134 where the circumferential channel 144 is located. The circumferential channel 144 can be configured to receive and retain the retainer ring 118 in a fixed position along the axial length of the tube sleeve 114. The tube sleeve 114 can be configured to be welded with the inner tube 120 so that movement of the tube sleeve 114 causes movement on the inner tube 120.

[0082] The collar 112 is shown as being securable to each of the outer surface 130 of the tube sleeve 114 (particularly at the reduced outer diameter portion 136) and the outer surface 126 of the seal body 110. The collar 112 extends between a first end 148 and a second end 150. The collar 112 includes a thin wall portion 152 extending from the first end 148 and a thick wall portion 154 extending from the thin wall portion 152 to the second end 150. A circumferential ridge 156 is defined by the difference in thickness between the thin wall portion 152 and the thick wall portion 154. The circumferential ridge 156 defines a surface configured to contact the end face of the tube assembly 114, 120, and specifically the front end face 132 thereof. Each of the thick wall portion 154 and the thin wall portion 152 can be configured to be press-fitted onto the corresponding seal body 112 and the reduced outer diameter portion 136 of the tube sleeve 114.

[0083] The compression screw 116 extends between the push end face 158 and the rear end 160 and includes a passage 166 extending between the push end face 158 and the rear end 160. The passage 166 may be configured to receive the rear portion of the tube sleeve 114. The reduced diameter portion 168 of the passage 168 may be configured to cooperate with the retainer ring 118 to act as a stop and prevent the tube assemblies 114, 120 from axially moving relative to the compression screw 116. Specifically, the retainer ring 118 may have a larger outer diameter than the reduced diameter portion 168, thereby preventing the retainer ring 118 from axially moving past the reduced diameter portion 168 toward the push end face 158.

[0084] The compression screw 116 may be made of a wear-resistant stainless steel material to prevent wear and prevent the generation of debris due to friction between the compression screw 116 and the female receiver fitting, such as Figures 8 to 9 However, the contemplated embodiments may be made of any metallic material. Non-wear resistant materials are also contemplated. Non-wear resistant materials may be gold plated to reduce wear.

[0085] The push end face 158 of the compression screw 116 includes a flat circumferential surface that is configured to abut against and apply an axial load to the push surface 140 of the tube sleeve 114. Extending from the push end face 158 of the compression screw 116 is a countersunk hole 162 that is configured to receive and engage the circumferential seating portion 142. The compression screw 116 also includes threads 164 proximate the push end face 158 that are configured to interface with the internal threads of a female receiver fitting, such as Figures 8 to 9 shown.

[0086] The compression screw 116 includes an end knob 168 having a knurled grip portion 170. The end knob 168 may have a sufficient circumference and / or radius so that installation can be accomplished by hand without the use of installation tools. The knurls are shown as linear knurls, but other embodiments are contemplated, such as diamond or diagonal knurls. Although the illustrated embodiment includes an extended diameter hand-tightened end knob 168, other embodiments of aspects of the present invention may instead employ a typical tool-tightened end. For example, it is contemplated that various embodiments of sealing bodies, collars, and tube assemblies consistent with the present disclosure may include a tool-less or tool-required compression screw 116.

[0087] The fitting 100 also includes an inner tube 120 extending between a first end 172 and a second end 174 and having a tube body 176 and a passage 178 extending through the tube body. The inner tube 120 can be any length suitable for liquid chromatography applications. The inner tube 120 can be made of, for example, stainless steel. By way of specific size examples, the inner and outer dimensions of the inner tube 120 can be 0.004 inches and 0.025 inches, respectively. However, various sizes of the inner tube 120 can be provided, depending on the type of liquid chromatography application and the pressure and volume flow rate at which the fitting 100 and the inner tube 120 are configured to operate.

[0088] Figure 6 Depicts an assembled state according to one embodiment Figure 4 and Figure 5 1. A side cross-sectional view of the fitting 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the relative position of the compression screw 116 is fixed relative to the tube assemblies 114, 120 by the push surface 140 and the circumferential seating portion 142 on one side and the retainer ring 118 on the other side. Thus, the compression screw 116 can be axially constrained relative to the tube assemblies 114, 120 by these elements 140, 142, 118 while still being able to rotate axially relative to the tube assemblies 114, 120.

[0089] Additionally, the collar 112 is shown secured to each of the seal body 110 and the tube sleeve 114. In one embodiment, the collar 112 may include two circumferential curls, one circumferential curl at the thin wall portion 152 for securing the collar 112 to the reduced outer diameter portion 136, and another circumferential curl at the thick wall portion 154 for securing the collar 112 to the seal body 110. The two circumferential curls may be a press fit to hold and secure the seal body 110 within the collar 112. Once secured, the second end face 124 of the seal body 110 is configured to extend past the second end 150 of the collar. The amount that the second end face 124 extends over the second end 150 may vary depending on the application and material properties of the seal body. As shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown, the extended second end surface 124 of the seal body 110 may be configured to deform about the second end 150 of the collar 112 when the seal body 110 is under compression and pressed against the sealing surface by an axial load.

[0090] Figure 7 Depicted is a diagram of a seal prior to attaching the collar 112 and the seal body 110 according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 6 100 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the accessory 100. Specifically, Figure 7The fitting 100 is shown after the inner tube 120 and the tube sleeve 114 are attached via a welding process. Specifically, the inner tube 120 and the tube sleeve 114 may be aligned at their ends first. A circumferential weld 182 may be applied at the end face created by each of the front end face 132 of the tube sleeve 114 and the first end 172 of the inner tube 120. The weld 182 may be specifically located at the end face of the tube assembly 114, 120. Once welded, a polishing, sanding or smoothing process may be employed to flatten the polished end face surface 180, as shown. The polished end face 180 provides a flat, smooth and / or uniform sealing surface that is configured to promote and improve sealing when the sealing body 110 is pressed against the polished end face 180. In one embodiment, the weld 182 may be the only attachment form between the inner tube 120 and the tube sleeve 114. In other embodiments, one or more additional welds may be located at one or more different axial locations along the inner tube 120 and the tube sleeve 114 .

[0091] Figure 8 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver 200 prior to fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 7 A side cross-sectional view of the accessory 100 is shown. Fig. 9 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver 200 after fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 7 100. The receiver 200 can be a female receiver fitting, or any other type of fitting configured to connect, mate, or create a fluid connection with a male fitting (such as the fitting 100). The female receiver 200 is shown to include a threaded hole 218 extending from an open end. A tapered hole 216 extends from the threaded hole 218 deeper into the receiver 200. An inner bore 213 extends from the tapered hole 216 to a sealing surface 214. A passage 210 extends from the sealing surface 214 through which fluid from the fitting 100 is configured to be conveyed. As shown, the tapered surface 138 of the fitting 100 is shown to be aligned with the tapered hole 216 of the receiver 200, while the second end face 124 of the sealing body 110 is adjacent to the sealing surface 214 of the receiver 200. As shown in the figure, the tapered surface 138 of the fitting 100 is shown to be aligned with the tapered hole 216 of the receiver 200, and the second end face 124 of the sealing body 110 is adjacent to the sealing surface 214 of the receiver 200. Fig. 9 As shown, when seal body 110 is placed under axial compression by tightening compression screw 116 within female receiver 200 , seal body 110 is configured to deform on second end 150 of collar 112 , as depicted by enlarged circumferential portion 184 .

[0092] According to the illustrated embodiments and figures, a method of manufacturing the fitting 100 is also contemplated. For example, the method of manufacturing the fitting 100 may include welding a tube sleeve (such as the tube sleeve 114) and an inner tube (such as the inner tube 120) at an end face (such as the front end face 132 and the first end 172) of each of the tube sleeve and the inner tube to create a tube assembly having a welded tube assembly end face (such as the polished surface 180). The manufacturing method may also include polishing the welded tube assembly end face after welding the ends of the tube sleeve and the inner tube. In addition, the method may include abutting a surface of a sealing body (such as the sealing body 110) with the welded tube assembly end face and fixing a collar (such as the collar 112) to the outer surface of the tube sleeve and the outer surface of the sealing body. The fixing may include, for example, press-fitting the collar to each of the outer surface of the tube sleeve and the outer surface of the sealing body. Assembly of the fitting according to the method may thus include maintaining a fluid tight seal between a surface of the seal body and the welded pipe assembly end face so that fluid conveyed through the inner tube and the axial opening of the seal does not leak between the tube sleeve, inner tube and collar.

[0093] Other methods contemplated include creating a fluid coupling in a chromatography system, such as a liquid chromatography system. The method may include providing a fitting, such as fitting 100, and fluidly coupling the fitting to a receiver fitting of the liquid chromatography system by manually tightening a compression screw, such as compression screw 116, of the fitting without a tightening tool, such as a wrench. The method includes maintaining a fluid tight seal between a first end face of a sealing body, such as first end face 122 of sealing body 110, and an end face of a tube assembly, such as end face 180 of tube assemblies 114, 120. The method may include conveying a fluid through an inner tube, such as inner tube 120, and an axial opening, such as inner bore 128, of the sealing body. The method may also include avoiding any leakage of fluid between a tube sleeve, an inner tube, and a collar, such as tube sleeve 114, inner tube 120, and collar 112 of fitting 100. The method may include deforming the sealing body on an end of the collar when pressed against a surface of the receiver fitting, such as Fig. 9 Deformation shown.

[0094] Fig.10 Depicted is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary accessory 300 according to one embodiment. Fig.11 Depicted is a Fig.10 Like accessory 100, accessory 300 can be Figures 1 to 3300 is configured to be connected to various liquid chromatography systems, such as 6,000 pounds per square inch (ksi) systems, 10ksi systems and / or 20ksi systems. Similar to accessory 100, accessory 300 can be a tool-free accessory, which eliminates the need for installation tools and can be fully tightened by hand. Accessory 300 can be configured to eliminate the debris generated by wear during tightening. Accessory 300 can be further configured to eliminate the pinch point in the female receiver accessory and minimize seal creep and further eliminate dead volume. Accessory 300 can be configured for a variety of installation and tightening sequences without compromising connection integrity. Accessory 300 is shown as including a compression screw 310, a push ring 312, a retainer cap 314, a sealing body 316 and a tube 318. Different from accessory 100, accessory 300 does not include a tube sleeve, but only includes a single tube 318.

[0095] The compression screw 310 extends between a front end 320 and a rear end 322 and includes a passage 324 extending between the front end 320 and the rear end 322. The passage 324 can be configured to receive the tube 318. The reduced diameter portion 326 of the passage 324 can be configured to receive the tube 318 with a clearance fit that allows the tube 318 to slide through the reduced diameter portion 326. The compression screw 310 includes external threads 328 that are configured to be received by female threads of a female receiver fitting, such as Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG.

[0096] The compression screw 310 is a first countersunk hole 334 having a first perimeter extending from the rear end 322. The first countersunk hole 334 extends to a first seating surface 335. A second countersunk hole 336 extends from the first countersunk hole 334 further from the rear end 322, having a second perimeter less than the first perimeter. The second countersunk hole 336 extends to a second seating surface 337. The second countersunk hole 336 can be configured to receive the push ring 312 with a clearance fit that allows the compression screw 310 to rotate freely about the push ring 312. The first countersunk hole 334 can be configured to receive a portion of the retainer cap 314 with an interference fit or press fit attachment, so that rotation of the compression screw 310 causes rotation of the retainer cap 314. In other embodiments, the retainer cap 314 can be configured to be welded, adhered, or otherwise permanently attached to the end of the compression screw 310.

[0097] The compression screw 310 may be made of a wear-resistant stainless steel material to prevent wear and prevent the generation of debris due to friction between the compression screw 310 and the female receiver fitting, such as Figure 12 to Figure 13 However, the contemplated embodiments may be made of any metallic material. Non-wear resistant materials are also contemplated. Non-wear resistant materials may be gold plated to reduce wear.

[0098] The compression screw 310 includes an end knob 330 having a knurled grip portion 332. The end knob 330 may have a sufficient circumference and / or radius so that installation can be accomplished by hand without the use of installation tools. The knurling is shown as a linear knurling, but other embodiments are contemplated, such as diamond or diagonal knurling. Although the illustrated embodiment includes an extended diameter hand-tightened end knob 330, other embodiments of various aspects of the present invention may instead employ a typical tool-tightened end. For example, it is contemplated that various embodiments of sealing bodies, collars, and tube assemblies consistent with the present disclosure may include a tool-less or tool-required compression screw 310.

[0099] The push ring 312 may be made of stainless steel or other metallic material capable of being welded to the outer surface of the tube 318. Prior to attachment, the push ring 312 may include a circular central opening configured to receive the tube 318. When welded or otherwise attached or secured to the tube 318, the push ring 312 creates a tube having a larger diameter portion (i.e., the push ring 312) that is configured to move or push axially with the compression screw 310. The push ring 312 may be sized to fit into the second countersunk hole 336 of the compression screw 310 with a gap to allow the push ring 312 to rotate about the compression screw 310. In other embodiments, the push ring 312 may be a component circumferential protrusion, ridge, or other larger diameter portion of the tube 318 that may similarly fit into the second countersunk hole 336 of the compression screw 310.

[0100] The retainer cap 314 includes a body 345, the circumference of which covers most or all of the surface area of ​​the rear end 322 of the compression screw 310. The retainer cap 314 includes a circumferential extension portion 346 extending from the body 345 of the retainer cap 314. The circumferential extension portion 346 can be a circumference corresponding to the circumference of the first countersunk hole 334 of the compression screw 310. The circumferential extension portion 346 is configured to be attached to the rear end of the compression screw 310 within the first countersunk hole 334 in a press fit or interference fit arrangement. If necessary, the circumferential extension portion 346 can be further attached to the compression screw 310 with an adhesive or a weld. Regardless of the embodiment, the retainer cap 314 can be configured to rotate with the compression screw 310. The retainer cap 314 also includes a circumferential narrow ring contact portion 348 extending from the circumferential extension portion 346 and configured to contact the push ring 312. The contact portion 348 may be configured to securely hold the push ring 312 in place between the retainer cap 314 and the second seating surface 337 of the second countersunk hole 336 , while still allowing rotation between the push ring 312 and the compression screw 310 and the retainer cap 314 .

[0101] The sealing body 316 of the fitting 300 extends between the first end face 352 and the second end face 354. The sealing body 316 includes an outer surface and an inner bore 356. The inner bore 356 of the sealing body 316 may include an inner diameter in the range between 0.003 inches and 0.020 inches, depending on, for example, the inner diameter of the tube 318 and / or the female receiver fitting or the pressure requirements of a given application. The sealing body 316 may be made of, for example, a high temperature polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material. The sealing body 316 may also be made of a deformable material configured to compress under axial stress. However, in higher pressure applications, the sealing body 316 may be made of a metallic material (such as tantalum or niobium metal). The yield strength of the material of the sealing body 316 may be lower than the yield strength of the material of the components of the tube 318. The sealing body 316 may be made of a creep-resistant material, and the sealing body 316 may be fully constrained by the tube 318 when assembled to prevent creep and prevent the need to periodically re-tighten the fitting 300.

[0102] The tube 318 includes a body extending between a first end 356 and a second end 358 and having a passage 360 ​​extending through the body. The tube 318 can be any length suitable for the liquid chromatography application. The tube 318 can be made of, for example, stainless steel. By way of specific size examples, the inner and outer dimensions of the tube 318 can be 0.004 inches and 0.025 inches, respectively. However, various sizes of the tube 318 can be provided, depending on the type of liquid chromatography application and the pressure and volume flow rate at which the fitting 300 and the tube 318 are configured to operate.

[0103] The tube 318 may also include a counterbore 362 extending from the first end 356 to the seating surface 363. The outer surface of the seal body 316 may be sized to fit within the counterbore 362 of the tube 318. Specifically, the counterbore 362 may be a narrower or thinner portion of the wall of the tube 318 relative to the remainder of the length of the tube 318, the narrower or thinner portion extending from the seating surface 363 toward the first end 356. The narrower or thinner portion may be configured to receive the second end face 354 of the seal body in a press fit, friction fit, or interference fit relationship. When positioned in the counterbore 362, the seal body 316 may have a length between its first end face 352 and second end face 354 that is greater than the length of the counterbore 362, such that the seal body 316 extends from the first end 356 of the tube 318.

[0104] Fig.12 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver 200 after fastening according to one embodiment. Figure 10 to Figure 11 A side cross-sectional view of accessory 300 is provided. Fig.13 Depicted is a schematic diagram of a device attached to a receiver 200 after fastening according to one embodiment. Figures 4 to 7300. Although fitting 300 may be configured to attach to the same type of receiver as fitting 100 described above, fittings 100, 300 may be sized to create fluid connections with a variety of female receiver fittings. As shown, tapered surface 329 of fitting 300 is shown aligned with tapered bore 216 of receiver 200, while second end face 352 of sealing body 316 abuts sealing surface 214 of receiver 200. External threads 328 of compression screw 310 engage threads 218 of receiver fitting 200. As shown in FIG. Fig.13 As shown, when the seal body 316 is placed under axial compression by tightening the compression screw 310 within the female receiver 200 via the engagement of the threads 328, 218. This tightening creates axial compression on the seal body 316, which is configured to deform on the first end 356 of the tube 318, as depicted by the enlarged circumferential portion 365.

[0105] Methods of fluidly coupling using an accessory, such as accessory 300, are contemplated. For example, the method may include providing an accessory, such as accessory 300. The method may include fluidly coupling the accessory to a receiver accessory, such as receiver 200, of a liquid chromatography system by manually tightening a compression screw without a tightening tool. The method may include maintaining a fluid tight seal between a first end face of a sealing body and a seating surface of a tube assembly and conveying fluid through an axial opening of an inner tube and a seal. The method may include deforming the sealing body on a front end of the tube when pressed against a surface of the receiver accessory and conveying fluid through the tube, the sealing body, and the receiver accessory.

[0106] Although the present invention has been shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as recited in the appended claims. For example, in some embodiments, the removable sealing device may not include a support sleeve, or may include a support sleeve that is not made of a metallic material. Other variations may be envisioned without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.

Claims

1. An accessory for a fluid connection in a chromatography system, the accessory comprising: a compression screw comprising an axial hole, a threaded portion and a drive end; a tube having a body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk bore extending from a forward end to a seating surface; and A sealing body extends between a first end surface and a second end surface, the first end surface abutting the seating surface of the countersunk bore, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk bore.

2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the compression screw includes a rear end opposite the driving end and at least one countersunk hole extending from the rear end.

3. The fitting of claim 2, wherein the at least one countersunk hole comprises a first countersunk hole extending to a first seating surface and a second countersunk hole extending from the first seating surface to a second seating surface, wherein the larger diameter portion is a ring welded to the body of the tube, the ring being sized to fit into the second countersunk hole.

4. The fitting of claim 3, further comprising a retainer cap attached to the rear end of the compression screw, the retainer cap being sized to be attached within the first countersunk bore with a press fit between the retainer cap and the first countersunk bore, the retainer cap being configured to contact the ring to drive the tube forward with the compression screw during compression by the compression screw.

5. The fitting of claim 4, wherein the retainer cap and the compression screw are configured to rotate about the tube and the ring during tightening of the compression screw in a receiver fitting.

6. The fitting of claim 1, wherein the seal body is made of at least one of a high temperature polyimide and polyetheretherketone.

7. The fitting of claim 1, wherein the counterbore includes a narrow wall portion extending axially from the seating surface toward the front end, the narrow wall portion being configured to receive the first end surface of the seal body in a press fit.

8. The fitting of claim 7, wherein the seal body extends between the first and second end faces for a length greater than an axial length of the at least one countersunk bore.

9. The fitting of claim 8, wherein the sealing body is configured to deform on the forward end of the tube body when compressed against a surface of a receiver fitting.

10. The fitting for a fluid coupling according to claim 1, wherein the sealing body comprises an inner hole having a size equal to or larger than an inner diameter of the pipe body.

11. The fitting for a fluid coupling of claim 1 , wherein the compression screw includes a knurled gripping portion at a rear end opposite the drive end, the knurled gripping portion being configured to facilitate manual tightening of the compression screw into a receiver fitting.

12. The fitting for a fluid coupling according to claim 1, wherein the compression screw is made of a wear-resistant stainless steel material.

13. A method for fluid coupling in a chromatography system, the method comprising: Accessories are provided, including: a compression screw comprising an axial hole, a threaded portion and a drive end; a tube having a body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk bore extending from a forward end to a seating surface; a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face abutting the seating surface of the countersunk bore, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk bore; and The fitting is fluidly coupled to a receiver fitting of a liquid chromatography system by manually tightening the compression screw without a tightening tool.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: maintaining a fluid tight seal between the first end surface of the seal body and the seating surface of the tube assembly; as well as Fluid is conveyed through the axial opening of the tube and the seal.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: The sealing body is deformed over the front end of the tube when pressed against a surface of a receiver fitting.

16. A fluid connection in a chromatography system, the fluid connection comprising: An accessory for a fluid connection, the accessory comprising: a compression screw comprising an axial hole, a threaded portion and a drive end; a tube having a body and a larger diameter portion, the tube being configured to move axially with the compression screw, the tube including a countersunk bore extending from a front end to a seating surface; and a sealing body extending between a first end face and a second end face, the first end face abutting the seating surface of the countersunk bore, the sealing body including an outer surface sized to fit within the countersunk bore; and A receiver fitting having a threaded hole and an inner bore having a sealing surface at an end opposite the threaded hole, the receiver fitting having a passage extending from the sealing surface for transferring a fluid.

17. The fluid coupling of claim 16, wherein the threaded portion of the compression screw engages the threaded bore of the receiver fitting to urge the second end surface of the seal body against the sealing surface of the receiver fitting.

18. A fluid coupling according to claim 17, wherein the sealing body creates a fluid-tight seal between the first end surface of the sealing body and the seating surface of the countersunk hole and between the second end surface of the sealing body and the sealing surface of the inner hole, so that the fluid conveyed through the passage of the tube and the axial opening of the sealing body does not leak from the passage of the tube and the axial opening of the sealing body.

19. The fluid coupling of claim 16, wherein the seal body extends a length between the first end surface and the second end surface that is greater than an axial length of the at least one counterbore.

20. The fluid coupling of claim 19, wherein the sealing body deforms over the forward end of the tube body and compresses against the sealing surface of the receiver fitting.

21. A method of manufacturing a fitting (100) for a fluid connection in a chromatography system, the method comprising: welding the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) at an end face of each of the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) to create a tube assembly (114, 120) having a welded tube assembly end face (132); polishing the welded pipe assembly end face (132), wherein the welded pipe assembly end face (132) is a sealing surface configured to seal with a sealing body (110); abutting a first sealing body end surface (122) of the sealing body (110) against the welded pipe assembly end surface (132); as well as A collar (112) is secured to an outer surface (130) of the tube sleeve (114) and an outer surface (126) of the seal body (110).

22. The method of claim 21, wherein securing the collar (112) further comprises: The collar (112) is press fit to each of an outer surface (130) of the tube sleeve (114) and an outer surface (126) of the seal body (110).

23. The method according to claim 22, further comprising: A fluid tight seal is maintained between the first sealing body end face (122) of the sealing body (110) and the welded tube assembly end face (132) so that fluid conveyed through the inner tube (120) and the axial opening of the sealing body (110) does not leak between the tube sleeve (114), the inner tube (120) and the collar (112).

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the tube sleeve (114) includes a reduced outer diameter portion (136) having a continuous outer diameter extending axially from the end face.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: A portion of the collar (112) is press fit onto the reduced outer diameter portion (136) of the tube sleeve (114).

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the collar (112) includes a thin-walled portion (152) extending from a first end (148) and a thick-walled portion (154) extending from the thin-walled portion (152) to a second end (150), wherein a circumferential inner ridge (156) is defined by a difference in thickness between the thin-walled portion (152) and the thick-walled portion (154), wherein the circumferential inner ridge (156) defines a surface that contacts the end face (132) of the welded pipe assembly.

27. The method of claim 25, further comprising: At least one circumferential curl is curled in the collar (112) to secure the collar (112) to the reduced outer diameter portion (136) of the tube sleeve (114).

28. The method according to claim 27, further comprising: Two circumferential curls are curled in the collar (112) to secure the collar (112) to the reduced outer diameter portion (136) of the tube sleeve (114).

29. The method of claim 21, further comprising: The collar (112) is secured to the seal body (110) such that the collar (112) extends between a first seal body end face (122) and a second seal body end face (124).

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: The sealing body (110) is made of at least one of high temperature polyimide and polyetheretherketone.

31. The method of claim 21, wherein welding the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) at an end face of each of the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) to create a tube assembly (114, 120) having a welded tube assembly end face (132) comprises: A circumferential weld is created at the welded tube assembly end face (132).

32. The method of claim 21, further comprising: The end faces of each of the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) are aligned before welding.

33. The method of claim 21, wherein the sealing body (110) is made of a deformable material.

34. A method of manufacturing a fitting (100) for a fluid connection in a chromatography system, the method comprising: The following parts are available: A compression screw (116) comprising an axial bore (166), a threaded portion (164) and a drive end (160); A tube assembly (114, 120), the tube assembly comprising a tube sleeve (114) and an inner tube (120) disposed through the tube sleeve (114), the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) each extending to an end surface (132) of the tube assembly (114, 120), the tube sleeve (114) comprising an outer surface (130); a sealing body (110) extending between a first end surface (122) and a second end surface (124), the sealing body (110) including an outer surface (126); and A collar (112); welding the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) at an end face of each of the tube sleeve and the inner tube to create a tube assembly (114, 120) having a welded tube assembly end face (132), wherein the tube sleeve (114) includes a reduced outer diameter portion (136) extending from the welded tube assembly end face (132); abutting a first end surface (122) of a sealing body (110) against an end surface (132) of the welded pipe assembly; and A collar (112) is secured to an outer surface (130) of the tube sleeve (114) and an outer surface (126) of the seal body (110).

35. A method of manufacturing a fitting (100) for a fluid coupling in a chromatography system, the method comprising: welding the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) at an end face of each of the tube sleeve (114) and the inner tube (120) to create a tube assembly (114, 120) having a welded tube assembly end face (132), the tube sleeve (114) including a reduced outer diameter portion (136) having a constant outer diameter extending axially from the welded tube assembly end face (132); polishing the welded pipe assembly end face (132), wherein the welded pipe assembly end face (132) is a sealing surface configured to seal with a sealing body (110); abutting a first end surface (122) of a sealing body (110) against an end surface (132) of the welded pipe assembly; and A collar (112) is press-fitted onto the reduced outer diameter portion (136) of the tube sleeve (114).

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