Abstract: A unique valve assembly for simulated bed moving chromatography employs a combination of pressure compatible sealable materials that permit minimal frictional interaction between moving parts, ensures alignment of parts, and provides a method for conducting SMB countercurrent chromatography on a small scale, in which purity and separation efficiency are enhanced. Machine designs are disclosed which embody the SMB concepts. Finally, a quick disconnect connector and adaptor is provided for mounting chromatographic columns in an SMB device. Demonstration of this system in a fructose-glucose isomer separation with purity-recovery trade-off for this device is also presented.