Agilent 1200 Series Used Binary/Quaternary Liquid Chromatograph
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | 1200 (Binary/Quaternary) |
| Flow Rate Range | 0.001–10 mL/min |
| Gradient Delay Volume | 120 µL (low-volume) / 600–1100 µL (standard) |
| Detector Compatibility | DAD-SL, VWD, MWD-SL, FLR, RID |
| Software Control | Agilent ChemStation, EZChrom, Instant Pilot |
| Degasser | Integrated Micro-Vacuum Degasser (He-free operation) |
| Maintenance | Front-panel accessible modules |
| Diagnostics | Built-in self-test, EMF (Early Maintenance Feedback), event logging |
| Regulatory Compliance | Designed for GLP/GMP environments with audit-trail-capable software options (e.g., ChemStation with 21 CFR Part 11 compliance package) |
Overview
The Agilent 1200 Series Used Binary/Quaternary Liquid Chromatograph is a high-performance, modular HPLC platform originally engineered for robust method development, routine QC analysis, and research-grade separations. Based on Agilent Technologies’ proven quaternary pump architecture, this system delivers precise gradient formation using up to four independent solvents—enabling rapid method scouting, mobile phase optimization, and seamless system flushing without manual solvent exchange. Its core design follows the principles of low-dispersion, high-pressure liquid chromatography, supporting both conventional HPLC and Rapid Resolution LC (RRLC) applications through configurable delay volume settings (120 µL low-volume or 600–1100 µL standard). The system operates across a wide flow range (0.001–10 mL/min), accommodating narrow-bore, analytical, and semi-preparative columns—including 2.1 mm i.d. RRHT columns compatible with LC/MS coupling. All major components—including pumps, autosamplers, detectors, and column compartments—are fully interoperable within the Agilent 1200 Series ecosystem, ensuring long-term scalability and method transfer fidelity.
Key Features
- Quaternary or binary gradient capability: Select from two or four solvent channels for flexible method development and multi-solvent screening
- High-precision quaternary pump with active solvent selection and pulse-free flow delivery, optimized for reproducible retention time stability
- Integrated micro-vacuum degasser eliminating the need for helium sparging—reducing operational cost and improving baseline stability
- Modular front-access design: Replaceable pump seals, check valves, and purge valves installed directly from the instrument front panel
- Real-time Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF): Monitors usage metrics (e.g., seal wear cycles, lamp hours, pressure events) against user-defined thresholds and logs alerts in system event history
- Comprehensive diagnostics suite: Pre-programmed test methods, built-in pressure/flow verification routines, and persistent internal log storage support rapid troubleshooting
- Scalable architecture: Compatible with Agilent 1200-series detectors (DAD-SL, VWD, MWD-SL, FLR, RID), thermostatted column compartments, and high-throughput autosamplers (e.g., G1329B)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Agilent 1200 Series supports a broad range of sample types—from small-molecule pharmaceuticals and natural product extracts to peptides and polar metabolites—when paired with appropriate stationary phases (including >70 RRHT column chemistries). It maintains full backward compatibility with legacy HPLC methods, enabling straightforward migration from older Agilent or third-party systems. For regulated environments, the platform supports optional 21 CFR Part 11-compliant configurations when used with Agilent ChemStation software equipped with electronic signature, audit trail, and user access control modules. Instrument performance verification aligns with ASTM E2685, ISO 17025, and USP chromatographic system suitability requirements. All units undergo pre-delivery functional testing—including pressure calibration, gradient accuracy validation, and detector linearity assessment—to ensure conformance with original Agilent factory specifications.
Software & Data Management
Control and data acquisition are managed via Agilent ChemStation (G2001A or later), EZChrom Elite, or the embedded Instant Pilot interface. ChemStation provides full sequence definition, real-time chromatogram display, peak integration, reporting templates, and raw data archiving in native .D format. When deployed with the 21 CFR Part 11 compliance package, it enforces role-based permissions, electronic signatures, immutable audit trails, and secure data export protocols. Raw data files are structured for long-term readability and interoperability with third-party processing tools (e.g., OpenLab CDS, MassHunter). System logs—including EMF events, error codes, and maintenance timestamps—are stored internally and exportable for QA review or regulatory submission.
Applications
This system is routinely deployed in pharmaceutical QC laboratories for assay, dissolution, and impurity profiling per ICH Q2(R2); in academic and contract research settings for natural product isolation and metabolomics workflows; and in food safety labs for pesticide residue analysis and mycotoxin quantification. Its low-delay-volume configuration (120 µL) enables sharp peak focusing for narrow-bore columns in LC/MS applications, while the high-flow capacity (up to 10 mL/min) supports fast gradient elution on 4.6 mm i.d. columns or semi-preparative purification. Method transfer between HPLC and RRLC is facilitated by identical bonded-phase chemistries across Agilent’s RRHT and ZORBAX product lines, minimizing revalidation effort. High-throughput configurations—such as alternating column regeneration (ACR) systems with dual-pump/dual-column setups—support up to 2000 injections per day in automated batch processing environments.
FAQ
What is the typical service life and reliability of a used Agilent 1200 system?
Units offered have undergone comprehensive refurbishment including pump seal replacement, detector lamp recalibration, and full hydraulic integrity testing. With documented usage of ≤8 years and adherence to Agilent-recommended maintenance intervals, these instruments maintain >95% operational availability under standard lab conditions.
Is method transfer from legacy HPLC systems supported?
Yes—the 1200 Series preserves gradient dwell volume adjustability and flow/pressure programming fidelity required for direct translation of USP, EP, or internal methods. Column dimension and chemistry equivalency (e.g., ZORBAX Eclipse vs. RRHT) ensures minimal re-optimization.
Can this system be upgraded to support modern compliance requirements?
All hardware is compatible with current Agilent ChemStation versions featuring 21 CFR Part 11 modules. Optional upgrades include networked license management, remote monitoring via Agilent Remote Access, and integration with LIMS via ASTM E1384-compliant interfaces.
What warranty and technical support is included?
Each unit ships with a 6-month parts-and-labor warranty covering all core modules. On-site installation support and post-warranty extended service agreements are available through Agilent-authorized field engineers.
Are consumables and spare parts readily available?
All critical wear items—including pump seals, frits, injector rotors, and UV lamps—are stocked globally by Agilent and distributed through authorized channels. Third-party certified alternatives meeting ASTM F2331 specifications are also supported.
