Intelligent GC systems enhanced with new high-capacity headspace sampler -XL tray

Agilent Technologies Inc. has recently announced the expansion of its intelligent GC systems family with the release of the Agilent 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray. The new high-capacity headspace sampler offers a 120-vial capacity, which is a significant increase from its predecessor, the 7697A Headspace Sampler, that only had a 48-vial capacity. The Agilent 8697 -XL Tray and the 8697 are equipped with the latest instrument intelligence features, ensuring increased uptime and operator ease-of-use.

According to Mike Zhang, the Vice President and General Manager of Agilent’s Gas Phase Separations Division, headspace GC systems encounter problems during a sequence if vials are punctured. In such cases, the laboratory may have to rerun or recollect samples, which can be time-consuming. However, the 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray virtually eliminates this issue by checking the complete GC headspace system to ensure that the system and data quality meet the SOP standards. As a result, samples do not need to be rerun, saving time and resources.

The Agilent 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray is designed with instrument intelligence that enhances efficiency and reduces downtime. It features self-monitoring operations and can guide operators through various troubleshooting and maintenance procedures step-by-step on the GC touchscreen. The sampler also performs automated system checks, including leak checks, early maintenance feedback (EMF), and self-diagnostics to ensure that the system is ready to run. Additionally, the system checks QC samples to provide the highest data quality and to avoid reruns.

One of the notable features of the Agilent 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray is that it can be adopted quickly and easily without requiring method redevelopment or a change in SOP from earlier 7697A or 8697 Headspace Sampler models. It also offers added method flexibility as it can run with alternate carrier gases, thanks to the separation of vial pressurization and sample loop.

Jim Gearing, the Associate Vice President of Marketing in Agilent’s Gas Phase Separations Division, expressed excitement about the latest addition to the company’s intelligent instruments portfolio. He said that the 8697 Headspace Sampler -XL Tray is fully integrated into the GC intelligence ecosystem, which allows it to communicate directly with the GC to optimise operation and ensure maximum uptime.