Shimadzu GC-14A/B Used Gas Chromatograph
| Brand | Shimadzu |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | GC-14A/B |
| Instrument Type | Gas Chromatograph |
| Age | 5–7 years |
| Warranty | 6 months |
| Regulatory Status | Imported Instrument |
| Distribution Channel | Authorized Distributor |
| Category | Refurbished Analytical Instrument |
Overview
The Shimadzu GC-14A/B is a robust, benchtop gas chromatograph originally engineered for routine qualitative and quantitative analysis of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds. Designed with a dual-channel architecture (GC-14A for single-column operation; GC-14B for dual-column, dual-detector configurations), this instrument employs temperature-programmed capillary or packed column separation coupled with thermal conductivity (TCD) or flame ionization (FID) detection—principles aligned with ASTM D3606, ISO 10301, and USP . Though discontinued from Shimadzu’s current production line, the GC-14A/B remains widely deployed in environmental labs, petrochemical QA/QC facilities, and academic research settings due to its mechanical stability, reproducible oven temperature control (±0.1 °C over 50–350 °C range), and compatibility with legacy Shimadzu data systems such as CLASS-VP (v5.x and earlier). This refurbished unit has undergone full functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration facility, including leak testing, detector sensitivity verification, retention time repeatability assessment (<0.02 min RSD), and column oven ramp linearity confirmation.
Key Features
- Modular dual-channel design supporting simultaneous analysis on independent columns with discrete detectors (e.g., FID + TCD)
- Microprocessor-controlled oven with programmable ramp rates (0.1–40 °C/min) and precise isothermal hold capability
- Electronic pressure control (EPC) optional via aftermarket retrofit; standard manual flow regulation with precision rotameters
- Detectors include factory-installed FID (detection limit ≤1 pg C/s for n-decane) and/or TCD (cell volume 120 µL, filament current up to 200 mA)
- Compatible with 1/8″ and 1/4″ packed columns or 0.25–0.53 mm ID fused-silica capillaries (with appropriate inlet adapters)
- Front-panel keypad interface with LCD status display; no built-in PC interface—designed for analog signal output to strip-chart recorders or external ADC/data acquisition systems
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The GC-14A/B accommodates gaseous, liquid, and solid samples after appropriate preparation (e.g., headspace vial equilibration, solvent extraction, or thermal desorption). It supports standard injection techniques including split/splitless mode via Shimadzu’s SGL-14 injector (with selectable liner geometry) and on-column introduction. All refurbished units are verified against ICH Q2(R2) guidelines for system suitability: resolution (Rs ≥ 1.5 for critical pairs), tailing factor (Tf ≤ 2.0), and theoretical plate count (N ≥ 2,000 per meter for test mixtures). Units comply with electrical safety standards IEC 61010-1 and electromagnetic compatibility per EN 61326-1. Documentation includes Certificate of Reconditioning, Detector Performance Report, and Traceable Calibration Records meeting GLP audit requirements.
Software & Data Management
As a pre-digital-era platform, the GC-14A/B does not feature native USB/Ethernet connectivity or embedded software. Data acquisition requires external hardware: analog voltage outputs (0–1 V or 0–5 V FID/TCD signals) interface with third-party chromatography data systems (CDS) such as Chromeleon 7.3+, Empower 3, or open-source tools like OpenChrom. SpectraLab provides configuration templates and signal scaling guidance for seamless integration. All refurbished instruments ship with original Shimadzu operation manuals (English translation available), maintenance logs, and a complete set of consumables (septa, ferrules, O-rings, and reference standards for initial qualification).
Applications
- Environmental analysis: BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes), chlorinated solvents (PCE, TCE), and gasoline-range organics (GRO) per EPA Method 8021B
- Petrochemical QA: Hydrocarbon type analysis (PIONA), distillation profile verification (ASTM D5292), and sulfur compound screening
- Pharmaceutical excipient testing: Residual solvent quantification (ICH Q3C Class 2/3) using headspace-GC/FID
- Food & flavor chemistry: Volatile profiling of essential oils, fermentation byproducts, and packaging migration studies
- Academic teaching labs: Fundamental chromatography training in retention mechanism, selectivity optimization, and detector response characterization
FAQ
Is the GC-14A/B compatible with modern data systems?
Yes—its analog detector outputs integrate with contemporary CDS platforms via standard DAQ modules; SpectraLab supplies wiring diagrams and gain calibration protocols.
What maintenance history is provided with the unit?
Each unit includes a full service log covering column oven heater calibration, detector baseline stability tests, gas line integrity verification, and injector liner replacement records.
Can I upgrade to electronic pressure control (EPC)?
Third-party EPC retrofits are available and validated by SpectraLab; compatibility depends on existing inlet configuration and requires firmware-level coordination.
Does the 6-month warranty cover detector refurbishment?
Yes—the warranty includes labor and parts for FID jet cleaning, TCD filament replacement, and electronics board diagnostics.
Are original Shimadzu spare parts still available?
SpectraLab maintains an inventory of OEM injectors, detector cells, oven insulation kits, and microswitch assemblies sourced through authorized Shimadzu channels.
