Agilent 6890N-5975(G3170A) Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry System
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | Canada |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported Instrument |
| Model | 6890N-5975(G3170A) |
| Product Type | Mass Spectrometer |
| Warranty | None |
Overview
The Agilent 6890N-5975(G3170A) Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) system is a high-performance, benchtop analytical platform engineered for robust qualitative and quantitative analysis of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds. This second-hand instrument integrates the Agilent 6890N gas chromatograph—featuring precision pneumatic control, electronic pressure control (EPC), and a thermally stable oven—with the Agilent 5975 Mass Selective Detector (MSD) equipped with a quadrupole mass analyzer and electron ionization (EI) source. The system operates on the principle of separation by GC followed by mass spectral detection in the 10–800 u mass range, delivering high mass accuracy, reproducible retention times, and reliable spectral library matching (e.g., NIST/EPA/OSHA). Designed for routine laboratory environments—including environmental testing labs, forensic chemistry units, and pharmaceutical QC facilities—the 6890N-5975(G3170A) supports method development, compliance-driven analyses, and long-term method transfer across legacy and modern workflows.
Key Features
- Agilent 6890N GC module with dual independent EPC channels, enabling precise control of carrier gas flow (He or H2) and split/splitless injection parameters
- Agilent 5975 MSD (G3170A configuration) featuring a triple-axis detector, auto-tune capability, and real-time mass calibration using perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA)
- Integrated ChemStation software (version E.02.02.x or later) for full acquisition, data processing, reporting, and spectral deconvolution
- Thermally insulated transfer line (280 °C max) and ion source (230 °C max) optimized for low-bleed operation and extended column lifetime
- Robust architecture compliant with Agilent’s original mechanical and electrical specifications, verified through functional validation including leak testing, tuning verification, and baseline stability assessment
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The system accommodates standard 0.25–0.53 mm ID fused-silica capillary columns (e.g., DB-5ms, HP-5MS, DB-VRX) and supports common sample introduction techniques: split, splitless, on-column, and PTV injection. It is routinely employed for analyses aligned with ASTM D5845 (determination of oxygenates in gasoline), EPA Method 8270D (semivolatile organics in solid waste), and USP (chromatographic separations). While this is a pre-owned unit, its hardware and firmware meet original Agilent factory specifications at time of validation; however, it does not include active warranty coverage or manufacturer-supported service contracts. Users requiring regulatory compliance (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11, GLP/GMP audit readiness) must implement site-specific IQ/OQ protocols and maintain full documentation of calibration history, performance qualification, and software version control.
Software & Data Management
Operation relies on Agilent ChemStation for GC/MS (E.02.02.x series), which provides comprehensive tools for method building, sequence definition, peak integration, spectral library search (NIST 2011 or earlier), and report generation. Raw data (.D directories) are stored in proprietary format but exportable to ASCII, CSV, or mzXML via built-in utilities. Audit trail functionality is available when configured with appropriate user access controls and electronic signature settings—though full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance requires additional infrastructure (e.g., network authentication, backup policy, and periodic review logs). All included software licenses are transferable under Agilent’s standard terms for used instruments; no dongles or activation keys are required for basic operation post-installation.
Applications
- Environmental analysis: PAHs, PCBs, chlorinated pesticides, and petroleum hydrocarbons in soil, water, and air samples
- Food safety testing: pesticide residue screening, flavor compound profiling, and adulterant detection
- Forensic toxicology: identification of drugs of abuse, metabolites, and synthetic cannabinoids in biological matrices
- Materials characterization: extractables and leachables from packaging, polymers, and medical devices
- Educational and research use: method development, spectral interpretation training, and undergraduate/graduate analytical chemistry laboratories
FAQ
Is this system fully tested and verified prior to sale?
Yes. Each unit undergoes comprehensive functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific, including vacuum integrity checks, EI source tuning, mass calibration, retention time reproducibility tests, and signal-to-noise assessment across multiple mass ranges.
Does the system include consumables or spare parts?
No. The quoted configuration includes only the core GC-MS hardware (6890N GC + 5975 MSD), PC workstation with pre-installed ChemStation, and necessary interconnect cables. Columns, septa, liners, filaments, and calibration standards are not included.
Can this instrument be upgraded to support newer software versions?
ChemStation E.02.02.x is the final supported version for the 5975 MSD G3170A. Migration to OpenLab CDS is not possible due to hardware driver incompatibility; however, data files remain readable in modern Agilent platforms via backward-compatible import modules.
What documentation accompanies the system?
A complete set of original Agilent manuals (GC 6890N User Guide, 5975 MSD Operating Manual), test reports, and a certificate of functional verification are provided digitally and on physical media.
Is installation and startup support available?
Remote technical assistance for initial setup, software configuration, and basic method validation is included. On-site installation, venting, and column conditioning services can be arranged separately upon request.
