<h2>How to Choose an FPLC or ÄKTA System</h2>
<p>Selecting the right FPLC or ÄKTA system depends on your purification scale, target protein, and workflow requirements. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Application scale</strong> — Benchtop systems such as the ÄKTA pure and ÄKTA go are suited for research-scale purification. Larger platforms such as the ÄKTA pilot and ÄKTA ready support process development and scale-up workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Flow rate</strong> — Confirm the system's flow rate range is compatible with your column dimensions and target residence time. Flow rate requirements vary significantly between analytical, preparative, and process-scale applications.</li>
<li><strong>Pressure range</strong> — Confirm maximum operating pressure is compatible with your column chemistry and packing. FPLC systems operate at lower pressures than analytical HPLC.</li>
<li><strong>Number of pumps</strong> — Single-pump systems support isocratic operation. Dual-pump systems support gradient elution and are required for most ion exchange and affinity chromatography workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Gradient capability</strong> — Confirm gradient formation accuracy and linearity across your required flow rate range.</li>
<li><strong>Sample loading</strong> — Confirm sample loop volume, sample pump capability, and compatibility with your sample volume and viscosity.</li>
<li><strong>Fraction collection</strong> — Confirm fraction collector capacity, tube format compatibility, and collection trigger options (UV, volume, time).</li>
<li><strong>UV and conductivity monitoring</strong> — Real-time UV absorbance and conductivity monitoring are standard on most ÄKTA platforms. Confirm wavelength options and flow cell path length.</li>
<li><strong>Valve configuration</strong> — Confirm inlet, outlet, and column valve configuration for your workflow, including multi-column or multi-buffer setups.</li>
<li><strong>Column compatibility</strong> — Confirm column connection fittings and pressure ratings are compatible with your column format.</li>
<li><strong>Software and control system</strong> — Cytiva ÄKTA systems use UNICORN software. Confirm software version compatibility and licensing requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Cleaning requirements</strong> — Confirm CIP (clean-in-place) compatibility and flow path material compatibility with your cleaning agents.</li>
<li><strong>Scale-up potential</strong> — If process development is a goal, consider whether the system supports method transfer to larger column formats or higher flow rates.</li>
</ul>
<h2>FPLC / ÄKTA System Components</h2>
<p>A complete FPLC or ÄKTA system typically includes the following components. Exact configuration varies by listing — confirm included modules before purchase.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Pumps</strong> — Deliver buffer and sample at controlled flow rates. Dual-pump systems support gradient elution.</li>
<li><strong>Mixer</strong> — Blends buffer components for gradient formation. Mixer volume affects gradient delay and linearity.</li>
<li><strong>Valves</strong> — Inlet, outlet, and column valves direct flow through the system. Multi-position valves support complex workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Sample inlet</strong> — Sample loop or sample pump introduces the protein sample onto the column.</li>
<li><strong>UV detector</strong> — Monitors protein elution by absorbance, typically at 280 nm. Some systems support multi-wavelength detection.</li>
<li><strong>Conductivity monitor</strong> — Tracks buffer ionic strength in real time, important for gradient elution and buffer exchange workflows.</li>
<li><strong>pH monitor</strong> — Available on select ÄKTA platforms for real-time pH monitoring during purification.</li>
<li><strong>Fraction collector</strong> — Collects eluate fractions based on UV signal, volume, or time triggers. Capacity and tube format vary by model.</li>
<li><strong>Column connections</strong> — Standardized fittings connect the system to prepacked or self-packed chromatography columns.</li>
<li><strong>Software / control system</strong> — UNICORN software controls instrument operation, method programming, and data acquisition. Licensing requirements vary by version.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Popular Cytiva and GE ÄKTA Models</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h3>Cytiva</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>ÄKTA pure 25</strong> — Compact, flexible research-scale purification system supporting flow rates up to 25 mL/min.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA pure 25 M</strong> — Mid-range configuration of the ÄKTA pure 25 with expanded valve and inlet options.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA pure 150</strong> — Higher-flow-rate ÄKTA pure platform supporting up to 150 mL/min for larger-scale preparative work.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA avant 25</strong> — Advanced research-scale system with integrated pH monitoring and expanded automation capabilities.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA avant 150</strong> — Higher-flow-rate ÄKTA avant platform for preparative and process development applications.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA go</strong> — Entry-level, compact FPLC system for straightforward protein purification workflows.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA start</strong> — Simplified FPLC system designed for basic protein purification in research environments.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA pilot 600</strong> — Pilot-scale chromatography system supporting flow rates up to 600 mL/min for process development.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA ready Single-Use</strong> — Single-use flow path FPLC system designed for bioprocess applications requiring disposable fluid contact surfaces.</li>
<li><strong>ÄKTA pcc</strong> — Periodic counter-current chromatography system for continuous bioprocessing applications.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Legacy GE / Amersham</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>AKTA Pilot</strong> — Legacy pilot-scale liquid chromatography system from GE/Amersham Biosciences, predecessor to the Cytiva ÄKTA pilot platform.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h2>FPLC vs. HPLC</h2>
<p>FPLC (fast protein liquid chromatography) and analytical HPLC are both liquid chromatography techniques, but they serve fundamentally different workflows and should not be confused.</p>
<p>FPLC and ÄKTA systems are designed for biomolecule and protein purification. They operate at lower pressures than analytical HPLC, use aqueous buffer-compatible flow paths, and are optimized for preparative separations — isolating and collecting a target protein from a complex mixture. Detectors, columns, solvents, and operating conditions are all configured for biological samples.</p>
<p>Analytical HPLC systems are designed for the detection and quantification of small molecules. They operate at higher pressures, use reversed-phase and other analytical column chemistries, and are optimized for resolution and sensitivity rather than preparative yield.</p>
<p>The two categories are not interchangeable. If your application involves small-molecule analysis, method development, or QC testing, see our <a href="/collections/hplc-systems">HPLC Systems</a> collection.</p>
<h2>FPLC vs. UHPLC</h2>
<p>UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) is an analytical technique designed for high-pressure, high-efficiency small-molecule separations. It is not a protein purification platform.</p>
<p>FPLC and ÄKTA systems are designed around protein and biomolecule purification workflows — affinity capture, ion exchange, size exclusion, and related techniques using aqueous buffers and biological sample matrices. UHPLC systems are designed for analytical separations of small molecules at pressures above 600 bar using sub-2-micron particle columns.</p>
<p>If your application requires high-throughput analytical LC, see our <a href="/collections/uhplc-systems">UHPLC Systems</a> collection.</p>
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished ÄKTA Systems</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished ÄKTA systems can provide significant cost savings for research and process development labs. Key items to evaluate before purchase include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Pump condition</strong> — Confirm pump flow accuracy and pressure performance. Check for signs of wear, leakage, or seal degradation.</li>
<li><strong>Valve function</strong> — Inlet, outlet, and column valves should switch cleanly without leakage or dead volume. Valve wear can affect reproducibility.</li>
<li><strong>UV detector condition</strong> — Confirm UV lamp condition and flow cell integrity. Flow cell contamination or scratching affects baseline stability and sensitivity.</li>
<li><strong>Conductivity cell</strong> — Confirm conductivity cell calibration and condition. Fouled or damaged cells affect gradient monitoring accuracy.</li>
<li><strong>Fraction collector</strong> — Confirm fraction collector function, tube format compatibility, and collection trigger accuracy.</li>
<li><strong>Tubing and fittings</strong> — Inspect all tubing, connectors, and fittings for wear, cracking, or improper connections that could cause leaks or dead volume.</li>
<li><strong>Sensors</strong> — Confirm pH sensor condition where applicable. pH electrodes have limited service life and may require replacement.</li>
<li><strong>Software and licensing</strong> — ÄKTA systems use UNICORN software. Confirm software version and license transferability before purchase.</li>
<li><strong>Included columns and accessories</strong> — Confirm whether any columns, sample loops, or accessories are included. These are not always part of the listing.</li>
<li><strong>Service history</strong> — Where available, review PM records, cleaning logs, and any known issues.</li>
<li><strong>Cleaning and maintenance history</strong> — FPLC systems used with biological samples require regular sanitization. Confirm cleaning history where available.</li>
</ul>
<p>mLab Supply sources equipment in a range of conditions. Listing descriptions indicate condition where known. <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for specific condition details.</p>
<h2>Protein Purification Applications</h2>
<p>FPLC and ÄKTA systems support a broad range of protein and biomolecule purification workflows:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Affinity chromatography</strong> — Selective capture of target proteins using ligand-specific interactions, including His-tag, protein A/G, and GST affinity resins.</li>
<li><strong>Ion exchange chromatography</strong> — Separation of proteins based on surface charge using cation or anion exchange resins.</li>
<li><strong>Size exclusion chromatography</strong> — Separation by molecular size for polishing, aggregate removal, and buffer exchange.</li>
<li><strong>Hydrophobic interaction chromatography</strong> — Separation based on surface hydrophobicity under high-salt conditions.</li>
<li><strong>Desalting and buffer exchange</strong> — Rapid removal of small molecules, salts, or exchange of buffer conditions using desalting columns.</li>
<li><strong>Method development</strong> — Screening resin types, gradient conditions, and loading parameters for new purification workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Process development</strong> — Translating bench-scale purification methods toward larger column formats and higher flow rates.</li>
<li><strong>Protein purification</strong> — Isolation of recombinant proteins, antibodies, enzymes, and other biomolecules from cell culture or lysate.</li>
<li><strong>Biomolecule purification</strong> — Purification of nucleic acids, viral vectors, and other biological macromolecules.</li>
<li><strong>Bioprocess scale-up</strong> — Development of purification processes intended for transfer to manufacturing scale.</li>
</ul>
<p>Confirm that any system you source is appropriate for your specific application and regulatory requirements.</p>
<h2>Scale-Up and Process Development</h2>
<p>FPLC and ÄKTA systems are commonly used to develop purification processes that will eventually be transferred to larger scale. Key considerations for scale-up workflows include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Benchtop method development</strong> — Research-scale ÄKTA systems allow rapid screening of resin types, gradient conditions, and loading parameters before committing to larger column formats.</li>
<li><strong>Flow rate and column diameter</strong> — Scale-up typically involves increasing column diameter while maintaining linear flow velocity and residence time. Confirm the system supports the required flow rate range for your target column size.</li>
<li><strong>Residence time</strong> — Maintaining consistent residence time during scale-up is critical for reproducible binding and elution performance.</li>
<li><strong>Pressure</strong> — Larger columns at higher flow rates generate higher back pressure. Confirm the system's pressure rating is compatible with your scale-up target.</li>
<li><strong>Flow path materials</strong> — Confirm flow path material compatibility with your buffers, cleaning agents, and sanitization protocols.</li>
<li><strong>Buffer consumption</strong> — Larger column formats require proportionally larger buffer volumes. Confirm solvent management and reservoir capacity.</li>
<li><strong>Fraction collection</strong> — Confirm fraction collector capacity and collection volume are appropriate for your scale-up target.</li>
<li><strong>Reproducibility</strong> — Confirm gradient accuracy, pump performance, and detector calibration are sufficient for reproducible process development data.</li>
<li><strong>Process documentation</strong> — For regulated process development, confirm the system supports audit trail, electronic records, and method versioning requirements of your quality system.</li>
</ul>
<p>Use qualification language appropriate for your regulatory context. IQ/OQ/PQ qualification is the responsibility of the purchasing laboratory.</p>
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports B2B procurement workflows for laboratory equipment:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Formal quotations</strong> — Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for pricing, availability, and configuration details on any listing.</li>
<li><strong>Purchase orders</strong> — We accept purchase orders from qualified institutions, including universities, hospitals, biopharmaceutical companies, and government agencies.</li>
<li><strong>Institutional procurement</strong> — We support procurement workflows for academic, government, and commercial research institutions.</li>
<li><strong>Vendor onboarding</strong> — We can support vendor registration and onboarding processes for institutional procurement.</li>
<li><strong>Sourcing specific configurations</strong> — If a specific Cytiva ÄKTA model or configuration is not currently listed, we can source it. Contact us with your requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Freight and shipping</strong> — FPLC and ÄKTA systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive laboratory instrumentation.</li>
<li><strong>Installation coordination</strong> — On select systems, installation and startup support may be available. Confirm at time of quote.</li>
<li><strong>Surplus equipment purchasing</strong> — If your lab is decommissioning FPLC or ÄKTA systems, mLab Supply purchases surplus equipment. See <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources a broad range of analytical and laboratory instruments. Related categories include:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/collections/hplc-systems">HPLC Systems</a> — Analytical high-performance LC for small-molecule separations</li>
<li><a href="/collections/uhplc-systems">UHPLC Systems</a> — Ultra-high performance LC for high-pressure analytical workflows</li>
<li><a href="/collections/hplc-chromatography-systems">Chromatography Systems</a> — Broad chromatography equipment hub</li>
<li><a href="/collections/lab-equipment">Buy Lab Equipment</a> — Full laboratory equipment catalog</li>
<li><a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> — Submit a sourcing request</li>
<li><a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> — Sell or trade surplus equipment</li>
</ul>
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<details>
<summary>What is an FPLC system?</summary>
<p>FPLC (fast protein liquid chromatography) is a liquid chromatography technique designed for the purification of proteins and other biomolecules. FPLC systems operate at lower pressures than analytical HPLC and use aqueous buffer-compatible flow paths optimized for biological samples. They are widely used in research, biotech, and biopharmaceutical development for affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, and other protein purification workflows.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is an ÄKTA system?</summary>
<p>ÄKTA is Cytiva’s (formerly GE Healthcare Life Sciences) brand of FPLC chromatography systems. ÄKTA systems are widely used in academic, biotech, and biopharmaceutical research for protein purification and process development. The platform includes a range of models from entry-level research systems (ÄKTA go, ÄKTA start) to advanced preparative and pilot-scale systems (ÄKTA pure, ÄKTA avant, ÄKTA pilot). All ÄKTA systems are controlled by UNICORN software.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between FPLC and HPLC?</summary>
<p>FPLC systems are designed for protein and biomolecule purification using aqueous buffers and biological sample matrices. HPLC systems are designed for analytical detection and quantification of small molecules. The two categories differ in operating pressure, column chemistry, flow path materials, detectors, and intended application. They are not interchangeable. See our <a href="/collections/hplc-systems">HPLC Systems</a> collection for analytical LC applications.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between FPLC and UHPLC?</summary>
<p>UHPLC is an analytical technique for high-pressure, high-efficiency small-molecule separations. FPLC and ÄKTA systems are designed for protein and biomolecule purification at lower pressures using aqueous biological buffers. The two categories serve fundamentally different workflows and are not interchangeable. See our <a href="/collections/uhplc-systems">UHPLC Systems</a> collection for high-performance analytical LC applications.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What should I inspect before buying a used ÄKTA system?</summary>
<p>Key items to evaluate include pump flow accuracy and seal condition, valve function and leak integrity, UV detector lamp condition and flow cell cleanliness, conductivity cell calibration, fraction collector function, tubing and fitting condition, and UNICORN software version and license status. Cleaning and maintenance history is also valuable for systems used with biological samples. mLab Supply provides condition information in listing descriptions where known.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are columns included with ÄKTA system listings?</summary>
<p>Columns are not typically included unless explicitly stated in the listing. ÄKTA systems are generally listed as instrument platforms only. Contact us to confirm what is included with a specific listing before purchasing.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are fraction collectors included with ÄKTA system listings?</summary>
<p>Fraction collector inclusion varies by listing. Some ÄKTA systems are listed with a fraction collector; others are not. Review the individual listing description and contact us to confirm included accessories before purchasing.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Cytiva ÄKTA configuration?</summary>
<p>Yes. If a specific ÄKTA model or configuration is not currently listed, we can source it. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your requirements — model, flow rate range, detector configuration, and any other specifications — and we will confirm availability and pricing.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are software licenses included with used ÄKTA systems?</summary>
<p>UNICORN software licensing varies by listing and software version. License transferability depends on the version and Cytiva’s current licensing policy. Confirm software status at time of quote. In some cases, new licenses may need to be purchased directly from Cytiva.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are refurbished ÄKTA systems suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
<p>Refurbished ÄKTA systems can be used in regulated environments, but suitability depends on your specific regulatory requirements, validation protocols, and quality system. Qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) is the responsibility of the purchasing laboratory. mLab Supply does not provide regulatory compliance guarantees. We recommend consulting your quality team before purchasing for GMP or other regulated applications.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus FPLC and ÄKTA systems?</summary>
<p>Yes. If your lab is decommissioning FPLC or ÄKTA systems, we purchase surplus equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p>
</details>
</div>
