Agilent G6130A Single Quadrupole Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS)

Overview

The Agilent G6130A Single Quadrupole Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS) is a robust, benchtop mass spectrometry system engineered for routine quantitative and qualitative analysis in regulated and research laboratories. Based on quadrupole mass filtering technology, the G6130A operates under atmospheric pressure ionization (API), primarily electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), enabling sensitive detection of small-molecule analytes across pharmaceutical, environmental, food safety, and clinical research applications. Its design integrates a high-performance Agilent 1200 Series HPLC front end with a compact, thermally stabilized single quadrupole mass analyzer—delivering high mass accuracy, excellent signal-to-noise ratio, and reproducible retention time alignment over extended operation. The system occupies approximately 50% less bench space than prior-generation Agilent LC-MS platforms while maintaining full compatibility with existing Agilent ChemStation and MassHunter software environments.

Key Features

• Cross-flow orthogonal ESI source with zero-potential spray needle and self-aligning geometry—minimizes ion suppression and reduces maintenance frequency
• Thermally controlled hyperbolic metal quadrupole mass filter with dual scan speed modes (standard and high-speed) for flexible duty-cycle optimization
• HED+EM (High-Energy Dynode + Electron Multiplier) detector providing wide dynamic range (>5 decades) and stable gain over multi-day acquisition
• Integrated tuning compound delivery system enabling automated mass calibration, resolution verification, and sensitivity optimization without manual intervention
• Differential vacuum architecture with four-stage pumping (capillary isolation, skimmer region, RF-only octopole, and quadrupole chamber) using oil-based rotary vane pumps for long-term stability
• Single-direction ion optics pathway incorporating quartz capillary inlet and conical sampling electrode—optimized for transmission efficiency and low background noise
• Built-in instrument qualification tools compliant with IQ/OQ/PQ documentation requirements per ISO/IEC 17025 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The G6130A supports broad sample matrix compatibility—including aqueous extracts, plasma supernatants, tissue homogenates, and organic solvent eluents—when coupled with standard reversed-phase, HILIC, or ion-pairing chromatographic methods. It meets essential regulatory expectations for GLP and GMP environments through traceable calibration records, electronic signature support in MassHunter, and configurable audit logging. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11–compliant out-of-the-box, the system achieves compliance when deployed with validated MassHunter Workstation configurations (vB.08.00 or higher), secure user access controls, and periodic performance verification using NIST-traceable standards (e.g., HP-1221, caffeine, reserpine). All refurbished units undergo full functional testing per Agilent’s original factory specifications and include documented evidence of vacuum integrity, mass axis linearity (m/z 50–2000), and signal stability (RSD < 8% over 12 h at 1 ng/µL reserpine).

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and processing are managed via Agilent MassHunter Workstation software, supporting both Quantitative (Quantitative Analysis) and Qualitative (Qualitative Analysis) modules. The platform provides method editor templates for SIM, SCAN, and AutoSIM acquisition; batch processing workflows with internal standard normalization; and export capabilities to CSV, mzML, and AIA formats for third-party spectral libraries or LIMS integration. Audit trail functionality logs all parameter changes, data modifications, and user logins with timestamps and operator IDs—enabling full traceability required for FDA inspections. Raw data files are stored in proprietary .d format, encrypted and checksum-verified to prevent tampering.

Applications

The G6130A is routinely deployed in small-molecule targeted quantitation workflows such as residual solvent analysis (ICH Q3C), pesticide residue screening (AOAC 2007.01), impurity profiling (ICH Q3A/Q3B), and pharmacokinetic bioanalysis (FDA Guidance for Industry, Bioanalytical Method Validation). Its scanning flexibility supports simultaneous detection of multiple analytes in a single run via scheduled SIM or polarity-switching methods. In academic settings, it serves as a teaching and method-development platform for LC-MS fundamentals—including ionization efficiency studies, fragmentation pattern interpretation, and matrix effect assessment. Its reliability and ease of maintenance make it especially suitable for core facilities and contract research organizations operating under cost-conscious operational models.

FAQ

Is this unit fully refurbished and tested before shipment?
Yes. Each G6130A system undergoes comprehensive functional validation—including vacuum leak rate measurement (< 5×10⁻⁷ mbar·L/s), mass calibration accuracy (±0.1 Da across m/z 100–1000), and sensitivity verification using standardized infusion protocols.
What software version is installed, and is license transfer supported?
Units ship with MassHunter Workstation vB.08.03 or later, including valid node-locked licenses for acquisition and basic quantitation. License rehosting to customer-owned hardware is supported upon completion of Agilent’s formal transfer process.
Does the 6-month warranty cover vacuum pump maintenance?
Yes—the warranty includes labor and parts for all major subsystems, including rotary vane pump servicing, ESI source cleaning, and quadrupole alignment verification.
Can this system be upgraded to support additional ionization sources?
The G6130A chassis supports optional APCI and multimode (ESI/APCI) source kits, subject to mechanical and firmware compatibility checks performed during pre-installation assessment.
Are original Agilent service manuals and schematics included?
All units include digital access to Agilent’s official technical documentation library, including service guides, error code reference, and preventive maintenance schedules—delivered via secure download link post-purchase.