Pickering Laboratories PCX — Post Column Derivatization Systems

The Pickering Laboratories PCX series (including Pinnacle PCX, Onyx PCX, Vector PCX, and the legacy PCX 5200) is designed to unlock the full potential of HPLC analysis through advanced post-column derivatization. By introducing a controlled chemical reaction after chromatographic separation, these systems boost both sensitivity and selectivity, making it possible to detect compounds at trace levels with greater clarity. Features such as thermostatic temperature control, precision reagent delivery, and chemically inert flow paths ensure maximum derivatization yield with minimal peak distortion. For laboratories analyzing amino acids, carbamates, glyphosate, mycotoxins, antibiotics, or other derivatization-dependent analytes, the PCX platform provides unmatched consistency and reproducibility.

At HiTechTrader, we help laboratories integrate the power of post-column chemistry without the heavy upfront investment of new equipment. Every Pickering PCX unit we provide is fully refurbished, tested, and configured for reliable performance, allowing your lab to achieve enhanced detection sensitivity and reproducibility at a fraction of the cost. Whether you are running regulated amino acid assays, pesticide monitoring, or advanced method development, our refurbished PCX systems deliver the same durability, precision reagent delivery, and flexible cartridge-based reactor configurations trusted by leading research and analytical labs worldwide.

Vessel and Construction

1. Compact design: Modular benchtop chassis housing pumps, reactors, reservoirs, and electronics for streamlined access and serviceability.
2. Column/reaction oven: Integrated thermostatic oven (Pinnacle/Onyx) or external-oven compatibility (Vector) ensures stable column and reaction temperatures.
3. Reactor cartridges: Quick-swap heated coil or packed reactor cartridges reduce downtime and make it easy to switch chemistries.
4. Inert flow paths: Chemically inert components (PEEK, alumina, Silcosteel® treated interfaces) minimize adsorption and contamination.
5. Corrosion-resistant panels: Simplified cleaning, easy pump/valve access, and durable build for long service life.

Closure and Sealing

1. Reagent reservoirs: Sealed bottles with pressure/vent fittings to prevent oxidation and allow inerting.
2. Low-dead-volume fittings: Chemically resistant seals ensure leak-free, precise operation.
3. Overpressure safeguards: Integrated protection prevents backpressure damage to columns and reagents.
4. Pump & valve integrity: Pulse-free syringe pumps and precision valves with long-life seals maintain accuracy and stability.

Operating Parameters

1. Reagent delivery: Pulse-free syringe or piston pumps deliver stable flow rates (µL–mL/min, model-dependent).
2. Temperature control: Programmable heated reactors (with gradients on Pinnacle/Onyx) deliver reproducible reaction efficiency.
3. Gas handling: Built-in gas manifolds allow inerting for oxygen-sensitive reagents and stabilize delivery.
4. Automation: LCD/software monitoring, method protocols, reagent usage logging, and built-in maintenance programs.
5. Protection: Automatic piston wash, system flush, and reagent cut-off functions guard against clogs and contamination.

Accessory Compatibility

1. HPLC interfacing: Compatible with most major HPLC systems; standard connectors ensure seamless integration.
2. Reactor cartridges: Available for fluorescence, UV/Vis, or colorimetric chemistries; easy cartridge swapping.
3. Temperature flexibility: Pinnacle/Onyx support advanced oven programming; Vector requires external oven.
4. Consumables & kits: Spare cartridges, wash kits, tubing sets, and manifolds available.
5. Software: Works with common chromatography data systems for method storage, logging, and monitoring.

Safe Operation Guidelines

1. Handle reagents with PPE and follow MSDS guidelines; dispose of waste responsibly.
2. Use approved regulators for reagent pressurization; follow gas safety protocols.
3. Observe reactor warm-up/cool-down times; avoid exceeding temperature limits.
4. Perform routine washes, tubing checks, and seal replacements to prevent blockages.
5. Follow shutdown procedures immediately in case of leaks or overpressure.

Applications

1. Amino acid analysis (fluorescence or UV enhancement).
2. Pesticide/herbicide testing (e.g., carbamates, glyphosate).
3. Mycotoxin and antibiotic quantitation in food and environmental samples.
4. Trace-level contaminant monitoring in environmental testing.
5. Research & development in post-column chemistry and regulatory method transfer.

Why Buy from HiTechTrader?

When you purchase a Pickering PCX from HiTechTrader, you gain more than a refurbished instrument, you gain confidence in every analysis. Each unit is carefully sourced, serviced, and validated to meet performance expectations, then supplied with recommended consumables and documentation to get you running quickly. Our team assists with selecting the right reactor cartridges, reagent delivery settings, and method configurations to ensure smooth integration into your workflow. With access to spare parts, service recommendations, and application guidance, HiTechTrader makes it easy to keep your PCX system delivering reproducible, high-sensitivity results year after year, all while keeping your lab's budget in balance.