The Agilent Low Thermal Mass (LTM) technology addresses the demand for greater productivity required for many gas chromatography applications. This technology uses an LTM column module combining a fused silica capillary column with heating and temperature-sensing components wound around it. The LTM system is designed to work with the LTM column module components to heat and cool the column very efficiently for significantly shorter analytical cycle times as compared to conventional air bath GC oven techniques involving much higher thermal mass. The Agilent LTM system (except external power supply) is built into a replacement GC oven door, which is mounted as an add-on to an Agilent 7890A GC. A version is also available for the Agilent 6890 GC. The Agilent LTM system is neither available nor supported for operation with an Agilent (HP) 5890 GC or other GCs.
The Agilent Low Thermal Mass (LTM) System is a technology designed to increase productivity in gas chromatography applications by significantly shortening analytical cycle times. It utilizes an LTM column module that combines a fused silica capillary column with heating and temperature-sensing components wound around it. The system is built into a replacement GC oven door designed as an add-on for Agilent 7890A and 6890 GCs, but is not supported for the Agilent 5890 GC or other models.
The system features direct resistive heating using ceramic-insulated wire and high-precision temperature sensing, achieving an accuracy of within 0.1 °C of a reference. It supports simultaneous, synchronous operation of one to four modules with different temperature programs. Key specifications include a maximum programmable temperature of 400 °C, a maximum ramp rate of 1,800 °C/min, and the ability to store 10 methods. The unit includes internal diagnostics and communicates via RS-232-C.
| Temperature accuracy | within 0.1 °C of a reference |
|---|---|
| Maximum programmable temperature | 400 °C |
| Maximum temperature ramp rate | + 1,800 °C/min |
| Compatible GC models | Agilent 7890A and 6890 GC |
| Maximum modules operation | four modules |
| Storage of methods | 10 methods |
| Communication interface | RS-232-C |
| Average weight of replacement door | 6.7 kg (14.7 lb) |
The system is compatible with the Agilent 7890A and 6890 GC, but is not available or supported for the Agilent 5890 GC or other GCs.
Yes, up to four column modules can be operated simultaneously with different temperature programs, provided matching heater controllers are installed.
The maximum programmable temperature is 400 °C, with an operating range from 4 °C above ambient to the maximum operating temperature of the GC capillary column.