Agilent AA240FS Single-Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
| Brand | Agilent Technologies |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | AA240FS |
| Instrument Type | Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Single-Flame) |
| Spectral Technique | Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS) |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Operational Age | 5–7 Years |
| Total Service Life | ~10 Years |
| Configuration | Complete System (Host Unit, Air Compressor, 4 Hollow Cathode Lamps, PC with Analysis Software, Cabling & Power Accessories) |
| Condition | 80% Cosmetic and Functional Integrity |
Overview
The Agilent AA240FS is a benchtop single-flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer engineered for routine elemental quantification in environmental, clinical, food safety, and industrial quality control laboratories. It operates on the principle of flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS), wherein liquid samples are nebulized into a high-temperature air-acetylene flame, atomizing target analytes; ground-state free atoms then absorb characteristic radiation from element-specific hollow cathode lamps. The instrument measures absorbance at discrete wavelengths (typically 190–900 nm) to determine concentrations via Beer-Lambert law calibration. Designed for robustness and operational simplicity, the AA240FS features a fixed-wavelength monochromator with 0.2 nm spectral bandwidth, a low-noise photomultiplier tube detector, and integrated flame control logic ensuring stable burner head temperature and optimized atomization efficiency. As a mature platform from Agilent’s legacy AA portfolio, it delivers high reproducibility (RSD < 1.5% for replicate measurements under optimal conditions) and meets foundational performance criteria outlined in ASTM D1688, ISO 11885, and EPA Method 7000B.
Key Features
- Single-flame optical path architecture with pre-aligned burner head and automatic ignition sequence
- Dual-beam background correction using deuterium lamp (D2) for enhanced accuracy in complex matrices
- Wavelength range: 190–900 nm; spectral resolution: ≤ 0.2 nm at full width at half maximum (FWHM)
- Automated lamp selection and alignment for up to four hollow cathode lamps (HCLs), included in configuration
- Integrated air compressor unit—oil-free, quiet operation, regulated output pressure (0.3–0.5 MPa)
- Real-time signal processing with analog-to-digital conversion at ≥10 kHz sampling rate
- Compliance-ready data handling: audit trail logging, user access levels, and electronic signature support compatible with GLP/GMP workflows
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AA240FS accepts aqueous and dilute acid-digested samples (e.g., HNO3, HCl) across a broad concentration range (sub-ppb to ppm-level detection limits depending on element and matrix). It supports standard flame aspiration protocols per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and is validated for use in accordance with USP , FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with compliant software), and EU Directive 2009/48/EC for heavy metal testing in consumer products. Sample introduction is via concentric glass nebulizer and all-glass spray chamber; compatibility with hydride generation or graphite furnace accessories is not supported on this base model.
Software & Data Management
The system includes Agilent’s legacy AA WinLab software (v3.x or equivalent), installed on a dedicated Windows-based PC. The application enables method setup (wavelength, slit width, lamp current, integration time), calibration curve generation (linear, quadratic, or multi-point), real-time peak integration, and report export in PDF, CSV, and XML formats. All analytical sessions are timestamped and logged with operator ID, method name, and raw absorbance values. Audit trail functionality records parameter changes, result modifications, and user logins—supporting traceability for internal QA reviews and external regulatory audits.
Applications
- Quantitative analysis of Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Na, K in drinking water and wastewater (EPA 200.7, ISO 11885)
- Heavy metal screening in soil extracts and agricultural commodities (AOAC 972.31, EN 14802)
- Elemental profiling in pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients (USP , )
- Routine monitoring of catalyst residues in petrochemical feedstocks
- Quality assurance of nutritional supplements and fortified foods (Codex Alimentarius STAN 1-1985)
FAQ
Is this unit factory-certified or refurbished by Agilent?
No — this is a pre-owned instrument sourced through an authorized Agilent distributor channel. It has undergone functional verification including wavelength accuracy check, flame stability assessment, and lamp intensity validation per Agilent’s field service checklist.
What documentation accompanies the system?
Shipping includes original operation manual (English), calibration certificate (dated within last 12 months), lamp specifications sheet, and warranty terms document.
Can the software be upgraded to modern Agilent platforms?
AA WinLab v3.x is the final supported version for the AA240FS hardware architecture; migration to newer Agilent MassHunter or OpenLab platforms is not feasible due to firmware and interface incompatibility.
Are consumables and spare parts still available?
Yes — nebulizers, spray chambers, burner heads, and HCLs for common elements remain in production and are stocked by global Agilent distributors and third-party OEM suppliers.
Does the one-year warranty cover labor and parts globally?
Warranty applies to parts and labor within the country of installation only; international onsite service requires separate service agreement negotiation prior to shipment.
