Abstract: The present invention relates to a clamp, in particular a clamp for holding a chromatography column, and methods of using such a clamp. A clamp includes a first gripping surface comprising a first recess for accommodating a support; and a second gripping surface comprising a second recess for accommodating the support. The first gripping surface and second gripping surface being connected at one end to a hinge, movable between a first position and a second position; and the hinge defining, in the first position, a first angle between the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface, wherein the recesses provide a clamping force against the support, and defining in the second position, a second angle between the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface, where the clamp is slidable along the support within the recesses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve assembly, comprising a valve chamber, accesses to the valve chamber, the accesses including a first access and a second access, and a movable sealing body assembly comprising at least one sealing portion, wherein at least a portion of the sealing body assembly is magnetic, and wherein at least a portion of the sealing body assembly comprising the at least one sealing portion is located within the valve chamber. Further, the valve assembly comprises at least one sealing surface, wherein each of the at least one sealing surface is configured to complement one of the at least one sealing portion, and wherein each sealing surface comprises an orifice fluidly connected to one of the accesses.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing mechanism and to a method which forms the basis for the former and in which a clamping ring which loads a sealing element compensates for an operationally induced change in the volume which is available for the sealing element, as a result of which the sealing action of the sealing element can be maintained reliably even in the case of high operating pressures.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing mechanism and to a method which forms the basis for the former and in which a clamping ring which loads a sealing element compensates for an operationally induced change in the volume which is available for the sealing element, as a result of which the sealing action of the sealing element can be maintained reliably even in the case of high operating pressures.