Patent ID: 7674383
Filing Date: 2010-03-09
Classification: B01D,G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for packing a compact, disposable, tubular chromatographic column having a first and second opposing ends defining a first length and having an end cap on the first end of the column, the column having an interior diameter, comprising: aligning a slurry pre-compression chamber to the second end of the column and coaxially with the column, forming a fluid tight seal between the slurry pre-compression chamber and the second end of the column; placing a slurry of fluid and chromatographic media in the column- and slurry pre-compression chamber; placing a piston in the slurry pre-compression chamber, the piston having seals interposed between the piston and the slurry pre-compression chamber and a frit interposed between the piston and the slurry; advancing the piston through the slurry pre-compression chamber and at least part way into the column such that the piston exerts pressure on the chromatography media placed in the column; stopping the advancement of the piston when the media in the slurry forms a bed that is compacted to a desired pressure in the column; and removing the slurry pre-compression chamber from the column while substantially maintaining with the piston said desired pressure on the chromatography media placed in the column, and locking the piston in place with a piston retainer while substantially maintaining the pressure.