Avantor ACE Accessories for Chromatography System Optimization

Avantor’s ACE accessory range is designed to support HPLC and UHPLC systems with reliable and precision-engineered components. From pre-column filters to guard holders and fingertight connectors, these accessories protect your columns, ensure secure connections, and maintain optimal performance throughout your workflow. Whether you're working with analytical or preparative-scale chromatography, ACE accessories provide essential compatibility and efficiency.

Explore Core Accessory Types for Reliable Chromatography Performance

Avantor ACE accessories are grouped into essential functional categories to support chromatography workflows across analytical, UHPLC, and semi-preparative applications. Each category addresses specific system requirements such as pressure stability, leak prevention, and component compatibility.

Pre-Column Filters – Protect Column Integrity from Particulate Contamination

These filters act as a first line of defense by trapping particles before they reach the analytical column. They help maintain consistent flow rates, reduce system backpressure, and extend column lifespan. ACE offers standard LC, UHPLC, and ACQUITY-compatible versions, with options for different micron ratings and pack sizes (e.g., 5PK, 10PK).

Guard Column Holders – Secure and Replace Short Guard Columns with Ease

Guard holders provide a stable and pressure-resistant interface for guard columns, protecting the main analytical column from matrix fouling. Available in multiple formats including 1 cm, semi-preparative (30 mm ID), and analytical LC configurations, these holders simplify routine maintenance and reduce downtime.

Fingertight Connectors & Couplers – Leak-Free, Tool-Free Column Connections

These PEEK or stainless steel connectors enable quick, secure connections between columns, tubing, and flow paths without the need for wrenches. ACE’s reusable and system-specific couplers (e.g., for H0001/H0002) are ideal for high-pressure environments and microbore setups, offering compatibility with various port geometries and threading standards.

System-Specific Components – Designed for ACQUITY, Microbore, and Specialty System

ACE offers tailored components to fit specific chromatography systems, including ACQUITY-compatible UHPLC filters, microbore column connectors (1/32", 6-40 thread), and torque wrenches for controlled installation. These accessories ensure precise fit and performance in demanding workflows, minimizing risk of mismatches or leaks.

Practical Applications Across HPLC, UHPLC, and Sample Prep Workflows

Avantor ACE accessories are engineered to enhance the performance and reliability of chromatography systems in high-demand laboratory environments. From protecting analytical columns to supporting precise sample delivery, these components are critical in routine and advanced workflows across pharmaceutical, environmental, and academic research labs.

Analytical Column Protection in HPLC and UHPLC Systems

Pre-column filters and guard column holders help safeguard expensive columns from particulate contamination, reducing the risk of clogging and maintaining sharp peak shapes. This is especially important in high-throughput or long-run analyses, where column failure can lead to costly downtime and data loss.

Optimized Flow Path Assembly and Pressure Stability

Fingertight connectors, reusable couplers, and ferrules ensure secure, leak-free connections throughout the LC system. This is essential in UHPLC workflows, where high backpressure demands precision fittings and robust sealing to maintain reproducible results.

Semi-Preparative and Specialized Chromatography Support

ACE offers accessories specifically designed for semi-preparative chromatography, including 30 mm ID guard holders and high-volume connectors. These components are critical when working with larger sample loads or viscous matrices, such as in purification or compound isolation processes.

System-Specific Maintenance and Customization

Accessories like torque wrenches, microbore column connectors, and ACQUITY-compatible filters enable labs to customize or maintain their setups with confidence. These components improve system compatibility, simplify hardware changes, and support regular preventive maintenance.

How to Select the Right Chromatography Accessories for Your System

Selecting the appropriate accessories is essential to maintaining a stable and high-performing chromatography workflow. With a wide range of ACE components available, understanding your system’s requirements will ensure optimal compatibility, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your instrumentation and consumables.

1. Match Accessories with Column Type and Format

Choose pre-column filters and guard holders that correspond to your column dimensions—whether analytical, semi-preparative, or microbore. For example, 1 cm guard holders are ideal for standard analytical LC, while 30 mm ID holders suit preparative-scale separations.

2. Verify System Compatibility (UHPLC, ACQUITY, HPLC)

Certain ACE accessories are specially designed for high-pressure UHPLC systems or platforms like Waters ACQUITY. Always confirm that the pressure rating, thread type, and fitting geometry align with your system’s specifications to prevent leakage or mechanical mismatch.

3. Choose the Right Connector Type for Your Tubing and Ports

Use fingertight connectors, reusable couplers, or capillary adapters based on tubing material (PEEK, stainless steel), internal diameter (e.g., 1/32"), and thread pitch (e.g., 6-40). Accurate sizing ensures seamless solvent flow and maintains system pressure.

4. Consider Your Workflow Demands and Maintenance Preferences

If your application involves frequent filter or column changes, opt for easy-to-use, tool-free accessories. Torque wrenches and replacement ferrules are ideal for labs emphasizing preventive maintenance and reproducibility.

FAQs About Avantor Accessories

1. Are ACE accessories compatible with Waters ACQUITY or other UHPLC systems?

Yes. Several ACE accessories—such as UHPLC pre-column filters and couplers—are specifically designed for compatibility with high-pressure systems like Waters ACQUITY. Always check product specifications for pressure ratings, fitting dimensions, and thread types before installation.

2. How do I know which pre-column filter is right for my column?

Selection depends on your column format (analytical, semi-prep, UHPLC), particle size tolerance, and system pressure. For analytical LC columns, 0.5 μm or 2.0 μm filters are commonly used. For UHPLC systems, choose high-pressure rated filters with Acquity or equivalent compatibility.

3. Can I install ACE connectors and filters without tools?

Many ACE connectors, such as PEEK fingertight types, are designed for tool-free installation, making them ideal for quick system setup or maintenance. However, for high-pressure fittings, torque wrenches or specific tightening tools may still be required to ensure leak-free performance.