Agilent FLD Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide provides an overview of Agilent Fluorescence Detectors (FLD), including the 1100, 1200, 1260 Infinity II, and 1260 Infinity III models. It covers features, maintenance, troubleshooting, and operation using ChemStation software.
Overview of Agilent FLD (Fluorescence Detector)
The Agilent Fluorescence Detector (FLD) is a key component in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) systems, offering high sensitivity and selectivity for analyzing trace-level components. FLD’s are commonly used in environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical analysis, and food safety applications. The Agilent FLD series, including the 1100, 1200, 1260 Infinity II, and 1260 Infinity III models, provides superior performance with features like time-programmable wavelength switching and simultaneous multi-wavelength detection. These detectors allow for the optimization of sensitivity and selectivity for specific applications, ensuring accurate and reliable results. The FLD operates based on the principle of fluorescence, where molecules emit light after being illuminated. Proper maintenance and troubleshooting, including regular lamp intensity tests, are essential for optimal performance. Agilent offers a range of consumables, such as xenon flash lamps and flow cells, to support FLD operation.
Agilent FLD Series Models
Agilent offers several Fluorescence Detector (FLD) models, including the 1100, 1200 (G1321A), 1260 Infinity II, and 1260 Infinity III. Each model offers unique features and capabilities for various HPLC applications.
Agilent 1100 Series FLD
The Agilent 1100 Series FLD delivers high sensitivity and selectivity through simultaneous multi-wavelength detection, making it ideal for high-throughput analytical applications. This detector is designed for high optical performance, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Automatic recognition of flow cell cartridges simplifies operation and supports GLP compliance.
The 1100 Series FLD is often paired with a binary pump for optimal performance. Its superior sensitivity enables lower detection limits, while easy front access to the flow cell streamlines maintenance. This model is a robust solution for laboratories requiring precise and efficient fluorescence detection. The Agilent 1100 HPLC system equipped with the FLD detector and binary pump provides an ideal solution for various analytical needs, offering both high sensitivity and ease of use.
Agilent 1200 Series FLD (G1321A)
The Agilent 1200 Series G1321A FLD is engineered for exceptional optical performance, providing high-sensitivity fluorescence detection either as a standalone unit or integrated within an Agilent 1200 system. This model is designed to enhance selectivity and sensitivity, which is crucial for accurate analysis. The G1321A FLD is a user-friendly detector that ensures reliable performance in various applications.
For optimal usage, conducting a fluorescence scan offline for a single compound, preferably with a manual FLD setup, is recommended to determine suitable excitation and emission wavelengths. The Agilent 1200 Series G1321A FLD is a versatile tool for laboratories seeking precise and efficient fluorescence detection, offering both high sensitivity and ease of integration.
Agilent 1260 Infinity II Fluorescence Detector
The Agilent 1260 Infinity II Fluorescence Detector is designed to optimize detection sensitivity and selectivity for specific applications in HPLC analysis. This detector enables users to fine-tune their methods for low-level organic compound measurement in various samples, including surface water, groundwater, and drinking water.
The 1260 Infinity II FLD enhances sensitivity and selectivity, ensuring robust and reliable results. Its advanced design allows for the accurate quantification of separated molecules, making it an invaluable tool for research and quality control. The detector’s capabilities are particularly beneficial for laboratories requiring high performance and adaptability in their fluorescence detection processes.
Agilent 1260 Infinity III Fluorescence Detector
The Agilent 1260 Infinity III Fluorescence Detector is a sophisticated instrument designed for high-sensitivity analysis of trace-level components. It features time-programmable excitation and emission wavelength switching, allowing for optimized detection based on the specific characteristics of the analytes. This capability enhances selectivity and reduces background interference, resulting in more accurate and reliable data.
With high-speed detection capabilities up to 148 Hz, the 1260 Infinity III FLD is well-suited for analyzing very narrow peaks, ensuring that no critical information is missed. It can be seamlessly integrated with any Agilent InfinityLab LC system, providing a versatile solution for various analytical needs.
Key Features and Capabilities
Agilent FLD detectors offer superior sensitivity for low detection limits and improved selectivity through simultaneous multi-wavelength detection. Time-programmable wavelength switching optimizes detection for various applications, maximizing performance and analytical accuracy.
High Sensitivity and Selectivity
Agilent Fluorescence Detectors (FLDs) are renowned for their exceptional sensitivity, enabling the detection of trace-level components in complex samples. This high sensitivity is crucial for applications where analytes are present in very low concentrations, such as environmental monitoring and pharmaceutical analysis. The detectors’ ability to measure fluorescence allows for selective detection of target compounds, minimizing interference from other substances in the sample matrix.
Furthermore, Agilent FLDs offer advanced features such as simultaneous multiple wavelength detection, which enhances both sensitivity and selectivity. This capability allows for the simultaneous monitoring of multiple fluorescent compounds, improving throughput and reducing analysis time. The detectors’ optical design and electronic components are optimized to minimize noise and maximize signal-to-noise ratios, ensuring accurate and reliable results. These features make Agilent FLDs ideal for demanding applications requiring high sensitivity and selectivity.
Time-Programmable Wavelength Switching
Agilent Fluorescence Detectors (FLDs) offer time-programmable excitation and emission wavelength switching, a key feature for optimizing detection sensitivity and selectivity during chromatographic separations. This capability allows users to define specific wavelength settings at different points in the analysis, ensuring that the detector is always operating at the optimal conditions for each eluting compound. By switching wavelengths based on retention time, users can maximize the fluorescence signal for each analyte.
This feature is particularly useful for complex samples containing multiple fluorescent compounds with different excitation and emission spectra. Time-programmable wavelength switching enables the sequential detection of these compounds under their respective optimal conditions, enhancing sensitivity and minimizing cross-interference. The Agilent 1260 Infinity III Fluorescence Detector exemplifies this functionality, providing users with precise control over wavelength settings throughout the chromatographic run. The ability to program wavelength changes over time is essential for achieving the best possible detection performance.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper maintenance and troubleshooting are crucial for optimal performance. This section covers lamp intensity tests, flow cell maintenance, and common issues, providing guidance for resolving problems.
FLD Lamp Intensity Test
The FLD lamp intensity test is a crucial diagnostic procedure for assessing the health and performance of the fluorescence detector’s light source. This test helps determine if the lamp is emitting sufficient light for optimal sensitivity and detection limits. Reduced lamp intensity can lead to decreased signal-to-noise ratios and inaccurate quantitative results. To eliminate effects due to absorbing solvents, the test should be done with water in the flow cell.
This procedure is typically performed using the ChemStation software, which provides a user-friendly interface for conducting the test and interpreting the results. Regular monitoring of lamp intensity allows for proactive maintenance, preventing unexpected downtime and ensuring reliable data. By conducting the FLD lamp intensity test, you can verify that the instrument parameters and help comply with GLP.
The test is accessed on the ChemStation, is essential for maintaining the integrity of the FLD and ensuring accurate and reproducible analytical results.