the present invention relates to a chromatography column that removes the longitudinal load from the column tube altogether and transfers it to a yoke and stanchion arrangement situated around but external to the column tube . by using the yoke / stanchion system , the central adjuster can be used to move the top end into and out of the housing . thus , when internal pressure is applied to the column , the tube experiences no longitudinal load . additionally , the yoke and stanchion design allows for complete removal of the end from the tube without cumbersome disassembly . moreover , the yoke provides a place to retain the end while the tube is being filled , emptied , cleaned or repaired .