Elite LCMS sells near new quality HPLC instrumentation, with installation, and reconditions existing HPLC instruments. Elite LCMS Services specializes in Aria HPLC instruments and non-Aria HPLC instruments for service and refurbishments.
The argument for new vs refurbished HPLC equipment is truly not dissimilar to the argument of new vs certified preowned cars. New feels nice, new is expensive, and the minute “new” gets put into use, it is used. The beauty of a refurbished system is that it performs every bit as good as a new system. It is tested to the same specifications, passes the same tests, and produces the same results. But let’s look at the pragmatic reality.
The major HPLC platforms that Elite LCMS Services supports, that being the Aria HPLC with Agilent and Shimadzu pumps, have been in service for almost 20 years. They have steadfastly produced over and over again and continue to do so. Some of these individual Aria HPLC systems are producing upwards of half a million results in a year, and that’s on one mass spectrometer. These platforms are expected to keep producing for the next 5-10 years.
Why? Because the hardware has a proven history of durability, maintainability, and reparability. So, when you look at the strong upside of a refurbished HPLC; The flow path components are brand new. The core hardware is tested to manufacturers specifications. The test results are comparable to any new system. They are warrantied as any other system. And they cost 30-50% less than new.
Our Refurbished Machines
Elite LCMS offers refurbishments for your existing systems and as new quality refurbished instruments to add to your fleet.
What We Offer
What does refurbishment entail for an Aria system, with Agilent or Shimadzu pumps? It includes everything listed below and is reinstalled on a brand-new, customer designed phenolic resin table with all new plumbing. Aria based platforms are our specialty, but not our sole skillset. Elite LCMS's offerings hold a similar quality in price for performance irrespective of platform.
Agilent Pumps
Cosmetics – Each pump is fitted with new cases rather than cleaning an older case. New cases give the pump a vibrant like new look. Stainless steel interconnecting tubing gets replaced. This includes absorbtion capillaries, mixing capillary, and other stainless-steel tubing. While all still functional, over time these pieces can have buildup internally but also get deformed through years of handling through maintenance and repairs. The new tubing is both cosmetic and functional while again giving the pump a “like new” look.
Performance – Each pump gets the following:
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New pistons
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New Piston seals
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New outlet ball valves
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New Active Inlet Valves
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New Active Inlet Cartridges
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New Leak Sensor
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Each unit is tested for leak tightness and pressure stability
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Pump Elasticity Calibration
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Pump Test
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Pump Pressure Test
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Flow Accuracy Test
Shimadzu Pumps
Cosmetics – Each pump is evaluated cosmetically. A new Behind Front Cover is installed if damaged or discolored. The pump housing is cleaned or powder coated based on condition. New cases give the pump a vibrant like-new look. Stainless steel interconnecting tubing gets replaced. While all still functional, over time these pieces can have buildup internally but also get deformed through years of handling through maintenance and repairs. The new tubing is both cosmetic and functional while again giving the pump a “like new” look.
Performance – Each pump gets the following:
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New Pistons
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New Piston Seals
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New Diaphragms
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New Outlet Check Valves
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New Inlet Check Valves
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New Drain Valve Knob
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New Stainless-steel interconnect tubing
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New Keypad/Display
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New Stainless-steel Outlet Frit
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Each unit is tested for leak tightness and pressure stability
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Each unit has a flow rate accuracy test to conform with manufacturers specifications
CTC Autosampler
Cosmetics – Each CTC arm is broken down and all lubricants are stripped. The unit is then professionally powder coated for a “like-new” factory appearance, then lubricated and reassembled. The cool stack is also painted factory new with new front drawer plates.
Performance – Each CTC gets the following
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Updated motors
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New Ribbon Cables
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New Handheld Controller Cable
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New Handheld Controller Screen
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New Lower Needle Guide
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New Upper Needle Guide
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New Drawer Magnet
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New Tension Bands
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Updated Peltier Unit for Cool Stack
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New Magnets for Cool Stack Drawers
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New Wheels for Cool Stack Drawers
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New Wash Station Components
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Each CTC is tested for positional accuracy, wash station performance, and firmware is updated when needed
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Cool Stacks are tested for temperature accuracy
Elite LCMS Services has installed refurbished system for the last 10 years. All of which are running steadily and producing results for very happy customers. But, for some customers cost isn’t an issue, and that is to be expected. On top of that, there most certainly are assays that require the latest and greatest technology. But for the majority of customers, the bottom line is a key argument, and the ROI argument and capital outlay for a refurbished system is hard to ignore. Especially for more tried and true assays that simply need scaling. Professionally refurbished systems should always be a strong consideration for the betterment of your lab’s needs.
