Waters 2996 Photodiode Array Detector (PDA) HPLC System (Refurbished)
| Brand | Waters |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | 2996 |
| Instrument Type | Conventional High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph |
| Flow Rate Range | 0.010–10.000 mL/min |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 5000 psi (≈34.5 MPa) |
| Autosampler Capacity | 120 positions |
| Injection Volume Range | 0.1–100 µL |
| Column Oven Temperature Range | 0–60 °C |
| Wavelength Range (PDA) | 190–800 nm |
| Data Acquisition Rate | 100 Hz |
| Gradient Accuracy | ±0.5% |
| Gradient Precision | ±0.15% RSD |
| Flow Precision | ±0.075% RSD |
| Delay Volume | <650 µL |
Overview
The Waters 2996 Photodiode Array Detector (PDA) HPLC System is a fully refurbished, factory-tested high-performance liquid chromatography platform engineered for robustness, spectral fidelity, and method transfer reliability in regulated and research environments. As a core component of the Waters Alliance family, the 2996 PDA detector employs a 512-element linear photodiode array to acquire full UV-Vis spectra (190–800 nm) across each chromatographic peak at up to 100 Hz acquisition rate. Its optical resolution of 1.2 nm enables precise peak purity assessment, spectral library matching, and multi-wavelength quantitative analysis without re-injection. Coupled with a Waters quaternary solvent manager featuring independent dual-piston pumps, active pressure feedback control, and auto-compression compensation, the system delivers exceptional gradient accuracy (±0.5%) and flow precision (±0.075% RSD) — critical for ICH Q2(R2)-aligned method validation and long-term reproducibility.
Key Features
- 512-channel photodiode array detector with 1.2 nm optical resolution and real-time spectral acquisition from 190–800 nm
- Quaternary solvent delivery system with four independently controlled solvent channels, low delay volume (<650 µL), and pressure-independent gradient formation
- 120-position autosampler with programmable injection volumes (0.1–100 µL), needle wash capability, and temperature-controlled sample compartment (4–40 °C)
- Column oven with precise temperature control (0–60 °C, ±0.5 °C stability) supporting method robustness under varying ambient conditions
- Integrated online degasser (RS series) minimizing baseline drift and bubble-induced signal noise
- Full compliance with USP , ASTM D7923, and ISO 17025 documentation requirements when operated with audit-trail-enabled software
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Waters 2996 HPLC system accommodates standard 3.0–4.6 mm ID analytical columns (up to 250 mm length) and supports reversed-phase, normal-phase, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography. It is routinely deployed in pharmaceutical QC labs for assay, dissolution, impurity profiling, and stability-indicating methods per ICH Q1–Q5 guidelines. All hardware modules meet CE marking requirements and operate within FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant workflows when paired with Waters Empower 3 or compatible LIMS-integrated data systems. The system’s mechanical architecture conforms to GLP/GMP environmental specifications (IEC 61000-6-3 EMI immunity, IP20 enclosure rating), and its pressure-rated fluidic path (5000 psi / 34.5 MPa) ensures compatibility with sub-2 µm particle columns used in UHPLC method transfers.
Software & Data Management
This refurbished system ships with Waters Millennium32 or Empower 3-compatible Chinese-language workstation software (v6.x or later), configured for full instrument control, real-time spectral viewing, peak tracking, and report generation. Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-native format with embedded metadata including acquisition time, lamp status, lamp hours, and detector calibration history. Audit trail functionality records all user actions (method edits, integration changes, reprocessing events) with timestamp, operator ID, and reason-for-change fields — satisfying ALCOA+ principles. Data export supports CSV, ASCII, and .cdf formats for third-party chemometric tools (e.g., MATLAB, SIMCA, Unscrambler). Electronic signatures and role-based access control are enabled via optional Empower 3 Enterprise configuration.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical quality control: Assay quantitation, related substances testing, and forced degradation product identification
- Food & beverage safety: Pesticide residue screening, mycotoxin analysis, and additive profiling using multi-wavelength deconvolution
- Environmental monitoring: PAHs, PCBs, and endocrine disruptors in water and soil extracts
- Academic research: Natural product isolation verification, reaction monitoring, and polymer characterization via SEC-PDA coupling
- Clinical bioanalysis: Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and biomarker quantification in plasma/serum matrices
FAQ
Is this a factory-refurbished unit or dealer-refurbished?
This system has undergone comprehensive refurbishment by an authorized Waters service partner, including full hydraulic leak testing, UV lamp replacement, PDA pixel calibration, and firmware update to the latest stable release (v6.30.01 or higher).
What documentation is included with the system?
A complete refurbishment certificate, as-built configuration sheet, IQ/OQ protocol summary, and calibration report traceable to NIST standards are provided. Full electronic maintenance logs are available upon request.
Can the system be validated under GMP conditions?
Yes — the hardware meets design qualification (DQ) criteria for GMP use. Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) kits are available separately; Performance Qualification (PQ) must be performed by the end user per internal SOPs.
What is the warranty coverage?
A 3-month parts-and-labor warranty is included, covering all refurbished modules. Extended service agreements (1–3 years) with 24/7 remote diagnostics support are available upon quotation.
