Shimadzu Prominence UFLC System with Diode Array Detector (DAD)

Overview

The Shimadzu Prominence Ultra-Fast Liquid Chromatograph (UFLC) with Diode Array Detector (DAD) is a high-performance, refurbished HPLC platform engineered for rapid, high-resolution separations in regulated and research environments. Built upon Shimadzu’s proven LC-20AD/20AT pump architecture and controlled via the CBM-20A communications bus module, this system delivers precise gradient formation, low dwell volume (< 400 µL), and sub-microliter injection repeatability—enabling method transfer from conventional HPLC to UFLC without re-optimization. The SPD-M20A DAD provides full-spectrum acquisition (190–800 nm) at up to 80 Hz sampling rate, supporting peak purity assessment, spectral library matching, and multi-wavelength quantitation. All core modules—including the CTO-20A column oven (ambient to 85 °C, ±0.1 °C stability), DGU-A5 online degasser (four-channel, helium-free operation), and SIL-20A or SIL-20AC HT autosampler (1.5 µL injection precision, 100-position tray capacity)—are functionally verified and calibrated per SpectraLab Scientific’s refurbishment protocol.

Key Features

• Refurbished turnkey configuration: Includes LC-20AD binary pump, SPD-M20A DAD, CTO-20A column oven, DGU-A5 degasser, SIL-20A or SIL-20AC HT autosampler, CBM-20A system controller, and pre-installed LabSolutions LC software
• UFLC-optimized hydraulics: Low-dispersion flow path, high-pressure capability (up to 30 MPa), and minimized system volume support sub-2 µm particle columns and < 5 min gradient methods
• DAD spectral fidelity: 512-pixel linear photodiode array, 1 nm optical resolution, and real-time spectral deconvolution for co-elution analysis
• Thermal stability: CTO-20A maintains column temperature within ±0.1 °C across ambient-to-85 °C range, critical for retention time reproducibility (RSD < 0.15% over 24 h)
• Automated sample handling: SIL-20AC HT variant supports refrigerated storage (4 °C), needle wash, and programmable injection sequence logic for unattended overnight runs
• Post-refurbishment validation: Each unit undergoes pressure leak testing, flow accuracy verification (±1% at 0.2–2.0 mL/min), detector linearity check (absorbance 0.001–2.0 AU), and system suitability testing per USP

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

This UFLC-DAD system accommodates standard 3.0–4.6 mm ID analytical columns (including reversed-phase C18, HILIC, and phenyl-hexyl chemistries) and is compatible with mobile phases containing aqueous buffers, organic modifiers (acetonitrile, methanol), and ion-pairing reagents. It meets functional requirements for routine QC testing in pharmaceutical, food safety, and environmental laboratories operating under GLP or GMP frameworks. While the original firmware does not include FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail functionality out-of-the-box, LabSolutions LC software can be configured with electronic signatures and user-access controls to support compliance workflows when deployed with validated IT infrastructure. All hardware components conform to IEC 61010-1 safety standards; CE marking is retained from original Canadian-market certification.

Software & Data Management

The system ships with Shimadzu LabSolutions LC software (v5.9x or later), providing method development tools, chromatogram overlay, peak integration with baseline correction algorithms, and customizable report templates. Raw data is stored in native .lcd format, exportable to ASCII, CSV, or AIA/CDF for LIMS integration. SpectraLab performs full software reinstallation, license activation, and driver validation prior to shipment. Optional add-ons—including LCMS solution modules, purity analysis plug-ins, and PDF report automation—are available upon request. Data integrity is reinforced through automatic backup scheduling, file checksum logging, and user-level permission settings aligned with ALCOA+ principles.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: Assay, related substances, and dissolution testing per USP monographs (e.g., , )
• Natural product analysis: Quantification of flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids in botanical extracts using wavelength-switching and spectral confirmation
• Food contaminant screening: Multi-residue pesticide analysis (e.g., QuEChERS extracts) with DAD-based identification and retention time locking
• Environmental monitoring: PAHs, phthalates, and endocrine disruptors in water and soil extracts using gradient elution and spectral library matching
• Academic research: Method development for 2D-LC coupling, stability-indicating assays, and forced degradation studies

FAQ

Is this system eligible for IQ/OQ/PQ documentation support?
Yes—SpectraLab provides optional Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) protocols compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 Annex A. Performance Qualification (PQ) must be performed by the end user under site-specific SOPs.
What consumables and spare parts are included?
No consumables are included by default; however, a starter kit (ferrules, frits, syringe filters, and guard column cartridges) can be added upon order. Original Shimadzu spare part numbers are provided for all field-replaceable units.
Can this UFLC be upgraded to support mass spectrometry coupling?
Yes—the system’s low-flow compatibility and modular design allow straightforward interface with Shimadzu LCMS-2020 or third-party ESI sources using standard nano/micro-flow fittings and fraction collection triggers.
How is “refurbished” defined in this context?
Each unit undergoes full disassembly, visual inspection, replacement of wear-prone components (seals, pistons, lamp housings), recalibration against NIST-traceable standards, and 72-hour continuous operational stress testing before final QA sign-off.
Is remote technical support available post-purchase?
Yes—SpectraLab offers 6 months of email and screen-share support for instrument operation, software troubleshooting, and basic method optimization. On-site service is available globally via authorized Shimadzu field engineers at customer expense.