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Agilent 1260 High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) System with G1367E 1260 HiP ALS and G1330B 1290 Thermostat – 800-Word Introduction

The Agilent 1260 HPLC System is a mid-to-high-end analytical instrument developed by Agilent Technologies, widely used in pharmaceutical, environmental, food, and chemical industries for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Featuring a modular design, the system supports flexible configurations and is compatible with both conventional HPLC and entry-level UHPLC applications, offering high performance, stability, and intelligent functionality. Below is a detailed introduction to the system equipped with the G1367E High-Performance Autosampler and the G1330B Thermostat.

1. Core Modules and Performance

1.1 G1367E 1260 High-Performance Autosampler (HiP ALS)

• High Precision & Low Carryover: Injection volumes range from 0.1 to 100 µL (expandable to 1500 µL), with an injection precision of RSD <0.25% in the 5–40 µL range and a carryover rate as low as 0.004% (40 ppm), making it ideal for trace analysis. The multi-wash function (internal and external needle cleaning) and solvent backflush technology further minimize residue.
• High Sample Capacity: Supports two microplates (96/384-well) or 108 x 2 mL vials, with compatibility for Eppendorf tubes, meeting high-throughput demands. The injection cycle time is <30 seconds, significantly improving analytical efficiency.
• Intelligent Management: Features Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF) and electronic logging for real-time monitoring, ensuring compliance with GLP standards.

1.2 G1330B 1290 Thermostat

• Precise Temperature Control: Operating range of 4–40°C, specifically designed for autosampler sample trays to prevent degradation of temperature-sensitive samples (e.g., biologics). Unlike conventional column thermostats (e.g., G1316A, which controls column temperature at 10–100°C), the G1330B ensures sample stability prior to injection.
• Rapid Response: Equipped with a low-volume heat exchanger, temperature fluctuations are maintained at <±0.15°C, ensuring repeatability.

1.3 Other Key Modules

• Binary Pump (G1312B): Flow rate range of 0.05–5 mL/min (600 bar pressure resistance), supports high-backpressure columns (e.g., sub-2 µm particles), with gradient mixing accuracy of ±0.2%, ideal for LC/MS applications.
• Variable Wavelength Detector (VWD): Wavelength range of 190–600 nm, noise level <±1.5×10⁻⁵ AU, and 80 Hz high-speed data acquisition, suitable for fast separations.
• Online Degasser (G1322A): Eliminates mobile phase bubbles, ensuring baseline stability.

2. Technical Advantages and Applications

2.1 Modularity and Compatibility

The system is compatible with Agilent 1200/1290 series modules, allowing upgrades (e.g., to a quaternary pump) or switching to a diode array detector (DAD) for method development and transfer.

• High-Throughput Applications: The G1367E autosampler, with its dual-needle design, enables alternating injections, reducing cycle times to seconds—ideal for drug screening or batch environmental pollutant analysis.
• Biological Sample Analysis: The G1330B thermostat, combined with bio-inert flow paths (e.g., titanium pump), handles proteins, peptides, and other labile samples.

2.2 Intelligent Features and Ease of Maintenance

• Diagnostic Functions: Built-in self-tests and video tutorials simplify maintenance (e.g., pump seal replacement every 3–6 months).
• Software Support: OpenLab/ChemStation software enables method sequencing, real-time monitoring, and data traceability, complying with 21 CFR Part 11 regulations.

3. Typical Workflow and Key Considerations

3.1 Operational Workflow

• Startup Preparation: Mobile phases must be filtered (0.45 µm) and degassed; the system should be purged and the column equilibrated (initial mobile phase flush for 20 minutes).
• Method Setup: Define parameters (flow rate, temperature, detection wavelength) in the software—e.g., set G1330B to 4°C for thermolabile samples.
• Shutdown Protocol: Flush buffer salts with a high aqueous ratio, then switch to organic phase to protect the column.

3.2 Important Notes

• Mobile Phase Management: Avoid particulate or high-concentration buffers (≤50 mM) to prevent clogging.
• Temperature Control: Low-temperature operation (4°C) on the G1330B requires humidity control to prevent condensation.

4. Conclusion

The Agilent 1260 HPLC System, equipped with the G1367E autosampler and G1330B thermostat, delivers a high-performance, flexible analytical platform—particularly suited for applications requiring precise temperature control and high-throughput sampling. Key features like the G1367E’s low carryover and the G1330B’s sample stability enhance data reliability and lab efficiency. Additionally, the system’s scalability (e.g., UHPLC upgrades) and smart maintenance capabilities make it an ideal choice for routine analysis and advanced method development.