Sale includes more than 50 instruments, mainly Rapid Resolution liquid chromatography systems, plus GC and headspace samplers to Orchid, one of the top 15 companies in Indian pharmaceuticals
In addition to being Agilent's biggest sale in India, this is also Orchid's largest order from any chromatography manufacturer.
"We were interested in the Rapid Resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC) system when Agilent introduced it to us," said PY Naidu, Orchid vice president, QC and R+D, "and subsequent demonstrations at our site proved its worthiness.
"Instrument reliability is a factor in this decision, along with our trust in Agilent based on our long association with district manager Gopala Krishnan.
"He properly understood our requirements at each and every point, and this helped guide our decision".
"This type of investment is based on much more than price," said Sanjiv Dhar, Agilent country operations manager, India.
"First, the instruments must deliver consistently good results, year-in and year-out.
"Second, they must easily integrate into existing workflows.
"Third, they must be extremely reliable.
"We're pleased that Orchid recognised these qualities in Agilent products and support services in this highly competitive environment".
The Agilent 1200 series RRLC system provides up to 20 times faster analysis and 60percent higher resolution than conventional HPLC, without sacrificing precision or sensitivity.
It is designed to provide the highest analysis speed and resolution while keeping system pressure at a minimum.
The result is higher performance coupled with the robustness of conventional HPLC.
The new 7890A GC, which Orchid purchased, is the latest generation of 40 years of innovation.
It delivers advanced separation capabilities, powerful productivity enhancements, and real-time self-monitoring and diagnostic intelligence.
Faster oven cool-down and robust backflushing let users analyse more samples in less time.
Fifth-generation electronic pneumatics control and digital electronics set a new standard for pressure setpoint and retention time locking precision.