Thermo Scientific Viper and nanoViper Fingertight Fitting System

Importance of the Topic

In liquid chromatography, connection quality critically influences separation efficiency, system robustness and reproducibility, especially under high pressure and in nano LC workflows.

Objectives and Overview

This study presents the Thermo Scientific Viper and nanoViper Fingertight Fitting System designed to deliver tool-free, virtually zero dead-volume fluidic connections across all LC platforms, enabling improved chromatographic outcomes.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

Evaluation included comparative analyses between conventional ferrule fittings and Viper fittings under increasing backpressures up to 1500 bar, using model compounds such as uracil, acetanilide and acetophenone.
Reproducibility tests employed three nanoViper capillaries with retention time measurements on a Thermo Scientific UltiMate 3000 RSLCnano system coupled to a Q Exactive HF mass spectrometer.
Additional setups utilized the Vanquish Horizon UHPLC system with various column and valve configurations.

Main Results and Discussion

Viper fittings eliminated extra-column volumes associated with ferrule slippage, maintaining consistent peak shapes at 600 bar and beyond.
NanoViper capillaries demonstrated high capillary-to-capillary reproducibility with retention time RSDs below 0.2% across four replicates.
Dedicated application kits facilitated automated method scouting, on-line SPE and pre-concentration with uniform performance in advanced nano LC workflows.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Tool-free, fingertight installation up to 1500 bar without specialized tools
• Color-coded ID tags and removable knurl improve identification and handling in tight spaces
• Compatibility with a wide variety of materials (stainless steel, PEEK, MP35N, fused silica) and dimensions for diverse applications
• High temperature tolerance up to 120 °C for demanding analyses
• Enhanced reproducibility and chromatographic efficiency for routine QA/QC and proteomics

Future Trends and Opportunities

Increased automation and integration with high-throughput workflows will drive demand for customizable, dead-volume free fittings.
Emerging materials and microfluidic innovations could extend performance under extreme pressures and temperatures.
Broader implementation in multi‐omics, clinical and pharmaceutical analyses is anticipated as nanoflow LC continues to expand.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Viper and nanoViper Fingertight Fitting System offers a robust solution for maximizing chromatographic performance by eliminating dead volume, simplifying installation and ensuring reproducible results across diverse LC and nano LC applications.

Reference

• Thermo Fisher Scientific. Thermo Scientific Viper and nanoViper Fingertight Fitting System: Product Specification. BR72316-EN (2017).