Abstract: In a chromatography column one or more of the end plates defining the column are provided with specially designed lands and grooves to more effectively uniformly distribute the input liquid over the column cross-sectional area and thus improve the separation of sample components, the upper end wall of the column being adjustably positionable to vary the axial length of the column by means of novel structure including readily releasable speed nuts engageable with externally threaded rods, the seal between the movable upper plate and the column wall being so designed as to minimize dead space and thus further increase separating power, and the structure for adjustably positioning said top wall includes elements enabling that structure and the top wall connected thereto to be conveniently supported in inverted condition when separated from the remainder of the column structure.

Abstract: For use with large size containers having narrow entrance openings, the stirrer blade is mounted on a support rod for pivotal movement from an angled position which permits insertion into the narrow entrance opening to a perpendicular position suitable for stirring. The blade is carried on a slotted tube which has a recess into which a plunger connected to the end of the rod is movably received. The plunger contacts the upper edge of the blade. Once the blade is situated in the container, the rod is moved relative to the tube, causing the plunger to pivot the blade to the stirring position.