Efficiency of preparative and process column distribution systems

An analytical method for computing the residence time distribution of the liquid distribution system in chromatography columns is described. The impact of the distributor design on the separation efficiency is predicted as a function of media properties and packed bed dimensions. The efficiency loss due to the distributor when increasing column diameter during scale-up is quantified. It is shown that this loss can be compensated by modulating the local bed height via a moderate inclination of the bed support. It is concluded that the selection of an appropriate distributor design concept with optimised dimensions enables a scale-up of chromatographic separations without any significant loss of chromatographic efficiency due to the distribution system.