Collection: HPLC Systems

HPLC Systems for Sale

Buy used, refurbished, and surplus HPLC systems from mLab Supply. We source analytical liquid chromatography systems for pharmaceutical QC, environmental testing, food and beverage analysis, academic research, and biotech R&D. Current inventory includes Agilent and Waters HPLC systems across a range of configurations. 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 an HPLC System

Selecting the right HPLC system depends on your application requirements, existing infrastructure, and budget. Key considerations include:

- **Application and analyte class** — Small-molecule pharmaceuticals, environmental contaminants, food additives, and biomolecules each have different separation requirements. Confirm the system is compatible with your target analyte class and method.
- **Flow rate range** — Standard analytical HPLC systems typically operate at 0.1–5 mL/min. Confirm the pump supports your required flow range, especially for micro or semi-preparative work.
- **Pressure capability** — Conventional HPLC systems operate up to approximately 400–600 bar (6,000–9,000 psi). If your method requires sub-2-micron particle columns at higher pressures, consider a UHPLC system instead.
- **Pump configuration** — Binary pumps are common for gradient work with two solvents. Quaternary pumps support up to four solvents and are preferred for method development flexibility.
- **Autosampler requirements** — Confirm sample capacity, injection volume range, temperature control, and compatibility with your vial format.
- **Detector compatibility** — UV/DAD is standard. Confirm whether your method requires fluorescence, refractive index, ELSD, or MS detection, and whether the system supports the required detector.
- **Column compartment** — Temperature-controlled column compartments improve retention time reproducibility. Confirm column length and diameter compatibility.
- **Solvent management** — Degasser type (inline vs. vacuum), solvent reservoir capacity, and waste handling should match your lab setup.
- **Software and data system** — Agilent systems typically use OpenLAB CDS or ChemStation. Waters systems use Empower. Confirm software version compatibility with your existing data system and whether licenses are included or need to be sourced separately.
- **Sample throughput** — Cycle time, injection-to-injection speed, and queue management features affect throughput for high-volume labs.
- **Serviceability** — Confirm parts availability, local service support, and whether the system is still within the manufacturer's supported lifecycle.
- **Electrical and facility requirements** — Confirm voltage, power draw, and bench space requirements before purchase.

## HPLC System Components

A complete HPLC system typically includes the following modules. Exact configuration varies by listing — confirm included components before purchase.

- **Solvent delivery / pump** — Delivers mobile phase at controlled flow rate and pressure. Binary or quaternary configurations are most common.
- **Autosampler / injector** — Introduces sample into the mobile phase stream. Automated autosamplers support unattended operation and reproducible injection volumes.
- **Column compartment** — Houses the analytical column and maintains temperature stability for reproducible separations.
- **Detector** — Measures analyte signal as it elutes from the column. UV/DAD detectors are standard; other detector types may be available depending on the listing.
- **Degasser** — Removes dissolved gases from the mobile phase to prevent bubble formation and baseline noise.
- **Data system / software** — Controls instrument operation, acquires data, and processes chromatographic results. Software licensing requirements vary by system.

## Popular HPLC Manufacturers and Models

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### Agilent Technologies

- **Agilent 1260 Infinity III LC System** — Current-generation analytical HPLC platform with broad detector and column compatibility.
- **Agilent 1260 Infinity III Prime LC System** — Prime configuration of the 1260 Infinity III with enhanced solvent management.
- **Agilent 1260 Infinity II LC System** — Previous-generation 1260 platform, widely deployed in pharmaceutical and research labs.
- **Agilent 1220 Infinity II LC System** — Compact, integrated HPLC system suited for routine analytical workflows.
- **Agilent 1100 Series HPLC System** — Legacy platform with broad installed base; parts and service support widely available.
- **Agilent 1200 Series HPLC System** — Successor to the 1100 Series; modular design with broad detector compatibility.

### Waters Corporation

- **Waters Alliance e2695 HPLC System** — Integrated quaternary solvent manager and sample manager; widely used in pharmaceutical QC and regulated environments.

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## HPLC vs. UHPLC

HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) and UHPLC (ultra-high performance liquid chromatography) are both analytical LC techniques, but they differ in operating pressure, column particle size, and throughput characteristics.

Conventional HPLC systems typically operate at pressures up to approximately 400–600 bar using columns packed with 3–5 micron particles. UHPLC systems operate at pressures above 600 bar — often up to 1,200 bar or higher — and are designed for use with sub-2-micron particle columns. This allows faster run times, higher peak efficiency, and lower solvent consumption per analysis.

Whether UHPLC is appropriate depends on your method requirements, column chemistry, detector, and regulatory context. Existing HPLC methods validated on 3–5 micron columns do not automatically transfer to UHPLC without method development work. For many routine QC and research workflows, conventional HPLC remains the appropriate and cost-effective choice.

If your application requires higher throughput or higher resolution than conventional HPLC can provide, see our [UHPLC Systems](/collections/uhplc-systems) collection.

## Buying Used and Refurbished HPLC Systems

Used and refurbished HPLC systems can provide significant cost savings compared to new equipment. When evaluating a used HPLC system, consider the following:

- **Pump seals and check valves** — These are wear items that affect flow accuracy and pressure stability. Confirm condition or factor replacement into your budget.
- **Leak inspection** — Inspect all fittings, tubing connections, and pump heads for signs of solvent leakage or corrosion.
- **Autosampler condition** — Check needle, seal, and rotor condition. Confirm injection volume accuracy and sample carryover performance.
- **Detector lamps and flow cells** — UV lamp hours and flow cell condition directly affect detector sensitivity and baseline stability.
- **Degasser condition** — Confirm degasser membranes are intact and functional.
- **Tubing and fittings** — Inspect for cracks, discoloration, or improper connections that could cause leaks or dead volume.
- **Software and licensing** — Confirm which software version is installed and whether licenses are transferable. Some data system licenses require manufacturer reactivation.
- **Included modules** — Confirm exactly which modules are included in the listing. Not all listings include a complete system.
- **Service history** — Where available, review PM records, repair history, and any known issues.
- **Installation requirements** — Confirm bench space, power, and ventilation requirements before delivery.

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 on any listing.

## Applications

HPLC systems are used across a broad range of laboratory workflows:

- **Pharmaceutical analysis** — Drug substance and drug product testing, impurity profiling, dissolution testing, and stability studies.
- **Chemical analysis** — Identification and quantification of organic compounds across industrial and research applications.
- **Environmental testing** — Analysis of pesticides, herbicides, PAHs, and other contaminants in water, soil, and air samples.
- **Food and beverage analysis** — Detection of additives, preservatives, vitamins, mycotoxins, and contaminants.
- **Academic research** — Method development, teaching, and exploratory analytical chemistry.
- **Biotech R&D** — Small-molecule metabolite analysis, bioanalytical method development, and pharmacokinetic studies.
- **Method development** — Screening column chemistries, mobile phase conditions, and gradient profiles.
- **Routine QC** — High-volume batch release testing in regulated and non-regulated environments.

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 quotes** — 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 configurations** — If a specific Agilent or Waters configuration is not currently listed, we can source it. Contact us with your requirements.
- **Freight and shipping** — HPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive 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 HPLC 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:

- [UHPLC Systems](/collections/uhplc-systems) — Ultra-high performance LC for higher-pressure, higher-efficiency separations
- [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
- [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

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<summary>What is an HPLC system?</summary>
HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) is an analytical technique used to separate, identify, and quantify components in a liquid sample. A complete HPLC system includes a pump, autosampler, column compartment, detector, and data system. It is one of the most widely used analytical instruments in pharmaceutical, environmental, food safety, and research laboratories.
</details>

<details>
<summary>What is the difference between HPLC and UHPLC?</summary>
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 run times and higher resolution. Existing HPLC methods do not automatically transfer to UHPLC without method development. For many routine workflows, conventional HPLC remains the appropriate choice. See our <a href="/collections/uhplc-systems">UHPLC Systems</a> collection if higher throughput or resolution is required.
</details>

<details>
<summary>What modules are typically included in an HPLC 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 or may be sold as a partial system. 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 HPLC system?</summary>
Key items to evaluate include pump seal and check valve condition, autosampler needle and rotor wear, detector lamp hours and flow cell condition, degasser membrane integrity, tubing and fitting condition, and software licensing status. Service history, where available, is also valuable. mLab Supply provides condition information in listing descriptions where known.
</details>

<details>
<summary>Are software licenses included with used HPLC systems?</summary>
Software licensing varies by listing and by manufacturer. Agilent systems may include ChemStation or OpenLAB CDS; Waters systems may include Empower. License transferability depends on the software version and manufacturer policy. Confirm software status at time of quote. In some cases, new licenses may need to be purchased directly from the manufacturer.
</details>

<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Agilent or Waters HPLC 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, and any other specifications — and we will confirm availability and pricing.
</details>

<details>
<summary>What detectors can be used with HPLC systems?</summary>
Common HPLC detectors include UV/Vis, diode array (DAD/PDA), fluorescence (FLD), refractive index (RID), evaporative light scattering (ELSD), and mass spectrometry (MS). The appropriate detector depends on your analyte and method. Confirm detector compatibility with the specific system and your application before purchase.
</details>

<details>
<summary>Can older Agilent 1100 and 1200 Series systems still be useful?</summary>
Yes. The Agilent 1100 and 1200 Series have a large installed base and broad parts availability. They remain suitable for many routine analytical workflows, method development, and teaching applications. They are not designed for sub-2-micron columns or UHPLC pressures, but for conventional HPLC methods they continue to perform reliably when properly maintained.
</details>

<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight for HPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. HPLC systems are shipped freight. We coordinate packaging and carrier selection appropriate for sensitive 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>Are refurbished HPLC systems suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
Refurbished HPLC 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 purchase surplus HPLC systems?</summary>
Yes. If your lab is decommissioning HPLC 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>

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