A method of forming a column (100 and 200) for use with an analytical chemical instrument. The method includes placing a frit (102 and 202) in proximity to a distal end (110 and 210) of a tube (104 and 204) having an internal bore (106 and 206) adapted to receive packing material (108 and 208) for selectively interacting with an analyte of interest in a sample. The method further includes laser welding the frit to the tube and inserting packing material within the internal bore of the tube. A column formed in accordance with this method.