Patent Publication Number: US-2020300821-A1

Title: Removable seal device for fluidic coupling

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a non-provisional patent application claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/820,501, filed Mar. 19, 2019, entitled “Removable Seal Device for Fluidic Coupling,” which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates generally to chromatography. More particularly, the invention relates to fluidic couplings having a removable seal device for use in chromatography systems. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Chromatography is a set of techniques for separating a mixture into its constituents. Well-established separation technologies include HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography), UPLC (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography) and SFC (Supercritical Fluid Chromatography). HPLC systems use high pressure, ranging traditionally between 1,000 psi (pounds per square inch) to approximately 6,000 psi, to generate the flow required for liquid chromatography (LC) in packed columns. Compared to HPLC, UPLC systems use columns with smaller particulate matter and higher pressures approaching 20,000 psi to deliver the mobile phase. SFC systems use highly compressible mobile phases, which typically employ carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) as a principle component. 
     In a typical LC system, a solvent delivery system takes in and delivers a mixture of liquid solvents to an injection system where an injected sample awaits the arrival of this mobile phase. The mobile phase carries the sample through a separating column. In the column, the mixture of the sample and mobile phase divides into bands depending upon the interaction of the mixture with the stationary phase in the column. A detector identifies and quantifies these bands as they exit the column. 
     Typical fluidic tube connections or couplings for LC systems employ fluidic tube that includes an integral or otherwise formed-on sealing component. When the sealing component of the fluidic tube, or a sealing surface thereof, fails or is damaged, the entire fluidic tube must be replaced. Often, the fluidic tube itself remains completely functional but must be wasted because the sealing component that has been integrally formed on its end is damaged. The lengths of fluidic tube in liquid chromatography systems wasted in this manner is significant. 
     Thus, a chromatography system that allows for a seal to be removed and replaced without removing, replacing or wasting the entire fluidic tube would be well received in the art. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one exemplary embodiment, a removable seal device for fluidic coupling includes a seal body extending between a first end and a second end, the seal body including an inner channel configured to receive a flow of a fluid, wherein the first end of the seal body includes a first sealing surface configured to create a first seal with a fitting sealing surface of a receiver fitting, and wherein the seal body includes a second sealing surface configured to create a second seal with an end of a fluidic tube, wherein the removable seal is configured to be removably secured to at least one of the fluidic tube, a support feature fixed to the fluidic tube, and a compression screw, such that untightening of the compression screw from the receiver fitting causes the removable seal device to be removed from the receiver fitting. 
     In addition or alternatively, the seal body includes a cylindrical portion extending from the first end, and a conical portion extending from the cylindrical portion and expanding in diameter as the conical portion extends from the cylindrical portion. 
     In addition or alternatively, the removable seal device further includes a metallic support sleeve surrounding the cylindrical portion configured to support the seal body. 
     In addition or alternatively, the cylindrical portion includes an internal bore dimensioned to receive the end of the fluidic tube and a length of the fluidic tube. 
     In addition or alternatively, the seal body further including an internal surface within at least one of the conical portion and a cylindrical extended portion of the conical portion, the internal surface including at least one feature configured to facilitate the removably securing to the at least one of the fluidic tube, the support feature fixed to the fluidic tube, and the compression screw. 
     In addition or alternatively, the at least one feature of the removable seal device includes threads configured to receive threads of the at least one of the fluidic tube, the support feature fixed to the fluidic tube, and the compression screw. 
     In addition or alternatively, the at least one feature includes a recess configured to receive a protruding feature of the at least one of the fluidic tube, the support feature fixed to the fluidic tube, and the compression screw. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a fluidic coupling includes a fluidic tube including an end surface; a compression screw extending along an axis from a first end to a second end, the compression screw including an opening extending from the first end to the second end along the axis, wherein the fluidic tube is configured to extend through the opening; and a removable seal device for fluidic coupling including a seal body extending between a first end and a second end, the seal body including an inner channel configured to receive a flow of a fluid, wherein the first end of the seal body includes a first sealing surface configured to create a first seal with a fitting sealing surface of a receiver fitting, and wherein the seal body includes a second sealing surface configured to create a second seal with an end of a fluidic tube, wherein the removable seal is configured to be removably secured to at least one of the fluidic tube, a support feature fixed to the fluidic tube, and a compression screw, such that untightening of the compression screw from the receiver fitting causes the removable seal device to be removed from the receiver fitting. 
     In addition or alternatively, the seal body includes a cylindrical portion extending from the first end, and a conical portion extending from the cylindrical portion and expanding in diameter as the conical portion extends from the cylindrical portion. 
     In addition or alternatively, the fluidic coupling further includes a metallic support sleeve surrounding the cylindrical portion configured to support the seal body. 
     In addition or alternatively, the cylindrical portion includes an internal bore dimensioned to receive the end surface of the fluidic tube and a length of the fluidic tube. 
     In addition or alternatively, the seal body further including an internal surface within at least one of the conical portion and a cylindrical extended portion of the conical portion, the internal surface including at least one feature configured to facilitate the removably securing the removable seal device. 
     In addition or alternatively, the compression screw includes a main body configured to engage with the receiver fitting, the compression screw further including an extending portion extending from the main body to the first end, the extending portion including a smaller diameter than the main body, the extending portion including a radially protruding feature, and wherein the at least one feature includes a radial recess in the internal surface configured to receive the radially protruding feature of the compression screw. 
     In addition or alternatively, the support feature is fixed to the fluidic tube extending between a first end and a second end, the second end including a flat surface configured to abut the first end of the compression screw during tightening of the fluidic coupling, the internal surface of the seal body dimensioned to receive the support feature. 
     In addition or alternatively, the compression screw includes a main body configured to engage with the receiver fitting, the compression screw further including an extending portion extending from the main body to the first end, the extending portion including a smaller diameter than the main body, the extending portion including a threaded portion, and wherein the at least one feature includes threads configured to the threaded portion of the compression screw. 
     In addition or alternatively, the fluidic tube includes the support feature fixed to the fluidic tube proximate the end surface, the support feature having a greater diameter than the fluidic tube, the support feature configured to abut the first end of the compression screw, the support feature including a threaded portion, and wherein the at least one feature includes threads configured to engage the threaded portion of the device. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method of fluidic coupling includes: providing a fluidic tube including an end surface; providing a compression screw; providing a removable seal device including a seal body extending between a first end and a second end, the removable seal device including an inner channel, wherein the first end of the removable seal device includes a first sealing surface, and wherein the removable seal device includes a second sealing surface; providing a receiver fitting; removably attaching the removable seal device to the compression screw; tightening the compression screw to the receiver fitting; creating a first seal between the first sealing surface and a fitting sealing surface of the receiver fitting; and creating a second seal between the second sealing surface and the end surface of a fluidic tube. 
     In addition or alternatively, the method includes receiving fluid from the fluidic tube by the fluidic channel; and providing the received fluid from the fluidic channel to a channel of the receiver fitting. 
     In addition or alternatively, the method includes loosening the compression screw from the receiver fitting; simultaneously removing the compression screw, the fluidic tube and the removable seal device from the receiver fitting; and unattaching the removable seal device from the compression screw after the simultaneously removing. 
     In addition or alternatively, the method includes providing a second removable seal device having a seal body extending between a first end and a second end, the second removable seal device including an inner channel, wherein the first end of the second removable seal device includes a first sealing surface, and wherein the second removable seal device includes a second sealing surface; removably attaching the second removable seal device to the compression screw; tightening the compression screw to the receiver fitting after the removably attaching the second removable seal device to the compression screw; creating a first seal between the first sealing surface of the second removable seal device and the fitting sealing surface of the receiver fitting; and creating a second seal between the second sealing surface of the second removable seal device and the end surface of a fluidic tube. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and further advantages of this invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like elements and features in the various figures. For clarity, not every element may be labeled in every figure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. 
         FIG. 1  depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a liquid chromatography system. 
         FIG. 2  depicts a functional diagram of an embodiment of a sample manager of a liquid chromatography system. 
         FIG. 3  depicts an illustration of an embodiment of a fluidic coupling of tubing to a stator portion of a rotary shear seal valve through a fitting. 
         FIG. 4  depicts a partially exploded view of an exemplary one of the fluidic couplings of  FIG. 1-3  including a removable seal device. 
         FIG. 5  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling of  FIG. 4  attached to a receiver fitting. 
         FIG. 6  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling of  FIGS. 4 and 5  attached to the receiver fitting of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  depicts a partially exploded view of another embodiment of a fluidic coupling including a removable seal device. 
         FIG. 8  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling of  FIG. 7  attached to a receiver fitting. 
         FIG. 9  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling of  FIGS. 7 and 8  attached to the receiver fitting of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  depicts a partially exploded view of another embodiment of a fluidic coupling including a removable seal device. 
         FIG. 11  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling of  FIG. 10  attached to a receiver fitting. 
         FIG. 12  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling of  FIGS. 10 and 11  attached to the receiver fitting of  FIG. 11 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference in the 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 teaching. References to a particular embodiment within the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. 
     The present teaching will now be described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof as shown in the accompanying drawings. While the present teaching is described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teaching be limited to such embodiments. On the contrary, the present teaching encompasses various alternatives, modifications and equivalents, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art. Those of ordinary skill having access to the teaching herein will recognize additional implementations, modifications and embodiments, as well as other fields of use, which are within the scope of the present disclosure as described herein. 
     High pressure fittings used in chromatographic systems typically include a compression member (e.g., a ferrule) and a compression screw to couple a fluid path in a tube to a fluid channel in a structure that includes a receiving port to receive the fitting. Hereinafter a “compression screw” may be a compression nut, or other feature configured to engage with a receiver fitting and compress or push on a fluidic tube into the receiver 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 compression screw is tightened while the installer maintains a force on the tube to keep the endface of the tube in contact with a sealing surface at the bottom of the receiving port. The installer needs to know the proper installation technique. If installed improperly, or as a result of wear over time, damage can occur at the endface of the tube that is in contact with the sealing surface at the bottom of the receiving port. If damage is incurred, the entirety of the tube would need to be replaced because prior art seals are integrally connected to the end of the tube. 
     In brief overview, the invention relates to a removable seal device for fluidic coupling that is not integrally connected to an end of the tube. In the embodiments described, a removable seal device may be removably attached to the end of the tube in a manner that allows for the seal device to become unattached, removed, or decoupled from the end of the tube after use. Embodiments of the invention include removably attaching the removable seal device to the end of the tube in a manner that maintains its attachment when the fluidic coupling is being removed from the receiver fitting. Thus, the removable seal includes structure configured to attach to at least one of the tube, a support feature that is affixed to the tube, a compression screw, or any other portion of the fluidic coupling. In embodiments described herein, the removable seal is configured to maintain this attachment when the fluidic coupling is removed from the receiver fitting. In embodiments described herein, the tube, compression screw, and other non-seal components of the fluidic coupling may be made of more durable materials than the removable seal. Thus, embodiments contemplate replacement of the removable seal device after wear and tear, without replacing the entire length of tube and other components of the fluidic coupling. The invention described herein may be applicable to creating fluidic tube connections or couplings on various liquid chromatography systems, at various locations within those systems. The figures and accompanying description describe individual embodiments exemplifying the features of the invention. 
       FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of a liquid chromatography system  10  for separating a sample into its constituents. The liquid chromatography system  10  can be an HPLC, UPLC, or SFC system. The liquid chromatography system  10  includes a solvent delivery system  12  in fluidic communication with a sample manager  14  (also called an injector or autosampler) through fluidic tube  16 A. The solvent delivery system  12  includes pumps (not shown) in fluidic communication with solvent (or fluid) reservoirs  18  from which the pumps draw solvents through a fluidic conduit  20 , which may be a fluidic conduit, line, tube or channel. A chromatography column  22  is in fluidic communication with the sample manager  14  through fluidic tube  16 B. Fluidic tube  16 C couples the output port of the column  22  to a detector  24 , for example, a mass spectrometer, a UV detector, or any other detector. Through the fluidic tube  16 C, the detector  24  receives the separated components from the column  22  and produces an output from which the identity and quantity of the analytes may be determined. As described herein, at various locations in the liquid chromatography system  10 , the fluidic tubes  16 A,  16 B,  16 C are coupled to system components using high pressure fittings. Each fluidic tube  16  refers to a section of tubing rather a single tube. Each tubing section may comprise one tube or multiple tubes joined in series (e.g., by valves, tees, etc). 
     The sample manager  14  includes an injector valve  26  with a sample loop  28 . The solvent manager  14  operates in one of two states: a load state and an injection state. In the load state, the position of the injector valve  26  is such that the solvent manager  14  loads the sample into the sample loop  28 ; in the injection state, the position of the injector valve  26  changes so that solvent manager  14  introduces the sample in the sample loop  28  into the continuously flowing mobile phase arriving from the solvent delivery system  12 . With the injector valve  26  in the injection state, the mobile phase carries the sample into the column  22 . To accomplish this, the mobile phase arrives at the injector valve  26  through an input port  30  and leaves the injector valve with the sample through an output port  32 . 
     Various fittings according to principles of the invention as described below may be present within the liquid chromatography system  10 . For example, such fittings may be present where the fluidic tube  16 A connects to the input port  30  of the injector valve  26 , where the fluidic tube  16 B connects to the output port  32  of the injector valve  26  and to the column  22 , and where the fluidic tube  16 C connects to the output end of the column  22  and to the detector  24 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, for example, those in which the liquid chromatography system  10  is a CO 2 -based system, the sample manager  14  can further include an auxiliary valve  40  interposed between the solvent delivery system  12  and the injector valve  26  and between the injector valve  26  and the column  22 . In general, the auxiliary valve  40  provides a fluidic pathway through which the injector valve  26  may vent. In this embodiment, the fluidic tube  16 A couples the solvent delivery system  12  to a first input port  42  of the auxiliary valve  40  and the fluidic tube  16 B couples a second output port  44  of the auxiliary valve  40  to the column  22 . Fluidic tube  16 D and  16 E also couple the auxiliary valve  40  to the injector valve  26 ; fluidic tube  16 D connects a first output port  46  of the auxiliary valve  40  to the input port  30  of the injector valve  26 , and fluidic tube  16 E connects the output port  32  of the injector valve  26  to a second input port  48  of the auxiliary valve  40 . 
     When the valves  26 ,  40  are configured for sample injection, the arrows on the fluidic tube  16 A and  16 D show the direction of flow of the mobile phase towards the injector valve  26 ; those arrows on the fluidic tube  16 E and  16 B correspond to the flow of the mobile phase carrying the sample from the injector valve  26  towards the column  22 . 
     Like the fluidic tube  16 A,  16 B,  16 C described in connection with  FIG. 1 , the additional fluidic tube  16 D and  16 E can also be coupled at their ends with fittings configured according to principles of the invention. More specifically, such fittings may be present where the fluidic tube  16 D connects to the first output port  46  of the auxiliary valve  40  and to the input port  30  of the injector valve  26 , and where the fluidic tube  16 E connects to the output port  32  of the injector valve  26  and to the second input port  48  of the auxiliary valve  40 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an example of how a fluidic coupling  50  is used to couple the fluidic tube  16 B to the stator portion  52  of a rotary shear seal valve through one of the receiving ports  54 . Only one fitting connection is shown for clarity although it will be recognized that other fluidic tube  16 B may be coupled to other receiving ports  54  of the stator portion  52  in a similar manner. The fluidic tube  16 B is shown extending into a compression screw  70 . The compression screw  70  may also be described as a compression nut. While the fluidic tube  16 B is shown for exemplary purposes in  FIG. 3 , it should be understood that embodiments of the invention may be incorporated to connect any of the fluidic tubes  16 A,  16 B,  16 C,  16 D,  16 E (generally  16 ) and receivers of the liquid chromatography system  10  or any other fluidic system having fluidic fittings. 
       FIGS. 4-6  depict various views of an exemplary one of the fluidic couplings  50  of  FIGS. 1-3 . In particular,  FIG. 4  depicts a partially exploded view of an exemplary one of the fluidic couplings  50  of  FIG. 1-3  including a removable seal device  60 .  FIG. 5  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling  50  of  FIG. 4  attached to a receiver fitting  80 .  FIG. 6  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling  50  of  FIGS. 4 and 5  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the fluidic coupling  50  includes a fluidic tube  16  having a support feature  94 , a compression screw  70  and the removable seal device  60 . The fluidic tube  16  is shown inserted into the compression screw  70  such that the compression screw  70  is rotatable about the fluidic tube  16 . The removable seal device  60  extends between a first end  62  and a second end  64 . The second end  64  of the removable seal device  60  may include an opening that is configured to receive a first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  (shown in  FIG. 6 ). The removable seal device  60  is configured to form a first seal between a first end  62  of the removable seal device  60  and a fitting sealing surface of a receiver fitting, while also being configured to create a second seal between an internal cavity of the removable seal device  60  and the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  (shown in more detail in  FIG. 6 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the removable seal device  60  is not integrally connected to the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16 . Rather, the removable seal device  60  is removably attached to the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  in a manner that allows for the removable seal device  60  to become unattached, removed, or decoupled from the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  after use. However, the removable seal device  60  may be configured to be removed from a receiver fitting while maintaining attachment to the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  in a manner that maintains its attachment when the fluidic coupling  50  is being removed from a receiver fitting. Thus, the removable seal device  60  includes structure, described below, that is configured to removably attach to the compression screw  70 . In embodiments described herein, the removable seal device  60  is configured to maintain this attachment as the fluidic coupling  50  is being removed from a receiver fitting. 
     The fluidic tube  16  may be made of a plastic, glass or metal material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. The support feature  94  may further be made of a durable material. For example, the support feature  94  may also be made of metal, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. Likewise, the compression screw  70  may be made of a metallic material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. In one embodiment, the compression screw  60  and the support feature  94  may be made from different materials than each other. This may minimize the risk of material damage between the two components  70 ,  94 . Unlike the fluidic tube  16 , the support feature  94  and the compression screw  70 , the removable seal device  60  may be made of a compliant or flexible material. For example, the removable seal  60  may be a polymer material such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or the like. The removable nature of the removable seal device  60  allows an operator to replace the seal after it is damaged due to natural use or an improper installation. The removable nature of the removable seal device  60  also allows replacement of the removable seal device  60  without requiring replacement of the entire length of the fluidic tube  16 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the compression screw  70  extends along an axis from a first end  71  to a second end  73 . The compression screw  70  includes a main body  72  that includes a threaded portion  74 . The threaded portion  74  may be configured to engage with threads of a receiver fitting to attach the fluidic coupling  50  thereto. The compression screw  70  further includes an extending portion  76  extending from the main body  72 . The extending portion  76  extends along the axis of the compression screw  70  from the main body  72  and includes a smaller diameter than the threaded portion  74  of the main body  72 . Proximate the second end  73  of the compression screw  70 , the extending portion  76  includes a radially protruding feature  78 , which may be a lip, a shelf, an overhang, a projection, a flange, a rim, a collar, or any other protrusion. The second end  73  of the compression screw  70  may include a flat surface that is configured to abut the support feature  94  when the fluidic coupling  50  is attached to a receiver fitting. 
     The fluidic coupling  50  includes a support feature  94  that is fixed proximate the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16 . The support feature  94  extends between a first end  96  and a second end  98 . The support feature  94  includes a conical portion proximate the first end  96  that enlarges in diameter as the conical portion extends away from the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16 . The support feature  94  includes a cylindrical portion that extends from the conical portion. The support feature  94  may be an integral component of the fluidic tube  16 , or may alternatively be permanently attached to the fluidic tube, such as by welding, an epoxy or adhesive, or the like. Thus, the support feature  94  may be affixed in manner that permanently maintains its position along the axis of the fluidic tube  16 . The support feature  94  may include a materially solid structure having an opening, bore or channel extending axially along its length that is dimensioned to receive the fluidic tube  16 . 
     The removable seal device  60  includes a seal body  61 . The seal body  61  extends from the first end  62  with a cylindrical region. A metallic support sleeve  63  surrounds the cylindrical region. The main body  61  further includes a conical portion that extends from the cylindrical region. A larger diameter cylindrical region extends from the conical portion to the second end  64  of the removable seal device  60 . The interior dimensions of the removable seal device  60  are shown in  FIG. 6  and will be described herein below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , the fluidic coupling  50  is shown connected to a receiver fitting  80 . In the embodiment shown, the receiver fitting  80  is a union-type fitting having two receivers, each for receiving a fluidic coupling and fluidic tube. In the embodiment shown, the fluidic coupling  50  is attached to a first receiver body  82  of the receiver fitting  80 . The receiver fitting  80  further includes a second receiver body  86  that is shown without being connected to any fluidic coupling or fluidic tube. The receiver fitting  80  is shown for exemplary purposes, and the fluidic coupling  50  and/or the principles described herein and embodied by the fluidic coupling  50 , may be utilized with any appropriate receiver fitting within any chromatography system, such as liquid chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography, UPLC®, gas chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, or the like. For example, exemplary receiver fittings may include standard metal ferrule and compression screws, PEEK ferrule and compression screws, and other manufacturer&#39;s finger tight fittings, such as Waters Zen Fit®, and the like. 
       FIG. 6  shows a cutaway view of the fluidic coupling  50  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . As shown, the compression screw  70  of the fluidic coupling includes an opening  79  that extends the axial length of the compression screw  70  within which the fluidic tube  16  resides. The fluidic tube  16  is thereby configured to extend through the opening  79  and extend out from each of the first end  71  and the second end  73  of the compressions crew  70 . 
     As shown, the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  is located within an opening of the removable seal device  60 . Specifically, the seal body  61  of the removable seal device  60  includes a cylindrical portion  68  extending from the first end  62  which is dimensioned to closely surround the fluidic tube  16 . For example, the cylindrical portion  68  may include an internal bore or other opening that is dimensioned to receive the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  and an axial length of the fluidic tube  16 . In one embodiment, the internal bore may create an interference fit with the fluidic tube  16 . The metallic support sleeve  63  (shown more clearly in  FIG. 4 ) surrounds the cylindrical portion  68  of the removable seal device  60  and may be configured to maintain the structural integrity of the thin cylindrical portion  68  during tightening of the compression screw  70 . A conical portion  69  of the removable seal device  60  is shown extending from the cylindrical portion  68  and expanding in diameter as the conical portion  69  extends away from the cylindrical portion  68 . Extending from the conical portion  69  is another cylindrical portion  97  that acts as the outer structure for the radial recess  87 . 
     Prior to connecting the fluidic coupling  50  to the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 6 , first the compression screw  70  may be slid axially along the fluidic tube  16  until the second end  73  of the compression screw  70  abuts the second end  98  of the support feature  94 . Once the compression screw  70  is in position, the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  may be inserted into an inner bore  88  of the removable seal device  60  until the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  is proximate a second sealing surface  67  of the removable seal device  60 . Pushing the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  into the inner bore  88  simultaneously brings a radial recess  87  located on an internal surface  89  within the opening of the removable seal device  60  proximate the radially protruding feature  78  of the compression screw  70 . The removable seal device  60  is made of a flexible or compliant material such that the radially protruding feature  78  may temporarily expand the opening at the second end  64  of the removable seal device  60  in order to receive the radially protruding feature  78  within the radial recess  87 . Once the radially protruding feature  78  is attached in this way to removable seal device  60  by being inserted into and located within the radial recess  87 , the removable seal device  60  may be connected to the compression screw  70  so that even when the compression screw  70  is removed or otherwise disconnected from the receiver fitting  80  after use, the removable seal device  60  is configured to remain attached. However, intentionally pulling the removable seal device  60  from the radially protruding portion  78  of the compression screw  70  is configured to allow its removal therefrom. Thus, the radial recess  87  of the internal surface  89  of the opening of the removable seal device  60  may be configured to facilitate removable attachment or securing of the removable seal device  60  to the second end  73  of the compression screw  70 . 
     Once the removable seal device  60  is attached to the compression screw  70  in the removably attached manner described above, the fluidic coupling  50  may then be connected to a receiver fitting, such as the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 6 . To accomplish connecting the fluidic coupling  50  within the receiver fitting  80 , the threads  74  of the compression screw  70  are configured to engage with internal threads of the opening of the receiver fitting  80 . As the compression screw  70  is turned within the receiver fitting  80  and moves axially into the opening of the receiver fitting  80 , the second end  73  of the compression screw  70  pushes the second end  98  of the support feature  94 , thereby pushing the attached fluidic tube  16 . The support feature  94  and the internal surface  89  of the removable seal device  60  are each dimensioned so that the conical portion of the support feature  94  is located within the conical portion  69  of the internal surface  89  of the removable seal device  60 . The support feature  94  may be under pressure with the internal surface  89  of the removable seal device  60  after tightening of the compression screw  70 . 
     After being tightened by the compressions crew  70 , the first sealing surface  66  of the removable seal device  60  is configured to create a first seal with a fitting sealing surface  84  of the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 6 . Further, the second sealing surface  67  of the removable seal device  60  is configured to create a second seal with the first end  92  of a fluidic tube  16  as the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16  is pushed forward by the compression screw  70  moving the support feature  94 . 
     Once connected, fluid may be received through the fluidic tube  16 . The seal body  61  of the removable sealing device  60  includes an inner channel  65  or opening configured to receive a flow of fluid therethrough from the first end  92  of the fluidic tube  16 . The fluid may then flow through a channel  85  of the receiver fitting  80  and eventually into a second fluidic coupling (not shown) that is attached to the second receiver body  86 . For other types of receiver fittings, it should be understood that the fluidic coupling  50  may operate and connect in the same manner as described hereinabove with respect to the operation and connection with the receiver fitting  80 . 
       FIGS. 7-9  depict various views of an exemplary another fluidic coupling  150  that may be incorporated into the liquid chromatography system  10 , sample manager  14  or the stator portion  52  of a rotary shear seal valve of  FIGS. 1-3 . In particular,  FIG. 7  depicts a partially exploded view of the fluidic coupling  150  including a removable seal device  160 .  FIG. 8  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling  150  of  FIG. 4  attached to the receiver fitting  80 .  FIG. 9  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling  150  of  FIGS. 7 and 8  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , the fluidic coupling  150  includes a fluidic tube  116  having a support feature  194 , a compression screw  170  and the removable seal device  160 . The fluidic tube  116  is shown inserted into the compression screw  170  such that the compression screw  170  is rotatable about the fluidic tube  116 . The removable seal device  160  extends between a first end  162  and a second end  164 . The second end  164  of the removable seal device  160  may include an opening that is configured to receive a first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  (shown in  FIG. 9 ). The removable seal device  160  is configured to form a first seal between a first end  162  of the removable seal device  160  and a fitting sealing surface of a receiver fitting, while also being configured to create a second seal between an internal cavity of the removable seal device  160  and the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  (shown in more detail in  FIG. 6 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , the removable seal device  160  is not integrally connected to the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116 . Rather, the removable seal device  160  is removably attached to the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  in a manner that allows for the removable seal device  160  to become unattached, removed, or decoupled from the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  after use. However, the removable seal device  160  may be configured to be removed from a receiver fitting while maintaining attachment to the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  in a manner that maintains its attachment when the fluidic coupling  150  is being removed from a receiver fitting. Thus, the removable seal device  160  includes structure, described below, that is configured to removably attach to the compression screw  170 . In embodiments described herein, the removable seal device  160  is configured to maintain this attachment as the fluidic coupling  50  is being removed from a receiver fitting. 
     Like the fluidic tube  16 , the fluidic tube  116  may be made of a plastic, glass or metal material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. The support feature  194  may further be made of a durable material. For example, the support feature  194  may also be made of metal, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. Likewise, the compression screw  170  may be made of a metallic material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. In one embodiment, the compression screw  160  and the support feature  194  may be made from different materials than each other. This may minimize the risk of material damage between the two components  170 ,  194 . Unlike the fluidic tube  116 , the support feature  194  and the compression screw  170 , the removable seal device  160  may be made of a compliant or flexible material. For example, the removable seal  160  may be a polymer material such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or the like. The removable nature of the removable seal device  160  allows an operator to replace the seal after it is damaged due to natural use or an improper installation. The removable nature of the removable seal device  160  also allows replacement of the removable seal device  160  without requiring replacement of the entire length of the fluidic tube  116 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , the compression screw  170  extends along an axis from a first end  171  to a second end  173 . The compression screw  170  includes a main body  172  that includes a threaded portion  174 . The threaded portion  174  may be configured to engage with threads of a receiver fitting to attach the fluidic coupling  150  thereto. The second end  173  of the compression screw  170  may include a flat surface that is configured to abut the support feature  194  when the fluidic coupling  150  is attached to a receiver fitting. 
     The fluidic coupling  150  includes a support feature  194  that is fixed proximate the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116 . The support feature  194  extends between a first end  196  and a second end  198 . The support feature  194  includes a conical portion proximate the first end  196  that enlarges in diameter as the conical portion extends away from the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116 . The support feature  194  includes a threaded cylindrical portion  195  that extends from the conical portion. The support feature  194  may be an integral component of the fluidic tube  116 , or may alternatively be permanently attached to the fluidic tube, such as by welding, an epoxy or adhesive, or the like. Thus, the support feature  194  may be affixed in manner that permanently maintains its position along the axis of the fluidic tube  116 . The support feature  194  may include a materially solid structure having an opening, bore or channel extending axially along its length that is dimensioned to receive the fluidic tube  116 . 
     The removable seal device  160  includes a seal body  161 . The seal body  161  extends from the first end  162  with a cylindrical region. A metallic support sleeve  163  surrounds the cylindrical region. The main body  161  further includes a conical portion that extends from the cylindrical region. The interior dimensions of the removable seal device  160  are shown in  FIG. 6  and will be described herein below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , the fluidic coupling  150  is shown connected to the receiver fitting  80 . The receiver fitting  80  is shown for exemplary purposes. Like the fluidic coupling  50 , the fluidic coupling  150  and/or the principles described herein and embodied by the fluidic coupling  150 , may be utilized with any appropriate receiver fitting within any chromatography system. 
       FIG. 9  shows a cutaway view of the fluidic coupling  150  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . As shown, the compression screw  170  of the fluidic coupling includes an opening  179  that extends the axial length of the compression screw  170  within which the fluidic tube  116  resides. The fluidic tube  116  is thereby configured to extend through the opening  179  and extend out from each of the first end  171  and the second end  173  of the compressions crew  170 . 
     As shown, the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  is located within an opening of the removable seal device  160 . Specifically, the seal body  161  of the removable seal device  160  includes a cylindrical portion  168  extending from the first end  162  which is dimensioned to closely surround the fluidic tube  116 . For example, the cylindrical portion  168  may include an internal bore or other opening that is dimensioned to receive the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  and an axial length of the fluidic tube  116 . In one embodiment, the internal bore may create an interference fit with the fluidic tube  116 . The metallic support sleeve  163  (shown more clearly in  FIG. 7 ) surrounds the cylindrical portion  168  of the removable seal device  160  and may be configured to maintain the structural integrity of the thin cylindrical portion  168  during tightening of the compression screw  170 . A conical portion  169  of the removable seal device  160  is shown extending from the cylindrical portion  168  and expanding in diameter as the conical portion  169  extends away from the cylindrical portion  168 . The conical portion  169  is shown including internal threads  187  configured to engage with the threads  195  of the support feature  194  of the fluidic tube  116 . 
     Prior to connecting the fluidic coupling  150  to the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 9 , first the compression screw  170  may be slid axially along the fluidic tube  116  until the second end  173  of the compression screw  170  abuts the second end  198  of the support feature  194 . Once the compression screw  170  is in position, the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  may be inserted into an inner bore  188  of the removable seal device  160  until the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  is proximate a second sealing surface  167  of the removable seal device  160 . Pushing the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  into the inner bore  188  simultaneously brings the internal threads  187  located on an internal surface  189  within the opening of the removable seal device  160  proximate the external threads  195  of the support feature  194 . The removable seal device  160  may thereby be rotated about the support feature  194  to provide for removable attachment between the removable seal device  160  and the support feature  194 . Once the removable seal device  160  is attached in this way to support feature  194 , the removable seal device  160  may be connected to the fluidic coupling  150  so that even when the compression screw  170  is removed or otherwise disconnected from the receiver fitting  80  after use, the removable seal device  160  is configured to remain attached. However, intentionally unscrewing the removable seal device  160  from the support feature  194  of the fluidic tube  116  is configured to allow removal of the removable seal device  160  therefrom. Thus, the internal threads  187  of the internal surface  189  of the opening of the removable seal device  160  may be configured to facilitate removable attachment or securing of the removable seal device  160  to the fluidic coupling  150 , and more particularly to the fluidic tube  116 , or the support feature  194  of the fluidic tube  116 . 
     Once the removable seal device  160  is attached to the fluidic coupling  150  in the removably attached manner described above, the fluidic coupling  150  may then be connected to a receiver fitting, such as the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 9 . To accomplish connecting the fluidic coupling  150  within the receiver fitting  80 , the threads  174  of the compression screw  170  are configured to engage with internal threads of the opening of the receiver fitting  80 . As the compression screw  170  is turned within the receiver fitting  80  and moves axially into the opening of the receiver fitting  80 , the second end  173  of the compression screw  170  pushes the second end  198  of the support feature  194 , thereby pushing the attached fluidic tube  116 . The support feature  194  and the internal surface  189  of the removable seal device  160  are each dimensioned so that the conical portion of the support feature  194  is located within the conical portion  169  of the internal surface  189  of the removable seal device  160 . The support feature  194  may be under pressure with the internal surface  189  of the removable seal device  160  after tightening of the compression screw  170 . 
     After being tightened by the compressions crew  170 , the first sealing surface  166  of the removable seal device  160  is configured to create a first seal with a fitting sealing surface  84  of the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 9 . Further, the second sealing surface  167  of the removable seal device  160  is configured to create a second seal with the first end  192  of a fluidic tube  116  as the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116  is pushed forward by the compression screw  170  moving the support feature  194 . 
     Once connected, fluid may be received through the fluidic tube  116 . The seal body  161  of the removable sealing device  160  includes an inner channel  165  or opening configured to receive a flow of fluid therethrough from the first end  192  of the fluidic tube  116 . The fluid may then flow through the channel  85  of the receiver fitting  80  and eventually into the second fluidic coupling (not shown) that is attached to the second receiver body  86 . For other types of receiver fittings, it should be understood that the fluidic coupling  150  may operate and connect in the same manner as described hereinabove with respect to the operation and connection with the receiver fitting  80 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10-12 , various views of another fluidic coupling  250  is shown. In particular,  FIG. 10  depicts a partially exploded view of the fluidic coupling  250  including a removable seal device  60 .  FIG. 11  depicts a perspective view of the fluidic coupling  250  of  FIG. 10  attached to the receiver fitting  80 .  FIG. 12  depicts a side cross sectional view of the fluidic coupling  250  of  FIGS. 10 and 11  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , the fluidic coupling  250  includes a fluidic tube  216  having a support feature  294 , a compression screw  270  and the removable seal device  260 . The fluidic tube  216  is shown inserted into the compression screw  270  such that the compression screw  270  is rotatable about the fluidic tube  216 . The removable seal device  260  extends between a first end  262  and a second end  264 . The second end  264  of the removable seal device  260  may include an opening that is configured to receive a first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  (shown in  FIG. 6 ). The removable seal device  260  is configured to form a first seal between an end  262  of the removable seal device  260  and a fitting sealing surface of a receiver fitting, while also being configured to create a second seal between an internal cavity of the removable seal device  260  and the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  (shown in more detail in  FIG. 12 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , the removable seal device  260  is not integrally connected to the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216 . Rather, the removable seal device  260  is removably attached to the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  in a manner that allows for the removable seal device  260  to become unattached, removed, or decoupled from the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  after use. However, the removable seal device  260  may be configured to be removed from a receiver fitting while maintaining attachment to the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  in a manner that maintains its attachment when the fluidic coupling  250  is being removed from a receiver fitting. Thus, the removable seal device  260  includes structure, described below, that is configured to removably attach to the compression screw  270 . In embodiments described herein, the removable seal device  260  is configured to maintain this attachment as the fluidic coupling  250  is being removed from a receiver fitting. 
     Like the fluidic tubes  16 ,  116 , the fluidic tube  216  may be made of a plastic, glass or metal material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. The support feature  294  may further be made of a durable material. For example, the support feature  294  may also be made of metal, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. Likewise, the compression screw  270  may be made of a metallic material, such as stainless steel, titanium, nitronic  60  and Hastelloy. In one embodiment, the compression screw  260  and the support feature  294  may be made from different materials than each other. This may minimize the risk of material damage between the two components  270 ,  294 . Unlike the fluidic tube  216 , the support feature  294  and the compression screw  270 , the removable seal device  260  may be made of a compliant or flexible material. For example, the removable seal  260  may be a polymer material such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or the like. The removable nature of the removable seal device  260  allows an operator to replace the seal after it is damaged due to natural use or an improper installation. The removable nature of the removable seal device  260  also allows replacement of the removable seal device  260  without requiring replacement of the entire length of the fluidic tube  216 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , the compression screw  270  extends along an axis from a first end  271  to a second end  273 . The compression screw  270  includes a main body  272  that includes a threaded portion  274 . The threaded portion  274  may be configured to engage with threads of a receiver fitting to attach the fluidic coupling  250  thereto. The compression screw  270  further includes an extending portion  276  extending from the main body  272 . The extending portion  276  extends along the axis of the compression screw  270  from the main body  272  and includes a smaller diameter than the threaded portion  274  of the main body  272 . The extending portion  276  includes threads  278  that cover the length of the extending portion  276 . 
     The fluidic coupling  250  includes a support feature  294  that is fixed proximate the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216 . The support feature  294  extends between a first end  296  and a second end  298 . The support feature  294  includes a conical portion proximate the first end  296  that enlarges in diameter as the conical portion extends away from the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216 . The support feature  294  includes a cylindrical portion that extends from the conical portion. The support feature  294  may be an integral component of the fluidic tube  216 , or may alternatively be permanently attached to the fluidic tube, such as by welding, an epoxy or adhesive, or the like. Thus, the support feature  294  may be affixed in manner that permanently maintains its position along the axis of the fluidic tube  216 . The support feature  294  may include a materially solid structure having an opening, bore or channel extending axially along its length that is dimensioned to receive the fluidic tube  216 . 
     The removable seal device  260  includes a seal body  261 . The seal body  261  extends from the first end  262  with a cylindrical region. A metallic support sleeve  263  surrounds the cylindrical region. The main body  261  further includes a conical portion that extends from the cylindrical region. A larger diameter cylindrical region extends from the conical portion to the second end  264  of the removable seal device  260 . The interior dimensions of the removable seal device  260  are shown in  FIG. 12  and will be described herein below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , the fluidic coupling  250  is shown connected to the receiver fitting  80 . The receiver fitting  80  is shown for exemplary purposes. Like the fluidic couplings  50 ,  150 , the fluidic coupling  250  and/or the principles described herein and embodied by the fluidic coupling  250 , may be utilized with any appropriate receiver fitting within any chromatography system. Further, as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the compression screw  270  of the fluidic coupling may be different than the compression screws  70 ,  170  described hereinabove. The compressions crew  270  may include straight knurls  275  or protrusions configured to interface with recesses  304  of a torquing tool  380  having additional knurls  302  configured to allow ease of grip for tightening the compression screw  270 . It should be understood that this approach to torquing the compression screw  270  may be applicable to any embodiments of the present invention, including those from  FIGS. 4-9 . 
       FIG. 12  shows a cutaway view of the fluidic coupling  250  attached to the receiver fitting  80 . As shown, the compression screw  270  of the fluidic coupling includes an opening  279  that extends the axial length of the compression screw  270  within which the fluidic tube  216  resides. The fluidic tube  216  is thereby configured to extend through the opening  279  and extend out from each of the first end  271  and the second end  273  of the compressions crew  270 . 
     As shown, the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  is located within an opening of the removable seal device  260 . Specifically, the seal body  261  of the removable seal device  260  includes a cylindrical portion  268  extending from the first end  262  which is dimensioned to closely surround the fluidic tube  216 . For example, the cylindrical portion  268  may include an internal bore or other opening that is dimensioned to receive the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  and an axial length of the fluidic tube  216 . In one embodiment, the internal bore may create an interference fit with the fluidic tube  216 . The metallic support sleeve  263  shown more clearly in  FIG. 10  surrounds this cylindrical portion  268  of the removable seal device  260  and may be configured to maintain the structural integrity of the thin cylindrical portion  268  during tightening of the compression screw  270 . A conical portion  269  of the removable seal device  260  is shown extending from the cylindrical portion  268  and expanding in diameter as the conical portion  269  extends away from the cylindrical portion  268 . Extending from the conical portion  269  is another cylindrical portion  297 . Within an inner surface  289  of the opening of the cylindrical portion  297  are threads  287  configured to engage with the threads  278  of the compression screw  270 . 
     Prior to connecting the fluidic coupling  250  to the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 12 , first the compression screw  270  may be slid axially along the fluidic tube  216  until the second end  273  of the compression screw  270  abuts the second end  298  of the support feature  294 . Once the compression screw  270  is in position, the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  may be inserted into an inner bore  288  of the removable seal device  260  until the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  is proximate a second sealing surface  267  of the removable seal device  260 . Pushing the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  into the inner bore  288  simultaneously brings the threads  287  of the cylindrical portion  297  of the removable seal device  260  proximate the threads  278  of the compression screw  270 . At this point, the removable seal device  260  may be rotated about the compression screw  270  in order to engage the threads  287  with the threads  278  and create removable attachment of the removable seal device  260  to the compression screw  270 . Once the removable seal device  260  is attached in this way to compression screw  270 , the removable seal device  260  may be connected to the compression screw  270  so that even when the compression screw  270  is removed or otherwise disconnected from the receiver fitting  80  after use, the removable seal device  260  is configured to remain attached. However, intentionally unscrewing the removable seal device  260  from the compression screw  270  is configured to allow its removal therefrom. Thus, the threads  287  of the internal surface  289  of the opening of the removable seal device  260  may be configured to facilitate removable attachment or securing of the removable seal device  260  to the second end  273  of the compression screw  270 . 
     Once the removable seal device  260  is attached to the compression screw  270  in the removably attached manner described above, the fluidic coupling  250  may then be connected to a receiver fitting, such as the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 12 . To accomplish connecting the fluidic coupling  250  within the receiver fitting  80 , the threads  274  of the compression screw  270  are configured to engage with internal threads of the opening of the receiver fitting  80 . As the compression screw  270  is turned within the receiver fitting  80  and moves axially into the opening of the receiver fitting  80 , the second end  273  of the compression screw  270  pushes the second end  298  of the support feature  294 , thereby pushing the attached fluidic tube  216 . The support feature  294  and the internal surface  289  of the removable seal device  260  are each dimensioned so that the conical portion of the support feature  294  is located within the conical portion  269  of the internal surface  289  of the removable seal device  260 . The support feature  294  may be under pressure with the internal surface  289  of the removable seal device  260  after tightening of the compression screw  270 . 
     After being tightened by the compressions crew  270 , the first sealing surface  266  of the removable seal device  260  is configured to create a first seal with the fitting sealing surface  84  of the receiver fitting  80  as shown in  FIG. 12 . Further, the second sealing surface  267  of the removable seal device  260  is configured to create a second seal with the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  as the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216  is pushed forward by the compression screw  270  moving the support feature  94 . 
     Once connected, fluid may be received through the fluidic tube  216 . The seal body  261  of the removable sealing device  260  includes an inner channel  265  or opening configured to receive a flow of fluid therethrough from the first end  292  of the fluidic tube  216 . The fluid may then flow through a channel  285  of the receiver fitting  80  and eventually into a second fluidic coupling (not shown) that is attached to the second receiver body  86 . For other types of receiver fittings, it should be understood that the fluidic coupling  250  may operate and connect in the same manner as described hereinabove with respect to the operation and connection with the receiver fitting  80 . 
     Methods of fluidic coupling are further contemplated herein. A method of fluidic coupling in accordance with embodiments described herein may include providing a fluidic tube, such as one of the fluidic tubes  16 ,  116 ,  216 , including an end surface, such as one of the end surfaces  92 ,  192 ,  292 . Methods may include providing a compression screw, such as one of the compression screws  70 ,  170 ,  270 . Methods may include providing a removable seal device, such as one of the removable seal devices  60 ,  160   260 , including a seal body, such as one of the seal bodies  61 ,  161 ,  261 , extending between a first end, such as one of the first ends  62 ,  162 ,  262 , and a second end, such as one of the second ends  64 ,  164 ,  264 , the removable seal device including an inner channel, such as one of the inner channels  65 ,  165 ,  265 . In accordance with methods described herein, the first end of the removable seal device includes a first sealing surface, such as one of the first sealing surfaces  66 ,  166 ,  266 , and the removable seal device includes a second sealing surface, such as one of the second sealing surfaces  67 ,  167 ,  267 . Methods further include providing a receiver fitting, such as the receiver fitting  80 . 
     Methods contemplated herein further include removably attaching the removable seal device to the compression screw, tightening the compression screw to the receiver fitting, creating a first seal between the first sealing surface and a fitting sealing surface of the receiver fitting, and creating a second seal between the second sealing surface and the end surface of a fluidic tube. Methods still further include receiving fluid from the fluidic tube by the fluidic channel, providing the received fluid from the fluidic channel to a channel of the receiver fitting, such as the channel  85 . Methods further include loosening the compression screw from the receiver fitting, simultaneously removing the compression screw, the fluidic tube and the removable seal device from the receiver fitting, and unattaching the removable seal device from the compression screw after the simultaneously removing. 
     Methods still further include providing a providing a second removable seal device after the first removable seal device has been removed, such as one of the removable seal devices  60 ,  160 ,  260 . Methods include removably attaching the second removable seal device to the compression screw, tightening the compression screw to the receiver fitting after the removably attaching the second removable seal device to the compression screw, creating a first seal between the first sealing surface of the second removable seal device and the fitting sealing surface of the receiver fitting; and creating a second seal between the second sealing surface of the second removable seal device and the end surface of a fluidic tube. 
     Methods of the present invention thereby provide for removing, unattaching or decoupling the removable seal device from the first end of the fluidic tube after use. Methods further include removably attaching the removable seal device to the end of the tube and maintaining attachment when the fluidic coupling is being removed from the receiver fitting. Methods further include attaching the removable seal device to at least one of the tube, a support feature that is affixed to the tube, a compression screw, or any other portion of a fluidic coupling. Methods include replacing the removable seal device after wear and tear, without replacing the entire length of tube and other components of the fluidic coupling. 
     While the invention has been shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as recited in the accompanying claims. For example, in some embodiments, the removable seal device may not include a support sleeve, or may include a support sleeve that is not made of a metallic material. Other variations are contemplated without departing from the scope of inventions described herein.