Internal Reducers

Valco Internal Reducers (IZR) are engineered to allow smaller tubing to be used directly in valves or fitting details designed for larger tubing—creating a true zero-dead-volume, leak-free seal. Featuring a new body material that helps eliminate galling and reduce thread friction, IZRs provide reliable performance and simplified maintenance in HPLC and analytical systems.

Unlike traditional reducing unions, the IZR allows the small-diameter line to connect directly into the valve. This eliminates short connecting tubing segments, allowing the sample to flow straight into the valve body while reducing system volume and potential dispersion. Once installed, only one wrench is required for removal and reinstallation.

A second IZR version incorporates a 2 micron stainless steel frit pressed into the end of the liner, adding inline filtration. These filtered IZRs are best used as a final or backup filter in conjunction with a standard Valco filter, as the smaller surface area may lead to frequent plugging if used as a primary standalone filter.

Valco also offers an IZR designed for direct connection of 360 µm tubing to 1/32" Valco valves or fitting details. This configuration is available in two versions—one with a stainless steel nut and ferrule and one with PEEK—both utilizing a stainless steel body for strength and chemical compatibility.

TUBING OD BORE WITHOUT FRIT WITH 2 µM FRIT
1/16" to 1/32"0.25 mm IZR1.5—
1/16" to 1/32"0.50 mm IZR1.5L—
1/16" to 1/32"1/32" IZR1.5T—
1/8" to 1/16"0.50 mm IZR21—
1/8" to 1/16"1.00 mm IZR21LIZR21LF
Key Definitions â–¶
Internal Reducer (IZR)
A Valco fitting that enables small-ID tubing to connect directly into valves or fitting details designed for larger tubing, forming a leak-free, zero-dead-volume seal.
Galling
Adhesive wear that can occur when threaded metal components bind or seize under friction. Updated IZR body materials help reduce galling and thread friction.
Zero Dead Volume (ZDV)
A connection design that minimizes void spaces at the fitting interface, helping reduce dispersion and preserve chromatographic efficiency.
Reducing Union
A connector used to join two tubing sizes. Compared to an IZR, a reducing union may require short connecting tubing segments that add system volume.
2 Micron Stainless Steel Frit
A porous metal filter element pressed into the liner to capture particulates. Filtered IZRs are typically recommended as a final or backup filter rather than the primary filter.
360 µm Tubing
Capillary tubing with a 360 micrometer outer diameter, commonly used in micro- and capillary-flow LC. Certain IZRs allow direct connection of 360 µm tubing into 1/32" Valco valves or fitting details.
Frequently Asked Questions â–¶
What is a Valco Internal Reducer (IZR)?
A Valco Internal Reducer allows small-ID tubing to connect directly into valves or fitting details designed for larger tubing, creating a true zero-dead-volume, leak-free seal without added connecting tubing.
How is an IZR different from a reducing union?
Unlike a reducing union, an IZR eliminates short connecting tubing segments by allowing the small line to enter the valve directly, reducing system volume and helping preserve chromatographic performance.
What is the purpose of the filtered IZR version?
The filtered IZR includes a 2 micron stainless steel frit to capture particulates. It is recommended as a final or backup filter in conjunction with a standard Valco filter rather than as a primary standalone filter.
What tubing sizes are supported by Valco IZRs?
Valco offers IZRs for multiple tubing sizes, including versions that allow direct connection of 360 µm tubing into 1/32" Valco valves or fitting details.
What materials are available for Valco Internal Reducers?
IZRs feature stainless steel bodies and are available with either stainless steel or PEEK nuts and ferrules, depending on configuration, to support chemical compatibility and application requirements.