Frequently Asked Questions
What are HiQ Sil HPLC columns?
They are silica-based analytical HPLC columns available in multiple bonded and unbonded stationary phases.
Who manufactures HiQ Sil columns?
Sun International Co., Ltd., Japan.
Who supplies HiQ Sil columns in India?
Akira Analytical Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad.
Which phase is a common reversed-phase starting point?
C18 is commonly evaluated first, though the best phase depends on the analytes and critical resolution.
What is the difference between C18HS and C18W?
The catalogue lists C18HS with 100 Å pores and C18W with 120 Å pores; users should also compare selectivity experimentally.
What is the difference between C18, C8 and C4?
Hydrophobic retention generally decreases from C18 to C8 to C4.
When should Phenyl be selected?
Phenyl can provide alternative selectivity for aromatic compounds through π–π interactions.
What is NH2 used for?
Aminopropyl phases are polar and may be used in normal-phase or selected HILIC-style methods.
What is CN used for?
Cyano is a moderately polar phase that can be used in normal-phase or selected reversed-phase methods.
What is bare silica used for?
Bare silica is commonly used for classic normal-phase adsorption chromatography.
Which particle sizes are listed?
The portfolio includes 3 µm, 5 µm and 10 µm options depending on family.
Which pore sizes are listed?
The catalogue lists 100 Å and 120 Å materials.
Are guard columns available?
Yes, matching cartridge guard columns are listed for the families.
Is an adaptor required?
Yes, cartridge guard columns require a compatible guard-column adaptor.
How should a new column be conditioned?
Use a compatible mobile phase and equilibrate until pressure, baseline and retention are stable.
How should a column be stored?
Remove buffers, use a compatible storage solvent and cap both ends.
What causes high backpressure?
Common causes include particulates, blocked frits, buffer precipitation, viscous solvents and system restrictions.
What causes peak tailing?
Secondary interactions, unsuitable pH, overload, contamination and dead volume can contribute.
What causes retention-time variation?
Mobile-phase preparation, temperature, flow-rate errors, insufficient equilibration and column changes are common causes.
Can a contaminated column be regenerated?
Sometimes, depending on the contaminant and whether the packed bed is intact.
How do I choose column length?
Longer columns generally provide more resolving power but higher pressure and longer run time.
How do I choose internal diameter?
Consider instrument dispersion, flow rate, sensitivity, sample amount and method compatibility.
Are prices shown online?
No. Request a quotation from Akira Analytical Solutions.
How can I request technical support?
Email sales@akiralabs.com with method, sample, mobile phase, pressure and chromatogram details.
Can HiQ Sil columns be used for pharmaceutical QC?
They may be used in validated pharmaceutical methods when suitable for the analytes and regulatory requirements.
Do 3 µm columns create more pressure?
Typically yes, compared with 5 µm or 10 µm particles at comparable dimensions and flow.
Can I reverse-flush the column?
Only when current manufacturer guidance permits it; otherwise the packed bed may be damaged.
Why use a guard column?
It helps protect the analytical column from particles and strongly retained matrix components.
Can one guard cartridge fit every phase?
No. Match phase, dimension and adaptor compatibility.
How can I obtain a quotation?
Use the contact form and include the catalogue number, quantity and delivery location.