A protein chromatography column is a method used to separate proteins from a mixture based on their molecular size. Due to differences in the shape and molecular size of various proteins, when a mixture passes through a gel filtration chromatography column packed with porous particles, proteins of different sizes exhibit varying abilities to diffuse into the pores of specific sizes. Larger protein molecules are eluted first, while smaller ones are eluted later, thereby achieving separation. Protein chromatography columns are widely used for the purification of biomolecules such as proteins, peptides, antibodies, enzymes, viruses, and recombinant proteins.

The maintenance process of a protein chromatography column includes the following steps:

1)Provide a chromatography column comprising: a dispersion system with a nozzle, which includes a flow path connected to a liquid inlet; a tube connected to an integrated drive system via an adapter assembly, which is movable within the cavity of the tube in operational mode; said adapter assembly, which includes a back plate, a distributor, and a bed support fastened to each other by releasable securing means; a collection system opposite the dispersion system; and one or more seals.

2)Disconnect the adapter assembly from the tube.

3)Raise the adapter assembly above the tube using the drive system to create an accessible gap between the adapter assembly and the tube.

4)Attach a guiding element to the tube.

5)Without accessing the interior of the column, loosen the bed support from the distributor and the back plate.

6)Using the guiding element, remove the bed support from the column without accessing its interior.

7)Perform maintenance on the column and/or the bed support and/or the one or more seals.

8)Return the bed support to the column and, without accessing the interior of the column, fasten the bed support and the back plate to the distributor.

9)Release the guiding element from the tube.

10)Lower the adapter assembly into the operational position within the tube and reconnect the adapter assembly to the tube.