High-Performance HPLC Tubing, PEEK Capillaries & Leak-Free Fittings | Direct Factory Supplier 

Why is Your HPLC System Losing Pressure? How to Inspect Tubing and Fittings 

PEEK vs. Stainless Steel Tubing in HPLC: Which One Should You Choose? 

Pressure fluctuation or sudden pressure drop is one of the most common issues in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems. When your baseline becomes unstable, the root cause is often hidden in minor connection faults.

First, inspect all stainless steel and PEEK fittings for microscopic mobile phase leaks. Salt buffer precipitation around zero-dead-volume connectors is a classic sign of micro-seepage. Second, check whether the capillary tubing has been overtightened, which can deform the polymer ferrules and cause internal micro-cracks. Replacing worn-out HPLC fittings and ensuring clean, square cuts on PEEK tubing will instantly restore system integrity and baseline stability.

Choosing the right capillary tubing material is critical for optimizing chromatographic separation and preventing system clogging. Both PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) and stainless steel have distinct advantages depending on your analytical application.

Stainless steel tubing offers exceptional pressure limits and zero internal volume expansion, making it the industry standard for ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). However, it is susceptible to corrosion from certain aggressive buffers. On the other hand, biocompatible PEEK tubing is chemically inert, easy to cut by hand, and prevents protein adsorption, making it ideal for bio-inert HPLC systems and standard analytical setups. Understanding your pressure requirements and mobile phase chemistry is the key to making the right choice.