Colección: UHPLC Systems
UHPLC Systems for Sale
Buy used, refurbished, and surplus UHPLC systems from mLab Supply. We source ultra-high performance liquid chromatography systems for pharmaceutical development, analytical chemistry, impurity profiling, and high-throughput research workflows. Current inventory includes Agilent 1290 Infinity, Waters ACQUITY UPLC, Shimadzu Nexera X2, and Thermo Scientific Vanquish Flex systems. All listings are available to source — submit a quote request and we will confirm availability, condition, and pricing within 1–2 business days.
## How to Choose a UHPLC System
Selecting the right UHPLC system depends on your method requirements, existing infrastructure, and throughput goals. Key considerations include:
- **Pressure capability** — UHPLC systems are designed to operate at pressures above 600 bar, with many platforms supporting up to 1,200 bar or higher. Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your column chemistry and particle size.
- **Flow rate range** — Confirm the pump supports your required analytical flow range, typically 0.01–2 mL/min for standard UHPLC columns. Some systems also support micro or semi-preparative configurations.
- **Pump architecture** — Binary pumps are standard for gradient work. Confirm pump head material compatibility with your mobile phase solvents, including aqueous buffers and organic modifiers.
- **Dwell volume** — Low dwell volume is critical for gradient reproducibility in UHPLC. Confirm dwell volume specifications are compatible with your method, particularly when transferring from HPLC.
- **Autosampler performance** — Confirm injection volume range, cycle time, carryover performance, and temperature control capability. High-throughput workflows require fast injection-to-injection cycle times.
- **Detector compatibility** — UV/DAD is standard. Confirm whether your method requires fluorescence, ELSD, or MS detection, and whether the system supports the required detector interface.
- **Column temperature control** — Precise column compartment temperature control is important for retention time reproducibility at UHPLC flow rates and pressures.
- **Solvent management** — Confirm degasser type, solvent reservoir capacity, and waste handling. Low-volume flow paths reduce solvent consumption and equilibration time.
- **Gradient performance** — Confirm gradient delay, mixing performance, and compositional accuracy at low flow rates relevant to your method.
- **Software and data system** — Agilent systems typically use OpenLAB CDS or ChemStation. Waters systems use Empower. Shimadzu systems use LabSolutions. Thermo systems use Chromeleon. Confirm software version compatibility and licensing requirements.
- **Method transfer requirements** — Transferring validated HPLC methods to UHPLC requires evaluation of column dimensions, particle size, dwell volume, and detector settings. Confirm compatibility before purchase.
- **Throughput** — Confirm cycle time, queue management, and unattended operation capabilities for your sample volume.
- **Serviceability** — Confirm parts availability, local service support, and manufacturer lifecycle status for the specific platform.
## UHPLC System Components
A complete UHPLC system typically includes the following modules. Exact configuration varies by listing — confirm included components before purchase.
- **Binary or quaternary pump** — Delivers mobile phase at controlled flow rate and high pressure. Low-volume pump heads and high-pressure mixing are characteristic of UHPLC platforms.
- **Autosampler** — Introduces sample into the flow path with high precision and low carryover. Fast cycle times support high-throughput workflows.
- **Column compartment** — Houses the analytical column with precise temperature control. Designed for low extra-column volume to preserve peak efficiency.
- **Detector** — UV/DAD detectors are standard; other detector types may be available depending on the listing and configuration.
- **Degasser** — Inline vacuum degasser removes dissolved gases to prevent bubble formation at high pressures.
- **Solvent manager** — Manages mobile phase delivery, mixing, and proportioning. Low-volume flow paths minimize gradient delay.
- **Data system / software** — Controls instrument operation, acquires data, and processes chromatographic results. Software licensing requirements vary by system and manufacturer.
## Popular UHPLC Manufacturers and Models
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
### Agilent Technologies
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III LC System** — Current-generation UHPLC platform supporting up to 1,200 bar with broad detector and column compatibility.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III Method Development System** — Configured for method development workflows with enhanced solvent and column management.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III Analytical-Scale LC Purification System** — Configured for analytical-scale purification applications.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity II LC System** — Previous-generation 1290 platform, widely deployed in pharmaceutical and research environments.
### Waters Corporation
- **Waters ACQUITY UPLC H-Class System** — Quaternary solvent manager UPLC platform designed for flexible gradient method development and high-throughput analysis.
### Shimadzu
- **Shimadzu Nexera X2 UHPLC System** — High-speed, high-sensitivity UHPLC system with broad detector compatibility and flexible configuration options.
### Thermo Scientific
- **Thermo Scientific Vanquish Flex UHPLC System** — Flexible UHPLC platform supporting binary and quaternary configurations for a broad range of analytical applications.
</div>
## UHPLC vs. HPLC
UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) and conventional HPLC share the same fundamental separation principle but differ significantly in operating pressure, column particle size, and achievable efficiency.
Conventional HPLC systems typically operate at pressures up to approximately 400–600 bar using columns packed with 3–5 micron particles. UHPLC systems are designed to operate at pressures above 600 bar — often up to 1,200 bar or higher — and use sub-2-micron particle columns. This combination allows faster run times, higher peak efficiency, and lower solvent consumption per analysis compared to conventional HPLC.
However, UHPLC is not universally superior for every application. Method compatibility must be evaluated before transferring existing HPLC methods to a UHPLC platform. Column dimensions, particle size, dwell volume, extra-column volume, and detector time constants all affect method performance and may require re-optimization. Conventional HPLC remains the appropriate and cost-effective choice for many routine QC and research workflows.
If your application is better served by conventional HPLC, see our [HPLC Systems](/collections/hplc-systems) collection.
## Buying Used and Refurbished UHPLC Systems
Used and refurbished UHPLC systems can provide significant cost savings compared to new equipment. UHPLC platforms operate at higher pressures than conventional HPLC, so condition evaluation is particularly important. Key items to assess include:
- **Pump condition and pressure performance** — Confirm the pump can achieve and sustain rated operating pressure. Pressure fluctuations may indicate worn seals or check valves.
- **Seals and check valves** — High-pressure seals and check valves are wear items. Confirm condition or factor replacement into your budget.
- **Autosampler precision** — Confirm injection volume accuracy, cycle time, and carryover performance at UHPLC flow rates.
- **Detector condition** — UV lamp hours, flow cell condition, and optical path integrity directly affect sensitivity and baseline stability.
- **Flow cells** — UHPLC flow cells have small internal volumes to minimize extra-column dispersion. Confirm flow cell condition and compatibility with your detector requirements.
- **Degasser** — Confirm degasser membrane integrity and function at UHPLC operating pressures.
- **Tubing and fittings** — UHPLC systems use low-volume, high-pressure fittings. Inspect for wear, improper connections, or dead volume that could degrade peak shape.
- **Software and licensing** — Confirm software version, license status, and transferability. Some data system licenses require manufacturer reactivation.
- **Included modules** — Confirm exactly which modules are included. Not all listings represent a complete system.
- **Service history** — Where available, review PM records, repair history, and any known issues.
- **Qualification expectations** — IQ/OQ/PQ qualification is the responsibility of the purchasing laboratory. Confirm your qualification requirements before purchase.
mLab Supply sources equipment in a range of conditions. Listing descriptions indicate condition where known. [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) for specific condition details.
## Method Transfer and Compatibility
Transferring validated HPLC methods to a UHPLC platform requires careful evaluation and is not automatic. Key factors to consider:
- **Column dimensions** — UHPLC methods typically use shorter columns with smaller internal diameters. Column length and diameter affect retention, resolution, and back pressure.
- **Particle size** — Sub-2-micron particles generate significantly higher back pressure than 3–5 micron particles. Confirm the system can support the required operating pressure for your column.
- **System dwell volume** — UHPLC systems have lower dwell volumes than conventional HPLC. Gradient shape and delay may differ between platforms, affecting method reproducibility.
- **Extra-column volume** — Low extra-column volume is critical for preserving peak efficiency with short, narrow-bore UHPLC columns. Confirm tubing, fittings, and flow cell volume are appropriate.
- **Pressure limits** — Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your column and mobile phase conditions.
- **Detector settings** — Detector sampling rate and time constant must be adjusted for the narrower, faster peaks produced by UHPLC separations.
- **Validation requirements** — Method transfers to a new platform may require partial or full revalidation depending on your regulatory context. Consult your quality team before transferring regulated methods.
## Applications
UHPLC systems are used across a broad range of high-performance analytical workflows:
- **Pharmaceutical development** — Drug substance characterization, formulation analysis, and stability studies requiring high resolution and throughput.
- **Analytical chemistry** — High-efficiency separations of complex mixtures across research and industrial applications.
- **Impurity profiling** — Detection and quantification of low-level impurities in pharmaceutical and chemical matrices.
- **High-throughput analysis** — Fast cycle times and automated queuing support large sample sets in discovery and QC environments.
- **Biotech R&D** — Small-molecule metabolite analysis, bioanalytical method development, and pharmacokinetic studies.
- **Food analysis** — Detection of additives, contaminants, vitamins, and mycotoxins at low concentration levels.
- **Environmental analysis** — Analysis of pesticides, herbicides, and emerging contaminants in complex environmental matrices.
- **Method development** — Rapid screening of column chemistries, mobile phase conditions, and gradient profiles.
- **Research and QC** — High-resolution separations for both exploratory research and routine quality control workflows.
Confirm that any system you source is appropriate for your specific application and regulatory requirements.
## Procurement and Logistics
mLab Supply supports B2B procurement workflows for laboratory equipment:
- **Formal quotations** — Submit a [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) for pricing, availability, and configuration details on any listing.
- **Purchase orders** — We accept purchase orders from qualified institutions, including universities, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies.
- **Vendor onboarding** — We can support vendor registration and onboarding processes for institutional procurement.
- **Sourcing specific configurations** — If a specific Agilent 1290, Waters ACQUITY, Shimadzu Nexera, or Thermo Vanquish configuration is not currently listed, we can source it. Contact us with your requirements.
- **Freight and shipping** — UHPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive high-pressure analytical instrumentation.
- **Installation coordination** — On select systems, installation and startup support may be available. Confirm at time of quote.
- **Surplus equipment purchasing** — If your lab is decommissioning UHPLC systems, mLab Supply purchases surplus equipment. See [Sell Lab Equipment](/pages/sell-lab-equipment).
## Related Laboratory Equipment
mLab Supply sources a broad range of analytical and laboratory instruments. Related categories include:
- [HPLC Systems](/collections/hplc-systems) — Conventional high-performance LC for routine analytical workflows
- [Chromatography Systems (FPLC/ÄKTA)](/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta) — Protein purification and bioprocess chromatography
- [Chromatography Systems](/collections/hplc-chromatography-systems) — Broad chromatography equipment hub
- [Agilent Technologies Laboratory Equipment](/collections/agilent-technologies) — Full Agilent instrument catalog
- [Thermo Scientific Laboratory Equipment](/collections/thermo-scientific) — Full Thermo Scientific instrument catalog
- [Buy Lab Equipment](/collections/lab-equipment) — Full laboratory equipment catalog
- [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) — Submit a sourcing request
- [Sell Lab Equipment](/pages/sell-lab-equipment) — Sell or trade surplus equipment
## Frequently Asked Questions
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<details>
<summary>What is a UHPLC system?</summary>
UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) is an analytical separation technique that operates at pressures above 600 bar using sub-2-micron particle columns. Compared to conventional HPLC, UHPLC can deliver faster run times, higher peak efficiency, and lower solvent consumption. It is widely used in pharmaceutical development, impurity profiling, high-throughput analysis, and research applications.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between UHPLC and HPLC?</summary>
Conventional HPLC systems typically operate at pressures up to approximately 400–600 bar using 3–5 micron particle columns. UHPLC systems operate at higher pressures — often above 600 bar — and use sub-2-micron particle columns for faster, higher-efficiency separations. UHPLC is not universally superior; method compatibility must be evaluated before transferring existing HPLC methods. See our <a href="/collections/hplc-systems">HPLC Systems</a> collection if conventional HPLC better fits your workflow.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can HPLC methods be transferred to UHPLC?</summary>
Method transfer from HPLC to UHPLC is possible but requires careful evaluation. Column dimensions, particle size, system dwell volume, extra-column volume, pressure limits, and detector settings all affect method performance on a UHPLC platform. Transferred methods may require re-optimization and, in regulated environments, partial or full revalidation. Consult your quality team before transferring validated methods.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What pressure capability should I look for in a UHPLC system?</summary>
Most UHPLC platforms support operating pressures of 600–1,200 bar. The appropriate pressure rating depends on your column chemistry, particle size, and mobile phase conditions. Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your method requirements before purchase.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What modules are typically included in a UHPLC system listing?</summary>
This varies by listing. A complete system typically includes a pump, autosampler, column compartment, detector, and degasser. Some listings may include only select modules. Review the individual listing description carefully and contact us to confirm included components before purchasing.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What should I inspect before buying a used UHPLC system?</summary>
Key items include pump pressure performance and seal condition, autosampler injection precision and carryover, detector lamp hours and flow cell condition, degasser function, tubing and fitting integrity, and software licensing status. UHPLC systems operate at higher pressures than conventional HPLC, so pressure-related wear items are particularly important to evaluate. Service history, where available, is also valuable.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are software licenses included with used UHPLC systems?</summary>
Software licensing varies by listing and manufacturer. Agilent systems may include OpenLAB CDS or ChemStation; Waters systems may include Empower; Shimadzu systems may include LabSolutions; Thermo systems may include Chromeleon. License transferability depends on the software version and manufacturer policy. Confirm software status at time of quote.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Agilent 1290, Waters ACQUITY, Shimadzu Nexera, or Thermo Vanquish configuration?</summary>
Yes. If a specific 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, modules, detector type, pressure rating, and any other specifications — and we will confirm availability and pricing.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are refurbished UHPLC systems suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
Refurbished UHPLC 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.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight for UHPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. UHPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive high-pressure analytical instrumentation. Freight costs and logistics details are confirmed at time of quote. Installation coordination may be available on select systems — confirm at time of purchase.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus UHPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. If your lab is decommissioning UHPLC systems, we purchase surplus equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.
</details>
</div>
Selecting the right UHPLC system depends on your method requirements, existing infrastructure, and throughput goals. Key considerations include:
- **Pressure capability** — UHPLC systems are designed to operate at pressures above 600 bar, with many platforms supporting up to 1,200 bar or higher. Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your column chemistry and particle size.
- **Flow rate range** — Confirm the pump supports your required analytical flow range, typically 0.01–2 mL/min for standard UHPLC columns. Some systems also support micro or semi-preparative configurations.
- **Pump architecture** — Binary pumps are standard for gradient work. Confirm pump head material compatibility with your mobile phase solvents, including aqueous buffers and organic modifiers.
- **Dwell volume** — Low dwell volume is critical for gradient reproducibility in UHPLC. Confirm dwell volume specifications are compatible with your method, particularly when transferring from HPLC.
- **Autosampler performance** — Confirm injection volume range, cycle time, carryover performance, and temperature control capability. High-throughput workflows require fast injection-to-injection cycle times.
- **Detector compatibility** — UV/DAD is standard. Confirm whether your method requires fluorescence, ELSD, or MS detection, and whether the system supports the required detector interface.
- **Column temperature control** — Precise column compartment temperature control is important for retention time reproducibility at UHPLC flow rates and pressures.
- **Solvent management** — Confirm degasser type, solvent reservoir capacity, and waste handling. Low-volume flow paths reduce solvent consumption and equilibration time.
- **Gradient performance** — Confirm gradient delay, mixing performance, and compositional accuracy at low flow rates relevant to your method.
- **Software and data system** — Agilent systems typically use OpenLAB CDS or ChemStation. Waters systems use Empower. Shimadzu systems use LabSolutions. Thermo systems use Chromeleon. Confirm software version compatibility and licensing requirements.
- **Method transfer requirements** — Transferring validated HPLC methods to UHPLC requires evaluation of column dimensions, particle size, dwell volume, and detector settings. Confirm compatibility before purchase.
- **Throughput** — Confirm cycle time, queue management, and unattended operation capabilities for your sample volume.
- **Serviceability** — Confirm parts availability, local service support, and manufacturer lifecycle status for the specific platform.
## UHPLC System Components
A complete UHPLC system typically includes the following modules. Exact configuration varies by listing — confirm included components before purchase.
- **Binary or quaternary pump** — Delivers mobile phase at controlled flow rate and high pressure. Low-volume pump heads and high-pressure mixing are characteristic of UHPLC platforms.
- **Autosampler** — Introduces sample into the flow path with high precision and low carryover. Fast cycle times support high-throughput workflows.
- **Column compartment** — Houses the analytical column with precise temperature control. Designed for low extra-column volume to preserve peak efficiency.
- **Detector** — UV/DAD detectors are standard; other detector types may be available depending on the listing and configuration.
- **Degasser** — Inline vacuum degasser removes dissolved gases to prevent bubble formation at high pressures.
- **Solvent manager** — Manages mobile phase delivery, mixing, and proportioning. Low-volume flow paths minimize gradient delay.
- **Data system / software** — Controls instrument operation, acquires data, and processes chromatographic results. Software licensing requirements vary by system and manufacturer.
## Popular UHPLC Manufacturers and Models
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
### Agilent Technologies
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III LC System** — Current-generation UHPLC platform supporting up to 1,200 bar with broad detector and column compatibility.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III Method Development System** — Configured for method development workflows with enhanced solvent and column management.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity III Analytical-Scale LC Purification System** — Configured for analytical-scale purification applications.
- **Agilent 1290 Infinity II LC System** — Previous-generation 1290 platform, widely deployed in pharmaceutical and research environments.
### Waters Corporation
- **Waters ACQUITY UPLC H-Class System** — Quaternary solvent manager UPLC platform designed for flexible gradient method development and high-throughput analysis.
### Shimadzu
- **Shimadzu Nexera X2 UHPLC System** — High-speed, high-sensitivity UHPLC system with broad detector compatibility and flexible configuration options.
### Thermo Scientific
- **Thermo Scientific Vanquish Flex UHPLC System** — Flexible UHPLC platform supporting binary and quaternary configurations for a broad range of analytical applications.
</div>
## UHPLC vs. HPLC
UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) and conventional HPLC share the same fundamental separation principle but differ significantly in operating pressure, column particle size, and achievable efficiency.
Conventional HPLC systems typically operate at pressures up to approximately 400–600 bar using columns packed with 3–5 micron particles. UHPLC systems are designed to operate at pressures above 600 bar — often up to 1,200 bar or higher — and use sub-2-micron particle columns. This combination allows faster run times, higher peak efficiency, and lower solvent consumption per analysis compared to conventional HPLC.
However, UHPLC is not universally superior for every application. Method compatibility must be evaluated before transferring existing HPLC methods to a UHPLC platform. Column dimensions, particle size, dwell volume, extra-column volume, and detector time constants all affect method performance and may require re-optimization. Conventional HPLC remains the appropriate and cost-effective choice for many routine QC and research workflows.
If your application is better served by conventional HPLC, see our [HPLC Systems](/collections/hplc-systems) collection.
## Buying Used and Refurbished UHPLC Systems
Used and refurbished UHPLC systems can provide significant cost savings compared to new equipment. UHPLC platforms operate at higher pressures than conventional HPLC, so condition evaluation is particularly important. Key items to assess include:
- **Pump condition and pressure performance** — Confirm the pump can achieve and sustain rated operating pressure. Pressure fluctuations may indicate worn seals or check valves.
- **Seals and check valves** — High-pressure seals and check valves are wear items. Confirm condition or factor replacement into your budget.
- **Autosampler precision** — Confirm injection volume accuracy, cycle time, and carryover performance at UHPLC flow rates.
- **Detector condition** — UV lamp hours, flow cell condition, and optical path integrity directly affect sensitivity and baseline stability.
- **Flow cells** — UHPLC flow cells have small internal volumes to minimize extra-column dispersion. Confirm flow cell condition and compatibility with your detector requirements.
- **Degasser** — Confirm degasser membrane integrity and function at UHPLC operating pressures.
- **Tubing and fittings** — UHPLC systems use low-volume, high-pressure fittings. Inspect for wear, improper connections, or dead volume that could degrade peak shape.
- **Software and licensing** — Confirm software version, license status, and transferability. Some data system licenses require manufacturer reactivation.
- **Included modules** — Confirm exactly which modules are included. Not all listings represent a complete system.
- **Service history** — Where available, review PM records, repair history, and any known issues.
- **Qualification expectations** — IQ/OQ/PQ qualification is the responsibility of the purchasing laboratory. Confirm your qualification requirements before purchase.
mLab Supply sources equipment in a range of conditions. Listing descriptions indicate condition where known. [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) for specific condition details.
## Method Transfer and Compatibility
Transferring validated HPLC methods to a UHPLC platform requires careful evaluation and is not automatic. Key factors to consider:
- **Column dimensions** — UHPLC methods typically use shorter columns with smaller internal diameters. Column length and diameter affect retention, resolution, and back pressure.
- **Particle size** — Sub-2-micron particles generate significantly higher back pressure than 3–5 micron particles. Confirm the system can support the required operating pressure for your column.
- **System dwell volume** — UHPLC systems have lower dwell volumes than conventional HPLC. Gradient shape and delay may differ between platforms, affecting method reproducibility.
- **Extra-column volume** — Low extra-column volume is critical for preserving peak efficiency with short, narrow-bore UHPLC columns. Confirm tubing, fittings, and flow cell volume are appropriate.
- **Pressure limits** — Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your column and mobile phase conditions.
- **Detector settings** — Detector sampling rate and time constant must be adjusted for the narrower, faster peaks produced by UHPLC separations.
- **Validation requirements** — Method transfers to a new platform may require partial or full revalidation depending on your regulatory context. Consult your quality team before transferring regulated methods.
## Applications
UHPLC systems are used across a broad range of high-performance analytical workflows:
- **Pharmaceutical development** — Drug substance characterization, formulation analysis, and stability studies requiring high resolution and throughput.
- **Analytical chemistry** — High-efficiency separations of complex mixtures across research and industrial applications.
- **Impurity profiling** — Detection and quantification of low-level impurities in pharmaceutical and chemical matrices.
- **High-throughput analysis** — Fast cycle times and automated queuing support large sample sets in discovery and QC environments.
- **Biotech R&D** — Small-molecule metabolite analysis, bioanalytical method development, and pharmacokinetic studies.
- **Food analysis** — Detection of additives, contaminants, vitamins, and mycotoxins at low concentration levels.
- **Environmental analysis** — Analysis of pesticides, herbicides, and emerging contaminants in complex environmental matrices.
- **Method development** — Rapid screening of column chemistries, mobile phase conditions, and gradient profiles.
- **Research and QC** — High-resolution separations for both exploratory research and routine quality control workflows.
Confirm that any system you source is appropriate for your specific application and regulatory requirements.
## Procurement and Logistics
mLab Supply supports B2B procurement workflows for laboratory equipment:
- **Formal quotations** — Submit a [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) for pricing, availability, and configuration details on any listing.
- **Purchase orders** — We accept purchase orders from qualified institutions, including universities, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies.
- **Vendor onboarding** — We can support vendor registration and onboarding processes for institutional procurement.
- **Sourcing specific configurations** — If a specific Agilent 1290, Waters ACQUITY, Shimadzu Nexera, or Thermo Vanquish configuration is not currently listed, we can source it. Contact us with your requirements.
- **Freight and shipping** — UHPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive high-pressure analytical instrumentation.
- **Installation coordination** — On select systems, installation and startup support may be available. Confirm at time of quote.
- **Surplus equipment purchasing** — If your lab is decommissioning UHPLC systems, mLab Supply purchases surplus equipment. See [Sell Lab Equipment](/pages/sell-lab-equipment).
## Related Laboratory Equipment
mLab Supply sources a broad range of analytical and laboratory instruments. Related categories include:
- [HPLC Systems](/collections/hplc-systems) — Conventional high-performance LC for routine analytical workflows
- [Chromatography Systems (FPLC/ÄKTA)](/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta) — Protein purification and bioprocess chromatography
- [Chromatography Systems](/collections/hplc-chromatography-systems) — Broad chromatography equipment hub
- [Agilent Technologies Laboratory Equipment](/collections/agilent-technologies) — Full Agilent instrument catalog
- [Thermo Scientific Laboratory Equipment](/collections/thermo-scientific) — Full Thermo Scientific instrument catalog
- [Buy Lab Equipment](/collections/lab-equipment) — Full laboratory equipment catalog
- [Request a Quote](/pages/request-a-quote) — Submit a sourcing request
- [Sell Lab Equipment](/pages/sell-lab-equipment) — Sell or trade surplus equipment
## Frequently Asked Questions
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<details>
<summary>What is a UHPLC system?</summary>
UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) is an analytical separation technique that operates at pressures above 600 bar using sub-2-micron particle columns. Compared to conventional HPLC, UHPLC can deliver faster run times, higher peak efficiency, and lower solvent consumption. It is widely used in pharmaceutical development, impurity profiling, high-throughput analysis, and research applications.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between UHPLC and HPLC?</summary>
Conventional HPLC systems typically operate at pressures up to approximately 400–600 bar using 3–5 micron particle columns. UHPLC systems operate at higher pressures — often above 600 bar — and use sub-2-micron particle columns for faster, higher-efficiency separations. UHPLC is not universally superior; method compatibility must be evaluated before transferring existing HPLC methods. See our <a href="/collections/hplc-systems">HPLC Systems</a> collection if conventional HPLC better fits your workflow.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can HPLC methods be transferred to UHPLC?</summary>
Method transfer from HPLC to UHPLC is possible but requires careful evaluation. Column dimensions, particle size, system dwell volume, extra-column volume, pressure limits, and detector settings all affect method performance on a UHPLC platform. Transferred methods may require re-optimization and, in regulated environments, partial or full revalidation. Consult your quality team before transferring validated methods.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What pressure capability should I look for in a UHPLC system?</summary>
Most UHPLC platforms support operating pressures of 600–1,200 bar. The appropriate pressure rating depends on your column chemistry, particle size, and mobile phase conditions. Confirm the system's maximum operating pressure is compatible with your method requirements before purchase.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What modules are typically included in a UHPLC system listing?</summary>
This varies by listing. A complete system typically includes a pump, autosampler, column compartment, detector, and degasser. Some listings may include only select modules. Review the individual listing description carefully and contact us to confirm included components before purchasing.
</details>
<details>
<summary>What should I inspect before buying a used UHPLC system?</summary>
Key items include pump pressure performance and seal condition, autosampler injection precision and carryover, detector lamp hours and flow cell condition, degasser function, tubing and fitting integrity, and software licensing status. UHPLC systems operate at higher pressures than conventional HPLC, so pressure-related wear items are particularly important to evaluate. Service history, where available, is also valuable.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are software licenses included with used UHPLC systems?</summary>
Software licensing varies by listing and manufacturer. Agilent systems may include OpenLAB CDS or ChemStation; Waters systems may include Empower; Shimadzu systems may include LabSolutions; Thermo systems may include Chromeleon. License transferability depends on the software version and manufacturer policy. Confirm software status at time of quote.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Agilent 1290, Waters ACQUITY, Shimadzu Nexera, or Thermo Vanquish configuration?</summary>
Yes. If a specific 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, modules, detector type, pressure rating, and any other specifications — and we will confirm availability and pricing.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are refurbished UHPLC systems suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
Refurbished UHPLC 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.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight for UHPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. UHPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive high-pressure analytical instrumentation. Freight costs and logistics details are confirmed at time of quote. Installation coordination may be available on select systems — confirm at time of purchase.
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus UHPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. If your lab is decommissioning UHPLC systems, we purchase surplus equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.
</details>
</div>