Thermo Scientific HPLC and UHPLC Systems: LC Portfolio for LC-MS Applications

Significance of the topic

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) are central to modern analytical chemistry, particularly when coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The ability to select column dimensions and flow rates tailored to application needs—from nano- to analytical-scale separations—enhances sensitivity, resolution and throughput across proteomics, metabolomics and routine quality control.

Objectives and study overview

This portfolio overview aims to present the range of Thermo Scientific HPLC and UHPLC systems designed for LC-MS applications. It categorizes instruments by flow regime and column internal diameter, illustrating how different platforms support workflows from low-flow proteomics to high-throughput method development.

Methodology and instrumentation

Thermo Scientific organizes its LC portfolio by column ID and corresponding flow ranges:

• Nano (50–150 µm ID): 50 nL/min–50 µL/min, represented by EASY-nLC 1200 and UltiMate 3000 RSLCnano systems.
• Capillary (0.5–1.0 mm ID): 1–15 µL/min, handled by UltiMate 3000 and Vanquish Flex platforms.
• Micro (1.0–2.1 mm ID): 10–100 µL/min, supported by Vanquish Flex and RS/BioRS systems.
• Analytical (2.1–4.6 mm ID): >100 µL/min up to several mL/min, using Vanquish Horizon, Duo and Flex systems.

The portfolio spans pressure capabilities from routine 620 bar to advanced UHPLC up to 1,500 bar. Binary and quaternary solvent mixing, multiple thermostatting modes and biocompatible fluidics facilitate diverse applications.

Main results and discussion

The overview highlights how each system balances sensitivity, throughput and robustness. Low-flow systems achieve femtomole-level detection for proteomics, while capillary and micro setups support specialized workflows. Analytical-scale UHPLC platforms deliver high-pressure binary/quaternary mixing, enabling rapid separations for QA/QC and metabolite profiling.

Benefits and practical applications

• Enhanced sensitivity: Nano- and capillary-flow systems improve signal for LC-MS analyses of trace components.
• Versatility: Modular platforms adapt to proteomics, biopharma, food safety and environmental testing.
• High throughput: Analytical UHPLC instruments accelerate routine assays with robust solvent handling and pressure control.
• Scalable workflows: Seamless transition from method development to high-volume production laboratories.

Future trends and potential applications

Advances are expected in seamless automation, integrated sample preparation, AI-driven method optimization and further miniaturization. Emerging applications include single-cell profiling, high-resolution metabolomics and real-time process analytics in manufacturing.

Conclusion

Thermo Scientific’s LC portfolio offers a comprehensive range of HPLC and UHPLC systems that meet the diverse demands of LC-MS applications. By aligning column geometry, flow rate and system design, laboratories can achieve optimal sensitivity, throughput and reproducibility.

Reference

Thermo Fisher Scientific. Thermo Scientific HPLC and UHPLC Systems: LC Portfolio for LC-MS Applications. 2018.