[welsh_Ajo]

I have an Agilent 1100 series HPLC with a binary pump system, at the moment I am only using standard reverse phase  solvents such as MeOH AcCN and water. I want to run a hexane 2-propanol gradient for the separation of cis trans isomers. I am receiving very mixed opinions over weater the pump will take such non-polar solvents. Someone has told me that the solvents will swell up seals in the Pump and that I will need to change these seals prior to running. Others say the Agilent 1100 series pump will have no such problems.

Can anyone answer this for definite

I should note the pump has had no modification.

[chiralic]

The piston seals for your Agilent 1100 are made of polyethylene blend (resistant to almost all HPLC solvents) and run well for hexane/Propanol using isocratic or gradient mode. When you use very strong organic solvents like pure methylene cloride and toluene you can reduce life of your seals. Also, there are a "few" solvents for which Teflon seals are more suitable.

Depending on HPLC use, you could change your piston seals every 4-6 months to minimize
pump downtime.

Suggestion: Read your Operator Manual of your Agilent 1100, normally you find information about what DO or DON'T with your HPLC system