Agilent AA 280Z Zeeman Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (Refurbished)

Overview

The Agilent AA 280Z is a high-performance, Zeeman-effect background-corrected atomic absorption spectrometer engineered for ultra-trace elemental analysis in complex matrices. Unlike conventional deuterium or continuum-source background correction systems, the AA 280Z employs AC-modulated transverse Zeeman splitting—generating a magnetic field across the graphite tube to separate analyte absorption from broadband molecular background absorption in real time. This principle delivers superior specificity, enabling reliable quantification at sub-ppt (ng/L) levels for over 70 elements—including As, Cd, Cr, Pb, Se, and Tl—without spectral interference from chloride, sulfate, or organic ligands. The system integrates the Agilent GTA 120 graphite furnace atomizer, which features temperature-controlled platform heating, integrated argon purge control, and optimized thermal mass distribution to ensure reproducible atomization kinetics and minimal memory effects. Its 8-position fixed-lamp turret eliminates mechanical lamp switching delays, reducing analysis cycle time while maintaining long-term photometric stability.

Key Features

• Zeeman AC modulation technology with field strength programmability (0.1–0.8 T), digitally locked during measurement to eliminate drift from line voltage fluctuations
• UltrAA high-intensity hollow cathode lamps delivering enhanced radiant output—no external power supply required—extending detection limits by up to 3× versus standard lamps
• GTA 120 atomizer with stabilized temperature-zone (STZ) design, enabling precise ramp-and-hold thermal programming for optimal matrix removal and analyte atomization
• PSD 120 autosampler with 120-position vial capacity, programmable injection volume (1–100 µL), and integrated rinse/clean cycles to minimize carryover
• Advanced background correction accuracy: polynomial interpolation algorithm (vs. linear interpolation used in legacy platforms), improving calibration fidelity by 11× across wide dynamic ranges
• SRM Wizard and Tube-Cam software modules for automated method development—guiding users through drying, ashing, and atomization temperature optimization, modifier selection, and peak shape diagnostics

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AA 280Z supports direct analysis of aqueous standards, digested biological tissues, environmental water extracts, pharmaceutical excipients, and food homogenates. With optional VGA-77 hydride generation accessory, it extends capability to hydride-forming elements (As, Bi, Ge, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, Te) without hardware reconfiguration. All operational parameters—including lamp current, slit width, integration time, and furnace temperature ramps—are fully traceable and exportable. The instrument’s software architecture supports configuration-controlled user roles, electronic signatures, and audit trails—enabling alignment with GLP, ISO/IEC 17025, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed in regulated laboratories. Hardware components comply with IEC 61010-1 safety standards and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directives (EN 61326-1).

Software & Data Management

Controlled via Agilent’s Windows-native worksheet software, the AA 280Z provides intuitive tabular method entry, real-time spectral preview, and automated quality control flagging (e.g., peak asymmetry >15%, baseline noise >0.005 absorbance units). Raw data files (.AAS) store full acquisition metadata—including lamp ID, furnace program log, gas flow timestamps, and background subtraction coefficients—for retrospective reprocessing. Export formats include CSV, PDF reports (with embedded chromatograms), and XML for LIMS integration. Method validation templates align with USP , ASTM D3694, and EPA Method 7000B requirements. Remote monitoring and diagnostic logging are supported via secure TCP/IP interface.

Applications

• Environmental testing: Quantification of heavy metals in drinking water (EPA 200.9), wastewater (EPA 200.13), and soil leachates
• Clinical toxicology: Pb, Cd, and As in whole blood and urine per CLIA and CAP guidelines
• Pharmaceutical QC: Elemental impurities screening in APIs and excipients per ICH Q3D
• Food safety: As speciation support (via HG-AAS coupling), Cd in rice, and Ni in infant formula
• Geochemical research: Trace REEs and transition metals in acid-digested rock samples

FAQ

Is this unit factory-refurbished or third-party refurbished?
This AA 280Z was refurbished and performance-validated by SpectraLab Scientific, an ISO 9001-certified service provider specializing in analytical instrumentation. All optical alignments, furnace calibration, and lamp spectral profiling were conducted per Agilent-recommended protocols.
Does the 6-month warranty cover the graphite tubes and lamps?
The warranty covers all core electronics, furnace controller, autosampler mechanics, and optical bench integrity. Consumables—including graphite tubes, lamps, and autosampler syringes—are excluded per standard industry practice.
Can the system be upgraded to support longitudinal Zeeman or multi-element sequential analysis?
The AA 280Z architecture is fixed for transverse Zeeman operation and single-element analysis per run. Multi-element capability requires migration to Agilent’s newer 240FS or 280FS platforms with fast-switching lamp systems.
Is original Agilent documentation and calibration certificates included?
Yes—each unit ships with scanned copies of the original factory acceptance test report, maintenance logbook, and post-refurbishment verification certificate signed by a certified Agilent-trained technician.
What operating system versions are supported?
The shipped software is validated on Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) and Windows 11 Enterprise (64-bit). Legacy Windows 7 support is discontinued per Agilent’s lifecycle policy.