Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump - Datasheet

Significance of the Topic

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) pumps with precise solvent delivery and mixing are fundamental to achieving high resolution, reproducibility, and throughput in analytical laboratories. The Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump addresses key demands in environmental, food, pharmaceutical, and routine QA/QC applications by offering elevated pressure capability, pulse-free flow, and automated blending of up to four solvents. These features support method development, faster separations, and seamless transfer to sub-2-micron columns.

Objectives and Article Overview

This document introduces the extended performance characteristics, specifications, and ordering information for the Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump, including the VL variant. It aims to summarize its technological innovations, operational metrics, and practical advantages for routine and research chromatographic workflows.

Methodology and Key Features

The core design employs dual floating pistons in series with a servo-controlled variable stroke drive to deliver virtually pulse-free flow. Integrated low-pressure quaternary mixing and a four-channel degasser ensure precise solvent blending and removal of dissolved gases. The pump supports a wide flow range, high operating pressures, and selectable compressibility compensation for diverse mobile phases.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump (G1311B) – up to 600 bar, 0.001–10 mL/min flow
• Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump VL (G1311C) – up to 400 bar, same flow range
• Integrated four-channel degasser with 1.5 mL channel volume
• Agilent control software (ChemStation, EZChrom, MassHunter) and Instant Pilot local interface
• Optional active seal wash module for high-salt mobile phases

Main Results and Discussion

Performance testing demonstrates:

• Flow precision better than 0.07 % RSD and accuracy within ±1 % or 10 µL/min
• Pressure range up to 60 MPa (600 bar) at flows up to 5 mL/min and up to 20 MPa (200 bar) at 10 mL/min
• Pulsation amplitude below 2 % (typically <1.3 %) at 1 mL/min
• Gradient formation with <0.2 % composition precision over 0–95 % solvent range
• Wide pH tolerance (1.0–12.5) and compatibility with viscous solvents

These metrics translate into sharper peaks, faster analysis cycles, and reliable gradient delivery for complex separations.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The pump’s extended pressure capability enables use of smaller particle size columns and longer column lengths for higher resolution or throughput. Four-solvent blending accelerates method development and mobile phase preparation. Robust material choices (stainless steel, titanium, PEEK, sapphire) and optional seal wash reduce maintenance and extend uptime. Applications span environmental and food testing, pharmaceutical method development, and routine QA/QC operations.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and sub-2-micron stationary phases will further demand pumps capable of >1000 bar operation. Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), IoT-enabled diagnostics, and predictive maintenance driven by AI will enhance uptime. Expanded compatibility with green solvents and high-throughput workflows will continue to shape HPLC pump development.

Conclusion

The Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump delivers a balance of high pressure, precise flow, and solvent versatility necessary for demanding analytical tasks. Its robust design and advanced features support faster separations, robust method transfer, and lower operational costs, making it a valuable asset for modern chromatographic laboratories.

References

Agilent Technologies, Inc. Agilent 1260 Infinity Quaternary Pump. Publication Number 5990-6101EN, April 2011.