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Preventing the Jetstream effect in HPLC flow measurements

The flow profile delivered by an HPLC system can be affected by an abrupt change in the internal diameter (ID) of tubing when the change is from a narrow bore to a significantly larger bore. Such an abrupt change in ID causes a "core stream" to be built in the larger ID tubing leaving the liquid layers closer to the wall of the tube practically unperturbed. This 'Jetstream effect' will decisively affect the velocity profile of eluant flow creating disturbances which will decrease the accuracy of HPLC flow rate measurement. Often underestimated, this phenomenon might also affect peak symmetry, it is therefore crucial to understand it and prevent.