Schlenk lines are supported by lattice lab frames that are secured to the back wall of the fumehood. It is recommended to secure the Schlenk line at a comfortable height with at least three clamps, securing both the vacuum and inert gas manifold to prevent slippage or tilting. Orient the clamp so that the weight of the Schlenk line is supported by the bottom (the non-moving arm) of the clamp – this means that the thumbscrew is always at the bottom or underneath the glassware being supported. This same principle should also be applied to boss heads.
The solvent trap should also be secured to the lattice frames with a clamp after being suitably aligned with the vacuum manifold. For Schlenk lines with Teflon taps, the solvent trap is commonly connected to the vacuum manifold with a greaseless O-ring ball and socket joint. For Schlenk lines with ground glass stopcocks, the solvent trap is typically connected to the vacuum manifold through a ground glass joint that has been suitably greased or sealed with wax.
Attaching the tubing to the Schlenk line can be particularly challenging and is a common way to damage the Schlenk line. For Tygon tubing, gentle heating of the tubing can make it more malleable to help attach it to the Schlenk line. For rubber tubing, a simple lubricant such as paraffin or mineral oil can help. Alternatively, coating the glass with a small amount of organic solvent (such as acetone or DCM) can soften the tubing. Tubing can be secured to the Schlenk line with hose clamps once attached.
Please view the Schlenk line gallery to see examples of how to assemble a Schlenk line, and get in contact if you have any further queries.
The Schlenk Line Survival Guide 