1. What assurances can MicroSolv provide that all vials will fit our instruments and not jam them?
2. What are the differences between “33 expansion” and “51 expansion” glass and which should I choose?
3. I have heard that there are HPLC certified auto sampler vials on the market. What is the advantage or disadvantage of using these compared to MicroSolv vials?
4. What tests are performed to assure the fit of the vials and components?
5. How are your vials packaged to insure no contamination?
6. What is an Easy Purchase Pack?
7. What is a Universal Vial?

1.What assurances can MicroSolv provide that all vials will fit our instruments and not jam them? [top]
During the manufacturing process, opto-electronical devices in the machines check within parts of a second to ensure the processed vials meet the physical specifications (dimension, etc.). In the case of a mismatch, the vial is blown out into the trash. This 100 percent automatic control manual in-process controls as well as a final inspection according to DIN/ISO standards, which further ensures functionality and a perfect fit in the instrument.

2. What are the differences between “33 expansion” and “51 expansion” glass and which should I choose? [top]
Our vials are made from SCHOTT® brand glass tubing, of first hydrolytic class. First hydrolytic class glass is very hard and has a low expansion coefficient, even when large variations in manufacturing temperatures are observed. It has an excellent chemical resistance to acidic, neutral and relatively low alkaline solutions.

Clear glass of first hydrolytic class is divided into two categories: "33 expansion" (Type 1, Class A) and "51 expansion" glass (Type 1, Class B). The indicated lower expansion coefficient of 33 implies that this harder clear glass has to be processed at higher temperatures when manufacturing auto sampler vials. Approximately 1,200°C is required for "33 expansion" glass in comparison to only approximately 1,000°C for "51 expansion" glass.

From a quality point of view, both types of glass are equally suitable for use as an auto sampler vial for chromatography. When manufacturing these vials the risk of bringing substances from the glass to the surface is higher with "33 expansion" glass due to the higher temperatures required.

Another source of these extracted substances during the vial making process is a difference in the temperature of the glass. For example, the screw thread tooling will be different than the body of the vial. This is more exaggerated for "33 expansion" glass compared to "51 expansion".

To ensure an exact fit of the vial into the auto sampler, very hard, low expansion glass of very tight manufacturing specification is used.

3.I have heard that there are HPLC certified auto sampler vials on the market. What is the advantage or disadvantage of using these compared to MicroSolv vials? [top]
HPLC certified vials do not change the quality of a vial simply by supplying a certificate. Testing procedures for every type of sample and for every application/analysis method cannot be performed economically. Therefore, even certified vials may not produce the assurance they claim to offer, only producing additional costs.

MicroSolv vials are warranted against any at all defects in manufacturing including potential contamination due to extractables from the glass. This is provided without additional costs.

Quality control procedures in testing of all MicroSolv vials including lot analysis and control has always been done and will continue to be done.

4.What tests are performed to assure the fit of the vials and components? [top]
Functional tests are performed to further ensure that the vial does not only fit the instrument, but also all the components that might be connected to it, i.e. Micro-Inserts, Seals, etc... A correct analysis can only be carried out if the whole unit of vial (Micro-Insert) and closure harmonize with each other and achieve a tight seal.

5. How are your vials packaged to insure no contamination? [top]
All vials that carry a CleanPack label on the front side of the PP-Box have been packed in a certified clean-room class 10,000 after having passed the oven at approximately 600°C. These highly hygienic conditions are a pharmaceutical standard; however, new for chromatography vials. Thus, the consumer can rely on clean, uncontaminated vials for a correct analysis.

6. What is an Easy Purchase Pack? [top]
Click here for more information about Easy Purchase Packs