End fitting component for use with a chromatography column

Abstract

An end-assembly component for use in a chromatographic column is provided. The end-assembly component has a body and a raised central portion, the raised central portion having at least one groove therein. The end-assembly component is configured to abut against a sieve plate assembly of the chromatographic column. A fluid distribution device is also provided, having a body and a raised central portion with at least one groove. Fluid entering the column is distributed through at least one groove connected to a central orifice. The fluid is uniformly distributed through the groove and the entire surface of the sieve plate of the column. A chromatographic column having the end-assembly component is also provided.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 515,862, filed July 27, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] The use of chromatography as a laboratory analytical tool is well-known, particularly in applications related to the pharmaceutical industry and drug development, chemical manufacturing, and clinical toxicology laboratories. During column operation, mixtures of different chemicals and analytes of interest are separated into substituted components for detection and quantification. The most important component of a chromatographic system is the column itself. Inside the column, there exists a chemically modified adsorbent or packing material known as the stationary phase. A liquid containing the analyte of interest and various buffer solutions is pumped through the column. This is called the mobile phase. As the analyte passes through the column, the separation of various chemical compounds occurs because each chemical compound has different attractiveness and interactions with the mobile and stationary phases.

[0004] A typical chromatographic column comprises various system components joined at the inlet and outlet of the system, including sieve plates, end caps, and tubing through which the sample of interest is fed. Mechanical filters are placed at the inlet and outlet ends of the column to retain the stationary phase and prevent unwanted particles from the sample from entering. These filters are generally known and are referred to as sieve plates, sieve meshes, or sieve grates. These sieve plates must be fine enough to retain the stationary phase, but permeable enough to allow mobile phase and analyte molecules to pass through. The stationary phase can have particles a few micrometers in diameter or smaller. In addition to retaining the chromatographic stationary medium or packing material in the column, filters or sieve plates also act as physical filters, blocking particulate contaminants that may be present in the sample or mobile phase or generated by particle degradation. For example, in analytical settings, samples often include blood and plasma, which contain biological components and debris that can clog sieve plates and reduce column life. This occurs particularly in the central portion of the sieve plate, where the sample contacts the sieve plate through the inlet injection tube. Sometimes the sample is not uniformly distributed across the entire surface area of ​​the sieve plate, and therefore, clogging occurs in the concentrated central portion of the sieve plate. This problem is exacerbated during column stationary packing (in pressurized settings), as the sieve plate can be pushed into what is known as a four-degree dispersion cone. Once the sieve plate deforms into a dispersion cone, the fluid sample entering the sieve mesh is concentrated in specific areas, rather than being uniformly and consistently distributed across the entire surface area of ​​the sieve plate. The fluid entering the column is primarily concentrated in the center of the sieve mesh. If the fluid flow leaving the column is not uniformly concentrated, the elution peaks of the sample will be interfered with, leading to less accurate analysis of liquid samples. Furthermore, the uneven fluid distribution at the sieve plate will cause blockage in the center of the sieve plate, resulting in a shortened column life and the need for column replacement. This is an expensive and time-consuming problem for laboratory environments that rely on the reliability of the column to process their samples efficiently and promptly.

[0005] One current solution to improve the problem of debris or particle clogging in column sieve plates is to use a separate guard column attached to the column itself. As the name suggests, the purpose of a guard column is to prevent these problems and it acts as the first screening device for the fluid entering the chromatographic column. HPLC guard columns help remove particulate contaminants and highly absorbent compounds from the sample before it enters the column itself, thus extending column life. Ideally, the guard column should contain the same stationary phase as the analytical column. The disadvantage of relying on guard columns is that they need to be replaced regularly when clogged and are an expensive way to extend column life. Especially for users in high-volume applications, where maximizing the number of injections on the column is paramount without increasing the complexity of using a guard column, which must be replaced very frequently, increasing labor and material costs, the guard column is particularly problematic.

[0006] Therefore, the industry needs a method to ensure the operational integrity of the column is not affected by fluid flow distortion and debris buildup at the inlet screen.

[0007] In addition, a device is needed to ensure the structural integrity of the screen mesh during the filling process of the column, so as to prevent the screen mesh from deforming into a four-degree cone.

[0008] There is also a need in the art for a device that ensures uniform flow distribution across the entire surface area of ​​the screen plate to avoid clogging problems in the central portion of the screen plate. Additionally, a solution is needed that reduces the necessity of using guard columns, as replacing guard columns is expensive and time-consuming for operators. Finally, there remains a need to extend column life by reducing the need to replace columns due to clogging or flow distribution problems at the inlet screen plate. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure relates to end-assembly components designed to integrate with a sieve plate assembly and end cap in a chromatographic column. More specifically, this document proposes end-assembly components that can be positioned behind the inlet sieve plate assembly and can be internally fitted into a recess in the inlet end cap. The end-assembly components allow for structural support of the sieve plate, preventing deformation during packing, and additionally allow for equal distribution of fluid to the sieve plate during column operation, ensuring that the fluid sample passing through the sieve plate contacts the entire surface area, rather than being concentrated only in the central area of ​​the sieve plate. The end-assembly components disclosed herein improve column lifetime by reducing clogging problems that typically occur with sieve plate assemblies, and thus increase the number of possible runs within a single column. This, in turn, reduces the operating equipment and labor costs associated with the chromatographic apparatus.

[0010] In one embodiment of this disclosure, an end-assembly component is disclosed, designed to engage within a recess in the end cap of a chromatography column. The end-assembly component has a body portion. On the top side of the body portion, there is a raised central portion protruding from the body portion of the end-assembly component. The raised central portion is centrally located within the top side of the body portion and is itself circular in shape. Located within and contained in the raised central portion is at least one recess, or in some embodiments, multiple recesses. An orifice is located in the middle of the raised central portion. The orifice connects to at least one of the at least one recess. When a fluid sample is injected into the inlet end cap of the chromatography column, it will pass through the orifice of the end-assembly component, and it will then flow and be distributed within the recess of the raised central portion. The fluid will then be distributed onto the surface region of a sieve plate located just before the column inlet orifice.

[0011] In this embodiment, at least one groove is presented in a helical configuration. More specifically, at least one groove is connected to the hole and extends outward from the hole in a helical design. Additional peripheral grooves exist. The peripheral grooves have a circular shape and are positioned along the peripheral edge of the central portion of the protrusion. The peripheral grooves are concentric with the hole and are not helical in configuration. At least one groove in the helical configuration is connected to the peripheral groove, meaning they have an endpoint terminating at the peripheral groove.

[0012] In another embodiment, the central portion of the protrusion includes at least one groove, or a plurality of grooves arranged in a concentric circular configuration. The at least one groove here exists in a repeating concentric circular configuration, meaning they have circular paths and are adjacent to and surround each other, starting from the central hole and extending to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion. At least one groove in the concentric configuration is connected to each other via at least one or more through channels. The through channels are designed to connect each concentric groove to a path for fluid flow. In this embodiment, the through channels extend in a helical configuration from the hole through the grooves and terminate at the last peripheral groove. Therefore, the through channels provide a path for fluid to flow from the central hole through each concentric groove, so that the fluid entering the end assembly is evenly distributed on the surface area of ​​the central portion of the protrusion, and thus evenly distributed on the surface area of ​​the screen plate as the screen plate moves forward to the column assembly.

[0013] A fluid distribution device is also disclosed. The disclosed fluid distribution device includes a main body portion having a bottom side and a top side. A raised central portion protrudes from the top side of the fluid distribution device. The raised central portion is centrally located within the top side of the main body portion. At least one groove is located within and contained in the raised central portion. An orifice is located in the middle of the raised central portion. The orifice is connected to at least one of the at least one groove. The orifice located within the raised central portion extends through the main body portion and serves as a fluid inlet, through which a sample can be injected via the end cap of a chromatographic column. The fluid sample entering the chromatographic column passes through the orifice within the fluid distribution device and is then uniformly distributed through the surface area of ​​a sieve plate assembly at the column inlet.

[0014] A chromatographic apparatus is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the chromatographic apparatus includes:

[0015] A tubular body having a first opening and a second opening;

[0016] A first sieve plate assembly and a second sieve plate assembly, wherein the first sieve plate assembly is located at the first opening and the second sieve plate assembly is located at the second opening;

[0017] An end-mounted component is recessed into the first end cap and abuts against the first sieve plate assembly.

[0018] The end assembly components include:

[0019] Main body;

[0020] A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion;

[0021] At least one groove, which is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; and

[0022] A hole, which is connected to at least one groove.

[0023] The tubular body having a first opening and a second opening is also referred to as the column portion of the chromatographic apparatus. The column will have packing material or stationary medium within its inner diameter. The stationary medium is typically composed of particles, preferably having a spherical shape. The particles can vary in size, material, and surface functionality. The chromatographic apparatus incorporates a first sieve plate and a second sieve plate. The first and second sieve plates are located at the first opening (also referred to as the inlet opening) and the second opening (also referred to as the outlet opening) of the column. The first and second sieve plates are typically secured in place by inlet end caps and outlet end caps, respectively. As described in various embodiments of the invention, the chromatographic apparatus disclosed herein further incorporates an end-assembly component. The end-assembly component is primarily coupled at the inlet end of the chromatographic apparatus. Although in some embodiments, such an end-assembly component may also be coupled at the outlet end of the column. The end-assembly component described herein is coupled between the inlet end cap and the inlet sieve plate assembly of the chromatographic apparatus.

[0024] Other advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. These advantages can be realized and obtained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory, and do not limit the aspects of the claimed invention.

[0025] Symbols and nomenclature

[0026] In understanding the scope of this disclosure, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of stated features, elements, parts, groups, wholes, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, parts, groups, wholes, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as the terms "including," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "portion," "member," "component," or "element," when used in the singular, may have a dual meaning of a single part or multiple parts.

[0027] These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first component discussed above can be referred to as the second component, and vice versa. As used herein, the terms “attached,” “attaching,” or “abut,” “abutting,” “coupled,” “secured,” or “connected” cover a configuration in which an element is in direct contact with another element, or is fixed to another element, or is adjacent to another element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “joined,” “connected,” “mounted,” “bonded,” “fixed,” and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as “substantially,” “about,” and “approximately,” as used herein, imply a deviation in the amount of the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0028] The term "about" is used in conjunction with numerical values ​​to include normal variation in measurements as expected by those skilled in the art, and should be understood to have the same meaning as "about" and to cover typical error margins, such as ±15%, ±10%, ±5%, ±1%, ±0.5%, or even ±0.1% of the stated value. The term "about" also covers amounts that vary due to different equilibrium conditions of the composition resulting from a particular initial composition. Whether or not modified by the term "about," the claims include equivalents of the quantity.

[0029] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless otherwise expressly stated. Thus, for example, a reference to a composition containing “a compound” includes having two or more compounds that are identical or different from each other. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally used in its sense as including “and / or” unless otherwise expressly stated. As used herein, “and / or” refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, as well as combinations lacking when interpreted in an alternative manner (“or”).

[0030] For the sake of brevity and conciseness, any range of values ​​set forth in this specification considers all values ​​within that range and should be interpreted as support for claims that describe any subrange having endpoints, the endpoints being real values ​​within the specified range under discussion. As an illustrative example of assumption, the ranges 1 to 5 disclosed in this specification should be considered to support claims of any of the following ranges: 1-5; 1-4; 1-3; 1-2; 2-5; 2-4; 2-3; 3-5; 3-4; and 4-5.

[0031] The term "substantially" is used herein to indicate the degree of uncertainty attributable to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The term "substantially" is also used herein to indicate the degree to which a quantitative representation may differ from the reference value without altering the essential function of the subject matter under discussion.

[0032] As used herein, the transitional phrase “consistent with…” means that the scope of the claim should be interpreted to cover the specified materials or steps described in the claim as well as materials or steps that do not substantially affect the basic and novel features of the claimed invention. Therefore, when used in the claims of this invention, the term “consistent with…” is not intended to be interpreted as equivalent to “comprising”.

[0033] The terms "preferred" and "ideally" refer to embodiments that provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred in the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the description of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are unavailable, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of this disclosure.

[0034] As used throughout this specification and claims, a list of items connected by the terms “at least one of…” or “one or more of…” may represent any combination of the listed terms. For example, the phrase “at least one of X, Y or Z” may mean X; Y; Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y and Z.

[0035] The terms "frit filter," "frit screen," or "frit mesh" are used interchangeably throughout this disclosure and can refer to the same component. This component is commonly referred to in the art as a sieve plate and serves as a fluid filter entering the column and also as a holding device for the stationary packing medium contained within the chromatographic column. The term "frit plate" can refer to an inlet or outlet sieve plate disposed on the inlet or outlet side of the chromatographic column. The terms "frit plate assembly," "frit screen assembly," "frit mesh assembly," or "frit filter assembly" refer to a combination of a sieve mesh or filter with a structural component containing the sieve plate, such as an annular ring disposed around the sieve plate, thus constituting a "frit plate assembly." Therefore, a sieve plate assembly refers to the entire structure, and not just the mesh or sieve itself, which is part of the filter component of the sieve plate assembly.

[0036] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be varied as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures disposed between them, provided that such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be employed in another embodiment. All advantages need not be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique relative to the prior art, individually or in combination with other features, should also be considered as the applicant's separate description of further inventions, including structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features. Therefore, the foregoing description of embodiments provided according to this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The subject matter considered to be covered by the invention is specifically pointed out and clearly claimed in the claims at the end of the specification. The above and further advantages of the invention can be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like structural elements and features in the various figures. For clarity, not every element may be labeled in every figure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather focus on illustrating the principles of the invention.

[0038] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the front side of an exemplary end-assembly component according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the rear side of an exemplary end-assembly component according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a plan view of the central portion of the exemplary end-assembly component shown in Figure 1.

[0041] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of an end cap, end assembly, sieve plate assembly, and column according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of an end cap, end assembly, sieve plate assembly, and column according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an exemplary end assembly component according to one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 6A This is a side view of the end cap of a chromatographic column according to one embodiment.

[0045] Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view of the end cap and the end assembly component residing with the end cap as disclosed herein.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a planar side view of an end-assembly component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] This document presents specific implementations of embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods described below by way of example, not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings. References to “an embodiment” or “embodiment” in the specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this teaching. References to specific embodiments in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0048] While this teaching has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended to limit this teaching to these embodiments. Rather, as those skilled in the art will understand, this teaching encompasses various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Those of ordinary skill who acquire this teaching will recognize additional implementations, modifications, and embodiments, as well as other areas of use, within the scope of this disclosure as set forth herein.

[0049] This disclosure relates to end-assembly components designed to integrate with sieve plate assemblies and end caps in a chromatographic column. More specifically, this document proposes end-assembly components that can be positioned behind the inlet sieve plate assembly and internally fitted within the inlet end cap, allowing structural support for the sieve mesh to prevent deformation during packing and, additionally, achieving uniform fluid distribution across the sieve plate during column operation, ensuring that the fluid sample passing through the sieve plate contacts the entire surface area, rather than being concentrated only in the central region of the sieve plate. The end-assembly components disclosed herein improve column lifetime by reducing clogging problems commonly occurring with sieve plate assemblies, and thus increase the number of components that can be stored in a single column, thereby reducing operating costs associated with chromatographic equipment.

[0050] Now for reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B The end assembly component 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1A A top-side view is shown. Figure 1BThe end-assembly component is shown in the opposite bottom view. The end-assembly component 100 has a body portion 70. In one embodiment, the body portion 70 of the end-assembly component has a circular shape, but other embodiments not limited to this shape are contemplated. The body portion 70 has a bottom side 72 and a top side 74. On the top side 74 of the body portion, there is a raised central portion 50 that protrudes from the body portion 70 of the end fitting. The raised central portion 50 is centrally located within the top side 74 of the body portion and is itself circular in shape. Located within and contained in the raised central portion 50 is at least one recess 20, or in some embodiments, multiple recesses 20. A hole 40 is located in the middle of the raised central portion 50. The hole 40 connects to at least one of the at least one recess 20. The hole 40 located within the raised central portion 50 extends through the body portion 70. Figure 1B In this configuration, a conical opening 80 exists on the bottom side 72 of the end assembly 100. This opening 80 extends through a hole 40 on the top side 74 of the end assembly 100. The fluid sample entering the chromatographic column passes through this hole 40 within the end assembly 100. The flow of fluid through these components and within the column itself will be described in more detail in later sections.

[0051] exist Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, at least one groove 20 is shown in a helical configuration. More specifically, at least one groove 20 is connected to the hole 40 and extends outward from the hole in a helical design. An additional peripheral groove 30 is present. The peripheral groove 30 has a circular shape and is disposed along the peripheral edge of the raised central portion 50. The peripheral groove 30 is concentric with the hole 40 and is not helical. At least one helical groove 20 is connected to the peripheral groove 30, meaning they have an end point terminating at the peripheral groove 30.

[0052] When the fluid to be tested in the chromatographic column 300 is injected through an inlet tube (not shown) connected to the inlet of the column end cap 10, it passes through the end opening 80 of the end assembly 100, which is located within a recess in the inlet end cap 10. The fluid passes through an orifice 40 in the end assembly. A raised central portion 50 of the end assembly 100, which centrally has the orifice 40, is fitted within or adjacent to the sieve plate assembly 200. More specifically, the raised central portion 50 is fitted behind the sieve mesh 250 of the sieve plate assembly 200. Therefore, it provides structural support for the sieve mesh 250 so that it does not deform rearward toward the end cap 10 during pressurized filling or operation of the column, which would be common if the end assembly 100 were not present, and instead a four-degree tapered gap existed (as is the case in columns currently available in industry).

[0053] Not only does the raised center portion 50 of the end assembly component 100 provide for the screen mesh 250 ( Figure 3and Figure 4 The structural support, with grooves 20 and 30 present therein and connected to the central hole 40, allows fluid distribution through the raised central portion 50, from at least one groove 20 and through to the peripheral groove 30. Thus, the end-mount component 100 serves a dual purpose: a structural support for the sieve plate 250, preventing rearward deformation of the sieve plate during column filling and operation, and also as a fluid distribution device for the entire usable surface of the sieve plate during sample run. When fluid enters through the hole 40, it flows through at least one groove 20, thus also flowing to the peripheral groove 30, then through the sieve plate mesh 250, and then into the column 300 itself. The fluid is dispersed throughout the raised central portion 50 via the various grooves 20 and 30, thus also being uniformly distributed across the entire surface area of ​​the sieve plate mesh 250. By distributing the fluid across the entire surface area of ​​the sieve plate mesh 250, the accumulation of particulate matter is eliminated, thereby eliminating clogging only in the central portion of the sieve plate mesh 250. Because the fluid is distributed more evenly on the surface area of ​​the screen plate 250, there is less chance of clogging the screen plate in the central area, thereby increasing the life of the column 300 and reducing downtime and costs associated with frequent equipment replacement.

[0054] Now for reference Figure 2 A closer plan view of the central portion 50 of the protrusion can be seen, as it involves Figure 1A The embodiment depicted in the diagram. In this closer view, at least one groove 20 is shown extending from and connected to a hole 40 at the center of the central portion 50. The purpose of connecting the groove 20 to the hole 40 is to allow fluid to enter the groove as it is injected and flows through the hole 40. Once it enters the groove 20, it also flows to the peripheral groove 30. At least one groove 20 is connected to the peripheral groove 30 in such a way that fluid can flow unimpeded from the at least one groove 20 to the peripheral groove 30. This allows the fluid to be evenly distributed in the area of ​​the central portion 50 and then evenly distributed to the surface area of ​​the screen mesh 250. The screen mesh assembly is assembled around and coupled to the central portion 50 and rests on the flat side of the top wall 60 of the end assembly member 100. Although in Figure 1A and 2 In the illustrated embodiment, there are three grooves 20 that connect to and terminate with the peripheral grooves 30; however, it is conceivable that the number of grooves may be less or more than the number depicted herein. This is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure or various other embodiments of the implementation thereof. For example, there may be two spirally constructed grooves, or four grooves, or any other desired number (the number is limited only by the available surface area on the central portion of the protrusion). Additionally, although currently in Figure 1A and Figure 2The embodiment shows one peripheral groove 30, but more than one peripheral groove may exist. For example, additional peripheral grooves may be arranged adjacent to and concentric with the depicted peripheral groove 30. Similarly, these two peripheral grooves are preferably connected to at least one groove in the spiral configuration so that the fluid can have a path to all grooves and thus be evenly distributed on the surface area of ​​the raised central portion 50, thereby evenly distributing it over the entire surface area of ​​the screen 250.

[0055] Figure 3 and Figure 4 An exploded view of the inlet end cap 10, end assembly 100, sieve plate assembly 200, and column 300 is shown. The sieve plate assembly 200 has a rear side and a front side. The rear side is coupled to the end assembly 100, and the front side is connected to the column inlet 310. A fluid sample enters the system through an injection tube (not shown) into the end cap 10, passes through an opening 80 on the bottom side of the end assembly 100, and continues through a hole 40 on the top side of the end assembly 100. It will be understood that the end assembly 100 resides within a recess in the end cap 10. The fluid sample then exits through the hole 40 on the top side contained in a raised central portion 50. As the fluid is dispensed through the grooves 20 and 30 within the raised central portion 50 of the end assembly 100, it then passes through the rear side of the sieve plate 250, through the sieve mesh 250, and then through the inlet side 310 into the column itself 300. It then passes through a fixed medium contained within the tubular body of column 300 and is present at column outlet 320, where another outlet screen assembly and outlet end cap (not shown) are typically located.

[0056] from Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen, the screen assembly 200 has a circular shape and an exposed screen mesh or net 250, the diameter of which is proportional to the inlet opening 310 of the column 300 itself. The screen 250 is surrounded by an annular ring 230. On the back side of the screen assembly 200, the screen itself is recessed within the annular ring 230, thus creating a recessed center 270, as shown... Figure 4As shown. The size of the recessed center 270 of the sieve assembly 200 corresponds to the size of the raised center portion 50 on the end assembly 100. More specifically, the diameter of the raised center portion 50 must be similar to the diameter of the recessed center region 270 on the back of the sieve assembly, where the sieve mesh 250 is exposed. The diameter of the raised center portion 50 is only slightly smaller, so that it fits within the recess 270, but only to form a very tight seal. The connection between these two components is important because the seal between the two components must fit very tightly to ensure that when fluid flows from the orifice 40 in the end assembly through the sieve mesh 250, there is no fluid or sample loss, and all fluid flows through the sieve mesh 250 or the available surface area of ​​the mesh and into the corresponding inlet 310 opening of the column 300.

[0057] The annular ring 230 of the sieve plate assembly 200 abuts against the flat top sidewall 60 of the end assembly 100 on its rear side. On the front side of the sieve plate assembly 200, the annular ring 230 aligns with the inlet 310 of the column itself. Once the inlet end cap 10 is threaded onto the column 300 itself, it forms a tight-fit seal between the end assembly 100 (located within the end cap 10), the sieve plate assembly 200, and the column itself 300. An outlet end cap and an outlet sieve plate assembly (not shown) are located at the outlet end of the column 320. Because sample particle clogging exists at the inlet end 310 of the column 300, the end assembly of this disclosure only needs to be attached at the inlet end of the chromatographic column, and such a component is not required at the outlet end. However, an end assembly 100 may also be present within the outlet end cap, possibly for structural support (not shown).

[0058] Turning now to another embodiment of this disclosure, different configurations are conceived for the arrangement of the groove within the central portion of the protrusion of the end-assembly component, such as... Figure 5The configuration is shown in the figure. In this embodiment, the raised central portion 50 includes at least one groove 20, or a plurality of grooves in a concentric circular configuration. This differs from the previously discussed embodiment with a plurality of grooves in a helical configuration. Here, at least one groove 20 exists in a concentric circular configuration, meaning that they have circular paths and are adjacent to and surround each other, starting from the central hole 40 and extending to the peripheral wall of the raised central portion 50. The at least one concentric groove 20 is connected to each other via at least one or more through channels 25. The through channels 25 are designed to connect each concentric groove 20 to a path for fluid flow. As shown in this embodiment, the through channels 25 extend from the hole through the grooves 20 in a helical configuration and terminate at the final peripheral groove 30. Thus, the through channels 25 provide a path for fluid to flow from the central hole 40 through each concentric groove 20, and in this way, the fluid entering the end assembly member 100 is evenly distributed on the surface area of ​​the raised central portion 50, and therefore evenly distributed on the surface area of ​​the sieve plate 250 as the sieve plate 250 moves forward to the column 300. Although in Figure 5 Two through channels 25 are shown in this description, but fewer or more through channels are contemplated to be incorporated into the manufacture of the end assembly components of this disclosure.

[0059] The through-channel 25 shown in this embodiment has a helical configuration; however, this disclosure is not limited to this configuration. In other embodiments, the through-channel 25 may exist and have a straight configuration, wherein they radiate outward from the hole 40 through the groove 20 in a straight rather than curved helical path and terminate at the peripheral groove 30. Other types of paths, such as zigzag or curved paths, are also conceivable. Therefore, Figure 5 The spiral structure shown is merely illustrative and does not limit the scope of this disclosure in any way with respect to the construction of through channels.

[0060] Figure 6A A side view of the end cap 10 used with the chromatographic column described herein is shown. Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view of the end cap 10, illustrating how the end assembly 100 and sieve plate assembly 200 of this disclosure reside within the recess of the end cap 10. The end cap has a top side 5 and a bottom side 2. Both sides may have threaded internal structures, allowing them to be attached to various components of the chromatographic column system described herein. Figure 6B As can be seen, the end-mount assembly 100 and the sieve plate assembly 200 are joined together and reside within the recess of the end cap 10. The internal channel 3 of the end cap 10 serves as an inlet for injecting fluid samples. Various pipes and injection components can be connected to the internal channel 3 (not shown). The fluid sample is injected from the bottom side 2 of the end cap and passes through the bottom side of the end cap fitting 100. It exits through the hole 40, then passes onto the sieve plate assembly 200, and then proceeds forward to the inlet 310 of the column 300.

[0061] Now move to Figure 7 The end-assembly component 100 described in various embodiments herein is designed to be suitable for a variety of sizes depending on the type and size of the column to which it will be coupled. According to one embodiment presented herein, the outer diameter of the body portion 70 of the end-assembly component 100, defined by D1, has the same or substantially the same size as the diameter of the sieve plate assembly 200 to which the end-assembly component will be coupled. The diameter of the sieve plate assembly 200 itself is the same or substantially the same as the diameter of the inlet portion 310 of the column 300 in which the sieve plate will be used. The dimensions and overall size of these two components will vary depending on the inner diameter and size of the column to which they will be used with the sieve plate assembly and the end-assembly component. For example, for a column with a length of 50 mm and an inner diameter of 2.1 mm (50 × 2.1 mm column), the diameter of the sieve plate assembly will be in the range of approximately 5.4–5.6 mm, or approximately 5.5 mm, and the diameter D1 of the end-assembly component will also be in the range of 5.4–5.6 mm, or approximately 5.5 mm. For columns of larger or smaller dimensions, D1 will vary accordingly and can range from 1.0 mm to 10 mm, or 2 to 9 mm, or 3 to 8 mm, or 4 to 7 mm, or 5 to 6 mm. From Figure 7 As can be seen, the diameter D2 of the raised center portion will correspond to a substantially similar diameter of the recessed center portion 270 on the back side of the sieve plate assembly 200 (see [reference]). Figure 3 and Figure 4This ensures that the diameter D2 of the raised center portion is appropriately sized, allowing for a tight-fitting connection between the raised center portion 50 and the recessed center portion 270 on the back side of the screen assembly 200. For a column with an inner diameter (ID) of 2.1 mm, the diameter D2 can be measured to be approximately 2.1 mm. For columns of various sizes, ID can range from approximately 1.0 mm to approximately 7.8 mm. Therefore, D2 can also range from approximately 1.0 mm to approximately 7.8 mm. Similarly, the height C corresponding to the height measurement of the peripheral wall of the raised center portion 50 will correspond to the depth measurement of the recessed center portion 270 on the back side of the screen assembly 200. For a 2.1 mm ID column, the height C is measured to be approximately 0.8–1.2 mm, or approximately 1.0 mm. For larger or smaller columns, the height C will increase or decrease accordingly depending on the size of the screen assembly. In some embodiments, C can range from 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm, or 1 mm to 3 mm, or 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, or any value in between. These measurements are generally similar because once the two parts are joined or attached together, the annular ring 230 will substantially touch the flat wall on the top side of the end-mount component 100. For a 2.1 mm ID post, the length A can be, for example, about 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm, or about 4.5 mm. In other embodiments, A can range from 1.0 mm to 12 mm, or 2-11 mm, or 3-10 mm, or 4-9 mm, or 5-8 mm, or 6-7 mm, or any value in between.

[0062] The length of B1 corresponds to the distance from the periphery of the raised center portion 50 to the outer periphery of the body portion 70 of the end assembly, and its dimension is the same as that of the annular ring 230 on the screen assembly 200. For example, for a 2.1 ID post, the length of B1 is measured to be approximately 1.5-1.9 mm, or approximately 1.7 mm. For larger or smaller ID posts, this length B1 will be correspondingly smaller or larger. In other embodiments, B1 can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 12 mm, or 1-11 mm, or 2-10 mm, or 3-9 mm, or 4-8 mm, or 5-7 mm, or any number in between. As previously described, the annular ring 230 of the screen assembly 200 rests around the raised center portion 50 on the top side flat wall 60 of the end assembly. The length or height A of the main body 50 will correspond to the available space and recess within the end cap 10, once the end cap 10 is threaded onto and connected to the end portion of the column 300, the end assembly 100 will reside within the end cap 10. Of course, the value of A will depend on the size and design of the end cap used on a column of a particular size. Measurements of any dimensions, including A, B1, C, D1, and D2, can be changed and modified within certain limits to accommodate the dimensions of the column 300, sieve plate assembly 200, and end cap 10 in which they reside. The limitations on these measurements only pertain to the components with which they will communicate and connect within the chromatographic system.

[0063] In some embodiments, it is envisioned that the end fitting 100 will accommodate columns of various inner diameters, including 2.1 mm, 3.0 mm, and 4.6 mm, or any known standard column diameter typically used in industry and known to those skilled in the art. The measured values ​​of parameters A, B1, C, D1, and D2 of the end fitting accommodated in columns with inner diameters of 3.0 mm and 4.6 mm will differ, respectively, from the disclosed parameters listed above for 2.1 mm inner diameter columns. When compared to a 2.1 mm column, the parameters A, B1, C, D1, and D2 of the column will be larger. For example, parameter D2 will have to correspond to the inner diameter of a 3.0 mm ID column, where D2 is measured to be approximately 3.0 mm; similarly, for a 4.6 mm ID column, the diameter D2 will be approximately 4.6 mm. Other parameters will also vary with increasing size if used in columns with larger inner diameters. The embodiments disclosed herein will be used for chromatographic columns of different sizes and inner diameters. In the embodiments, the inner diameter of the column (i.e. the tubular body) is approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

[0064] exist Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, at least one recess 20 and the peripheral recess 30 have substantially similar or equal dimensions in terms of depth and width. These dimensions can vary from one another by about 10-20% without producing any practical difference in the operation and function of the recesses. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, at least one groove 20 has a concentric configuration and contains a through channel 25, the dimensions of which are substantially similar to or equal to the dimensions of the at least one groove 20 in terms of width and depth. In some embodiments, the width of the through channel 25 is substantially equal to the width of the at least one groove 20. In other embodiments, the width and / or depth of the through channel 25 is less than or greater than the width and / or depth of the at least one groove 20 by about 5-30%.

[0065] The end cap assembly components disclosed herein can be manufactured from a variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, or elastomeric materials. In a preferred embodiment, the end cap assembly component is made of a metallic material, including stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, or a chromium-nickel-iron alloy. In other embodiments, the end cap assembly component may be made of a polymeric material, including thermoplastic polymers such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). In still other embodiments, the end cap assembly component may be made of glass or silica materials, or ceramic materials (e.g., including but not limited to alumina).

[0066] According to various embodiments, any exemplary end-assembly components described herein can be manufactured using micromachining processes according to various techniques. For example, micromachining can be used to form at least one groove, peripheral groove, and through channel in various embodiments described.

[0067] For example, micromachining techniques such as etching or laser milling can be used. Etching techniques include deep reactive ion etching (RIE), dry etching, wet etching, plasma etching, electrochemical etching, vapor phase etching, etc. Additionally, photolithography techniques known in the art can be used as a masking step to define components (e.g., holes, cavities, channels, etc.) of the exemplary end-assembly parts disclosed herein. The parts can then be formed using etching techniques.

[0068] As previously stated, the embodiments of end-assembly components disclosed herein serve a dual purpose: to provide structural support for sieve plates, sieve meshes, or sieve meshes during column packing and operation, and further to ensure uniform fluid distribution of the sample, such that the sample is distributed across the entire usable surface of the sieve plate. Therefore, the end-assembly components disclosed herein can also be used as fluid distribution devices. Thus, a fluid distribution device for use with sieve plates or sieve plate assemblies in a chromatographic column is disclosed. The fluid distribution device of this disclosure has a body portion 70. In one embodiment, the body portion 70 of the fluid distribution device has a circular shape, but other embodiments not limited to this shape are contemplated. The body portion has a bottom side 74 and a top side 72. On the top side of the body portion, there is a raised central portion 50 that protrudes from the body portion of the fluid distribution device 100, and specifically from the top side of the body portion 70. The raised central portion 50 is centrally located within the top side of the body portion and is itself circular in shape. Located within and contained within the raised central portion is at least one groove 20, or in some embodiments, multiple grooves. The orifice 40 is located in the middle of the central portion 50 of the protrusion. The orifice 40 is connected to at least one of the recesses 20. The fluid sample entering the chromatographic column passes through this orifice 40 within the fluid distribution device.

[0069] exist Figure 1A In the fluid distribution device shown in the embodiment presented, the at least one groove 20 is shown in a helical configuration. More specifically, at least one groove is connected to the orifice 40 and extends outward from the orifice in a helical design. An additional peripheral groove 30 is present. The peripheral groove 30 has a circular shape and is disposed along the peripheral edge of the raised central portion 50. The peripheral groove 30 is concentric with the orifice 40 and is not helical. At least one groove 20 in the helical configuration is connected to the peripheral groove, meaning they have an end point terminating at the peripheral groove 30.

[0070] When the fluid to be tested is injected into the column through the inlet tube (not shown) connected to the inlet end cap of the column, the fluid passes through the fluid distribution device 100 inside the channel 3 of the inlet end cap 10. The fluid passes through the orifice 40 of the fluid distribution device. The centrally located raised portion 50 of the fluid distribution device 100, having the orifice 40 therein, is fitted within or adjacent to the sieve plate assembly 200. More specifically, the centrally located raised portion 50 is fitted behind the sieve mesh 250 of the first assembly 200.

[0071] The fluid distribution device 100 has at least one groove 20 connected to the central hole 40, which allows fluid to be distributed throughout the entire raised central portion 50, from the at least one groove all the way to the peripheral groove 30. When fluid enters through the hole 40, it flows through the at least one groove 20, and thus also flows to the peripheral groove 30, then through the screen 250, and then into the column 300 itself. Because the fluid has a configuration of being dispersed throughout the raised central portion 50 through the various grooves 20 and 30, it is now also uniformly distributed over the entire surface area of ​​the screen 250. By distributing the fluid over the entire surface area of ​​the screen 250, the accumulation of particulate matter is eliminated, thereby eliminating clogging only in the central portion of the screen 250. Since the fluid is more evenly distributed over the surface area of ​​the screen 250, there is less chance of clogging the screen in the central area, thus increasing the life of the column and reducing downtime and costs associated with frequent equipment replacement.

[0072] The fluid dispensing device disclosed herein can have various designs relative to at least one recess 20 and a peripheral recess 30. All the foregoing designs disclosed with respect to the embodiments of the end-assembly components above also apply to the embodiments of the disclosed fluid dispensing device. All the foregoing discussions regarding size, design, materials, production, and processing apparatus will also be incorporated herein for the embodiments of the fluid dispensing device (and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity). Embodiments of one or more recesses 20 within the raised central portion 50 of the fluid dispensing device of this disclosure will cover the designs previously discussed above, including helical and concentric circle configurations with through channels 25, as well as all the embodiments discussed in Figures 1-7.

[0073] A chromatographic apparatus is also disclosed. The chromatographic apparatus disclosed herein includes, but is not limited to, the following components:

[0074] The tubular body 300 has a first opening 310 and a second opening 320;

[0075] A first screen plate assembly 200 located at the first opening and a second screen plate (not shown) assembly located at the second opening 320;

[0076] The end assembly component 100 is recessed into the first end cover 10 and abuts against the first sieve plate assembly 200.

[0077] The end assembly components include:

[0078] Main body 70;

[0079] The central part of the protrusion 50 protrudes from the main body;

[0080] At least one groove 20 included within the central portion of the protrusion; and

[0081] A hole 40 connected to at least one groove 20.

[0082] The tubular body having a first opening and a second opening is also referred to as the column portion 300 of the chromatographic apparatus, and... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The column will have packing material or stationary medium (not shown) within its inner diameter. The stationary medium is typically composed of particles, preferably having a spherical shape. The particles can vary in size, material, and surface functionality. The particles may have an average diameter of about 2-8 micrometers, or more specifically 3-5 micrometers. The chromatographic apparatus incorporates a first sieve plate and a second sieve plate (not shown). The first and second sieve plates are located at the first opening (also referred to as the inlet opening) and the second opening (also referred to as the outlet opening) of the column. The first and second sieve plates are typically secured in place by inlet end caps and outlet end caps, respectively. As described in various embodiments of the invention, the chromatographic apparatus disclosed herein further incorporates an end-assembly component. The end-assembly component is primarily attached at the inlet end of the chromatographic apparatus and is not necessarily included at the outlet end. Although in some embodiments, such an end-assembly component may also be attached at the outlet end of the column. The end-assembly component described herein is attached between the inlet end cap and the inlet sieve plate assembly of the chromatographic apparatus. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The alignment and configuration of the end-assembly components within the chromatographic apparatus disclosed herein are shown. All previously discussed embodiments of the end-assembly components and fluid dispensing devices outlined in this disclosure are incorporated herein with respect to the chromatographic apparatus of the present invention.

[0083] Although these inventions have been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure extends beyond the specific disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses of the invention, as well as their obvious modifications and equivalents. Furthermore, while several variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications within the scope of these inventions will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined or substituted with each other to form different modes of the disclosed invention. Therefore, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the embodiments disclosed herein should not be limited to the specific disclosed embodiments described above.

[0084] The following numbered clauses define further exemplary aspects and features of this disclosure:

[0085] 1. An end-assembly component for use in a chromatographic column, the component comprising:

[0086] Main body;

[0087] A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion;

[0088] At least one groove, which is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; and

[0089] A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

[0090] 2. The end assembly component as described in Clause 1, wherein the central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly within the chromatographic column.

[0091] 2. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one groove includes a groove with a helical structure.

[0092] 4. The end assembly component according to Clause 3, wherein the at least one groove further includes a peripheral groove.

[0093] 5. The end assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one groove is concentrically constructed.

[0094] 6. The end-assembly component according to Clause 5, wherein the at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected via a plurality of through channels.

[0095] 7. The end-assembly component according to Clause 5, wherein the at least one concentrically constructed groove is connected to the hole via a plurality of through channels.

[0096] 8. The end-assembly component according to clause 6 or 7, wherein the plurality of through channels extend from the hole to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion in a helical configuration.

[0097] 9. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a height of approximately 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

[0098] 10. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

[0099] 11. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1 further includes a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed center portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

[0100] 12. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein the raised central portion has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly.

[0101] 13. The end-assembly component according to Clause 1, wherein fluid enters through the hole and is dispensed through the at least one groove connected to the hole.

[0102] 14. The end-assembly component according to Clause 13, wherein the fluid dispensed through the at least one groove is further distributed across the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

[0103] 15. The end-mount component according to Clause 1, wherein the end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

[0104] 16. The end assembly component as described in Clause 1, wherein the end assembly component is made of a metal, polymer, elastomer, or ceramic material.

[0105] 17. The end assembly component as described in Clause 16, wherein the end assembly component is made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silica, or alumina.

[0106] 18. A fluid distribution device for use in a chromatographic column, the fluid distribution device comprising:

[0107] Main body;

[0108] A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion;

[0109] At least one groove, which is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; and

[0110] A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

[0111] 19. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly within the chromatographic column.

[0112] 20. The fluid dispensing device according to Clause 18, wherein the at least one groove comprises a groove having a helical configuration.

[0113] 21. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the at least one groove further includes a peripheral groove.

[0114] 22. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one groove is of a concentric circular configuration.

[0115] 23. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 22, wherein the at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected via a plurality of through channels.

[0116] 24. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 22, wherein the at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected to the orifice via a plurality of through channels.

[0117] 25. The fluid distribution device according to clause 23 or 24, wherein the plurality of through channels extend from the orifice to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion in a helical configuration.

[0118] 26. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a height of about 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

[0119] 27. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of about 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

[0120] 28. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18 further includes a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

[0121] 29. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 28, wherein the diameter of the raised central portion is substantially equal to the diameter of the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly.

[0122] 30. The fluid dispensing device according to Clause 18, wherein fluid enters through the orifice and is dispensed through the at least one groove connected to the orifice.

[0123] 31. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 30, wherein the fluid distributed through the at least one groove is further distributed across the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

[0124] 32. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

[0125] 33. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 18, wherein the end assembly component is made of metal, polymer, elastomer or ceramic material.

[0126] 34. The fluid distribution device according to Clause 33, wherein the end assembly is made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silica, or alumina.

[0127] 35. A chromatographic apparatus, comprising:

[0128] A tubular body having a first opening and a second opening;

[0129] A first sieve plate assembly located at the first opening and a second sieve plate assembly located at the second opening; and

[0130] End assembly components;

[0131] The first end assembly component includes:

[0132] Main body;

[0133] A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion;

[0134] At least one groove, which is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; and

[0135] A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

[0136] 36. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly within the chromatographic column.

[0137] 37. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the at least one groove comprises a groove having a helical configuration.

[0138] 38. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 37, wherein the at least one recess further includes a peripheral recess.

[0139] 39. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the at least one recess is arranged in a concentric circle.

[0140] 40. The chromatographic apparatus according to clause 39, wherein the at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected via a plurality of through channels.

[0141] 41. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 39, wherein the at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected to the orifice via a plurality of through channels.

[0142] 42. A chromatographic apparatus according to clause 40 or 41, wherein the plurality of through channels extend from the orifice in a helical configuration to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion.

[0143] 43. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a height of about 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

[0144] 44. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of about 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

[0145] 45. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35 further includes a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

[0146] 46. ​​The chromatographic apparatus according to clause 45, wherein the diameter of the central portion of the protrusion is substantially equal to the diameter of the central portion of the recess of the sieve plate assembly.

[0147] 47. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein fluid enters through the orifice and is dispensed through the at least one groove connected to the orifice.

[0148] 48. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 47, wherein the fluid dispensed through the at least one groove is further distributed throughout the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

[0149] 49. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

[0150] 50. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the end assembly is made of a metal, polymer, elastomer or ceramic material.

[0151] 51. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 50, wherein the end assembly is made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silica, or alumina.

[0152] 52. The chromatographic apparatus according to Clause 35, wherein the tubular body has an inner diameter of about 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

Claims

1. An end-assembly component for use in a chromatographic column, the component comprising: Main body; A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion; At least one groove is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; as well as A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

2. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly inside the chromatographic column.

3. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one groove includes a groove with a spiral structure.

4. The end assembly component according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one groove also includes a peripheral groove.

5. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one groove is concentrically constructed.

6. The end assembly component according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected by a plurality of through channels.

7. The end assembly component according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected to the hole via a plurality of through channels.

8. The end assembly component according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The plurality of through channels extend from the hole to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion in a spiral configuration.

9. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a height of approximately 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

10. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

11. The end assembly component according to claim 1, further comprising a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed center portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

12. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The raised central portion has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly.

13. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, Fluid enters through the orifice and is distributed through the at least one groove connected to the orifice.

14. The end assembly component according to claim 13, wherein, The fluid distributed through the at least one groove is further distributed across the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

15. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

16. The end assembly component according to claim 1, wherein, The end assembly is made of metal, polymer, elastomer or ceramic material.

17. The end assembly component according to claim 16, wherein, The end assembly components are made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silicon dioxide, or aluminum oxide.

18. A fluid distribution device for use in a chromatographic column, the fluid distribution device comprising: Main body; A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion; At least one groove is contained within the central portion of the protrusion; as well as A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

19. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly inside the chromatographic column.

20. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one groove includes a groove with a spiral structure.

21. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The at least one groove also includes a peripheral groove.

22. The fluid distribution device according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one groove has a concentric circular structure.

23. The fluid distribution device according to claim 22, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected by a plurality of through channels.

24. The fluid distribution device according to claim 22, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected to the hole via a plurality of through channels.

25. The fluid distribution device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein, The plurality of through channels extend from the hole to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion in a spiral configuration.

26. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a height of approximately 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

27. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

28. The fluid distribution device of claim 18 further includes a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

29. The fluid distribution device according to claim 28, wherein, The diameter of the raised central portion is substantially equal to the diameter of the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly.

30. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, Fluid enters through the orifice and is distributed through the at least one groove connected to the orifice.

31. The fluid distribution device according to claim 30, wherein, The fluid distributed through the at least one groove is further distributed across the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

32. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

33. The fluid distribution device according to claim 18, wherein, The end assembly is made of metal, polymer, elastomer or ceramic material.

34. The fluid distribution device according to claim 33, wherein, The end assembly components are made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silicon dioxide, or aluminum oxide.

35. A chromatographic apparatus, comprising: - A tubular body having a first opening and a second opening; - A first sieve plate assembly and a second sieve plate assembly, wherein the first sieve plate assembly is located at the first opening and the second sieve plate assembly is located at the second opening; as well as -End assembly components; The first end assembly component includes: -Main body; - A raised central portion that protrudes from the main body portion; - at least one groove contained within the central portion of the protrusion; and - A hole, which is connected to the at least one groove.

36. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion is adjacent to the sieve plate assembly inside the chromatographic column.

37. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The at least one groove includes a groove with a spiral structure.

38. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 37, wherein, The at least one groove also includes a peripheral groove.

39. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The at least one groove has a concentric circular structure.

40. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 39, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected by a plurality of through channels.

41. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 39, wherein, The at least one groove, which is concentrically constructed, is connected to the hole via a plurality of through channels.

42. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 40 or 41, wherein, The plurality of through channels extend from the hole to the peripheral wall of the central portion of the protrusion in a spiral configuration.

43. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a height of approximately 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm.

44. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The central portion of the protrusion has a diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

45. The chromatographic apparatus of claim 35 further includes a peripheral wall aligned with the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly in the chromatographic column.

46. ​​The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 45, wherein, The diameter of the raised central portion is substantially equal to the diameter of the recessed central portion of the sieve plate assembly.

47. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, Fluid enters through the orifice and is distributed through the at least one groove connected to the orifice.

48. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 47, wherein, The fluid distributed through the at least one groove is further distributed across the surface area of ​​the sieve plate as it enters the chromatographic column.

49. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The end-mount component is configured to fit into a recess in the end cap of the chromatographic column.

50. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The end assembly is made of metal, polymer, elastomer or ceramic material.

51. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 50, wherein, The end assembly components are made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, MP35N, chromium-nickel-iron alloy, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silicon dioxide, or aluminum oxide.

52. The chromatographic apparatus according to claim 35, wherein, The tubular body has an inner diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 7.8 mm.

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