An economical metal column should be used for less demanding applications where the inertness of glass is not required. This column fits Agilent 5880, 5890, 6890, 7820, and 7890 (configuration A, on-column injection, all detectors except TCD).

The carrier gas percolates through the porous bed in packed columns. In a packed column, separation is achieved by moving the solutes apart. Packed columns are made up of mainly two materials; stainless steel and Pyrex glass. Metal packed columns are more suitable for long and high carrier gas flow rates to tolerate the elevated pressures. Chromosorb P is a diatomite support to any stationary phase. Chromosorb P (AW) gives the best separation of volatile fatty acids consistent with the lowest temperatures.