Buying a used FPLC or chromatography system: a practical checklist

Chromatography and FPLC systems — Cytiva ÄKTA, Bio-Rad NGC, Agilent and Waters LC stacks — are among the most searched-for used instruments in life science, because a refurbished unit performs identically to new for a fraction of the cost. Before you buy, run through this checklist.

1. Match the configuration to your method

These are modular systems. A pump, detector and fraction collector that suit affinity purification may be wrong for high-resolution SEC. Confirm the flow-rate range, pressure limit, number of pump inlets, detector type (UV single- or multi-wavelength, conductivity, pH) and column compatibility for your application, not the family in general.

2. Check the wetted path and seals

Pump seals, check valves and flow cells are wear items. Ask whether they were replaced or tested during refurbishment, and whether the system holds pressure. A unit that primes and holds a stable baseline is in good shape.

3. Software and control

UNICORN, ChromLab or equivalent software and a compatible control PC are essential to run the system. Confirm what's included, which version, and whether your intended workstation is supported. This is the most common gap in used LC/FPLC purchases.

4. Ask for the real unit's photos

Serial-numbered photos, a power-on test and a configuration list should be standard. We provide these before you commit, and back every system with our 30-day functional guarantee.

See what's in stock in Chromatography Systems, or tell us your method and we'll match a system to it.