Thermo Fisher LTQ-Orbitrap Hybrid High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer (Refurbished)

Overview

The Thermo Fisher LTQ-Orbitrap Hybrid Mass Spectrometer represents a foundational platform in high-resolution, accurate-mass LC-MS analysis. Engineered for dual-mode operation—combining the speed and MSⁿ capability of a linear ion trap (LTQ) with the high mass resolution (>60,000 FWHM at m/z 400) and sub-3 ppm mass accuracy of the Orbitrap mass analyzer—it delivers orthogonal performance for comprehensive structural characterization. This refurbished unit was originally manufactured in the United States and has undergone full functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO/IEC 17025-aligned refurbishment facility. It operates on the principle of electrostatic trapping and Fourier-transform detection: ions are radially confined in the Orbitrap by electrostatic fields, and their oscillation frequencies—directly related to m/z—are detected via image current and transformed into high-fidelity mass spectra. Its hybrid architecture enables data-dependent acquisition (DDA) workflows where survey scans are acquired in the Orbitrap for accurate mass, while fragmentation (CID/HCD) is performed in the LTQ for rapid, sensitive MSⁿ.

Key Features

• Hybrid ion trap–Orbitrap architecture enabling simultaneous high-resolution full-scan MS and fast, sensitive MSⁿ in a single run
• S-lens ion optics for enhanced ion transmission efficiency and reduced ion trap fill time, improving duty cycle and dynamic range
• Dual-pressure ion trap design supporting both high-sensitivity low-energy CID and high-efficiency HCD fragmentation
• Automatic Gain Control (AGC) with predictive algorithms to optimize injection times and minimize cycle time without sacrificing spectral quality
• Integrated PowerVar GPI 2000 power conditioning system ensuring stable voltage delivery under variable lab load conditions
• Neslab ThermoFlex 900 recirculating chiller providing precise temperature control (<±0.1 °C) for Orbitrap electrode stability and long-term mass accuracy retention
• Full vacuum system with turbomolecular pumping stack validated to ≤5×10⁻⁸ Torr base pressure prior to delivery

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LTQ-Orbitrap supports broad sample compatibility across proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and small-molecule pharmaceutical analysis. It interfaces natively with nanoLC, UHPLC, and MALDI sources, and accepts electrospray (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), and nanoelectrospray configurations. All refurbished units undergo rigorous compliance verification—including calibration against NIST-traceable standards (e.g., caffeine, MRFA, Ultramark 1621), mass accuracy verification across m/z 100–2000, and resolution validation at multiple points. The system meets requirements for GLP-compliant laboratories when operated with appropriate audit trail-enabled software (e.g., Thermo Xcalibur 2.2 or later with 21 CFR Part 11 add-on). Documentation includes full refurbishment report, instrument qualification summary (IQ/OQ), and traceable calibration certificates.

Software & Data Management

The system ships with Thermo Xcalibur software (v2.2 or newer), supporting real-time data acquisition, method development, and basic processing. Raw file export is compatible with open-source platforms including ProteoWizard, MaxQuant, Skyline, and Compound Discoverer. For regulated environments, optional 21 CFR Part 11-compliant modules provide electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access controls. All data files are stored in Thermo’s native .raw format, fully supported by third-party search engines (Mascot, Sequest, Byonic) and quantification tools (Spectronaut, Progenesis QI). SpectraLab provides post-delivery software configuration support and license transfer assistance where permitted under Thermo’s End User License Agreement.

Applications

• Bottom-up and top-down proteomics: High sequence coverage, PTM localization, and intact protein mass measurement up to ~50 kDa
• Untargeted metabolomics: Accurate-mass screening of polar/nonpolar metabolites with <5 ppm mass error and isotopic fine structure resolution
• Small-molecule identification: Structural elucidation via MS²/MS³ in ion trap mode combined with exact mass confirmation in Orbitrap mode
• Impurity profiling and degradation product identification per ICH Q3 guidelines
• Peptide mapping and biopharmaceutical characterization compliant with USP and EP 2.2.44
• Environmental contaminant screening (e.g., PFAS, pesticides) requiring high selectivity in complex matrices

FAQ

Is this instrument eligible for extended warranty or service contracts?
Yes—SpectraLab offers optional 12- or 24-month extended service agreements covering parts, labor, and remote diagnostics support.
Does the refurbishment include replacement of critical consumables?
Yes—the unit includes new ion transfer tube, capillary, and source gaskets; all O-rings and insulators are replaced; and the Orbitrap inner electrode assembly is inspected and cleaned per OEM specifications.
Can this system be integrated with a Waters or Agilent UHPLC?
Yes—standard ESI and APCI source interfaces are compatible with third-party LC systems via analog trigger signals and TTL synchronization.
What documentation accompanies the instrument?
You receive a complete refurbishment dossier: functional test report, IQ/OQ summary, calibration certificate, safety inspection record, and shipping manifest with serial-number-matched components.
Is source installation and initial tuning included?
Yes—on-site or remote startup assistance is provided, including ESI source alignment, mass calibration, resolution verification, and acquisition method validation using standard reference compounds.