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09931201D PinAAcle 900 Series NON-IVD Customer HW Guide
09931201D PinAAcle 900 Series NON-IVD Customer HW Guide
User Assistance
PerkinElmer
710 Bridgeport Avenue
Shelton, CT 06484-4794
U.S.A.
Manufacturer:
PerkinElmer Singapore Pte Ltd
28, Ayer Rajah Crescent,
#04-01/08,
Singapore 139959
Notices
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
Except as specifically set forth in its terms and conditions of sale, PerkinElmer makes no warranty of any kind with
regard to this document, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a partic-
ular purpose.
PerkinElmer shall not be liable for errors contained herein for incidental consequential damages in connection with fur-
nishing, performance or use of this material.
Copyright Information
This document contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright.
All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever or translated into any
language without the prior, written permission of PerkinElmer, Inc.
Trademarks
Registered names, trademarks, etc. used in this document, even when not specifically marked as such, are protected by
law.
Customer Service
Company Name and Address:
PerkinElmer
710 Bridgeport Avenue
Shelton, Connecticut 06484-4794 USA
Tel: (800) 762-4000 or (203) 762-4000
Every day you count on PerkinElmer to provide you with solutions that deliver
reliable performance, control operating costs and maximize operational time. Our
complete portfolio of consumables, parts, supplies, training and service helps you
meet both routine and demanding measurement challenges. We invest heavily in
testing and validating our products to ensure you receive guaranteed compatibility
and performance-on-time, every time, for every instrument in your laboratory.
http://perkinelmer.com
To place an order for supplies and many replacement parts, request a free catalog,
or ask for information:
If you are located within the U.S., call toll free 1-800-762-4002, 8 a.m. to
8 p.m. EST. Your order will be shipped promptly, usually within 24 hours.
If you are located outside of the U.S., call your local PerkinElmer sales or service
office.
xiv
This manual contains important information regarding potential hazards that may
arise during the operation of the instrument. It is essential that this information is
read and thoroughly understood by all potential users of the instrument.
In this manual, the following graphic symbols and special text formats are used to
set apart important safety information.
Any of the following safety conventions can be used throughout this guide:
This symbol alerts you to the risk of electric shock that could result in personal
injury to yourself or other persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
This symbol alerts you to the risk of hot surfaces that could cause personal
injury to yourself or other persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
This symbol alerts you to the risk of ultraviolet radiation that could cause
eye damage to yourself or other persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
This symbol alerts you to the risk of strong magnetic fields that could cause
injury to persons wearing a heart pacemaker or having metallic implants.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
Ce symbole vous avertit de l'existence d'un risque de champs magnétiques
puissants susceptibles de blesser les porteurs de pacemakers ou d'implants
métalliques.
Les détails concernant ces circonstances apparaissent dans un encadré du type
de celui-ci.
xvi
Regulatory Information
Safety compliance
Safety information is located in the European Union Declaration of Conformity.
Electrical protection
Insulation
Class I as defined in EN 61010-1.
Installation category
This instrument is able to withstand transient overvoltage according to
Installation Category II as defined in EN 61010-1 and IEC 664.
Pollution degree
This equipment will operate safely in environments that contain nonconductive
foreign matter and condensation up to Pollution Degree 2 as defined in
IEC 1010-1 and IEC 664.
• the electromagnetic disturbance generated does not exceed the level above
which radio and telecommunications equipment or other equipment cannot
operate as intended;
Safety and Regulatory Information xvii
South Korea
This device complies with MSIP (Ministry 0f Science, ICT, and Future Planning)
EMC Registration requirements. This instrument is registered as a Class A
instrument for buiness use only. Product seller and user should notice that this
equipment is not for house hold use,
A Word on Troubleshooting
We recommend that you consult the troubleshooting information included in this
manual before you call a PerkinElmer service engineer. The Troubleshooting
chapter contains suggestions to help you determine systematically whether
instrument problems are due to improper analytical techniques, improper selection
of instrument parameters, or malfunction of the instrument.
All eight digit numbers are PerkinElmer part numbers unless stated otherwise.
Software Help
This manual contains hardware information for PinAAcle 900 Series instruments.
For information on the software for the PinAAcle 900 Series, see the following
help file.
• This software help file can be accessed by opening the software application
and selecting Help > Contents and Index from the menu bar.
xx
Safety Practices 1
Overview
This chapter describes the general safety practices and precautions that must be
observed when operating the PinAAcle 900 Series.
This advice is intended to supplement, not supersede, the normal safety codes in
the user's country. It is also a supplement to the PerkinElmer standard Safety and
Health Policy. The information provided does not cover every safety procedure
that should be practiced. Ultimately, maintenance of a safe laboratory environment
is the responsibility of the analyst and the analyst's organization.
Please consult all manuals supplied with the PinAAcle Series and accessories
before you start working with the instrument. Carefully read the safety information
in this chapter and in the other manuals supplied. When setting up the instrument
or performing analyses or maintenance procedures, strictly follow the instructions
provided.
Precautions
Be sure to read and understand the precautions listed below. It is also
recommended to post a copy of the precautions near or on the instrument
! shelf.
Avertissement: Veillez à ce que tous les opérateurs d'instruments aient
Warning lu et compris les précautions qui suivent. Il est conseillé de placer une
copie des précautions à proximité de l'instrument ou directement sur
celui-ci.
The following precautions must be observed when using the PinAAcle Series:
• Be sure that the voltage of the PinAAcle Series corresponds to the voltage
used in your laboratory.
• Never remove the side panels of the PinAAcle Series without shutting
down the instrument and disconnecting the instrument power cord from
line power.
• Only high quality purge gases should be used with the PinAAcle Series.
Minimum purity of 99.9% is recommended. A high quality filter-dryer
accessory is recommended for the removal of any moisture from the purge
gases.
• Before the instrument is installed, the area around, under and behind the
instrument's planned location is to be cleared of any dirt and dust to
prevent their entry into the instrument's interior which could cause a
negative effect on performance.
• When you remove the instrument from storage and before you put it into
operation, allow it to stand for at least a day under the approved operating
conditions.
Environmental Conditions
The instrument will operate correctly under the following conditions:
• Indoors.
4 Safety Practices
You can store the instrument safely under the following conditions:
• Ambient temperature: -20 C to +60 C (-4 F to +140 F).
• Ambient relative humidity: 20% to 80%, without condensation.
• Altitude: in the range -400 m to 12 000 m (-1300 to 39 000 feet).
When you remove the instrument from storage and before you put it into operation,
allow it to stand for at least a day under the approved operating conditions.
Electrical Safety
Do not operate the instrument with any covers or parts removed. Disconnect
! the power cord from the AC line power wherever the cover is removed.
Avertissement
Warning Ne faites pas fonctionner l'instrument si des capots ou des pièces sont retirés.
Déconnectez l'instrument de la prise secteur chaque fois que vous retirez un capot.
Do not replace detachable mains supply cords with inadequately rated cords.
! Avertissement. Ne pas remplacer détachables cordons réseau d'alimentation
avec des cordons mal notés.
Warning
• Disconnect the instrument from all voltage sources before opening it for any
adjustment, replacement, maintenance, or repair. If afterwards, the opened
instrument must be operated for further adjustment, maintenance, or repair,
this must only be done by a qualified person who is aware of the hazards
involved.
• Whenever it is possible that the instrument is no longer electrically safe for use,
make the instrument inoperative and secure it against any unauthorized or
unintentional operation. The electrical safety of the instrument is likely to be
impaired if, for example, the instrument shows visible damage; has been
subjected to prolonged storage under unfavorable conditions; or has been
subjected to severe stress during transportation.
Fuses
Use only fuses with the required current rating and of the specified type for
replacement.
This symbol indicates that there is a potential hazard and that the user must look
in the guide for an explanation of the hazard and how to avoid it.
Ce symbole indique qu'il existe un danger potentiel et que l'utilisateur doit
consulter le guide afin d'obtenir une explication du danger et de la façon de
l'éviter.
This symbol indicates that there is a potential hazard due to a strong magnetic
field and that persons wearing heart pacemakers should remain at least 0.6 m
away from the furnace.
Ce symbole indique qu'il existe un danger potentiel lié à la présence d'un puissant
champ magnétique et que les porteurs de pacemakers doivent se tenir à au moins
0,6 m du four.
This symbol indicates the off position of the main power switch or circuit
breaker. With the switch in this position, the instrument is disconnected entirely
from the line power supply.
Ce symbole indique la position Off de l'interrupteur d'alimentation principal ou
du disjoncteur. Lorsque l'interrupteur se trouve dans cette position, l'instrument
est entièrement déconnecté de l'alimentation électrique.
This symbol indicates the on position of the main power switch or circuit breaker.
With the switch in this position, the instrument is connected to the line power
supply but is not necessarily switched on and operational.
Ce symbole indique la position On de l'interrupteur d'alimentation principal ou
du disjoncteur.
Lorsque l'interrupteur se trouve dans cette position, l'instrument est connecté à
l'alimentation électrique, mais n'est pas forcément en marche et opérationnel.
Item Description
1 Warning-Hot Surface (the PinAAcle 900H)
Avertissement : Surface Chad (PinAAcle 900H)
12 Safety Practices
Item Description
1 Press To Lock And Unlock The Latch
Appuyez pour verrouiller et déverrouiller le loquet
Warning Labels on the Instrument 13
1
2
Item Description
1 Warning-Hot Surface
Avertissement : Surface Chad
2 Warning-UV Light Hazard. Avoid looking directly at flame
Avertissement : danger lié aux UV. Évitez de fixer des yeux la
flamme
3 Warning-Not to open the door-Chemical Hazard
Avertissement : n'ouvrez pas la porte. Risque chimique
14 Safety Practices
1 4
3
Warning Labels on the Instrument 15
Item Description
1 Warning-To reduce the chance of electric shock do not remove covers that
require tool access. No user serviceable parts are inside. Refer servicing to
qualified service personnel.
Avertissement : afin de réduire les risques de choc électrique, ne retirez pas
les capots nécessitant un accès par outil. Aucune pièce pouvant faire l'objet
d'un entretien par les utilisateurs ne se trouve à l'intérieur. Confiez
l'entretien à un personnel d'entretien qualifié.
2 Warning-Ground circuit continuity is vital for safe operation of this
instrument. Grounding is accomplished by use of an IEC 60309 instrument
power plug furnished by the factory. The plug is not to be removed during
or after installation.
Avertissement: la continuité du circuit de mise à la terre est indispensable
au fonctionnement en toute sécurité de cet instrument. La mise à la terre
est réalisée à l'aide de cordons électriques de sécurité agréés.
3 Warning-For protection against fire hazard, replace with only same type
and rating of fuse.
Avertissement: lors du remplacement des fusibles, utilisez uniquement des
fusibles présentant le courant nominal requis et le type indiqué.
4 Warning-Furnace gases minimum and maximum pressures.
Avertissement-Fournaise gaz pressions minimale et maximale
16 Safety Practices
Item Description
1 Caution-Do not restrict air intake or exhaust
Attention N'entravez pas l'admission ou l'évacuation de l'air.
Safe Handling of Chemicals 17
Item Description
1 Caution-Do not restrict air intake or exhaust
Do not use an air filter. This is an air exhaust.
Attention N'entravez pas l'admission ou l'évacuation de l'air.
N'utilisez pas de filtre à air. Il s'agit d'une évacuation d'air
for fumes and disposal of wastes must be in accordance with all national, state and
local health and safety regulations and laws.
Some chemicals used with this PinAAcle 900 Series instrument may be
! hazardous or may become hazardous after completion of an analysis. The
responsible body (for example, the Lab Manager) must take the necessary
Warning precautions to insure that the instrument operators and the surrounding
workspace are not exposed to hazardous levels of toxic substances
(chemical and biological) as defined in the applicable Material Safety
Data Sheets (MSDS) or OSHA or ACGIH or COSHH documents.
Venting for fumes and disposal of waste must be accordance with all
national, state and local health and safety regulations and laws.
Responsible body Individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, and
for ensuring that operators are adequately trained. [per IEC 61010-1].
Operator Person operating equipment for its intended purpose [per IEC 61010-1]
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration (United States)
ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
COSHH Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (United Kingdom)
Pollution Degree
This product will operate safely in environments that contain nonconductive
foreign matter up to Pollution Degree 2 in EN/IEC 61010-1.
20 Safety Practices
Waste Disposal
If these materials are toxic, corrosive, or contain organics you may have to treat the
collected effluent as hazardous waste. Refer to your local safety regulations for
proper disposal procedures.
In addition, hollow cathode lamps and deuterium lamps are maintained under
reduced pressure. Handle and dispose of them correctly to minimize the implosion
risk.
For EDLs, the quantity of analyte material used is much less than the quantities
used in HCLs. Typically, only several milligrams of material are placed in the EDL
bulb. No PerkinElmer EDLs (System 1 or 2) contain more than 0.05 g of analyte
material.
UV Radiation
You should be aware of the health hazard presented by UV radiation.
• When the instrument is on, do not remove any covers unless specifically
instructed to do so in the guide or you may be exposed to potentially hazardous
UV radiation.
• Always wear UV-absorbing eye protection when viewing any of these sources:
• The flame, especially the nitrous oxide/acetylene flame.
• The graphite furnace when it is heated to incandescence.
• Hollow cathode or electrodeless discharge lamps.
• The deuterium background correction lamp.
22 Safety Practices
Magnetic Field
Warning - No Pacemakers
There is a potential hazard due to a strong magnetic field and persons
wearing heart pacemakers or other metallic implants should remain at
least 0.6 m away from the furnace.
Warning
High Temperatures
Burner System
The flame can generate temperatures of up to 2800 °C.
• Do not touch the burner head until it has cooled to room temperature.
Graphite Furnace
The THGA graphite furnace can generate temperatures of up to 2600 °C.
24 Safety Practices
• Do not attempt to inject a sample into the graphite tube when the furnace is hot.
You may be subjected to fumes from the sudden vaporization of the sample,
and may damage the pipette.
• Do not touch any part of the heating mantle (electrically heated systems), or
the cell holder (flame-heated systems), or the QTA-cell until they have cooled
to room temperature.
Note The responsible body must ensure that the type of connector used at the
outlet side of the gas-pressure regulator conforms to applicable national
requirements.
Note The responsible body is responsible for the correct collection and disposal
of waste materials. This includes the necessity for a suitably sized waste
container of appropriately resistant material for the collection of organic
solvent waste and provision for the removal into an appropriate exhaust
system of any gases or vapors which may be produced in hazardous
concentrations.
Note The responsible body must carry out appropriate leakage tests necessary
for safety on those gas and liquid connections which the operator is
directed to assemble during installation, normal use, or maintenance.
Handling Compressed Gases 25
Note The permanent installation of gas supplies is the responsibility of the user
and should conform to local safety and building regulations.
Spontaneous Decomposition
Gas Suffocation Explosion
or Combustion
Air - - -
Argon x - -
Nitrogen x - -
Acetylene (ethyne, C2H2) x x x
Contact the gas supplier for a material safety data sheet (MSDS) containing
detailed information on the potential hazards associated with the gas.
26 Safety Practices
Identifying Cylinders
• Legibly mark cylinders to clearly identify the contents and status (full, empty,
etc.). Use the chemical name or commercially accepted name for the gas.
Combustion products may vary with the analysis of each sample. Acetylene (less
than 1 liter) is released during the bleeding of the gas box prior to shutdown. An
exhaust venting system is always required to remove those gases which are
generated during the normal operation of the instrument.
Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders 27
Contact the gas supplier for a material safety data sheet (MSDS)
containing detailed information on the potential hazards associated
! with the gas. Carefully use, store, and handle compressed gases in
cylinders. Gas cylinders can be hazardous if they are mishandled.
Warning
Avertissement : contactez le fournisseur du gaz afin d'obtenir une
fiche de sécurité de produit (MSDS) contenant des informations
détaillées sur les dangers potentiels associés au gaz. Soyez prudent
lorsque vous utilisez, stockez et manipulez des gaz comprimés en
bouteilles. Les bouteilles de gaz peuvent être dangereuses si elles ne sont
pas manipulées correctement.
Note The permanent installation of gas supplies is the responsibility of the user
and should conform to local safety and building codes.
Listed below are some general safety practices for the proper identification,
storage, and handling of gas cylinders. Consult the following references for more
detailed information and additional guidelines.
Storing Cylinders
Review the following precautions with the customer to ensure the safe use and
storage of gas cylinders.
• Cylinders should be stored in accordance with the regulations and standards
applicable to the customers locality, state, and country.
28 Safety Practices
• Flammable gases must be stored separately from the non-flammable gases and
oxidizing gases stored separately from the non-oxidizing gases.
• When cylinders are stored indoors in storage rooms, the storage room should
be well ventilated and dry. Ensure that the ventilation is adequate to prevent
the formation of dangerous accumulations of gas. This is particularly important
in small or confined areas.
• Do not store cylinders near elevators, gangways, or in locations where heavy
moving objects may strike or fall against them.
• Use and store cylinders away from exits and exit routes.
• Locate cylinders away from heat sources, including heat lamps. Compressed
gas cylinders should not be subjected to temperatures above 52 °C (126 °F).
• Do not allow ignition sources in the storage area and keep cylinders away from
readily ignitable substances such as gasoline or waste, or combustibles in bulk,
including oil.
• Store cylinders standing upright, fastened securely to an immovable bulkhead
or permanent wall.
• When storing cylinders outdoors, they should be stored above ground on a
suitable floor and protected against temperature extremes (including the direct
rays of the sun).
• Mark gas cylinders clearly to identify the contents and status (full, empty, etc.).
• Do not attempt to refill gas cylinders.
Handling Cylinders
Review the following precautions to ensure the safe use and handling of gas
cylinders.
• If it becomes necessary to move cylinders, do so with a suitable hand truck
after insuring that the container cap is secured and the cylinder is properly
fastened to the hand truck.
• Use only regulators, tubing and hose connectors approved by an appropriate
regulatory agency.
• Arrange gas hoses where they will not be damaged or stepped on and where
objects will not be dropped on them.
• Do not refill cylinders.
Safety Practices for Flame Atomization 29
• Check the condition of pipes, hoses and connectors regularly. Perform gas leak
tests at all joints and seals of the gas system regularly, using an approved gas
leak detection system.
• When the equipment is turned off, close all gas cylinder valves tightly at the
cylinder. Bleed the remainder of the line before turning the exhaust vent off.
Safety Interlocks
PerkinElmer provides a number of safety interlocks on the burner system to
monitor gas pressure and check for the proper setup of the burner head, nebulizer,
and drain system. In addition a flame sensor checks that the flame is burning.
• Do not attempt to defeat these interlocks; you may compromise your own,
or someone else's, safety.
Air Supply
An air compressor is recommended for the air supply to the burner system.
Cylinders of compressed air should only be used as an emergency or short-term
solution.
• If you use cylinder air, make sure that it is compressed air and not oxygen-
enriched air (e.g. breathing air); the use of oxygen-enriched air can cause
a flashback of the flame.
• Never use oxygen as the oxidant since this can cause an explosion.
Acetylene
• Always use “Atomic Absorption Grade” acetylene (ethyne) dissolved in
acetone (propane-2-one). This is satisfactory for all PerkinElmer AA
spectrometers.
• Do not store acetylene in close proximity to oxidizing gases, such as
nitrous oxide.
• Use approved tubing and fittings for acetylene. Never use copper fittings
since acetylene forms an explosive compound with copper.
• Prevent acetylene from coming into contact with copper, silver, mercury
or gaseous chlorine.
• Periodically check for the presence of acetylene in the laboratory
atmosphere, especially near the ceiling.
• For acetylene, set an outlet gauge pressure of between 90 kPa and 100 kPa
(0.9-1.0 bar, 13-14.5 psig). Never allow the outlet gauge pressure to
exceed 103 kPa (1.03 bar, 15 psig); acetylene can explode spontaneously
above this pressure.
• Solvent Carryover:
If the acetylene cylinder pressure falls to below 600 kPa / 6.0 bar / 87 psig
(at 20 °C), some of the solvent used to stabilize the acetylene (such as
acetone) may be carried over into the burner. This could influence the
characteristics of the burner with a resulting influence on the analytical
results.
Change to a new acetylene cylinder when the cylinder pressure falls to
below this value.
• Do not leave the flame unattended. Always make sure that there is a fire
extinguisher near the instrument.
• Never change the gas pressure or shut a gas valve while the flame is
burning.
• Do not allow the burner head slot to become blocked. This can cause a
flashback of the flame.
• Do not place open containers of flammable liquids and solvents near the
flame. Be especially careful with samples that contain highly volatile
solvents.
• When you have analyzed samples containing organic solvents, flush all
traces of solvent from the burner system.
Warning: Do not open the flame door during flame operation. When
the flame is ON, do not open or remove the burner door. The burner
! door is there to protect the operator from the hot flame and UV radiation
while running the flame atomization.
Warning
Avertissement: n'ouvrez pas la trappe de la flamme lorsque celle-ci
est allumée. Lorsque la flamme est allumée, vous ne devez ni ouvrir, ni
ôter la trappe du brûleur. La trappe du brûleur a pour fonction de
protéger l'opérateur de la flamme brûlante et du rayonnement UV
pendant l'atomisation de la flamme.
Safety Practices for Flame Atomization 33
Explosion Risk!
! The waste bottle must be placed out in the open, where there is no
possibility of a build-up of potentially hazardous gases.
Warning
• Always place the drain (waste) vessel in a well ventilated place underneath
the spectrometer, in full view while you are working with the
spectrometer. This prevents the build-up of potentially hazardous gases,
and allows you to see the liquid level.
• Empty the drain vessel frequently; especially do not allow the drain vessel to
fill with organic solvent (Burner Drain Assembly for Organic Solutions Part
No. N3150232).
• Thoroughly flush the drain system, as described in the guide, when you shut
down the system.
• Check the condition of the drain tube regularly, especially if you use organic
solvents. Replace the drain tube when it first shows signs of cracking or
discoloration.
34 Safety Practices
Flashbacks
A flashback is an explosion of the premixed gases in the spray chamber. The safety
interlocks normally prevent conditions that could cause a flashback, but if a
flashback should ever occur:
• Check that the burner head slot is clean.
• Make sure that you are using compressed air and not oxygen-enriched air.
• Check the flow spoiler or impact bead for damage, and replace any damaged
parts.
• Carefully check and tighten all connections to, and seals on, the burner unit,
and check the gas flow settings before you attempt to ignite the flame. Seepage
of fuel and oxidant from the spray chamber may cause a flashback.
• Check that the burner head is seated correctly.
High Temperatures
The flame can generate temperatures of up to 2800 °C.
• To avoid serious burns, never touch the burner head until it has cooled to room
temperature.
UV Radiation
The flame, especially the nitrous oxide/acetylene flame, emits ultraviolet radiation.
• Keep the atomizer compartment door closed when the flame is burning and
never directly view the flame unless you are wearing UV-absorbing glasses.
Safety Practices for Electrothermal Atomization 35
Acetylides
If you have aspirated high concentrations of copper, silver, or mercury solutions
into an acetylene flame, unstable acetylides may have formed in the spray chamber.
If permitted to dry, these compounds may explode.
• Aspirate solution continuously to prevent residues from drying.
• Thoroughly flush the spray chamber and drain system with water immediately
after such an analysis.
Cyanide Solutions
If you intend to aspirate cyanide solutions, make sure that the pH of the liquid in
the drain vessel is greater than pH 10; toxic hydrogen cyanide gas is formed when
cyanides contact acidic solutions.
Safety Interlocks
PerkinElmer provides a number of safety interlocks on the graphite furnace
(electrothermal atomization) system that monitor the gas pressure and the
temperature of certain system components.
• Do not attempt to defeat these interlocks; you may compromise your own, or
someone else's, safety.
Inert Gas
The graphite furnace requires a supply of inert gas. PerkinElmer recommends
argon.
Although nitrogen can be used, it is not recommended for the inert gas supply. At
furnace temperatures above 2300 °C, nitrogen reacts with graphite to form toxic
cyanogen gas (CN)2.
36 Safety Practices
Safety Checks
Before you start an analysis, make sure that:
• The laboratory fume ventilation system is operating;
• The inert gas supply is connected and set to the correct pressure;
• The cooling water supply is turned on;
• The autosampler waste bottle is empty.
Toxic Products
Toxic metal vapors, ozone, etc., can be generated by the system, depending on the
type of analyses being performed.
• You must provide an efficient laboratory ventilation system to remove toxic
products generated during instrument operation.
• If you use nitrogen as the inert gas, toxic cyanogen gas (CN)2 will be produced
when the furnace temperature is above 2300 °C.
High Temperatures
The THGA graphite furnace can generate temperatures of up to 2600 °C.
The HGA graphite furnace can generate temperatures of up to 2700 °C.
• To avoid serious burns, never touch the graphite components until the furnace
has cooled to room temperature.
• Do not attempt to inject a sample into the graphite tube when the furnace is hot.
You may be subjected to fumes from the sudden vaporization of the sample,
and may damage the pipette.
UV Radiation
The graphite furnace emits ultraviolet radiation when it is heated to incandescence.
• Never directly view the graphite furnace unless you are wearing UV-absorbing
glasses.
Safety Practices for FIAS and Mercury Hydride Systems 37
Safety Checks
Before you start an analysis, make sure that:
• The laboratory fume ventilation system is operating;
• The tubing in the fluid system is not constricted since this could lead to a
pressure build-up in the system;
• The drain tubing is inserted in the waste container and that this container
is empty.
• If you are using a flame to heat the QTA-cell or if you intend to perform
flame-FIAS analyses, refer to the information under Safety Practices for
Flame Atomization before you ignite the flame.
Toxic Products
• Toxic metal vapors, etc., can be generated by the system, depending on the
type of analyses being performed.
• You must provide an efficient laboratory ventilation system to remove
toxic products generated during instrument operation.
38 Safety Practices
High Temperatures
The QTA-cell used for the hydride-generation technique can reach temperatures of
up to 1000 C.
• Do not touch any part of the heating mantle (electrically heated systems),
or the cell holder (flame-heated systems), or the QTA-cell until they have
cooled to room temperature.
Hazardous Chemicals
Some of the chemicals required for analyses are corrosive and/or toxic.
Note The responsible body has the responsibility for usage of decontamination
or cleaning agents that could cause a hazard as a result of a reaction with
parts of the equipment or with materials contained in it.
Decontamination
Customers wishing to return instrumentation and/or associated materials to
PerkinElmer for repair, maintenance, warranty or trade-in purposes are
advised that all returned goods must be certified as clean and free from
contamination.
The customer's responsible body is required to follow the “Equipment
Decontamination Procedure” and complete the “Certificate of Decontamination”.
These documents are available on the PerkinElmer public website:
http://www.perkinelmer.com/Content/technicalinfo/dts_instrumentdeconprocedure.pdfCertificate form:
A label with a crossed-out wheeled bin symbol and a rectangular bar indicates that
the product is covered by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Directive and is not to be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste. Any products
marked with this symbol must be collected separately, according to the regulatory
guidelines in your area.
The objectives of this program are to preserve, protect and improve the quality of
the environment, protect human health, and utilize natural resources prudently and
rationally. Specific treatment of WEEE is indispensable in order to avoid the
dispersion of pollutants into the recycled material or waste stream. Such treatment
is the most effective means of protecting the customer's environment.
Requirements for waste collection, reuse, recycling, and recovery programs vary
by regulatory authority at your location. Contact your local responsible body (e.g.,
your laboratory manager) or authorized representative for information regarding
applicable disposal regulations. Contact PerkinElmer at the web site listed below
for information specific to PerkinElmer products.
Web address:
www.perkinelmer.com/WEEE
For Customer Care telephone numbers select “Contact us” on the web page.
Products from other manufacturers may also form a part of your PerkinElmer
system. These other producers are directly responsible for the collection and
processing of their own waste products under the terms of the WEEE Directive.
Please contact these producers directly before discarding any of their products.
Consult the PerkinElmer web site (above) for producer names and web addresses.
References for Laboratory Safety Practice 41
• Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory, 5th edition, Luxon, S.G., ed., Royal
Society of Chemistry, London, UK, 1993.
• CRC Handbook of Laboratory Safety, 5th edition, Furr, K., ed., The Chemical
Rubber Co. Press, Florida, USA, 2000.
• Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, 11th edition, Sax, N.I. and
Lewis, R.J., eds., Wiley, New York, USA, 2004.
• Pohanish, R.P., HazMat Data, 2nd edition, Barnes & Noble, New York, USA,
2004.
Environmental Requirements
The location where the PinAAcle 900 Series is to be installed must fulfill the
criteria listed below:
• Indoors
• Free from vibrations
• Free from dust, smoke and corrosive fumes.
• Out of direct sunlight.
• Away from radiators and heaters.
• Have a suitable fume ventilation system.
• Room temperature between +15 °C to + 35 °C (59-95 °F), with a maximum
change rate of 3 °C (5.4 °F) per hour.
• Relative humidity between 20 and 80%, non-condensing.
44 Preparing Your Laboratory
At least 25 cm (10 in) free space must be available behind the instrument for
ventilation purposes and servicing. Do not block the fans operating on both sides
of the instrument.
Make sure that there is enough room on the work bench. The monitor can usually
be placed on top of the PC unit in order to save working space. Some clearance
between the instruments should be provided to ensure sufficient air circulation.
Weight
Instrument Width Depth Height
(Mass)
Fume Ventilation
For the high temperatures of the nitrous oxide-acetylene flame, the fume hood and
ducting should be made of stainless steel.
PerkinElmer offers an accessory, Blower and Vent Kit (Part No. 03030406), which
will fulfill the exhaust requirements for all AA instruments (see Figure 1). Included
in the kit are a rotary blower with capacitor and hardware, a vent to be located
above the instrument, and an adapter to permit connection of the blower
and vent with suitable metal tubing. The adapter and vent are made of stainless
steel sheets.
The metal tubing required to connect the vent to the blower and to provide suitable
exhaust from the blower is not included in the Blower and Vent Kit. Flexible
stainless steel tubing is recommended for this purpose and can be obtained from
the companies listed in the following table and from various other firms. In some
instances, this type of flexible metal tubing is sold only in minimum lengths of 3
meters (10 feet).
For the names of suppliers in other areas, contact your PerkinElmer representative.
The capacity of the blower depends on the duct length and the number of elbows
or bends used to install the system. If an excessively long duct system or a system
with many bends is used, a stronger blower may be necessary to provide sufficient
exhaust volume. Alternatively, smooth stainless steel tubing may be used instead
of flexible stainless steel tubing where flexibility is not required to reduce system
friction loss or "drag." A length of smooth stainless steel ducting has 20-30% less
friction loss than a comparable length of flexible ducting. When smooth stainless
steel tubing is used, elbows must be used to turn corners. These elbows should turn
at a center line radius of 45 degrees to reduce friction losses, and the number of
elbows should be minimized.
When installing a venting system, all connections should be made with metal
screws or rivets. Solder must not be used. The blower should be located at least 4
meters (12 feet) and not more than 6.5 meters (20 feet) from the flame or the
graphite furnace and should exhaust to the atmosphere or into a considerably wider
exhaust duct. Under these conditions, the following temperatures have been
measured during operation of a nitrous oxide-acetylene flame: 310 °C at the vent
intake; 160 °C at 2.4 meters (8 feet) from the vent intake; 105 °C at the blower
intake; and 50 °C at the blower motor housing near the front bearing. Instructions
Fume Ventilation 49
for installation (Part No. 09936775) are provided with the Blower and Vent
assembly. The blower provided in the
to the bottom flange of the exhaust vent. The clearance from the top of the
instrument (641 mm) to the bottom of the exhaust shield approximately 30 cm (12
in).
Item Description
F Height of flame shield above top of the instrument cover
G 10 cm (4 inches) in all cases
H 30 cm (12 inches) in all cases
J 15 cm (6 inches) in all cases
The magnetic field affects an area radius 0.6 m (24 in) around the graphite furnace.
The affected area extends all around the furnace, including above and below the
furnace. In addition to posting a health hazard for persons wearing heart
pacemakers, the magnetic field can also affect other instruments, watches and
magnetic storage devices (disks, credit cards, etc.).
Warning - No Pacemakers
There is a potential hazard due to a strong magnetic field and persons
wearing heart pacemakers or other metallic implants should remain at
Warning least 0.6 m away from the furnace.
Power Consumption
10100 VA for the PinAAcle 900T and the PinAAcle 900Z
The PinAAcle 900T and 900Z will ship standard an IEC 60309 32A power
connector.
The mains line house wiring must have a minimum wire cross section of 6 mm²
(8 gauge) or 10 mm² (6 gauge) for distances > 10 m.
The PinAAcle 900H will ship standard an IEC 60309 16/20 A power connector.
The mains line house wiring must have a minimum wire cross section of 4 mm²
(10 gauge) or 6 mm² (8 gauge) for distances > 10 m.
Line Power Requirements 55
Operating Range
90-253 VAC, 4A - 8A, 47 - 63 Hz
Operating voltage range must be maintained both at nominal and under load of
maximum power. For the PinAAcle 900H, PinAAcle 900T and the PinAAcle 900Z
it is recommended to install a Buck Boost transformer if the line drops below 208
volts at maximum power during atomization. If the line sags to 208 volts or lower,
excessive current draw will occur to provide the power needed, which will lead to
excessive heat dissipation. This excessive heat dissipation and current draw will
stress the furnace power supply, cause overheating failures, and shorten the life of
the supply.
Power that does not meet these minimum specifications will need the installation
of a Buck-Boost transformer, or a PowerVar Line Conditioner with built in boost
capabilities. Please refer to SDB # 4200041B.STS for more information on
whether the uses of a Buck-Boost transformer in necessary. If the voltage drops
below 208 VAC during atomization peak power, it is highly recommended that a
Buck-Boost or Line-Conditioner with boost be installed at Installation. Large
voltage drops (>16v) during atomization, or abnormally low nominal "no-load"
voltage (< 200 VAC) are an indication that the wiring requirements are not to our
required Preparing Your Laboratory or Site Readiness specifications.
Note The PinAAcle 900H, 900T and 900Z standard IEC 60309 should not be
replaced will an L6-30R twist lock plug, or any other Non-IEC 60309 type
plug or receptacle. The PinAAcle 900T and 900Z Series Instruments
require the IEC 60309 PLUG to prevent the inherent high leakage current
from shocking the user. Removing the IEC 60309 plug and replacing it
with a Non-IEC 60309 type plug violates all safety labels and approvals for
the PinAAcle.
Noise Specifications
The electrical noise levels of the incoming power to the customer's lab should be
checked to insure safe and reliable operation of our instrumentation and relative
electronics used for analysis. The electrical noise levels should be within the
following specifications:
Common Mode Noise: Neutral to ground noise should be 0.5 volts peak-to-
peak
Line Conditioners
PowerVar makes a series of line conditioner units that are suitable for all PinAAcle
900 Series model Instruments we sell. Line conditioner units are strongly
recommended where the customer's lab does not meet our minimum noise
specification requirements for both common and normal mode allowable line noise
levels. Please see the table below for the line conditioner models that are suitable
for each PinAAcle Instrument model we sell:
Line Power Requirements 57
Instrument
Instrument
Model Description Output Frequency Part No. Description Frequency Part No.
Voltage
PinAAcle 5.8 KVA Line 208/240 60 Hz N9307760 10 KVA 50/60 Hz N9306757
900T/Z Conditioner True On-Line
Power
Conditioned
UPS
PinAAcle 6.0 KVA Line 220 50 Hz N9307523 10 KVA 50/60 Hz N9306757
900T/Z Conditioner True On-Line
Power
Conditioned
UPS
PinAAcle 720 VA Line 120 60 Hz N9307515* 800 VA 60 Hz N0777681
900F Conditioner Power
Conditioned
UPS
PinAAcle 750 VA Line 220 50 Hz N9307521 800 VA 50 Hz N0777689
900F Conditioner Power
Conditioned
UPS
PinAAcle 5.8 KVA Line 208/240 60 Hz N9307760 10 KVA 50/60 Hz N9306757
900H Conditioner True On-Line
Power
Conditioned
UPS
PinAAcle 6.0 KVA Line 220 50 Hz N9307523 10 KVA 50/60 Hz N9306757
900H Conditioner True On-Line
Power
Conditioned
UPS
UPS Systems
The PowerVar 10.0 KVA On-Line Conditioned UPS 50/60Hz unit is currently
available for the THGA PinAAcle models (900H/T/Z). It meets the minimum
surge current handling rating of 90 A for about 3 seconds during Atomization stage
peak power. The PerkinElmer part number for the 10.0 KVA UPS is N9306757.
Power Outlets
In addition to the above, the following are required:
• For connection of the Cooling System, a 230 VAC socket is provided at
the rear of the PinAAcle Series 900 T/H/Z models.
• For the PC, monitor, printer, and addition accessories, e.g., FIAS or Auto
Prep 50, suitable outlets must be provided. Protecting earth and ground
must be the same as for the PinAAcle Series 900 T/H/Z models (avoid
ground loops).
Gas Requirements
Note Standards for cylinder dimensions, regulator connections, gas fittings, etc.
vary from country to country. The information provided here is for the
U.S. Contact your PerkinElmer representative for information on the
specific requirements of your area.
Note The permanent installation of gas supplies is the responsibility of the user
and should conform to local safety and building codes.
While the installation and operation of all gas supplies is the responsibility of the
user, the following safety information concerning the handling of gas cylinders is
included for your reference:
• Flammable gas cylinders (such as acetylene) should not be stored with
oxygen, or nitrous oxide cylinders, or adjacent to oxygen charging
facilities.
• Fasten all gas cylinders securely to an immovable bulkhead or a permanent
wall.
• When gas cylinders are stored in confined areas, such as a room,
ventilation should be adequate to prevent toxic or explosive
accumulations. Move or store gas cylinders only in a vertical position with
the valve cap in place.
• Locate gas cylinders away from heat or ignition sources, including heat
lamps. Cylinders have a pressure-relief device that will release the
contents of the cylinder if the temperature exceeds 52 °C (125 °F).
• When storing cylinders external to a building, the cylinders should be
stored so that they are protected against temperature extremes (including
the direct rays of the sun) and should be stored above ground on a suitable
floor.
• Mark gas cylinders clearly to identify the contents and status (full, empty,
etc.).
• Do not attempt to refill gas cylinders.
• Use only approved regulators and hose connectors. Left-hand thread
fittings are used for fuel gas tank connections, whereas right-hand fittings
are used for oxidant and support gas connections.
• Use galvanized iron tubing, steel, wrought iron or other tubing that will not
react chemically with acetylene. Never use copper tubing with acetylene.
Joints may be welded or made up of threaded or flanged fittings, typically
stainless steel, aluminum or brass composed of less than 65% copper.
60 Preparing Your Laboratory
Rolled, forged or cast steel or malleable iron fittings may also be used. Cast
iron fittings cannot be used safely for acetylene lines.
• Arrange gas hoses where they will not be damaged or stepped on and
where things will not be dropped on them.
• Never run acetylene at a pressure higher than 100 kPa (15 psig). At
pressures above this level, acetylene may spontaneously explode.
• Perform periodic gas leak tests by applying a soap solution to all joints and
seals.
Gas Specifications
Air: Please refer to the Flame Gas Requirements below.
Gas Specifications:
Normal Gas
Usually argon is used to prevent the tube and the atoms from being oxidized when
the tubeis heated. If you cannot obtain argon, you can use nitrogen, but nitrogen
does not provide such efficient protection as argon at temperatures above 2000 °C.
Nitrogen may react with samples and the tube at typical atomization temperatures.
62 Preparing Your Laboratory
Make sure that the main laboratory fume ventilation system removes
all gases and fumes emitted by the furnace.
Special Gas
For some applications a special gas, for example, a gas mixture containing oxygen,
could be useful for the pre-treatment of organic samples.
Gas Specification
Air: Compressed air is required as oxidant for flame operation.
For flame operation, the air supply should provide a minimum of 28 liters/min (1
cubic foot/min) at a minimum pressure of 350 kPa (50 psig). The pneumatics of the
PinAAcle 900H and PinAAcle 900T systems require a minimum air pressure of
350 kPa (50-58 psig).
It is desirable to have a water and oil trap or filter between the compressor and the
instrument gas control system. The use of an Air Filter Accessory (Part No.
00470652) or an Air/Acetylene Filter Accessory (Part No. N9301398) is strongly
recommended to remove entrained water, oil, water aerosols and solid particles
from compressed air lines.
64 Preparing Your Laboratory
If there is any doubt regarding the usability of a central air supply (insufficient
volume or pressure or excessive oil or water contamination), the quality of the
supply should be checked prior to the arrival of the instrument. A small, oil-less air
compressor meeting the stated requirements is available from PerkinElmer (Part
No. 03030313 for 115 volts, 60 Hz or Part No. 03030314 for 230 volts, 50 Hz
service).
Cylinders of compressed air can also be used but are recommended only as an
emergency or short-term solution for the following reasons:
• A standard #1 size air cylinder contains about 6200 liters (220 cubic feet)
of air at standard temperature and pressure (STP). A premix burner-
nebulizer system uses about 20 liters/min (0.7 cubic feet/min), and,
therefore, a cylinder will last only about five hours. Unless an instrument
is used only a few hours per day, changing cylinders becomes a nuisance
as well as being expensive.
• Occasionally, cylinder air may be obtained from a liquefaction process
during which the oxygen-to-nitrogen ratio can change. Therefore, it is not
uncommon to find other than 20% oxygen in air cylinders. This can cause
erratic burner operation and non-reproducible analytical results and, in
extreme cases, may provide a potential safety hazard. In general, if
cylinder air is to be used, it is important to specify compressed air rather
than breathing air (i.e. medical grade) or an unspecified form.
Flame Gas Requirements 65
The use of air cylinders requires the use of a suitable dual-stage regulator. A
regulator for cylinders with a CGA 590 connection is available from PerkinElmer
(Part No. 03030264)
Acetylene:
For the overwhelming majority of analyses, acetylene is the preferred fuel gas with
AA spectrometers. Air/acetylene is the preferred flame for the determination of
about 35 elements by AA. The temperature of the air/acetylene flame is
approximately 2300 °C. For most air/acetylene flames, the acetylene flow used is
about 4 liters/min or 0.14 cubic feet/min. Using a heat-combustion value of 1,450
BTU per cubic foot, the heat given off would be approximately 12,300 BTU per
hour (3,600 W). An air/acetylene flame can be used with all PerkinElmer burner
heads but is most commonly used with the supplied 10-cm (4-inch) burner head.
Regardless, it is still a good practice to install this filter even if the "atomic
absorption" grade acetylene is used.
A size 1A acetylene cylinder contains about 8,500 liters (300 cubic feet) of
acetylene and usually lasts about 30 hours of burning time with an air/acetylene
flame. The cylinder requires an acetylene pressure regulator, which can be
obtained from the supplier of the gas or from PerkinElmer (Part No. 03030106).
66 Preparing Your Laboratory
It may be desirable to have an acetylene filter between the acetylene tank and the
instrument gas control system to remove particulates and acetone droplets from
acetylene, protecting the gas controls and AA burner system from contamination
and corrosion. An Acetylene Filter (Part No. N9301398) and an Air/Acetylene
Filter Accessory (Part No. N9301398) are available from PerkinElmer. Some
countries also require the use of a flashback arrestor, such as PerkinElmer Part No.
N9307506 in the acetylene fuel line.
Caution Failure to change the acetylene cylinder before the cylinder pressure drops
below 600 kPa (85 psig) may cause damage to valves or tubing within the
burner gas control system due to high acetone carryover. Such damage
from acetone is not covered by instrument warranties.
Usually acetylene is dissolved in acetone, thus the tanks must be operated in the
upright position in order to prevent acetone from entering the tubing and hoses. At
low acetylene tank pressure the amount of acetone in the gas increases and may
produce an unstable flame. Therefore exchange the acetylene tank when the
cylinder pressure falls below 600 kPa (6 bar, 85 psig).
New tanks should be positioned vertically for at least 8 hours prior to use. The
practice of "cracking the valve" of an acetylene tank (that is, opening the valve
slightly fora very short period prior to attaching the regulator) is not recommended.
While such an action will clear the valve opening of dust or dirt particles and may
remove acetone from the cylinder valve, it is a potentially hazardous practice and
one which should never be attempted in the presence of an open flame, sparks or
other possible sources of ignition.
68 Preparing Your Laboratory
Warning: Explosive
! Danger Acetylene line pressure from the tank to the instrument
Warning should never exceed 103 kPa (1.03 bar, 15 psig). At the higher
pressures, acetylene can spontaneously decompose or explode.
Both fuel and oxidant gas lines should be relieved of pressure at the end of the
working day or if the instrument is to remain unused for an extended period.
Cylinder valves should be closed to avoid the possibility of pressure regulators
failing and gas lines being subjected to the full cylinder pressure.
Flame Gas Requirements 69
Nitrous Oxide:
flashback. It is therefore advisable to heat the regulator using either a built-in heater
or an externally supplied heat source, such as an electrical resistance heating tape.
Caution All lines carrying nitrous oxide should be free of grease, oil or other
organic material, as it is possible for spontaneous combustion to occur.
Cylinders of nitrous oxide should be considered high-pressure cylinders
and should be handled with care at all times.
A dual-stage heated nitrous oxide pressure regulator for use with gas cylinders with
a CGA 326 connection is available from PerkinElmer [Part No. 03030204 (115
volts) or 03030349 (230 volts)]. These regulators provide pressure control from
350-520 kPa (50-75 psig) and contain an integral thermostatted heater to prevent
freezing of the regulator diaphragm. A color-coded hose with suitable connectors
at each end is supplied with the regulators to provide connection to the instrument
gas controls.
Flame Gas Requirements 71
Argon:
Argon is required for external and internal gas streams through the THGA or HGA
graphite furnace or as a carrier gas with mercury/hydride systems such as the FIAS
or FIMS flow injections systems or the MHS-15. The quality criteria listed in the
following table for argon are suitable for these applications. Normally, for graphite
furnace operation, gaseous argon is used, although either liquid or gaseous argon
can be used. The choice of liquid argon or gaseous argon tanks is determined
primarily by the availability of each and the usage rate. Liquid argon is usually less
expensive per unit volume to purchase, but cannot be stored for extended periods.
If liquid argon is used, the tank should be fitted with an over-pressure regulator
which will vent the tank as necessary in order to keep the liquid argon cool enough
to remain in the liquid state. Gaseous argon tanks do not require venting and
consequently can be stored for extended periods without loss.
A dual-stage cylinder regulator that can be used with either gaseous argon or
nitrogen is available from PerkinElmer (Part No. 03030284). The regulator has a
CGA 580 fitting, and includes a color-coded hose with 1/4-inch Swagelok®
fittings to permit direct connection to the regulator and to the instrument gas
controls.
Hollow cathode lamps (HCLs) are excellent for most elements; however, there are
a number of "difficult" elements for which an improved light source is desirable.
PerkinElmer electrodeless discharge lamps (EDLs) provide improved performance
in most instances. EDLs are more intense than their corresponding HCLs. Most
also provide better lamp life and stability as well as better sensitivity. EDLs do not
require a separate power supply as it is built-in the PinAAcle systems.
A lamp mount or turret is supplied with all PerkinElmer AA instruments and will
accommodate all PerkinElmer HCLs or EDLs. Users who may have lamps with
1.5-inch diameters rather than the standard PerkinElmer 2-inch diameter can adapt
those lamps for use in PerkinElmer lamp mounts with the Small Diameter Lamp
Adapter Kit, (Part No. 03030870).
Drain Vessels
A specially-configured drain vessel is supplied with all PerkinElmer AA
instruments with burner systems. That vessel must be used to gather the effluent
from the AA burner drain.
The drain vessel should NOT be stored in an enclosed storage area. Rather, the
drain vessel should be stored in plain sight of the operator, usually on the floor in
front of the instrument or on an open shelf underneath the instrument table.
The drain system should be checked regularly and replaced when necessary.
Follow the directions in the instrument manuals regarding the proper placement of
the drain tube in the drain vessel and the proper liquid level in the drain vessel.
74 Preparing Your Laboratory
Cooling Requirements
Furnace Cooling
The graphite furnace uses water cooling to allow the graphite tube to return to its
equilibrium temperature (approximately ambient) quickly between measurements.
Cooling System
A water recirculating system and a cooling water system are also offered as options
for the PinAAcle 900H, PinAAcle 900T and PinAAcle 900Z systems. These water
systems provide coolant at a constant temperature and flow to allow the most
reproducible analytical conditions. They also make the system independent of
external water supplies and saves water.
External Cooling
If you intend to run the spectrometer system without the PerkinElmer cooling
system, you must connect another suitable source of cooling. The main water
system supply to the lab can be used if it meets the specifications defined in the
charts below. Laboratory water cooling systems can also be used if they meet our
specifications of the recirculating system we offer.
PC Configuration and Printer 75
Caution If the water is too cold or flowing too fast, moisture may condense on the
graphite contacts, on the furnace windows or inside the water cooled
furnace power supply resulting in malfunction and severe damage.
Moisture on the contacts causes rapid attrition of the graphite surface,
while moisture on the furnace windows leads to attenuation of the energy.
Installation Preparation
PC Skills
• The customer should have a basic working knowledge of Windows and how to
operate the software.
The customer should have a fundamental knowledge of atomic absorption
spectroscopy.
Principles of Operation 3
The PinAAcle 900 Series Spectrometer System
Usage
The PinAAcle 900 Series is an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. It can
identify and measure elements and metals according to the wavelength and
intensity of the light that is absorbed when the specimen is converted to the atomic
vapor phase. It is suitable for use in research, academic, environmental, food,
industrial, forensic or similar applications. The instrument is not suitable for use in
clinical applications.
Concept
The PinAAcle 900 series spectrometer from PerkinElmer is a compact, high
performance atomic absorption spectrometer incorporating a burner system for
flame atomization and a graphite furnace for electrothermal atomization. The
spectrometer is capable of fully automatic single-element and sequential multi-
element analyses. The complete system is operated from the associated computer
using the software.
78 Principles of Operation
The sample is measured for its elemental contents in solution and it is aspirated in
the sample introduction system, where their atoms absorb the light emitted from
the light source at its characteristic wavelength. This light at the characteristic
wavelength is aligned to the light detector. Based on the amount of light absorbed
and reaching the light detector, the concentration of the elements in the sample can
be determined. This is done with reference to a known concentration of the
elements to be measured at its characteristic wavelength.
Principle of Operation of an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer 79
• The PinAAcle models H and T has a stacked design with the graphite furnace
located on the bottom of the stack.
System Components
The PinAAcle 900 is a compact bench top spectrometer. The major components of
the system are:
Principle of Operation of an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer 81
• The spectrometer, containing the optical system, the electronics, and the
atomizer compartment.
• The burner system can be driven into and out of the atomizer compartment by
software command.
System Control
To control the spectrometer and perform your analyses, you use the software for
AA application program, which runs under the Microsoft Windows operating
system. The computer keyboard, the screen, and the mouse form the user interface.
You can obtain more information about the application program from the help by
selecting F1 on the computer keyboard.
Accessories
PerkinElmer offers autosamplers for operation with the burner system, flow
injection systems, Autoprep, and much more. Please contact your local
PerkinElmer office to obtain detailed information.
reduces the number of optical components, decreases the size of the instrument as
well as reduces stray light and scattering losses. All glass fibers have been
optimized to provide high transmission for the whole wavelength range of interest.
Four different types of instruments are available, PinAAcle 900F, 900H, 900T and
900Z. But two parts of the optical layout are common to all versions, the lamp
compartment and the monochromator:
The lamp compartment has positions for up to eight spectral sources: HCL and/or
EDLs. The radiation from the requested source lamp is collected by a movable
mirror and coupled into the source fiber.
At the other end of the optical path the fiber bundle coming from the sample
compartment is coupled onto the Litttrow-configuration monochromator. This
contains of a parabolic mirror and a large area reflecting grating blazed at two
wavelengths; 236 nm for operation in the UV spectral range and 597 nm for
operation in the visible spectral range. Various slit widths are available to adjust
the signal throughput and resolution to the requirements of each measurement.
The PinAAcle 900T and PinAAcle 900H can both be used for flame and furnace
atomization. They use a double-beam configuration as depicted in the following
schematics beginning on page 83. In addition to the HCL and EDL source both
models are equipped with a deuterium lamp for background correction. The light
from the source and the deuterium lamps are guided to a fiber coupler, which splits
the light into separate sample and reference beams. Thus each channel, sample and
reference, contains a certain percentage of the source and deuterium lamp. Both
beams pass through the sample compartment before they are coupled into another
pair of fibers by a set of ellipsoidal mirrors and guided to the monochromator and
detector.
The deuterium and source light is split into two beams---one that passes through
the upper part of the sample compartment, and one that passes through the lower
part of the sample compartment. In the flame mode, the upper beam is the the
"sample" beam and the lower beam (which passes through the graphite furnace) is
the "reference" beam. In the furnace mode, only the lower beam (that passes
through the graphite furnace) is used.
The main difference between the PinAAcle 900T and 900H lies in the type of
furnace atomizer. The PinAAcle 900H uses a HGA atomizer. The PinAAcle 900T
is equipped with a THGA atomizer using Zeeman background correction.
Principle of Operation of an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer 83
The PinAAcle 900F flame system is similar to the 900T model as it uses a double-
beam configuration and a deuterium lamp for background correction. However
instead of passing through the sample compartment, the reference beam is directly
guided from the fiber coupler to the monochromator.
The PinAAcle 900Z is a Zeeman-THGA furnace only system and uses a single
fiber to transmit the source light to graphite furnace and then to the monochromator
and detector.
Spectrometer
You normally switch the system on and off with the operational on/off switch on
the front panel of the spectrometer.
88 Principles of Operation
Cooling System
The cooling system requires a 230 V line power supply, which is supplied and
controlled from the spectrometer. A special line power cord is provided for this
purpose. Do not connect the cooling system to an external power source.
You can leave the on/off switch on the cooling system in the "on'" position since
the system is controlled from the spectrometer.
The Electrical Connectors and Switches 89
1
3 4
8
2 6
5
Figure 3-6. Gas, cooling and electrical connectors on the rear panel
Item Description
1 Power circuit breaker 5 230 v power receptacle
2 Main power cord 6 Water hose in
3 Argon (or Nitrogen) gas line 7 Water hose out
4 Special gas line 8 Purge gas connection
90 Principles of Operation
Furnace Cooling
Furnace Gases
3 Ar/N2 Connector for the connection of the normal gas supply to the
Normal furnace (argon or nitrogen).
4 Special Gas Connector for the connection of the special gas supply to the
furnace. If you are not using a special gas, you must also
connect the normal gas to this connector.
Burner Assembly System 91
Burner Gases
• Nebulizer
• Burner chamber
• End cap
• Burner head
• Drain system
2 1
3
5
4
A sample solution is aspirated through the nebulizer and sprayed as a fine aerosol
mist into the burner chamber. Here, the sample mist is thoroughly mixed with the
fuel and either air or nitrous oxide gases. Fuel gas enters the chamber through the
fuel inlet hose while the oxidant enters through the inlet built into the burner
chamber body.
Once the sample aerosol is thoroughly mixed in the chamber, it then advances to
the burner head where atomization occurs.
The gas control system monitors and controls fuel and oxidant flows. Burner
operation, including flame ignition, flame shutoff and gas flow settings, is
controlled through the software.
The next figure shows a "block diagram" of how the burner system flows, from the
gas supplies, to the gas box, to the burner hardware itself and out to the drain vessel.
94 Principles of Operation
• N3161240: burner head adjustment tool. Insert the adjustment tool into the
burner head and adjust the angle to extend the linear range. This tool
allows you to do adjustments while the burner is hot.
96 Principles of Operation
2 3
1 4
5
6
Figure 3-9. The four burner heads available and adjustment tool.
Item Description Part Number
1 5-cm, single-slot burner head (for N0400100
Nitrous oxide-acetylene flame)
2 5-cm, single-slot burner head (for air- N0400101
acetylene flame)
3 10-cm, single-slot burner head N0400102
4 10-cm, three-slot burner head N0400103
5 Burner head adjustment tool N3161240
6 Burner head adjustment hole for -
adjustment tool
The burner will be shut down in a safe sequence in the event of a power failure.
The siphon interlock drain trap is integral with the burner end cap and includes an
internal trap to make certain that back pressure is applied to the burner chamber.
This ensures that a fuel/oxidant mixture cannot enter the drain vessel. There is a
magnetic float in the drain trap that shuts down the flame if the drain system is not
functioning properly. If the liquid level in the trap is too low, the switch is activated
and the flame is shut down.
98 Principles of Operation
Burner Installation
The burner is shipped in place so it does not need to be installed in the instrument.
For information on burner installation after maintenance procedures refer to
Chapter 6, Maintenance, in this hardware guide. See Chapter 4, Installation, in this
hardware guide, for information on connecting the burner gases.
Specifications
System Design:
Instrument Description
PinAAcle 900T and PinAAcle 900T and PinAAcle 900H are fully-integrated bench
PinAAcle 900H: top design atomic absorption spectrometers, incorporating all
spectrometer, flame atomizer and graphite furnace atomizer
components in a single instrument.
PinAAcle 900Z: PinAAcle 900Z is fully-integrated bench top design atomic
absorption spectrometer that incorporates a single-beam
spectrometer system and graphite furnace atomizer in a single
instrument.
PinAAcle 900F: PinAAcle 900F is a fully-integrated bench top design atomic
absorption spectrometers, incorporating the spectrometer, and
flame components in a single instrument.
Optical System Photometer: Real-time double-beam optical system. Front-surfaced,
reflecting optics with protective coating. Optical system sealed
within protective cover.
Monochromator: Littrow design with motorized drive for automatic wavelength
selection and peaking.
Wavelength range: 184 - 900 nm.
Diffraction grating: 1800 lines/mm blazed at 236 nm and 597
nm.
Grating area:64 x 72 mm
Reciprocal linear dispersion: 1.6nm/mm (nominal)
Focal length: 267 mm
Spectral bandwidths: Slits available are 0.2, 0.7 and 2.0 nm.
Detector: Wide-range segmented solid-state detector, including a built-in
low-noise CMOS charge amplifier array.
Specifications 101
Instrument Description
Automatic Lamp Selection: 8-lamp holder with built-in power supplies for hollow cathode
and electrodeless discharge lamps. Computer-controlled lamp
selection and alignment via software. Lamp elements and
recommended operating currents are automatically recognized
and set when using PerkinElmer Lumina™ hollow cathode
lamps.
Background Correction
Deuterium arc lamp: PinAAcle 900H and PinAAcle 900F Auto Built-in continuum
source double-beam background correction using a high-
intensity deuterium arc lamp.
PinAAcle 900Z and PinAAcle 900T use Longitudinal AC
Zeeman-effect background correction using a modulated 0.8
Tesla magnetic field oriented longitudinal to the optical path.
The magnet is automatically switched on during the
atomization step only. Also built-in is continuum source
double-beam background correction for uses with flame
operation.
Flame Atomizer
Safety Functions: Interlocks prevent ignition if the proper burner head, the
nebulizer/end cap, or the burner drain system is not correctly
installed; the liquid level in the drain vessel is incorrect; or gas
pressures are too low. Interlocks also will automatically shut
down burner gases if a flame is not detected, or if any of the
other interlock functions are activated. Provision is included
for safe shutdown from all operating modes in the event of a
power failure.
Burner System: This system has a stacked design, with flame unit on the top,
and graphite furnace at the bottom. The burner is equipped
with a high-strength inert mixing chamber, angled to ensure
proper drainage. Depending on the type of analysis you can
use either the high sensitivity corrosion-resistant plastic
nebulizer and stainless steel nebulizer. There are separate part
numbers for the plastic or stainless steel nebulizers.
PinAAcle 900H, PinAAcle An external protective gas stream around the graphite tube
900T and PinAAcle 900Z prevents the entrance of outside air to maximize tube life. An
internal purge gas goes through the graphite tube to remove the
volatilized matrix vapors during drying and thermal
pretreatment. The two gas streams are computer-controlled
independently. Pneumatic opening and closing of the furnace
for easy tube change.
Common Furnace Features: Program Flexibility: Analytical programs with up to 12 steps
can be set up. Each step can be programmed with the following
parameters:
Temperature: Ambient up to 2600 °C (up to 2700 °C with HGA) in steps of
10 °C.
Ramp Time: 0 to 99 s in steps of 1 s.
Hold Time: 0 to 99 s in steps of 1 s.
Internal Gas Flow: 0 mL/min (gas stop), 50 mL/min (mini-flow), 250 mL/min
(full flow); can be switched over to another type of gas
(Alternate Gas).
Furnace Opening and Pneumatically-operated by software command.
Closing:
Required Inert Gas: Argon. Inlet pressure 300 kPa (3 bar) minimum. Maximum gas
consumption is 700 mL/min with the PinAAcle 900T and
PinAAcle 900Z. Maximum gas consumption is 1220 mL/min.
Water Coolant: There are separate part numbers for the main instrument with
and without the water circulatory system.
It is recommended to use the re-circulatory system for the
graphite furnace analyses. When operating the PinAAcle 900
Series without the circulatory cooling system, cooling water
meeting the following specification should be used: Sediment-
free drinking water; 20-40 C; flow rate not less than 2 L/min;
pressure between 2.5 and 4.5 bar; pH not harder than 6 dH or
100 mg/L (ppm) of Ca(CO3)2.
104 Principles of Operation
Furnace Autosampler
Data System
Specifications Descriptions
Specifications Descriptions
Specifications Description
Unpacking Instructions
Carefully read these instructions before unpacking the PinAAcle Series to avoid
damage to the instrument. The PinAAcle Series is packed in a cardboard box that
has been designed to safely move and unload the instrument. The bottom of the
crate is a shipping platform designed for use with a forklift.
The shipping platform used to pack the instrument is returnable for reuse within the
U.S.A. only.
Tools Needed
Wear safety glasses when cutting the steel banding to prevent injury.
! Avertissement : afin d'éviter toute blessure, portez des lunettes de
Warning protection lorsque vous découpez les feuillards en acier.
1. Check the shock watch and the two tip-and-tell indicators. Record the status of
the indicators on the waybill if they have been tripped.
112 Installation
2. Record any visible damage on the waybill before accepting the shipment.
Notify your local PerkinElmer customer support engineer immediately.
3. Pull out all the foam pieces that secure the instrument in the box.
4. The two cardboard boxes containing the accessories are shipped separately.
7. Prepare to lift the instrument out of the carton. You will need four people to
do this. The bench should be nearby and if the bench has wheels make sure that
the wheels are locked.
8. Along the underside of the instrument are hidden handles. Locate these handles
and position two people on each where these handles are located.
Before You Install the Spectrometer 113
9. Squat down and place both hands underneath the instrument handles. Spread
your hands as far apart as possible while grasping the underside of the
instrument.
10. With knees bent, simultaneously lift the instrument up as you end up in a
standing position. Carefully place the instrument on the bench.
• You must make sure that the fume ventilation system and the necessary gas
supply lines and regulators are installed.
These instructions are also provided in case you need to alter any of the
connections or move the instrument, autosampler or accessories in your
laboratory.
• The service engineer will remove the shipping locks, perform pre-installation
checks, install the spectrometer, and make sure that everything functions
correctly.
The instructions here are primarily intended for occasions where the customer may
want to move the spectrometer short distances to a new location within the
laboratory.
Have the customer read the instructions carefully and be sure they understand them
thoroughly before they attempt to move the spectrometer. Have the customer read
the detailed information given in the relevant sections of this chapter before they
reinstall the spectrometer.
If the customer intends to transport the spectrometer over a longer distance, have
them contact their local PerkinElmer office since internal shipping locks must be
set via the service software, inside the spectrometer.
If You Must Move and Reinstall the Spectrometer 115
2. Switch off the spectrometer power switch including the rear circuit breaker,
the computer, and all the accessories.
5. Disconnect the burner gas supplies. Bleed the flame gases if moving to another
location.
6. Flush with DI water for 1-2 minutes and then aspirate dry air for 1 minute if
moving to another location. This will prevent clogging and contamination of
the nebulizer.
9. Prepare the computer and other system components for transport as described
in their own guides.
Carefully lift the spectrometer onto a movable table to transport it to the new
location.
2. For PinAAcle 900T and 900Z, make sure that the furnace knob is securely
tightened all the way so that the furnace head will not move if the spectrometer
must be relocated.
Tools Needed
• Phillips screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
Note The instrument ships with the nebulizer in place based on the part number
configuration ordered (a stainless steel or high sensitivity corrosion
resistant plastic nebulizer).
1. Prepare the new site for the spectrometer; see Chapter 2, Preparing Your
Laboratory on page 43.
6. Make sure that the main power switches of all the instruments are in the off
position, then connect the electrical cables.
• Suitable pressure regulators and on/off valves near to the spectrometer for the
gas supplies.
The gas supply systems must comply with your local safety regulations. Also refer
to the information given under Gas Requirements on page 58.
Les systèmes de brûleur PerkinElmer sont conçus pour être utilisés avec
de l'air comprimé. L'utilisation d'oxygène peut entraîner une explosion au
sein du système de brûleur. En outre, de l'air enrichi en oxygène peut
générer un retour de flamme.
N'utilisez jamais d'oxygène ou d'air enrichi en oxygène avec les
systèmes de brûleur PerkinElmer. Utilisez uniquement de l'air
comprimé.
Air
1. Make sure that the air supply is turned off.
2. Use the black hose assembly to connect a source of clean, dry, and filtered air
to the fitting labeled Air on the rear panel of the spectrometer. Use an
adjustable wrench to tighten the connections.
Nitrous oxide
1. Make sure that the nitrous oxide supply is turned off.
2. Use the blue N2O hose assembly to connect a source of clean, dry nitrous oxide
to the fitting labeled N2O on the rear panel of the spectrometer. Use an
adjustable wrench to tighten the connections.
Acetylene
1. Make sure that the acetylene supply is turned off.
2. Use the orange C2H2 hose assembly to connect a source of clean, dry acetylene
to the fitting labeled C2H2 on the rear panel of the spectrometer. Use an
adjustable wrench to tighten the connections.
Connecting the Gases 121
3
2
2. Use the pinch clamp tool to secure the connection clamps (Part No. B0155661)
to the European gas connection adapters to the gas line.
3. Attach the modified gas lines to the proper gas outlets.
For European gas connection adapters see the following figure.
Note The furnace will operate correctly only if there is gas pressure at both the
Normal Gas and Special Gas inlets. If you are using only an inert gas you
must connect the gas to both inlets using the Y-connector.
• Suitable pressure regulators and on/off valves near to the spectrometer for the
inert and special gas supplies.
• A tube cutter for the special gas tube. This is an optional accessory; Part No.
09923183.
The gas supply systems must comply with your local safety regulations. Refer also
to the information given under Gas Requirements on page 58.
• Two screw connectors, R ¼'' for the gas regulator. These are not supplied with
all instrument versions.
1. Make sure that the argon (or nitrogen) supply is turned off.
2. Use the special tube cutter to cut two, 10 cm lengths of tube from the special
gas tube. The ends of the tubes must be cut squarely.
3. Connect the long gas tube to the argon (or nitrogen) pressure regulator. Use the
R ¼'' screw connector provided or use a connector or adapter suitable for the
gas regulator. Make sure that all the connections are secure.
4. Pass the gas tube to the rear of the spectrometer. Make sure that it cannot be
damaged or strained.
5. Push the two short tubes and the long tube into the connectors on the Y-
connector as shown on the figure on page 125.
6. Push the free ends of the two short gas tubes into the Normal Gas and Special
Gas connectors on the manifold as shown on the figure on page 125.
Push the tubes into the connectors until the tubes butt up to the end of the
connector.
Note To disconnect the gas tube from a connector: Carefully push the black
locking ring of the connector into the connector and pull the tube out of the
connector.
Connecting the Gases 125
1
2
2. Use the special tube cutter to cut the special gas tube into two pieces for the
two gas supplies. The ends of the tubes must be cut squarely.
3. Connect the gas tubes to the argon (or nitrogen) and special gas pressure
regulators. Use the R ¼'' screw connectors provided or use a connector or
adapter suitable for the gas regulator. Make sure that all the connections are
secure.
4. Pass the gas tubes to the rear of the spectrometer. Make sure that they cannot
be damaged or strained.
5. Push the free ends of the gas supply tubes into the Normal Gas and Special Gas
connectors on the manifold as shown. Push the tubes into the connectors until
the tubes butt up to the end of the connector.
Note To disconnect the gas tube from a connector: Carefully push the black
locking ring of the connector into the connector and pull the tube out of the
connector.
Connecting the Gases 127
Figure 4-5. Connecting the Argon (or Nitrogen) and a Special Gas
Item Description
1 Argon (or Nitrogen) gas line
2 Special gas line
3 230 V power receptacle
128 Installation
1. Place the computer on the bench and position the monitor on top of the
computer.
3. Connect the Ethernet and furnace camera USB connection from the instrument
to the back of the computer. This step is not required for PinAAcle 900H
configurations with no furnace camera option.
12
1
11
7 3
9
10
2
6
5 4
Item Description
5 Ethernet instrument connection (to computer)
6 Furnace camera USB connection (to computer), view partially obstructed
7 Keyboard and mouse (one connection hidden from view)
8 Monitor connection from monitor to computer
9 Monitor connection to computer
10 Computer main power cord
11 Monitor main power cord
12 Back of monitor
Electrical Connections
Warning: Electrical Hazard
To prevent potential injury to yourself and damage to the instrument,
! switch OFF all instruments in the system and disconnect them from the
line power supply before you perform the procedures described below.
Warning
Avertissement : risque électrique
Read the following instructions very carefully before connecting any cables.
See Chapter 2, Preparing Your Laboratory on page 43 for the specification of the
line power supply.
This indicates the off position of the main power switch or circuit breaker.
With the switch in this position, the instrument is disconnected entirely
from the line power supply.
This indicates the on position of the main power switch or circuit breaker.
With the switch in this position, the instrument is connected to the line
power supply but not necessarily switched on and operational.
Electrical Connections 133
4. Please make sure that the computer, and all other accessories that will connect
to the instrument or computer are off. Please refer to the guides of all attached
accessories for procedures on how to use them.
5. Connect the line power cords of the spectrometer and all other accessories to
the main power supply.
134 Installation
6. From the front of the instrument toggle on the on/off green switch.
Electrical Connections 135
• There is space at the rear and sides of the cooling system for air to circulate
freely.
2. Push the hose connectors onto the correct fittings on the spectrometer as shown
opposite. The connectors are spring loaded. Push them straight onto the fittings
until they click into place. Lightly tug on the water line connections on the back
of the instrument to ensure that they are secure, and will not pop off.
See the following procedure Filling the Cooling System on page 140 before you
plug in and start the cooling system.
The cooling system contains 0.5 L glycerol when it leaves the factory
Note (do not use antifreeze).
1. Remove the stopper from the top of the cooling system - twist and pull.
2. Fill the system to the Max mark with sediment-free drinking water - about 4.5
L. Do not use deionized water since this can cause corrosion.
4. Plug the power patch cord into the receptacle on the back of the Cooling
System. Refer to the figure on page 138.
5. Plug the other end of the power patch cord into 230 V receptacle on the back
of the instrument. Refer to the figure on page 127.
6. Turn the On/Off rocker power switch on the Cooling System down to the On
position.
Explosion Risk!
! The waste bottle must be placed out in the open, where there is no
possibility of a build-up of potentially hazardous gases.
Warning
1. Carefully take the drain tubing and attach it to the drain fitting.
Connecting the Drain System to the Burner 143
2. Take the clamp and use a flat bladed screwdriver to secure around the drain
hose fitting.
3 4
Item Description
2 Clamp
3 Drain hose
4 Drain Interlock
Explosion Risk!
! The waste bottle must be placed out in the open, where there is no
possibility of a build-up of potentially hazardous gases.
Warning
Elle ne peut pas être placée à l'intérieur d'une armoire ou sur une
étagère dont la vue est obstruée. La vue sur la bouteille de vidange doit
être parfaitement dégagée en permanence afin de pouvoir connaître son
niveau de remplissage, ainsi que l'état des tuyaux de vidange.
3. Take the other end of the drain hose, where the drain float assembly is located,
and secure it to the drain waste bottle (Carboy 15L).
5. Before connecting the drain tube to the burner assembly, pour about 250 mL
of water into the free end of the drain tube to fill the drain loop and to activate
Connecting the Drain System to the Burner 145
the drain float. Both the Air pressure and Drain interlocks will be activated
until the magnetic sensor is engaged. Both interlocks should clear once the
drain float is filled with water.
Note The safety interlock connection goes to the instrument. Until you
precondition the drain tube, a drain and air pressure interlock error
message will appear on the computer. See the following procedure to
satisfy the drain interlock.
Note You must perform this procedure directly after installation of a new burner
system and you should repeat it if you replace the drain tube or any of the
sample introduction component.
4. Pour about 250 mL deionized water slowly through the drain tube to fill the
drain trap and activate the drain float.
5. Reattach the drain tube to the end cap.
6. Tighten the clamp around the drain tube. If the clamp around the drain tube is
taken off, it has to be secured after the water is added. Otherwise, severe
consequences would occur if there is leakage of flammable acetylene gas
during operation, and flash back can occur when there is a spark.
7. Reinstall the burner head.
8. Close the compartment door.
Nebulizer Installation
The instrument is shipped with the nebulizer already installed. Depending on the
instrument model ordered, it will be shipped with either a standard stainless steel
or a high sensitivity plastic nebulizer.
For information on removing and reinstalling the stainless steel or high sensitivity
plastic nebulizer see Nebulizer Removal and Reinstallation on page 252.
Note The figures shown in this section are of a PinAAcle 900T but the
installation of a AS 900 Furnace Autosampler is the same for the PinAAcle
900H and 900Z.
The AS 900 autosampler can be installed on the PinAAcle 900H, 900T and 900Z.
Tools Needed
• T10 Torx driver
Caution Do not lift the autosampler by the motor, the autosampler arm or any of
the plastic components. This can cause irreparable damage.
The autosampler is packed in a separate box. Carefully unpack the autosampler and
set it up near the instrument.
Note .When attaching the metal boom to the mounting arm make sure not to lose
the metal boom pin because it can easily get loose. The guide pin is a stop
which prevents the arm and boom from moving past the mechanical stop
point on the mounting arm assembly.
2. Attach the metal boom to the mounting arm and make sure that the metal boom
guide pin goes behind the mounting arm.
2 3
1. Connect the autosampler connection cable (Part No. B3002201) to the RS 232
connection port underneath the autosampler.
150 Installation
2. Feed the other end of the connector through the back of the boom mount
assembly.
3. Attach the autosampler to the metal boom, and from the underside of the metal
boom, fasten the Auto sampler to the boom with the four T10 Torx screws
located on the bottom of the Autosampler. Refer to the figure of page 150 for
details.
4. Connect the cable to the RS 232 connection port in the front of the instrument.
5. To lock the autosampler in place, tighten the right locking knob first and then
tighten the left locking knob.
4
2 3
You may have to change the drain tube more often if you use an aggressive rinsing
solution.
• the rinse feed assembly, consisting of a flexible PTFE tube with two screw
fittings and a rigid FEP tube complementary screw thread
1. Push one end of the drain tube into the drain nipple on the rinsing port.
2. Slip the rinsing port onto the guides on the left side of the trough for the sample
tray.
Installing AS 900 Furnace Autosampler 153
1
2
3. Slide the waste bottle into the left-hand bracket on the boom.
4. Place the end of the drain tube into the mouth of the waste bottle. If necessary,
shorten the drain tube so that it protrudes only about 30 mm into the waste
bottle. Do not put a cap on the bottle. The drain tube must hang straight down,
without any loops, and the end must never be immersed in the liquid in the
bottle.
Note You may use a 1.2 mL sample cup inserted into the rinse position of the
rinse port. This minimizes the volume of the overflow rinse container.
154 Installation
5. Slide the rinse bottle into the right hand bracket on the boom.
Installing AS 900 Furnace Autosampler 155
6. Connect the other end of the flexible tube to the inlet fitting of the rinse pump.
You may have to shorten the flexible tube,
1. Grip the hub of the sample tray and lower it onto the drive spindle.
2. Rotate the tray gently until the key on the hub engages into the keyway on the
drive spindle. There is a notch in the outer ring of the sample locations to mark
the position of the key.
156 Installation
3. Place the sample tray cover over the hub and line it up so that the lugs on the
sample tray trough engage in the notches in the cover. the ports in the cover are
to the left.
Note Always place the cover on the sample tray to protect the samples from
contamination and to reduce the rate of evaporation of the solvent. You can
reduce the rate of evaporation further by pouring a small volume of water
into the trough; the water level in the trough must always be below the top
of the central ring around the drive spindle.
1 2
1. Carefully remove any tape used for holding the capillary during transportation.
158 Installation
2. Push the metal mount of the sample capillary into the clip at the end of the
pipette arm. Make sure that the sharp side of the metal mount goes first.
3. Pass the sample tube through the hooks on the pipette arm such that it forms a
smooth loop from the metal mount.
4. Pass the sample tube around the hooks on the sample table, leaving a
sufficiently large loop so that the pipette arm can move freely.
1. Make sure that the rinsing system components are correctly installed, are in
good condition, and suitable for the rinsing fluid you will use.
3. Fill the rinse bottle with clean, filtered and degassed rinsing fluid. To reduce
surface tension you may add 0.1% of Triton X-100. If there are particles in the
rinsing fluid they can clog the valves, causing leaks and non-reproducible
results.
Installing the Sample Capillary 159
Note Make certain there are no air bubbles in the rinsing system. Air bubbles
lead to non-reproducible results.
Note If you want to use a different rinsing fluid to that already in the rinsing
system, rinse all traces of the previous fluid out of the rinsing system. Use
a rinsing fluid that is miscible with both the new and the old rinsing fluids.
You may have to use intermediate rinsing fluids. For example, if you are
changing from an acidic fluid to an organic solvent, you could use:
1. Deionized water.
2. Ethanol or another water-miscible solvent.
3. An organic solvent.
Unless you are absolutely sure that the pipette tip is already well aligned, always
perform the Align Autosampler Tip in the graphite tube command from the Align
160 Installation
Autosampler Tip wizard. You use this command to make sure that the tip will not
strike the sides or the inside of the tube.
• From the Align Autosampler Tip wizard select Align the autosampler
tip in the graphite tube. The autosampler arm is unlocked and the pipette
tip moves to a position directly above the graphite tube.
162 Installation
2. Using the depth control wheel, very carefully lower the pipette tip to just
above the graphite contact.
Do not allow the pipette tip to touch any part of the furnace.
3. Continue lowering the tip and adjusting the left/right and forward/backward
controls on the autosampler until the pipette tip is positioned just inside the
dosing hole of the graphite tube.
Installing the Sample Capillary 163
Note For steps 4 and 5 the TubeView feature is not available for PinAAcle 900H
model configurations since there is no furnace camera installed.
4. Use the TubeView window that is currently open on the workspace to see the
tip in the tube.
5. Use the Depth Knob to set the depth of the autosampler tip in the tube so that
it is 1-2 mm above the platform; view the alignment within the TubeView
window. Only adjust in the down direction. If you adjust too low, click on the
< Back button and try again. Do not lower the pipette tip so far that it could
strike the platform. Frequent striking the platform may break it off from the
tube.
Refer to the following figure for an example of a well aligned tip.
The steps described in this section describe how to make sure the tip is properly
aligned in the tube. If it is not properly aligned, click < Back and select Check
autosampler tip alignment tip in the graphite tube.
Caution
Risk of damage to the pipette tip
The pipette tip enters the graphite tube when you issue the In Tube command.
The pipette tip can strike the edge of the injection hole if the autosampler arm
has not been aligned.
Make sure that the autosampler arm has been aligned before you issue the In
Tube command.
Attention Risque d'endommagement de l'embout de la pipette. Lorsque vous émettez la
commande In Tube, l'embout de la pipette pénètre dans le tuyau de graphite.
L'embout de la pipette risque de heurter le bord du trou d'injection si le bras du
passeur d'échantillons automatique n'a pas été aligné. Avant d'émettre la
commande In Tube, veillez à ce que le bras du passeur d'échantillons
automatique ait été aligné.
Installing the Sample Capillary 167
Before you perform the steps outlined in this procedure, make sure you have
aligned the autosampler arm as described in To align the autosampler tip in the
graphite tube.
1. From the Furnace Control window select Align Tip > Check autosampler tip
alignment in the graphite tube.
The autosampler arm is unlocked and the pipette tip enters the graphite tube.
Make sure that the tip is centered in the hole in the tube. Do not allow the tip
to touch any part of the furnace.
2. Using the TubeView window that is currently open make sure that the tip is
1-2 mm above the platform. If not, click on< Back and try again to adjust its
position. For the PinAAcle 900H model configurations without the furnace
camera and TubeView alignment option, use a non-metallic small dental
mirror to check that the tip is 1-2 mm above the platform.
Figure 4-25. Penetration depth of pipette tip in the graphite tube, as viewed from
the Furnace Camera Window on the screen.
3. If you make any additional adjustments in the depth (down only), click on
Finish to save the revised position for use in performing analyses.
4. If the position is not correct, click < Back and perform the Align Tip procedure
again.
5. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipette tip is at the depth where you
want it to withdraw samples.
6. If you make any additional adjustments to the depth, click on Finish to save
the revised depth for use when performing analyses.
5. Look in the TubeView camera window and watch the delivery of the solution
droplet onto the platform (only for the PinAAcle 900 model configurations
installed with the furnace camera option).
6. If the solution droplet delivery was unsatisfactory, make the appropriate small
adjustments to the penetration depth of the pipette tip. See To check and make
fine-adjustments to the penetration depth of the pipette tip in the graphite tube
on page 165.
7. Repeat step 4 through step 6 to dispense further aliquots of blank solution until
you are satisfied with the delivery.
Note If the pipette tip is too far above the platform and the droplet does not
contact the graphite surface, the liquid may remain in the tip, leading to
pipetting errors.
If the pipette tip is too close to the platform, the liquid may hang up on the
tip, leading to pipetting errors.
8. The pipette tip is at the correct height when the solution droplet contacts the
graphite surface just before leaving the tip.
170 Installation
Figure 4-26. Checking the solution droplet delivery, as viewed from the Furnace
Camera Window on the screen (A small non-metallic dental mirror
with be required for PinAAcle 900 model configurations without the
furnace camera option installed)
Item Description Item Description
1 Wrong: Tip too far above the platform 3 Correct
2 Wrong: Tip too near the platform
Installing S10 Autosampler 171
Lamps
The spectrometer has an eight position motor controlled lamp selector, and is
designed to hold eight PerkinElmer Lumina hollow cathode lamps (HCLs) or two
electrodeless discharge lamps (EDLs) and six PerkinElmer Lumina hollow cathode
lamps (HCLs). This spectrometer also comes with a background corrector
deuterium lamp (D2). The deuterium arc lamp has a finite life and it is a
consumable part.
For information on adding or replacing see Replacing the Lamps on page 303.
Replacement Parts
Every day you count on PerkinElmer to provide you with solutions that deliver
reliable performance, control operating costs and maximize operational time. Our
complete portfolio of consumables, parts, supplies, training and service helps you
meet both routine and demanding measurement challenges. We invest heavily in
testing and validating our products to ensure you receive guaranteed compatibility
and performance-on-time, every time, for every instrument in your laboratory.
Supplies, replacement parts, and accessories can be ordered directly from
PerkinElmer, using the part numbers quoted in the guides provided with the
instrument.
See our website:
http://perkinelmer.com
PerkinElmer's catalog service offers a full selection of high-quality supplies.
To place an order for supplies and many replacement parts, request a free catalog,
or ask for information:
If you are located within the U.S., call toll free 1-800-762-4002, 8 a.m. to
8 p.m. EST. Your order will be shipped promptly, usually within 24 hours.
If you are located outside of the U.S., call your local PerkinElmer sales or service
office.
172 Installation
2. Make sure that the spectrometer system and other ancillary instruments are
correctly installed and connected to their power supplies. Make sure that the
coolant hoses are connected correctly to the spectrometer. Where applicable,
make sure that the cooling system is filled to the Max mark (see Filling the
Cooling System on page 140).
4. Turn on the burner gases and adjust the outlet gauge pressures to the
recommended values. See Table 5-1 Required Pressures for the Burner Gases
on page 183.
5. Turn on the inert (and special) gas for the furnace and adjust the outlet gauge
pressures to the recommended values. See Table 5-2 Required Pressures for
the Furnace Gases on page 184 .
Note You must always turn on the air supply since air pressure is required for
the internal pneumatic system. If you intend to work with only one
atomizer, you only need to additionally turn on the gas supplies for that
atomizer.
182 Preparing the System
6. Turn on the cooling water to the system: Switch on the circulatory cooling
system by pressing the power switch located on the rear panel.
7. You can leave this switch permanently in the on position since power is
supplied by the spectrometer. Switch the circuit breaker on the rear panel of the
spectrometer to the on position (marked I).
You can leave this switch permanently in the on position during routine
operation; you switch the spectrometer system on and off via the operational
on/off switch located on the front panel.
9. Switch on the spectrometer system with the operational on/off switch located
on the front panel.
10. If you need the diluter, autosampler, or flow injection system, switch on the
respective systems.
11. If you have changed the configuration of the system, such as installed a
different autosampler or added or removed any accessories, use the
Reconfigure utility to reconfigure the software (see the help by selecting F1 on
the computer keyboard).
• Install any further lamps that you require for the analyses. See Installing
the Lamps on page 185.
• Set up the burner system. See Setting up the System for Analyses Using the
Flame Technique on page 193.
• Set up the graphite furnace system. See Setting up the System for Analyses
Using the Furnace Technique For the PinAAcle 900 T/Z on page 200.
Procedures for shutting down the system are described see Shutting Down the
System on page 211.
Switching on the System 183
• Set the outlet gauge pressure for each gas to a value just below the
maximum value (see Pmax column).
• Always set the same outlet gauge pressure for air and nitrous oxide.
• Never set the outlet gauge pressure to a value exceeding the maximum
pressure (see Pmax column).
• Always turn on the air supply since air pressure is required for the
spectrometer's pneumatic system.
• Set the outlet gauge pressure for each gas to a value just below the
maximum value (see Pmax column).
• Never set the outlet gauge pressure to a value exceeding the maximum
pressure (see Pmax column).
Installing the Lamps 185
For information on lamp maintenance and cleaning see Nebulizer Removal and
Reinstallation on page 252.
186 Preparing the System
Lamp Compartment
The lamp compartment is located behind the door on the right-hand side at the front
of the spectrometer.
An EDL consists of a quartz bulb under an inert gas atmosphere, containing the
element or a salt of the element for which the lamp is to be used. When an RF field
is applied to the bulb, the inert gas is ionized and the coupled energy excites the
vaporized analyte atoms inside the bulb, causing them to emit their characteristic
spectrum. The emission spectra produced is typically much more intense than that
from hollow cathode lamps, frequently tenfold larger or more.
EDL
1. Open the lamp door.
188 Preparing the System
2. Insert the coding plug over the receptacle on the lamp holder.
3. Slide the lamp carefully into the lamp holder. Do not push in until the
mechanical stop since this will push in the lamp too far to function properly.
Do not cover the venting slots of the lamp driver or overheating, drift and/or
event shutoff will occur. See the following figure for the proper lamp postion.
4. Connect the lamp cable to an EDL cable connection (see the previous figure)
to the EDL driver power supply connection. From the Instrument tab click
on the Lamp Setup icon. Use the Lamp Setup window in software to
automatically align the lamp.
Note EDLs may only be installed in positions 1 and 2 of the lamp housing.
Refer to the figure on page 186 for the assigned lamp numbers on the turret
(mount). For example, if the EDL lamp is installed in position 1 of the
turret, connect the EDL cable to the EDL 1 cable connection on the EDL
driver power supply connection.
Removing lamps
Do not unplug and remove lamps while they are switched on.
1. From the Instrument tab click on the Lamp Setup icon. The Lamp Setup
window appears.
2. Make sure that the lamps you want to remove are switched off: The On buttons
must not be green. If necessary, click on the respective On buttons.
4. Unplug and remove the lamps. For EDLs, remove the coding plugs as well.
• We recommend the use of PerkinElmer lamps. You can use both hollow
cathode and electrodeless discharge lamps.
• If you install more than one lamp containing a particular element, for example,
a single-element copper lamp and a multi-element lamp containing copper, the
system will use the lamp in the holder with the lower number when you
perform determinations of that element. Make sure that you place the preferred
lamp in the holder with the lower number.
• With EDLs, connect each lamp plug to the socket that has the same number as
the holder of the lamp.
• With EDLs, make sure that you use the correct coding plug and connect it to
the receptacle on the lamp holder containing the EDL.
• If you use the wrong coding plug or connect the coding plug to the wrong
receptacle, you will cause the spectrometer to malfunction and may cause
irreparable damage to the lamp.
1. Take the sample tray, place the drain hose in the notched area of the tray.
3. Secure the sample tray in place. Make sure that the instrument is not pushed so
far back on the bench that the drain tube bends when the tray is installed.
5. If you intent to make absorption measurements, install the lamps that you
require (see Installing the Lamps on page 185).
6. Set up the burner system (see Setting Up the Burner System on page 193)
7. Perform the safety checks (see Safety Checks for the Flame Technique on page
194).
You should now set up the nebulizer, then optimize the burner and nebulizer before
checking the sensitivity. Refer to the help by selecting F1 on the computer
keyboard.
1. Make sure that the correct nebulizer is installed – the stainless steel nebulizer
or a high sensitivity plastic nebulizer (see Nebulizer Installation on page 146).
194 Preparing the System
2. Perform the safety checks (see Safety Checks for the Flame Technique on page
194).
For the correct procedure to extinguish the flame see Extinguishing the Flame on
page 198.
• The burner head is correctly installed and the end cap is secured.
• The fuel and oxidant hoses are correctly fitted to the (back of the) instrument.
Explosion Risk!
! The waste bottle must be placed out in the open, where there is no
possibility of a build-up of potentially hazardous gases.
Warning
Risque d'explosion
! La bouteille de déchets doit être placée à l'extérieur, à un endroit où
des gaz dangereux ne risquent pas de se former.
Warning
Elle ne peut pas être placée à l'intérieur d'une armoire ou sur une
étagère dont la vue est obstruée. La vue sur la bouteille de vidange doit
être parfaitement dégagée en permanence afin de pouvoir connaître son
niveau de remplissage, ainsi que l'état des tuyaux de vidange.
If software indicates an interlock error, one or more of the following may be the
cause:
• The burner head, the nebulizer, or the drain system is not correctly
installed.
• The liquid level in the drain trap is too low or there is no liquid in the drain
trap.
Explosion Risk!
! The waste bottle must be placed out in the open, where there is no
possibility of a build-up of potentially hazardous gases.
Warning
Risque d'explosion
! La bouteille de déchets doit être placée à l'extérieur, à un endroit où
des gaz dangereux ne risquent pas de se former.
Warning
Elle ne peut pas être placée à l'intérieur d'une armoire ou sur une
étagère dont la vue est obstruée. La vue sur la bouteille de vidange doit
être parfaitement dégagée en permanence afin de pouvoir connaître son
niveau de remplissage, ainsi que l'état des tuyaux de vidange.
Note In an emergency, switch off the spectrometer using the operational on/off
switch on the front panel.
The flame is automatically extinguished and the gases shut down in a safe
sequence. See Emergency Shutdown on page 212 for the procedure to
follow after an emergency shutdown.
1. Switch on and set up the spectrometer system (see Setting up the System for
Analyses Using the Flame Technique on page 193).
2. Perform the safety checks (see Safety Checks for the Flame Technique on page
194).
Setting up the System for Analyses Using the Flame Technique 197
3. Adjust the outlet gauge pressures of the burner gases to the recommended
values (see Table 5-1 on Required Pressures for the Burner Gases on page
183).
4. On the Instrument tab, click on Flame icon. The Flame Control window
appears.
5. Select the oxidant: In the Flame Control window, click on Air or N2O.
6. Ignite the flame: In the Flame Control window, click on Flame On/Off icon.
For the correct procedure to extinguish the flame see Extinguishing the Flame on
page 198.
The procedure for rinsing the burner system depends on the type of samples that
you have analyzed.
Setting up the System for Analyses Using the Flame Technique 199
Recommendations:
• If the sample solutions contained toxic substances, you must rinse all traces of
these substances out of the system.
Procedure:
2. Aspirate for five minutes an organic solvent that is miscible with the samples
that have just been aspirated.
3. Aspirate for five minutes methanol or another solvent that is miscible both with
water and the solvent used previously.
Figure 5-5. Furnace covers in place (for the PinAAcle 900T and 900Z)
Item Description
1 Furnace cover down in flame position
2 Furnace stage cover (remains in place and is not removed)
Setting up the System for Analyses Using the Furnace Technique For the 201
1. For the PinAAcle 900T, with one hand on each side of the furnace cover, tilt
the cover up and back.
2. Gently snap the cover into place. It is now secured for furnace analysis.
Note The furnace cover must be locked in the up position when running furnace
analysis. The cover should remain in place down while running the flame
analysis to protect the furnace from corrosion and contamination from
accidental acid and sample spills.
Before running the furnace, make sure that the flame door is in the fully
open position. Otherwise, the door may interfere with the movement of the
furnace auotsampler arm, potentially damaging the autosampler probe.
3. Carefully swivel the AS 900 autosampler in front of the graphite furnace and
secure it with the large securing knobs.
4. Create or open a method (see the help by selecting F1 on the computer
keyboard).
5. Install the lamps that you require (see the procedure, Installing the Lamps on
page 185).
6. If required, install or change and condition a graphite tube (see Changing the
Contact Cylinders on page 323 and Conditioning the Graphite Tube on page
345).
7. Set up the furnace autosampler. Refer to the help by selecting F1 on the
computer keyboard.
You should now optimize the analytical conditions. Refer to the help by selecting
F1 on the computer keyboard.
Before running the furnace, make sure that the flame door is in the fully
open position. Otherwise, the door may interfere with the movement of the
furnace auotsampler arm, potentially damaging the autosampler probe.
4. Move into place the autosampler. Lock the autosampler in position with the
knobs.
2
3
Item Description
3 Locking lever (locks horizontal movement of the furnace)
4 Move lever left to unlock
5 Move lever right to lock
1. Check that a lamp for the element you intend to determine is installed in the
spectrometer and aligned.
3. Check that the graphite tube you intend to use for your analyses is installed in
the furnace.
4. Remove both window assemblies from the furnace (see Checking and
Cleaning the Furnace Windows on page 348).
8. Refit both window assemblies (see To refit the windows: on page 377).The
absorbance reading after replacing the windows should be about 0.06-0.09
when measured at the Cu line at 324.8 nm using the AA mode. The absorbance
increases toward shorter wavelengths.
210 Preparing the System
1. Fill and flush the rinsing system (see Filling and Flushing the Rinsing System
on page 158).
2. Align the autosampler arm (see To Align the Autosampler Tip in the Graphite
Tube on page 159).
3. Adjust the penetration depth of the pipet tip in the graphite tube (see the
procedure, To check and make fine-adjustments to the penetration depth of the
pipette tip in the graphite tube on page 165).
4. Adjust the immersion depth of the pipet tip in the sample cup (see the
procedure, To check the depth of the autosampler tip in the sampling cup on
page 167).
5. Check delivery of the solution droplet (see the procedure, Checking the
solution droplet delivery on page 168).
Shutting Down the System 211
Note In an emergency, switch off the spectrometer using the operational on/off
switch on the front panel.
The flame is automatically extinguished and the gases shut down in a safe
sequence. See Emergency Shutdown on page 212 for the procedure to
follow after an emergency shutdown.
• From the Instrument tab click on the Flame Control icon. The system
uses a predetermined shutdown sequence to extinguish the flame safely.
2. Switch off the spectrometer at the operational on/off switch on the front panel.
4. If you do not want to use the computer for other tasks, shut down the computer
and printer as described in their user's guides.
5. Empty the burner drain vessel (see Emptying the Drain System on page 249).
Emergency Shutdown
If a situation arises where you have to shut down the system quickly and you can
use the on/off switch on the front panel of the instrument.
Shutting Down the System 213
Note The responsible body has the responsibility for carrying out appropriate
decontamination if hazardous material is spilled on or inside the
equipment.
216 Maintenance
Decontamination
Note If the instrument or an accessory requires decontamination before
repair, maintenance, warranty or trade-in purposes at PerkinElmer, the
responsible body should read the procedure and complete the certificate which is
available on the PerkinElmer public website:
http://las.perkinelmer.com/OneSource/decontamination.htm
• For safety reasons, and to avoid contaminating new samples, you should
ensure that the work area is kept absolutely clean. This is especially
important when working with toxic substances and when measuring trace
amounts of any elements.
Avertissement:
Conformément aux pratiques de sécurité des laboratoires, les substances
! répandues doivent être nettoyées dès que le déversement se produit et être
éliminées comme il se doit en tenant compte des éléments suivants :
Warning
emplacement et étendue du déversement ;
propriétés chimiques et physiques de la substance;
propriétés dangereuses de la substance et
types d'équipement de protection individuelle éventuellement
nécessaires.
Checks
Periodic Checks
The frequency of maintenance required will be determined by the amount of use
the system receives, the cleanliness of the environment, and the number and nature
of the samples being analyzed.
• Nebulizer: Check the wear and tear of the o-rings on the end caps and on the
burner head. To replace the o-rings, see Disassembling the Burner Chamber
later in this chapter.
• Drain System Maintenance: Check for wear and/or chemical attack. The drain
tubing should be clear with as few bends as possible. The drain system should
be replaced if it has deteriorated. See Drain System Maintenance later in this
chapter.
• Burner System: Check for uneven flame and deposits build up along the burner
slot.
If you analyze samples that have 'dirty' matrices, such as blood, sugar or oil, you
will probably have to clean the components more often than if you were analyzing
'clean' samples, such as drinking water.
Part Maintenance
Burner system Always rinse the burner system correctly before extinguishing the flame.
If you are analyzing samples with high solids content: Clean the burner
chamber at least once daily.
If you are using organic solvents: Clean the burner chamber before you switch
to aqueous solutions. Empty the drain vessel and dispose of hazardous
solutions properly.
Part Maintenance
Drain tube Inspect the drain tube regularly for wear and/or chemical attack. Replace it if it
has kinked and also deteriorated.
O-rings Check the condition of the o-rings regularly: burner end cap o-ring; o-ring in
neck of burner chamber; there are four o-rings on the metal body nebulizer, and
five o-rings on the high sensitivity plastic nebulizer. Either of these nebulizers
can be used on the (different) end-cap of the burner assembly.
Gas hoses Check the gas hoses regularly for leaks, particularly at the fittings, using a
proprietary leak testing fluid. Call a PerkinElmer service engineer if a leak is
detected.
Acetylene cylinder If the cylinder pressure falls to below 600 kPa (6 bar; 85 psig) some of the
solvent used to stabilize the acetylene (e.g. acetone) may be carried over into
the burner. This could influence the characteristics of the burner and could
eventually cause irreversible damage to the gas box. Always change to a new
acetylene cylinder when the cylinder pressure falls to below this value.
• You should only perform the maintenance procedures described in this guide.
222 Maintenance
For any other maintenance or service contact your local PerkinElmer office to
arrange for a service engineer to visit. In particular you should only allow a
PerkinElmer service engineer or similarly trained and authorized person to perform
any work on:
• Make sure that the instrument and work area are clean.
Part Maintenance
Instrument and work For safety reasons, and to avoid contaminating new samples, you should make
area sure that the instrument and the work area are always absolutely clean. This is
especially important when you are working with toxic substances and when
you are measuring trace amounts of any elements. Wipe up spills immediately
before they can cause further contamination or damage. Before you leave the
instrument standing idle for any period of time, make sure that all the
components are clean.
Fume ventilation Make sure that the main exhaust ventilation system functions correctly. Always
switch it on when you are using the instrument.
Environmental Make sure that the environmental conditions are as described in Chapter 2
conditions
Part Maintenance
External Surfaces Wipe over the surfaces with a lint-free cloth moistened with a dilute solution of
laboratory detergent. The surfaces are resistant to dilute acids and alkalis, and
to a lesser extent to strong acids and alkalis and organic solvents.
Air filters Replace filter yearly or more often in a dusty environment.
224 Maintenance
You should not need to change the filters more than once every year if the
environmental conditions are as described in the Spectrometer Maintenance
Checklist located in this chapter.
Replacement filters (Part No. B0501696) are available; see Replacement Parts
on page 384, for the part number.
4
3
Figure 6-11. Location of air filters on the right side of the instrument
Item Description Item Description
1 Air filter cover tab 3 Air filter cover
2 Air filter location 4 Air filter
3. Depress the tab and lift out the air filter cover that holds the air filter in place.
4. Replace the air filter (Part No. B0501696) and then put the air filter cover back
into place.
226 Maintenance
5. The vents located on the left side of the instrument are for the furnace power
supply. Hot air is blown out of these vents and no air filters are needed. Do
not restrict the air flow exhaust from these vents.
2. Take the filter out from the frame and replace with a new filter.
3. Snap the frame with the new filter back into place.
Caution Use only fuses with the required current rating and of the specified type for
replacement.
1. Switch off the spectrometer and all other instruments in the system
2. Switch the circuit breaker on the rear panel of the spectrometer to the off
position.
1 2
3. Disconnect the spectrometer's line power cord from the line power supply.
4. Disconnect all the line power cords from the sockets at the rear of the
spectrometer.
a). Insert the tip of a suitable screwdriver in the slit of the fuse holder and
unscrew the fuse holder.
b). Remove the blown fuse, and then insert a new one of the correct type and
rating. The correct rating is shown on the label of the fuse on the rear panel
of the spectrometer.
Note Do not scrape the plastic components with metal tools. Do not soak the
burner chamber in acid or use an abrasive cleaner.
2. The end cap must be removed to access the inside of the burner chamber.
3. The end cap is secured to the burner chamber by the latches located on each
side. Pull both latches back to remove the end cap from the burner chamber.
Cleaning the Burner Chamber 231
1 2
3 4
4. Clean the burner chamber and flow spoiler with a soft brush and a mild
laboratory detergent solution.
5. Clean the inside of the burner end cap with a soft wireless brush and a mild
laboratory detergent solution.
Note If the solid deposits cannot be removed with a soft brush and a mild
laboratory detergent solution, the internal cavity of the chamber may be
soaked overnight with the 0.5% Triton X-100 + 5% HNO3 acid when the
opening for the burner head is closed. Thoroughly rinse the internal cavity
with de-ionized water before use. If solid deposits still remain, you will
need to replace the spray chamber.
1. Aspirate for 5 minutes an organic solvent that is miscible with the samples that
have just been aspirated.
2. Aspirate methanol or another solvent miscible with both the organic solvent
and water, for 5 minutes.
4. Flush the drain tube thoroughly with water. Empty the collection vessel and
refill with water. Dispose of hazardous or corrosive solutions properly and
observe local codes concerning the effect of the waste on the environment.
Cleaning the Burner Chamber 233
1. Aspirate dilute acid (1% (v/v) HCl solution) for 5 minutes before turning off
the flame.
4. Flush the drain system see Cleaning (or Flushing) the Drain System on page
248.
• The burner should provide an even flame over the length of the burner slot. An
uneven flame may indicate that the slot needs cleaning. A badly clogged slot
may cause a flashback of the flame.
• Aspirating samples with high solids content may cause deposits to build up
along the burner slot
Flashbacks
A flashback is an explosion of the premixed gases in the burner chamber. The
safety interlocks normally prevent conditions that could cause a flashback, but if a
flashback should ever occur:
• Check the flow spoiler or impact bead for damage, and replace any damaged
parts.
• Make sure that you are using compressed air and not oxygen enriched air.
• Carefully check and tighten all connections to, and seals on, the burner unit,
and check the gas flow settings before you attempt to ignite the flame. Any
seepage of fuel and oxidant from the burner chamber may cause a flashback.
3. Remove the burner head up and out by pushing the latch located on the left side
of the burner head to the rear. Refer to the figure on page 239.
4. Carefully work along and through the burner head slot with the cleaning tool
provided. Do not nick the edges of the slot.
Note The cleaning tool resembles a strip of thin metal sheet. Do not use other
tools to clean inside the burner slot since they may have burrs that could
nick the slot.
5. Rinse the burner head well with deionized water and make sure that all
scrapings are removed from inside and outside the burner head.
Wear safety glasses when blowing the burner head with clean
! compressed air.
Warning Avertissement: lorsque vous projetez de l'air comprimé propre sur la
tête du brûleur, portez des lunettes de protection.
the flame. For this reason you should check the width of the burner slot at regular
intervals.
A set of feeler gauges is required to check the slot width. The table below specifies
the correct slot width and the feeler gauge required for checking.
Feeler Gauge
Burner Head Slot Width Tolerance
for check
This procedure should be done directly after installation of a new burner and
repeated if the drain tube or any of the sample introduction system components are
replaced.
In order for a new sample introduction system to aspirate sample and drain
smoothly, all the internal surfaces need to be prepared. This is easily accomplished
by aspirating a 0.1% Triton X-100 solution for approximately five minutes.
3. Locate and press the locking pin down, and push the locking lever backward
to disengage the whole burner assembly. The burner assembly will be pushed
forward, and can now be removed. See the following figure.
Removing the Burner Assembly From the Instrument 239
1
2
3
4
Figure 6-17. Remove the burner head from the burner chamber
Item Description Item Description
1 Safety latch 3 Pressing the safety latch
2 Burner lever 4 Pushing the burner lever
240 Maintenance
4. The burner assembly is now accessible for maintenance. Remove the burner
assembly.
5. Place the burner assembly on a bench for routine maintenance and cleaning.
Removing the Burner Head 241
Depending on the type of analysis you need to do, you may need to change the
burner head, see Burner Head Options on page 95.
1. The burner head should also be removed by following the procedure Removing
the Burner Assembly From the Instrument on page 238
242 Maintenance
2. Unscrew the retaining ring (see figure below) and pull out the burner o-ring.
3 1
5
4
3. Remove the nebulizer from the end cap assembly. Refer to Removing the Metal
Body Nebulizer on page 255. Refer to Removing the High Sensitivity Plastic
Nebulizer on page 274.
4. Clean the chamber. Place the parts in a detergent solution until they are
completely clean. See Cleaning the Burner Chamber on page 229 for details.
5. Remove and rinse with deionized water. Allow time for complete drying.
1. Before you reassemble the burner system, verify that the o-rings are in good
condition. If an o-ring appears damaged, replace it.
3. Carefully slide the nebulizer into the end cap and lock into place with the
nebulizer clamp.
4. Place the burner o-ring into the burner chamber and screw on the retaining ring.
5. Press the safety latch on the ignitor box while gently pushing and twisting the
burner head onto the chamber.
2. Push the burner assembly in so that the rear gas fittings line up with the gas
connectors at the back of the Burner Assembly mount. Push the burner
assembly fully in until it clicks into place. Press the locking pin down, pull the
locking level forward until it locks the burner assembly in place. The locking
pin is locked.
244 Maintenance
3. Locate the drain vessel. The drain tube and interlock cable will be attached to
the drain vessel retainer cap.
4. Place the drain vessel in full view on the floor in front of the instrument. Never
place the drain vessel inside a cabinet.
5. Before connecting the drain tube to the burner assembly, if necessary pour
about 250 mL of water into the free end of the drain tube to fill the drain loop
and to activate the drain float.
6. Place the hose clamp over the free end of the drain tubing.
Caution When installing the free end of the drain tubing over the drain outlet, take
care not to damage the inner Teflon lining of the drain tube.
7. Carefully install the free end of the drain tubing over the drain outlet, making
sure that the inner Teflon lining of the drain tube does not get damaged.
9. Plug the white drain interlock connector into the drain interlock plug on the
burner assembly as shown in the figure below.
To Install the Burner in the Spectrometer 245
2
3
1. Put the burner head back onto the burner chamber while pressing the safety
latch tab.
2. Position the magnetic strip on the burner head ring around the back of the
assembly - it should face the ignitor box. Release the safety latch. Be sure the
burner head is fully seated on the chamber. A gentle twisting and pushing may
be necessary. You will know that the burner head is fully seated because the
ignitor will swing over the burner.
4. Check the burner alignment. You should readjust the burner any time the
burner is aligned.
2
1
The drain hose and vessel must be checked periodically for wear and/or chemical
attack. The drain tubing should be clear with as few bends as possible. The drain
system should be replaced if it has deteriorated.
3. Pour about 250 mL deionized water slowly through the drain tube to
completely flush the chamber and the drain system.
1. Extinguish the flame, allow the burner head to cool, shut down the gases at
source, and bleed the gas supply lines.
3. Flush the drain system. See Cleaning (or Flushing) the Drain System on page
248.
250 Maintenance
9. Place the drain trap assembly back into the drain bottle and screw on the
retainer cap.
5. Disconnect the drain tubing from both the drain vessel and the drain outlet on
the burner end cap by loosening the clamps on each end of the tubing. Once the
clamps are loosened, the tubing should easily pull out.
6. Place the new piece of drain tubing (Part No. 02507987) next to the drain
interlock cable and carefully rewrap the spiral wrap around them both.
7. Place the drain clamp on the upper end of the new drain tubing. Then attach the
tubing to the drain outlet on the burner end cap. Tighten the clamp securely.
8. Place the other drain clamp on the lower end of the drain tubing. Then attach
the tubing to the drain trap switch assembly. Tighten the clamp securely.
9. Plug the drain interlock connector into the receptacle under the burner. Make
sure the interlock connector is plugged in all the way.
10. Go to Preparing the New Drain Tubing for Use on page 251.
Note This important procedure MUST be performed at this point of the drain
tube replacement process.
In order for the sample introduction system to drain smoothly, the internal surface
of the new drain tube needs to be prepared. This is easily accomplished when you:
1. Aspirate a 50/50 solution of water and methanol for approximately 5 minutes.
2. Replacement and preparation is now complete.
The same procedure should be followed for conditioning and maintaining the
organic drain assembly as outlined earlier in Drain System Maintenance on page
246. Except instead of using water to fill up the drain loop, the drain loop should
be filled up with the organic solvent, such as kerosene or xylene which is
commonly used in the organic solvent-based analysis.
Aqueous acidic wastes must never be mixed with the organic solvent-based
wastes. You should always use appropriate drain assembly for your analysis.
Options are available for other nebulizers using Kalrez O-rings and Tantalum
needle valve that are resistant to aqua regia, corrosive chemicals and organic
solvents commonly used in the elemental analysis. They should be maintained in a
similar manner as described below.
Nebulizer Removal and Reinstallation 253
Replacement
Complete End Cap
O-Ring Needle
Description Type Needle Assembly Assembly
Type Assembly
P/N P/N
P/N
The metal body nebulizer can be used for most solutions containing < 5 % acid. It
has excellent performance (precision and signal-to-noise ratio) and it is less prone
to clogging. The needle assembly and venturi can be changed to produce a
Platinum alloy and corrosion resistant version.
Removing the Metal Body Nebulizer
Remove the nebulizer using the following procedure:
2. Pull out the nebulizer locking clamp back and carefully but firmly, rotate the
metal side arm upwards 90 degrees to the unlock position.
256 Maintenance
3
4
3. Pull the nebulizer out from the nebulizer assembly end cap.
PinAAcle 900 Metal Body Nebulizer 257
2 7 10
3 8
5
1 4 6 9 11
Note Use Apiezon®-L grease. Make sure that no grease gets onto the tip of the capillary.
Use only the Apiezon grease supplied with the nebulizer. It is metal-free.
4. Inspect the all the o-rings. Replace any cracked or damaged o-rings. Apply a
small amount of Apiezon-L grease (Part No. 0300405) onto the o-rings (Part
No. 09902015). The nebulizer will then slide easily into the end cap.
5. Inspect the needle valve and replace if needed.
258 Maintenance
6. For information on cleaning the nebulizer, see Cleaning the Metal Body
Nebulizer on page 260.
Reinstalling the Metal Body Nebulizer
1. Carefully reinstall the needle assembly by taking the beveled edge of the
needle valve and insert it into the nebulizer in the 1 o’clock position to align
with the nebulizer gas port in the end cap. See the following figure.
1
2
4 3
2. Apply a small amount of Apiezon grease (Part No. 03030405) onto the o-rings
(Part No. 09902015) on the nebulizer body. The nebulizer will then slide easily
into the end cap.
3. Insert the re-assembled nebulizer into the end cap in the unlocked position.
5. Push the locking clamp all the way in to lock the nebulizer in place.
Note When the nebulizer is securely in place, the nebulizer interlock will be
depressed and you will be able to run the instrument. If the nebulizer
interlock is not depressed, the software will indicate that the safety
interlock is not satisfied. A checked off green box in the software will
indicate that the safety locks are engaged and the instrument will allow an
analysis to occur.
• The first (simplified) way should be used if the nebulizer capillary assembly is
not difficult to clear. This method involves simply passing one of the cleaning
wires, supplied, through the capillary assembly.
1. Aspirate pure solvent with the flame on until the absorbance reading is
satisfactory for a standard.
Use only the copper cleaning wire provided with the nebulizer to clean
Caution the capillary. Other wire may be burred and can damage the nebulizer.
Wear protective gloves when you remove the nebulizer from the end cap
! if you were analyzing toxic samples.
Warning Avertissement: Si vous avez analysé des échantillons toxiques, portez
des gants de protection lorsque vous retirez le nébuliseur de l'embout.
1. Turn off the spectrometer and turn off all gas supplies.
PinAAcle 900 Metal Body Nebulizer 261
2. Lift the end-cap spring clamp and gently pull the nebulizer out of the burner
end cap.
3. After you have taken the nebulizer apart, clean the components as follows:
5. Clean the nebulizer body and any other parts that appear dirty in a mild
laboratory detergent solution, or a solvent such as isopropanol, preferably in an
ultrasonic bath.
6. Rinse all the cleaned components thoroughly with deionized water. If the
venturi or the tip of the needle assembly looks worn, than that part should be
replaced.
7. Inspect the all o-rings on the nebulizer body and clean them if necessary in
mild laboratory detergent solution, followed by a thorough rinsing with
deionized water. If they look damaged, replace them.
1. Ignite the flame. Refer to the procedure for igniting the flame in Igniting the
Flame on page 195.
3. Use the Align Burner Wizard in the Flame Control Window to optimize the
burner position. After the flame is turned on, autozero on a blank. Then aspirate
a standard and make sure the solution is being aspirated by the nebulizer so
262 Maintenance
there will be an absorbance with which the horizontal and rotational positions
can be optimized. If necessary, adjust the burner height.
4. While aspirating the standard, turn the nebulizer locking ring clockwise until
it is free of the nebulizer adjustment nut.
5. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut counterclockwise until bubbles begin
to appear at the end of the needle assembly tube in the sample solution.
6. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut clockwise until the absorbance goes
to a maximum and then begins to decrease. Go back to the maximum
position.
7. Lock the nebulizer adjustment nut in its current (optimum) position by turning
the nebulizer locking ring counter-clockwise while carefully holding the
nebulizer adjustment nut.
Caution When an organic solvent is aspirated, the flame will become richer. The
uptake rate should be reduced to obtain a moderately lean flame. The
organic solvent is a fuel and it will act as a fuel. If needed, the fuel flow
can also be reduced while the solvent is being aspirated. The fuel flow
must be increased before the sample capillary is removed from the solvent
for any length of time, or the flame will be too lean, which will cause a
flashback.
PinAAcle 900 Metal Body Nebulizer 263
Depending on the type of organic solvent aspirated, reducing the uptake rate to 1-
3 mL/min, will minimize how rich the flame will become. This leaner flame
typically provides improved precision, particularly when aspirating a commonly
used solvent such as xylene.
The organic solvent is also a fuel and can act as a fuel just as acetylene.
To adjust the nebulizer uptake rate, unlock the nebulizer locking nut and rotate the
nebulizer adjustment nut until you locate a position which provides reduced sample
uptake. Then lock the nebulizer locking nut.
The surfactant solution will encourage constant drainage, which is required for
obtaining optimum burner system performance.
The metal body nebulizer can be used for most solutions containing < 5 % acid. It
has excellent performance (precision and signal-to-noise ratio) and it is less prone
to clogging. The needle assembly and venturi can be changed to produce a
Platinum alloy and corrosion resistant version.
2. Pull out the nebulizer locking clamp back and carefully but firmly, rotate the
metal body side arm upwards 90 degrees to the unlock position.
Metal Body Nebulizer with Organic Solvent Resistant O-Rings 265
3. Pull the nebulizer out from the nebulizer assembly end cap.
1 7
3 4 5 6 8 9 11
2
10
The o-ring (Part No. 09200274) that is not in this figure seals the nebulizer to the
end cap.
Note Use Apiezon®-L grease. Make sure that no grease gets onto the tip of the
capillary. Use only the Apiezon grease supplied with the nebulizer. It is
metal-free.
Metal Body Nebulizer with Organic Solvent Resistant O-Rings 267
4. Inspect all the o-rings. Replace any cracked or damaged o-rings. Apply a small
amount of Apiezon grease (Part No. 0300405) onto the o-rings (Part No.
09902015). The nebulizer will then slide easily into the end cap.
6. For information on cleaning the nebulizer see Cleaning the Metal Body
Nebulizer with Organic Solvent Resistant O-Rings on page 269.
1. Carefully reinstall the needle assembly by taking the beveled edge of the
needle assembly and insert it into the nebulizer in the 1 o'clock position to align
with the nebulizer gas port in the end cap. See the following figure.
268 Maintenance
4
3
2. Apply a small amount of Apiezon grease (Part No. 0300405) onto the o-rings.
The nebulizer will then slide easily into the end cap and seal better.
3. Insert the re-assembled nebulizer into the end cap in the unlocked position.
Metal Body Nebulizer with Organic Solvent Resistant O-Rings 269
5. Push the locking clamp all the way in to lock the nebulizer in place.
Note When the nebulizer is securely in place, the nebulizer interlock will be
depressed and you will be able to run the instrument. If the nebulizer
interlock is not depressed, the software will indicate that the safety
interlock is not satisfied. A checked off green box in the software will
indicate that the safety locks are engaged and the instrument will allow an
analysis to occur.
1. Aspirate pure solvent with the flame on until the absorbance reading is
satisfactory for a standard.
Caution Use only the copper cleaning wire provided with the nebulizer to clean the
capillary. Other wire may be burred and can damage the nebulizer.
Wear protective gloves when you remove the nebulizer from the end cap
! if you were analyzing toxic samples.
Warning Avertissement: Si vous avez analysé des échantillons toxiques, portez
des gants de protection lorsque vous retirez le nébuliseur de l'embout.
1. Turn off the spectrometer and turn off all gas supplies.
2. Push the end-cap spring clamp and rotate the nebulizer counter clockwise to
unlock and gently pull the nebulizer out of the burner end cap.
3. After you have taken the nebulizer apart, clean the components as follows:
5. Clean the nebulizer body and any other parts that appear dirty in a mild
laboratory detergent solution, or a solvent such as isopropanol, preferably in an
ultrasonic bath.
6. Rinse all the cleaned components thoroughly with deionized water. If the
venturi or the tip of the needle assembly looks worn, then that part should be
replaced.
7. Inspect the all o-rings on the nebulizer body and clean them if necessary in
mild laboratory detergent solution, followed by a thorough rinsing with
deionized water followed by isopropanol and dry. If they look damaged,
replace them.
1. Ignite the flame. Refer to the procedure for igniting the flame in Igniting the
Flame on page 195.
3. Use the Align Burner Wizard in the Flame Control Window to optimize the
burner position. After the flame is turned on, autozero on a blank. Then aspirate
a standard and make sure the solution is being aspirated by the nebulizer so
there will be an absorbance with which the horizontal and rotational positions
can be optimized. If necessary, adjust the burner height.
4. The height for the air-acetylene flame is not as critical as in the nitrous oxide-
acetylene flame where the sensitivity can vary a lot.
5. While aspirating the standard, turn the nebulizer locking ring clockwise until
it is free of the nebulizer adjustment nut.
272 Maintenance
6. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut counterclockwise until bubbles begin
to appear at the end of the needle assembly tube in the sample solution.
7. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut clockwise until the absorbance goes
to a maximum and then begins to decrease. Go back to the maximum position.
8. Lock the nebulizer adjustment nut in its current (optimum) position by turning
the nebulizer locking ring counter-clockwise while carefully holding the
nebulizer adjustment nut.
Caution When an organic solvent is aspirated, the flame will become richer. The
uptake rate should be reduced to obtain a moderately lean flame. The
organic solvent is a fuel and it will act as a fuel. If needed, the fuel flow
can also be reduced while the solvent is being aspirated. The fuel flow
must be increased before the sample capillary is removed from the solvent
for any length of time, or the flame will be too lean, which will cause a
flashback.
Depending on the type of organic solvent aspirated, reducing the uptake rate to 1-
3 mL/min, will minimize how rich the flame will become. This leaner flame
typically provides improved precision, particularly when aspirating a commonly
used solvent such as xylene.
The organic solvent is also a fuel and can act as a fuel just as acetylene.
To adjust the nebulizer uptake rate, unlock the nebulizer locking nut and rotate the
nebulizer adjustment nut until you locate a position which provides reduced sample
uptake. Then lock the nebulizer locking nut.
Note If you are running an aqua regia solution, you will need to use a tantalum
needle assembly kit (Part No. N3160136) with this nebulizer.
2 1
3
4
6
7
5
8
9
4. Wiggle the nebulizer out from the nebulizer assembly end cap.
276 Maintenance
5. The nebulizer assembly end cap is secured to the burner chamber by the levers
located on each side. Pull both levers back to remove the nebulizer assembly
end cap from the burner chamber.
6. Inspect the o-rings in the nebulizer assembly end cap. Replace any cracked or
damaged o-rings.
1
2 4
5
3
7 4
6 5
8 3 2
Note Use Apiezon®-L grease. Make sure that no grease gets onto the tip of the
capillary. Use only the Apiezon grease supplied with the nebulizer. It is
metal-free.
Note Located on the spring are two o-rings, one larger and one very small one.
The small o-ring can be lost very easily if the Apiezon®-L grease is not
applied on the needle valve.
8. Inspect all the o-rings. Replace any cracked or damaged o-rings. Apply a small
amount of Apiezon grease (Part No. 0300405) onto the o-rings (Part No.
09902015). The nebulizer will then slide easily into the end cap.
10. For information on cleaning the nebulizer see Cleaning the High Sensitivity
Plastic Nebulizer on page 279.
Note If not already done, inspect the tiny o-ring on the capillary assembly for
damage and replace them if necessary. Lightly lubricate the surface of the
o-rings with a minimum of Apiezon grease. Make sure that no grease gets
onto the tip of the capillary.
1. Slide the spring back onto the needle assembly (if it was removed).
3. Line up the alignment key with the keyway in the nebulizer body.
4. Push the needle assembly in until it bottoms out in the nebulizer body.
High Sensitivity Plastic Nebulizer 279
5. If you inserted the needle assembly correctly, it should move freely in and out
of the nebulizer body. If it does not, remove and reinstall, paying particular
attention to the alignment key.
7. Refit the spacer (if applicable) and the fragile impact bead onto the plastic
nebulizer.
8. Reattach the nebulizer sample tube to the nebulizer by screwing the connector
into the nebulizer body.
Note When the nebulizer is securely in place, the nebulizer interlock will be
depressed and you will be able to run the instrument. If the nebulizer
interlock is not depressed, the software will indicate that the safety lock is
not satisfied.
A checked off green box in the software will indicate that the safety locks
are engaged and the instrument can be run.
• The first (simplified) way should be used if the blockage is not difficult to
clear. This method involves simply passing one of the cleaning wires,
supplied, through the sample capillary tubing and the needle assembly,
while they are still attached to the nebulizer body.
• The second procedure requires removing the needle assembly from the
nebulizer body before inserting the cleaning wire. This procedure must be
performed if you have no success with the first method.
280 Maintenance
Note It may take several attempts to pass the wire through the nebulizer.
2. Take one of the cleaning wires supplied, and then push it through the needle
assembly holder from its wider (open) end.
3. Repeat step 2 several times. Then replace the impact bead and sample tubing.
4. Run several standards to determine if the needle assembly holder had been
cleared. If it has been cleared, proceed with normal spectrometer operation:
otherwise, see the next procedure.
Wear protective gloves when you remove the nebulizer from the end cap
! if you were analyzing toxic samples.
Warning Avertissement : Si vous avez analysé des échantillons toxiques, portez
des gants de protection lorsque vous retirez le nébuliseur de l'embout.
Caution Make sure that the flame is turned off before proceeding.
Attention Veillez à ce que la flamme soit éteinte avant de continuer.
1. Pull back the locking ring that secures the nebulizer in place.
High Sensitivity Plastic Nebulizer 281
2. Rotate the nebulizer body counter clockwise so the locking arms are not in the
locked position. Gently pull the nebulizer out of the burner end cap.
3. Remove the impact bead and if using the impact bead spacer, remove the
spacer as well. Handle with care. (See the instructions on Removing and
Replacing the Nebulizer's Impact Bead on page 281.)
5. Refer to Figure 6-31. on page 277. Loosen and remove the adjustment nut.
Cleaning
Note It may take several attempts to pass the wire through the nebulizer.
1. While holding the needle assembly in one hand, take one of the cleaning wires
supplied.
2. Push it through the needle assembly from its wider (open) end.
3. If needed, the needle assembly can be cleaned with a detergent solution or mild
solvent. An ultrasonic bath can also be used.
The bead structure mounts directly on the nebulizer's body assembly, see the
following figure.
282 Maintenance
1 3
2. Then rotate it, holding only the base, approximately 1/8 turn until it reaches a
stop.
High Sensitivity Plastic Nebulizer 283
The high sensitivity plastic nebulizer assembly can be used with or without the
spacer when using the 10-cm burner head. Maximum sensitivity for Air-Acetylene
elements can be achieved without the use of the spacer.
The spacer is recommended for all nitrous oxide/acetylene elements, and for air/
acetylene elements that are flame sensitive, such as calcium, and chromium. When
analyzing some complex sample matrices, it may be desirable to add the spacer to
reduce chemical interferences. This nebulizer's sensitivity and linearity will be
similar to the metal body nebulizer when the spacer is installed.
2. Carefully remove the impact bead by rotating it 1/8 turn and then pull the
impact bead off.
3. Place the spacer onto the back of the nebulizer and replace the impact bead.
1. Ignite the flame. Refer to the procedure for igniting the flame in Igniting the
Flame on page 195.
3. Use the Align Burner Wizard in the Flame Control Window to optimize the
burner position. After the flame is turned on, autozero on a blank. Then aspirate
a standard and make sure the solution is being aspirated by the nebulizer so
there will be an absorbance with which the horizontal and rotational positions
can be optimized. If necessary, adjust the burner height.
4. The height for the air-acetylene flame is not as critical as in the nitrous oxide-
acetylene flame where the sensitivity can vary a lot.
5. While aspirating the standard, turn the nebulizer locking ring clockwise until
it is free of the nebulizer adjustment nut.
6. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut counterclockwise until bubbles begin
to appear at the end of the needle assembly tube in the sample solution.
7. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut clockwise until the absorbance goes
to a maximum and then begins to decrease. Go back to the maximum position.
8. Lock the nebulizer adjustment nut in its current (optimum) position by turning
the nebulizer locking ring counter-clockwise while carefully holding the
nebulizer adjustment nut.
Caution When an organic solvent is aspirated, the flame will become richer. The
uptake rate should be reduced to obtain a moderately lean flame. If
needed, the fuel flow can also be reduced while the solvent is being
aspirated. The fuel flow must be increased before the sample tubing is
removed from the solvent for any length of time, or the flame will be too
lean, which will cause a flashback.
Depending on the type of organic solvent aspirated, reducing the uptake rate to 1-
3 mL/min, will minimize how rich the flame will become. This leaner flame
typically provides improved precision, particularly when aspirating a commonly
used solvent such as xylene.
To adjust the nebulizer uptake rate, unlock the nebulizer locking ring and rotate the
nebulizer adjustment nut until you locate a position which provides reduced sample
uptake. Then lock the nebulizer locking ring.
Also, the nebulizer is only a part of the overall burner system. For optimum burner-
system performance, it is important to periodically clean the nebulizer, burner
chamber, burner hed, and the end cap.
The surfactant solution will encourage constant drainage, which is required for
obtaining optimum burner system performance.
When using the PinAAcle 900 Series high sensitivity plastic nebulizer, the impact
bead may have to be replaced. Also, to avoid damage to the impact bead, the bead
should be removed when cleaning the needle assembly. Steps for removing and
replacing the bead are included in this instruction document.
Note If you are running an aqua regia solution, you will need to use a tantalum
needle assembly kit (Part No. N3160137) with this nebulizer.
2 1
3
4
6
7
5 8
9
4. Wiggle the nebulizer out from the nebulizer assembly end cap.
High Sensitivity Plastic Nebulizer with Chemical Resistant O-Rings 289
5. The nebulizer assembly end cap is secured to the burner chamber by the levers
located on each side. Pull both levers back to remove the nebulizer assembly
end cap from the burner chamber.
6. Inspect the o-rings in the nebulizer assembly end cap. Replace any cracked or
damaged o-rings.
1
2 4
5
3
6
9
7
5
3
1
Note Use Apiezon®-L grease. Make sure that no grease gets onto the tip of the
needle assembly. Use only the Apiezon grease supplied with the nebulizer.
It is metal-free.
1. Apply a small amount of Apiezon grease onto the o-rings. The nebulizer will
then slide easily into the end cap when you perform steps 2 and 3, below.
2. Insert the nebulizer into the end cap in the unlocked position.
Caution Use care installing the nebulizer as the impact bead is quite fragile.
Faites attention lorsque vous installez le nébuliseur car la bille d'impact est
Attention
relativement fragile.
Note When the nebulizer is securely in place, the nebulizer interlock will be
depressed and you will be able to run the instrument. If the nebulizer
interlock is not depressed, the software will indicate that the safety
interlock is not satisfied. A checked off green box in the software will
indicate that the safety locks are engaged and the instrument will allow an
analysis to occur.
• The first (simplified) way should be used if the blockage is not difficult to
clear. This method involves simply passing one of the cleaning wires,
supplied, through the sample capillary tubing and the needle assembly,
while they are still attached to the nebulizer body.
• The second procedure requires removing the needle assembly from the
nebulizer body before inserting the cleaning wire. This procedure must be
performed if you have no success with the first method.
Note It may take several attempts to pass the wire through the nebulizer.
2. Take one of the cleaning wires supplied, and then push it through the needle
assembly holder from its wider (open) end.
3. Repeat step 2 several times. Then replace the impact bead and sample tubing.
4. Run several standards to determine if the needle assembly holder had been
cleared. If it has been cleared, proceed with normal spectrometer operation:
otherwise, see the next procedure.
High Sensitivity Plastic Nebulizer with Chemical Resistant O-Rings 293
Wear protective gloves when you remove the nebulizer from the end cap
! if you were analyzing toxic samples.
Warning Avertissement: Si vous avez analysé des échantillons toxiques, portez
des gants de protection lorsque vous retirez le nébuliseur de l'embout.
Caution Make sure that the flame is turned off before proceeding.
Attention Veillez à ce que la flamme soit éteinte avant de continuer.
1. Pull back the locking ring that secures the nebulizer in place.
2. Rotate the nebulizer body counter clockwise so the locking arms are not in the
locked position. Gently pull the nebulizer out of the burner end cap.
3. Remove the impact bead and if using the impact bead spacer, remove the
spacer as well. Handle with care. (See the instructions on Removing and
Replacing the Nebulizer's Impact Bead on page 294.)
4. Unscrew the sample tubing.
5. Refer to Figure 6-35. on page 290. Loosen and remove the adjustment nut.
6. Remove the needle assembly from the nebulizer body assembly.
Cleaning
Note It may take several attempts to pass the wire through the nebulizer.
1. While holding the needle assembly in one hand, take one of the cleaning wires
supplied.
2. Push it through the needle assembly from its wider (open) end.
294 Maintenance
3. If needed, the needle assembly can be cleaned with a detergent solution or mild
solvent. An ultrasonic bath can also be used
The bead structure mounts directly on the nebulizer's body assembly, see the
following figure.
1
3
4
5
2
2. Then rotate it, holding only the base, approximately 1/8 turn until it reaches a
stop.
The high sensitivity plastic nebulizer assembly can be used with or without the
spacer when using the 10-cm burner head. Maximum sensitivity for Air-Acetylene
elements can be achieved without the use of the spacer.
The spacer is recommended for all nitrous oxide/acetylene elements, and for air/
acetylene elements that are flame sensitive, such as calcium, and chromium. When
analyzing some complex sample matrices, it may be desirable to add the spacer to
reduce chemical interferences. This nebulizer's sensitivity and linearity will be
similar to the metal body nebulizer when the spacer is installed.
2. Carefully remove the impact bead by rotating it 1/8 turn and then pull the
impact bead off.
3. Place the spacer onto the back of the nebulizer and replace the impact bead.
Note If not already done, inspect all the o-rings on the needle assembly and the
body of the nebulizer for damage and replace them if necessary. Lightly
lubricate the surface of the o-rings with a minimum of supplied Apiezon®-
L grease. Do not use Apiezon grease of unknown source and quality as it
may contain trace metals. Make sure that no grease gets onto the tip of the
needle assembly.
1. Slide the spring back onto the needle assembly (if it was removed).
3. Line up the alignment key with the keyway in the nebulizer body.
4. Push the needle assembly in until it bottoms out in the nebulizer body.
5. If you inserted the needle assembly correctly, it should move freely in and out
of the nebulizer body. If it does not, remove and reinstall, paying particular
attention to the alignment key.
7. Refit the spacer (if applicable) and the fragile impact bead onto the plastic
nebulizer.
8. Reattach the nebulizer sample tube to the nebulizer by screwing the connector
into the nebulizer body.
Note When the nebulizer is securely in place, the nebulizer interlock will be
depressed and you will be able to run the instrument. If the nebulizer
interlock is not depressed, the software will indicate that the safety lock is
not satisfied.
A checked off the green box in the software will indicate that the safety locks are
engaged and the instrument can be run.
Reassembling the Nebulizer 297
1. Ignite the flame. Refer to the procedure for igniting the flame in Igniting the
Flame on page 195.
3. Use the Align Burner wizard in the Flame Control window to optimize the
burner position. After the flame is turned on, autozero on a blank. Then aspirate
a standard and make sure the solution is being aspirated by the nebulizer so
there will be an absorbance with which the horizontal and rotational positions
can be optimized. If necessary, adjust the burner height.
4. The height for the air-acetylene flame is not as critical as in the nitrous oxide-
acetylene flame where the sensitivity can vary a lot.
5. While aspirating the standard, turn the nebulizer locking ring clockwise until
it is free of the nebulizer adjustment nut.
6. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut counterclockwise until bubbles begin
to appear at the end of the needle assembly tube in the sample solution.
7. Slowly turn the nebulizer adjustment nut clockwise until the absorbance goes
to a maximum and then begins to decrease. Go back to the maximum position.
8. Lock the nebulizer adjustment nut in its current (optimum) position by turning
the nebulizer locking ring counter-clockwise while carefully holding the
nebulizer adjustment nut.
Caution When an organic solvent is aspirated, the flame will become richer. The
uptake rate should be reduced to obtain a moderately lean flame. If needed,
the fuel flow can also be reduced while the solvent is being aspirated. The
fuel flow must be increased before the sample tubing is removed from the
solvent for any length of time, or the flame will be too lean, which will
cause a flashback.
Depending on the type of organic solvent aspirated, reducing the uptake rate to 1-
3 mL/min, will minimize how rich the flame will become. This leaner flame
typically provides improved precision, particularly when aspirating a commonly
used solvent such as xylene.
To adjust the nebulizer uptake rate, unlock the nebulizer locking ring and rotate the
nebulizer adjustment nut until you locate a position which provides reduced sample
uptake. Then lock the nebulizer locking ring.
Also, the nebulizer is only a part of the overall burner system. For optimum burner-
system performance, it is important to periodically clean the nebulizer, burner
chamber, burner head, and the end cap.
The surfactant solution will encourage constant drainage, which is required for
obtaining optimum burner system performance.
When using the PinAAcle 900 Series high sensitivity plastic nebulizer, the impact
bead may have to be replaced. Also, to avoid damage to the impact bead, the bead
should be removed when cleaning the needle assembly. Steps for removing and
replacing the bead are included in this instruction document.
2. Inspect the large o-ring located in the neck of the burner chamber. Carefully
lever the o-ring out of the neck of the burner chamber using a plastic pipette tip
or the like.
Note Never use sharp or pointed tools to remove the o-ring. Examine the o-ring.
If it is damaged, replace it.
3. Place the large o-ring back into the neck of the burner chamber and press it
down with your finger.
4. Inspect the four smaller o-rings and the large o-ring located in the burner end
cap. Very carefully pry them out and inspect the o-rings for nicks, cuts and
deterioration . Replace the o-rings as needed.
6. Gently place the o-rings back into the end cap and then press them into place
with your finger.
Nebulizer O-Rings
There are o-rings on the nebulizer. Always carefully check the condition of these
o-rings whenever you take the nebulizer apart.
• Depressurize both the fuel and oxidant gas hoses at the end of the working day
or if you are not going to use the instrument for an extended period. Close the
cylinder valves to avoid the possibility of gas hoses being subjected to the full
cylinder pressure in the event that a pressure regulator should fail.
• Always store and use acetylene cylinders vertically, rather than horizontally,
to prevent liquid acetone from reaching the cylinder valve.
302 Maintenance
• The practice of "cracking the valve" of an acetylene tank (that is, opening the
valve slightly for a very short period previous to attaching the regulator) is not
recommended. While such an action will clear the valve opening of dust or dirt
particles and may remove acetone from the cylinder valve, it is a potentially
hazardous practice and one which should never be attempted in the presence of
an open flame, sparks or other possible sources of ignition.
Lamp Life
Both hollow cathode and electrodeless discharge lamps have a finite lifetime.
Electrodeless discharge lamps typically last longer than hollow cathode lamps for
the same element. If, while aligning a lamp, you are not able to obtain a satisfactory
energy value, this may indicate that the lamp is starting to deteriorate. As a hollow
cathode lamp reaches the end of its useful life, the current on the lamp may be
increased up to the maximum current recommended on the label. Once the
intensity of a lamp begins to deteriorate, it should be replaced. The Lumina lamps
comes with an electronic means of monitoring its usage, also in mA-Hours, with
an in-built EEPROM, that can be addressed and read from the PinAAcle AA.
PerkinElmer lamps have a warranty for 5000 mA-hour or six months whichever
comes earlier.
Lamp Troubleshooting
Refer to Chapter 8, Troubleshooting, in this manual for lamp troubleshooting
information.
Replacing the Lamps 303
Caution To avoid damages to the instrument optics, do not insert uncoded non-
Lumina lamps, such as Intensitron lamps, too far into the lamp holder.
Removing lamps
Danger HOT SURFACE
The lamp is hot when it is in operation.
! Make sure that the lamp is completely cooled down when you remove
Na, Li and K lamps, since the cathode will be in the molten form when it
Warning is in use and will be hot and could cause a burn.
1. Do not unplug and remove lamps while they are switched on.
2. On the Instrument tab click on the Lamp Setup icon to display the Lamp
Setup page.
3. In the Lamp Setup window, go to the On/Off column and click on each green
button to turn the lamp off. The button will change color from green to dark
gray.
4. Make sure that the lamp is switched off before you remove it.
6. Unplug and remove the lamp. For EDLs, remove the coding plug as well.
2. The access to the D2 lamp compartment cover is located on the right side of the
instrument. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the cover
in place. Remove the cover.
2
1
Item Description
1 D2 lamp compartment cover
2 Phillips screw
Caution As you slide out the D2 lamp assembly take care not to damage the cable.
3
2
3 Bracket
308 Maintenance
Caution Wear contaminant-free gloves when handling the new lamp to prevent
getting fingerprints on the viewing area of the lamp, as this will decrease
the UV performance and damage the lamp.
Attention Lorsque vous manipulez la nouvelle lampe, portez des gants exempts de
contaminants afin de ne pas laisser de traces de doigts sur sa zone de vision
car cela affecterait les performances UV et endommagerait la lampe.
5. Replace the assembly with a new bracket/ bulb set by sliding the cutout on the
metal bracket over the alignment pin on the instrument.
Removing and Replacing the Deuterium Arc Background Corrector Lamp 309
1 2
Item Description
1 D2 lamp
2 Cutout
3 Alignment pin
2. Carefully slide the deuterium lamp assembly down on to the alignment pin on
the D2 lamp housing.
4. Return the screw to the D2 lamp compartment cover and tighten down the
cover.
Reassembly is complete. Next you may have to align the deuterium lamp.
4. In the Lamp Setup window for Cu and select Background Corrector button.
Removing and Replacing the Deuterium Arc Background Corrector Lamp 311
5. While watching the computer screen, use a 2 mm Allen key to adjust the
vertical and horizontal alignment screws located on the rear of the deuterium
lamp compartment, until you achieve the maximum energy counts. See the
following figure.
312 Maintenance
After aligning the deuterium lamp you need to reset the hours.
4. Swing the support lever to the left side. Tilt the front contact housing
downward. See the following figure.
314 Maintenance
2
1
5. The graphite tube is now visible in the rear contact. Use the insertion/removal
tool provided to remove the graphite tube. Do not touch the tube with bare
fingers.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 315
Note Do not touch the graphite tube or contacts with your fingers. Wear
contaminant-free gloves when changing the contact cylinders and graphite
tube.
2
1
• The side of the tube to which the platform is attached faces the left of the
furnace. The platform is then higher toward the rear.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 317
2. Use the insertion/removal tool provided to insert the graphite tube into the rear
contact.
318 Maintenance
3. Carefully tilt the front contact housing up into the closed position (1).
4. Swing the support lever underneath the front contact housing (2).
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 319
2 1
6. Carefully swivel the furnace autosampler back into place and secure it with the
large securing knobs.
Note Do not touch the graphite tube or contacts with your fingers. Wear
contaminant-free gloves when changing the contact cylinders and graphite
tube.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 321
1
4
4
3
You can sometimes remove contamination from the graphite tube by heating the
tube. Heat the graphite tube manually at 2500 °C for approximately 5 seconds
(see Manually Heating the Graphite Tube on page 347).
You may need several cycles to remove this element. Discard the tube for this
element, as this element is the contaminant. This tube may still be clean for other
elements and could still be used for other elements. But if there are stubborn
deposits in the tube that you cannot remove, discard the tube and use a new one.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 323
Avertissement:
Températures élevées. Risque de brûlures
Le four graphite peut générer des températures très élevées. Ne touchez
aucune pièce du four, et surtout pas les composants en graphite, avant
qu'ils n'aient refroidi et ne soient repassés à la température ambiante.
1. Open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see Removing the Graphite
Tube on page 313).
2. Use a dry, clean swab to clean the inside of the contacts, especially around the
apertures where the radiation beam enters and exits.
Remove any particles from inside the contacts using clean, dry compressed
air.
Be careful not to scratch the inner surfaces of the contacts.
If the surfaces of the contacts are pitted or cracked, remove the contacts and
install new ones (see Changing the Contact Cylinders on page 323).
3. Heat out the graphite tube to remove contamination (see Manually Heating the
Graphite Tube on page 347).
Avertissement:
Températures élevées. Risque de brûlures
Le four graphite peut générer des températures très élevées. Ne touchez
aucune pièce du four, et surtout pas les composants en graphite, avant
qu'ils n'aient refroidi et ne soient repassés à la température ambiante.
Note It is recommended that you visually inspect the contact cylinders for wear
and tear and also for corrosion on the surfaces of the cylinders. If there is
visible wear and corrosion on the surfaces, then the contacts should be
replaced, since this can impact the quality of the analytical results.
Unexplainable spikes on the peak profile of the analysis are also an
indication that the contact cylinder is wearing off and may need to be
replaced. The precision of the analysis degrades once these components
start to show signs of wear and tear.
Note If the graphite tube breaks inside the contact cylinder, you must clean the
contact cylinder/furnace housing thoroughly and may have to replace the
contact cylinder.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 325
2. In the Furnace Control window click Open/Close and remove the graphite
tube using the tube insertion/removal tool, and then tilt the furnace forward .
3. Switch off the spectrometer at the operational on/off switch at the front of the
instrument.
Avertissement:
Températures élevées. Risque de brûlures
Le four graphite peut générer des températures très élevées. Ne touchez
aucune pièce du four, et surtout pas les composants en graphite, avant
qu'ils n'aient refroidi et ne soient repassés à la température ambiante.
You must open the furnace to install or change the graphite tube, and also to clean
inside the graphite contacts.
1. Extinguish the flame, turn off the gases, and switch off the instrument. Let the
burner head cool. Open the Sample Introduction compartment door.
326 Maintenance
2. Loosen the furnace locking screw all the way. See the figure Tilting the
Graphite Furnace Back Into Position on page 350.
3. Grasp the graphite furnace with both hands and carefully tilt it forward.
Support its weight until it reaches the end stop. Never allow the graphite
furnace to swing down with force. This will damage the furnace assembly and
the base of the instrument.
Note This procedure is easier to do if the furnace is in the forward position. See
Tilting the Graphite Furnace Forward on page 325.
1. From the tools provided, you require the contact removal tool, the hex-driver,
and the Torx driver (star-shaped cross-section).
2. Loosen the two socket-head screws that secure the pressure cylinder to the
front contact housing.
3. Carefully pull the pressure cylinder out of the front contact housing. Make sure
that you do not damage the O-ring. Put the pressure cylinder and screws in a
safe place.
328 Maintenance
4. Attach the removal tool to the front contact housing with the two captive
screws on the tool.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 329
5. Use the hex-driver to screw the bolt on the removal tool into the tool to push
out the contact.
330 Maintenance
6. Unscrew the two screws that secure the tool to the contact housing and remove
the tool.
2. From the tools provided, you require the contact removal tool, the short
posidriver (P2 size), and the Torx driver (star-shaped cross-section T20 size).
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 331
Note Make sure that you do not bend or twist the temperature sensor connector.
Also, do not damage the insulating washers.
332 Maintenance
1
4
3 5
3. Using the Torx driver, unscrew the two captive socket-head screws that secure
the optical sensor to the rear contact housing.
4. Carefully pull the optical sensor out of the rear contact housing. Make sure that
you do not damage the O-ring. Move the optical sensor to the side.
5. Use the posidrive to remove the screw that hold the temperature sensor in
place.
6. Attach the removal tool to the rear contact housing with the two captive screws
on the tool.
7. Use the hex-driver to screw the bolt on the removal tool into the tool to push
out the contact.
8. Unscrew the two screws that secure the tool to the contact housing and remove
the tool.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 335
Note Do not scratch the new contact and do not touch it directly. Wear
contaminant-free gloves when changing the contact cylinders and graphite
tube. Perspiration can contaminate the contact and cause poor analytical
results
Tilt the furnace forward. See Tilting the Graphite Furnace Forward on page 325.
1. Make sure that the contact housing is completely clean and free from particles.
If necessary, blow out any graphite particles from the contact housing with
clean, dry compressed air. Wear safety glasses when doing this.
• the long bolt, front contact guide, and threaded cylinder as shown below.
3. Move the swing arm, located below the furnace, out of the way. Carefully tilt
the graphite furnace forward and support it with one hand.
4. Slide the guide and the front contact onto the long bolt as shown.
336 Maintenance
4
1
2
3
5. Slid the bolt into the front contact housing such that the new contact sits in the
opening of the housing. Screw the threaded cylinder on to the bolt
6. Put the threaded cylinder into the opposite end of the contact housing and
screw the bolt into the cylinder until the contact is pressed up against the
housing.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 337
7. Tilt the graphite furnace back into its original position. Use the hex-driver to
screw the bolt into the threaded cylinder and push the contact into the contact
housing. Screw in the bolt until the rim of the contact is flush with the contact
housing.
Note There must be no gap between the rim of the contact and the housing.
Do not use excessive force to push the contact into the housing, otherwise
the contact may shatter.
If there is substantial resistance, check that the parts are aligned correctly.
338 Maintenance
8. Screw the bolt out of the threaded cylinder and carefully remove the tools. Do
not scratch the contact when you remove the tools.
9. Blow out any graphite particles from the contact housing with clean, dry
compressed air. Wear safety glasses when doing this.
10. Check the O-ring on the pressure cylinder; if it is damaged, fit a new one. See
Replacement Parts on page 384.
11. Push the pressure cylinder carefully into the front contact housing. Make sure
that you do not damage the O-ring.
12. Tighten the two screws to secure the pressure cylinder to the front contact
housing.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 339
Note Do not scratch the new contact and do not touch it directly. Wear
contaminant-free gloves when changing the contact cylinders and graphite
tube. Perspiration can contaminate the contact and cause poor analytical
results
1. Make sure that the contact housing is completely clean and free from particles.
If necessary, blow out any graphite particles from the contact housing with
clean, dry compressed air.
Wear safety glasses when doing this.
• the long bolt, rear contact guide, and threaded cylinder as shown below.
3. Move the swing arm, located below the furnace, out of the way. Carefully tilt
the graphite furnace forward and support it with one hand.
4. Slid the bolt into the rear contact housing such that the new contact sits in the
opening of the housing. Screw the threaded cylinder on to the bolt
2
3 4
5. Make sure that the graphite contact is correctly orientated, with the sample
injection hole at the top.
6. Put the threaded cylinder into the opposite end of the contact housing and
screw the bolt into the cylinder until the contact is pressed up against the
housing.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 341
1
2
4
7. Tilt the graphite furnace back into its original position. Use the hex-driver to
screw the bolt into the threaded cylinder and push the contact into the contact
housing.
Screw in the bolt until the contact is flush with the contact housing.
Note There must be no gap between the contact and the housing.
Do not use excessive force to push the contact into the housing, otherwise
the contact may shatter.
If there is substantial resistance, check that the parts are screwed in straight
and not at an angle.
342 Maintenance
8. Screw the long bolt out of the threaded cylinder and carefully remove the tools.
Note Do not scratch the new contact when you remove the tools.
9. Blow out any graphite particles from the contact housing with clean, dry
compressed air. Wear safety glasses when doing this.
10. Check the O-ring on the optical sensor; if it is damaged, fit a new one. See
Replacement Parts on page 384.
11. Push the optical sensor into the rear contact housing. Make sure that you do not
damage the O-ring.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 343
12. Tighten the two screws to secure the optical sensor to the rear contact housing.
2. Insert a graphite tube into the furnace, close the front contact housing, and
swing the support lever under the contact housing (see Inserting the Graphite
Tube on page 316).
344 Maintenance
3. Switch on the spectrometer at the operational on/off switch located at the front
of the instrument.
4. If you have installed a new graphite tube, see Conditioning the Graphite Tube
on page 345).
Note Every time you open the furnace, subsequently always heat it out manually
at 2500 °C for approximately 5 seconds.
Note It is recommended that you visually inspect the graphite tube and the
contact cylinders for wear and tear and also for corrosion on the surfaces
of the tube and cylinders. If there is visible wear and corrosion on the
surfaces, then the contacts and/or tube should be replaced, since this can
impact the quality of the analytical results. Unexplainable spikes on the
peak profile of the analysis is also an indication that the graphite tube or
the contact cylinder is wearing off and may need to be replaced. The
precision of the analysis degrades once these components start to show
signs of wear and tear.
Note If the graphite tube breaks inside the contact cylinder, you must clean the
contact cylinder/furnace housing thoroughly in addition to replacing the
contact cylinder.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 345
Contact Cycles
Use this value to show the number of times that the furnace has been used since the
contacts were changed.
Click on Reset to reset the value to zero when you install new graphite contacts.
Check the Display warning message when cycles exceed check box to have a
warning message displayed when an analysis is started and the contact cycles have
exceeded a user specified number. The warning message will not prohibit a user
from performing an analysis, but rather serves as a reminder to the user that the
contacts should be inspected and, if necessary, replaced.
Note Do not heat the graphite furnace for longer than about 10 s when the
temperature exceeds 2000 °C. Heating for longer periods will markedly
reduce the lifetime of the graphite tube.
2. In the Furnace Control window, click on the Cleanout Temp. entry field and
type the required temperature (e.g. 2500 °C).
3. Tilt the furnace forward (see Tilting the Graphite Furnace Back Into Position
on page 350).
4. Use the key provided to unscrew the left-hand and the right-hand windows
from the furnace.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900T/900Z 349
1 2 3
3. Blow any dust or particles off the surface of the window with clean dry air
before you start.
4. Clean the windows carefully with a tuft of cotton moistened with a dilute
solution of mild laboratory detergent.
Rinse the windows several times with deionized water.
If the windows are not clean after this procedure, clean them with a soft lint
free cloth moistened with spectroscopic grade alcohol.
Note To avoid scratching the windows, rub the surfaces of the windows as little
as possible. Discard scratched windows.
2. Tilt the furnace back into its original position and tighten the furnace locking
screw to lock the furnace into place (see Tilting the Graphite Furnace Back
Into Position on page 350).
2. Tighten the furnace locking screw to lock the furnace into place.
4. Switch on the instrument, turn on the gases and restore the flame.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900H 351
1. Take a graphite tube with integrated platform and insert it into the right-hand
graphite contact, so that the sample introduction hole lines up roughly with the
sample port in the graphite contact.
Note Make sure that the side of the tube to which the integrated platform is
attached is rear of the furnace.
2. Insert the alignment tool (provided) into the sample port while carefully
moving and turning the tube so that the tip of the alignment tool goes into the
sample introduction hole in the tube, and that the flat side of the alignment tool
is facing towards the left.
3. With the alignment tool still in position, activate the pressure that holds the
furnace closed:
In the Furnace Control window, click on Open/Close.
The furnace closes.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900H 353
1
2
3 4 6
5
5. If you have installed a new graphite tube, perform the procedure outlined in
Conditioning the graphite tube on page 361.
If you are reusing a previously conditioned graphite tube, heat manually at
2500 °C for 5 seconds to remove surface contamination.
6. Every time you open the furnace, subsequently always heat it out manually at
2500 °C for approximately 5 seconds.
7. Check alignment of the furnace (see Aligning the Graphite Furnace on page
207).
8. Check alignment of the furnace autosampler (see To Align the Autosampler
Tip in the Graphite Tube on page 159).
Note Do not touch the graphite tube or contacts with your fingers. Perspiration
can affect the tube lifetime and the analytical results by contaminating and
damaging the surface of the graphite.
If a graphite tube breaks inside the furnace you must remove all the
remnants and thoroughly clean the contacts.
356 Maintenance
You can sometimes remove contamination from the graphite tube by heating the
tube. Heat the graphite tube manually at 2500 °C for approximately 5 seconds.
If there are stubborn deposits in the tube that you cannot remove, discard the
tube and use a new one.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900H 357
1. Remove the furnace windows (see To remove the windows: on page 375).
2. Open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see Open the Furnace and
Remove the Graphite Tube on page 351).
3. Use a dry, clean swab to clean the contact surfaces of the graphite tube. If the
surfaces of the graphite tube are pitted or cracked, discard the graphite tube and
use a new one.
4. Use a dry, clean swab to clean the inside of the contacts, especially around the
apertures where the radiation beam enters and exits.
Remove any particles from inside the contacts using a small vacuum cleaner.
Be careful not to scratch the inner surfaces of the contacts.
If the surfaces of the contacts are pitted or cracked, remove the contacts and
install new ones (see Changing the graphite contacts on page 362).
5. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see Open the Furnace and
Remove the Graphite Tube on page 351).
6. Refit the windows (see To refit the windows: on page 377).
7. Condition the graphite tube (see Conditioning the graphite tube on page 361).
358 Maintenance
2 3
1
Note Do not handle graphite tubes with bare fingers. Perspiration from your
fingers can attack the pyrolytic coating.
Graphite Furnace Maintenance for the PinAAcle 900H 359
1. If required, open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see Open the
Furnace and Remove the Graphite Tube on page 351).
360 Maintenance
3. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see Open the Furnace and
Remove the Graphite Tube on page 351).
4. If you have installed a new graphite tube, perform the procedure outlined in
Conditioning the graphite tube on page 361.
If you are reusing a previously conditioned graphite tube, heat manually at
2500 °C for 5 seconds to remove surface contamination.
Note Every time you open the furnace, subsequently always heat it out manually
at 2500 °C for approximately 5 seconds.
Note When inserting the graphite tube into the furnace, make certain that the
tube end with the horizontal grooves is at the left. Otherwise sample will
be dispensed onto the wall of the tube and not into the cavity in the
platform.
L'vov platforms can only be inserted into the special graphite tubes with
horizontal grooves. These grooves have limited mechanical stability.
Repeated insertion and removal of integrated platforms causes abrasion, so
that ultimately the platforms will not seat correctly. You must then replace
the tube.
value is too high for this element, heat the tube manually at 2500 °C for 10
seconds and then repeat the ‘dry fire’.
Note Do not heat the graphite furnace for longer than about 10 seconds when
the temperature exceeds 2000 °C. Heating for longer periods will
markedly reduce the lifetime of the graphite tube.
2. In the Furnace Control window, click on the Cleanout Temp. entry field and
type the required temperature (e.g. 2400 °C).
3. Switch off the main power switch at the operational on/off on the left-hand side
panel.
4. Remove both furnace windows (see Checking and cleaning the furnace
windows on page 374).
6. Very carefully, using a small screwdriver, lever the graphite shield ring from
the left-hand contact.
2. Screw the traction nut with its long side toward the furnace block onto the free
end of the bolt. Position the traction nut so that the flat side on the rim passes
under the optical sensor.
3. Carefully turn the bolt clockwise with the ratchet wrench provided to draw in
the traction nut and thus push the graphite contact out of the furnace block.
2
3
4
1
2. Screw the traction nut with its long side toward the furnace block onto the free
end of the bolt.
Position the traction nut so that the flat side on the rim is facing up.
3. Carefully turn the bolt clockwise with the ratchet wrench provided to draw in
the traction nut and thus push the graphite contact out of the furnace block.
2
1
4
3
2. Pass the bolt from the internal side through the left-hand furnace block and out
through the window cavity.
3. Screw the traction nut with its short side toward the furnace block onto the free
end of the bolt.
Position the traction nut so that the flat side on the rim is facing up.
4. Carefully turn the bolt clockwise with the ratchet wrench provided to draw the
contact into the furnace block. Make certain that the contact is not tilted.
Note Draw the contact firmly into place, but do not apply excessive force
otherwise the contact may shatter.
2 3
4
1
2. Pass the bolt from the internal side through the right-hand furnace block and
out through the window cavity so that the long arm of the alignment gauge rests
against the furnace block.
3. Screw the traction nut with its short side toward the furnace block onto the free
end of the bolt. Position the traction nut so that the flat side on the rim passes
under the optical sensor.
4. Carefully turn the bolt clockwise with the ratchet wrench to draw the contact
into the furnace block.
Make certain that the contact is not tilted.
Note Draw the contact firmly into place, but do not apply excessive force
otherwise the contact may shatter..
5. Disassemble and remove the installation tool. Take care not to scratch or
damage the contact.
372 Maintenance
1 2
3
6. Slide the graphite shield ring with its large flat face toward the furnace block
over the left-hand contact.
2. Reconnect the normal gas tube to the inlet manifold and turn on the gas
supplies for the furnace. The furnace closes.
8. Check alignment of the furnace (see Aligning the Graphite Furnace on page
207).
9. Check alignment of the furnace autosampler (see To Align the Autosampler Tip
in the Graphite Tube on page 159).
2. Dismantle the window assemblies and remove the quartz windows carefully
from the mounts as follows:
1. Carefully pull the collar out of the mount.
2. Carefully push the window out of the mount with a plastic pipet tip.
378 Maintenance
1 2
3
3. Blow any dust or particles off the surface with clean dry air before you start to
clean a window.
4. Clean the windows carefully with a tuft of cotton moistened with a dilute
solution of mild laboratory detergent.
Rinse the windows several times with deionized water.
If the windows are not clean after this procedure, clean them with a soft lint
free cloth moistened with spectroscopic grade alcohol.
Note To avoid scratching the window, rub the surfaces of the windows as little
as possible. Discard scratched windows.
6. Refit the windows in the furnace (see To refit the windows: on page 377).
Autosampler external Wipe over the surfaces with a lint-free cloth moistened with a dilute solution of
surfaces laboratory detergent.
The autosampler surfaces are resistant to dilute acids and alkalis, and to a lesser
extent to strong acids and alkalis and organic solvents.
Complete rinsing Fill and flush the rinsing system before the start of every analysis run.
system Flush the rinsing system when you have finished an analysis run.
Valves The valves must function correctly to maintain the precision of the dispensed
volumes. If the precision of the analytical results deteriorates, this can be an
indication that a valve is not functioning correctly.
If a valve seizes or leaks, for example because the pump has been idle for a long
time, or because of particles lodged in the valve, or because of worn seals, you
can remove the valves to clean or change them.
Waste bottle Empty the autosampler waste bottle regularly. Never allow it to overflow or allow
the liquid to reach the end of the drain tube.
If the bottle contains hazardous, toxic, or flammable substances, dispose of the
waste properly, according to the local safety regulations.
380 Maintenance
Rinse bottle Make sure that the rinse bottle is always filled with clean, particle-free rinsing
liquid.
All tubes Make sure that all the tubes are clean and free from kinks.
Change any tubes that may be damaged or contaminated.
Pipette tip Make sure that the pipette tip is not damaged. If the tip is damaged you may get
pipetting errors during the analyses. Repair the tip or install a new pipette
assembly if necessary.
Pump heads Make sure that the pump heads are not loose. Tighten the pump head retaining
ring if necessary. Make sure that the pump head remains vertical, with the arrow
aligned vertically.
Do not remove the pump heads from the pumps.
3. If there are particles in the rinsing liquid they can lodge in the valves, causing
leaks and non-reproducible results.
Note Make certain there are no air bubbles in the rinsing system. Air bubbles can
lead to non-reproducible results.
6. If you want to use a different rinsing liquid to that already in the rinsing system,
rinse all traces of the previous liquid out of the rinsing system. Use a rinsing
liquid that is miscible with both the new and the old rinsing liquids.
You may have to use intermediate rinsing liquids.
For example, if you are changing from an acidic liquid to an organic solvent,
you could use:
• Deionized water,
• Isopropanol or other water-miscible solvent,
• Final organic solvent.
Valve Maintenance
The autosampler pumps dispense microliter volumes of liquid with high precision.
To maintain this high precision it is essential that the valves function correctly. If
there is a deterioration in the precision of the analytical results, and other sources
of error can be excluded, this is an indication that a valve may not be functioning
correctly.
Only the rinse pump contains valves. The sample pump contains inserts that are a
similar shape to the rinse pump outlet valve.
Routine Maintenance
The valves require little routine maintenance except to flush them thoroughly
before and after every analysis series.
2. Flush the system well with dilute nitric acid (this step is especially important
for elements with a tendency to carryover).
2. In this dialog, click on Set the depth of the autosampler tip in the sampling
cup. Then select Use the rinse location. The pipet tip rises to a position
directly above the rinsing port.
5. The rinsing pump performs three cycles. During the suction phase of each
cycle (pump plunger moves backward) a droplet of rinsing liquid hangs on the
end of the pipet tip; this droplet must remain stationary.
384 Maintenance
At the end of a rinse cycle the sample pump draws the rinsing liquid droplet
back into the pipet tip.
2. Remove the rinse feed tube briefly from the rinsing liquid so that an air bubble
is drawn in and then replace the tube in the rinsing liquid.
3. Watch the meniscus of the air bubble: It must remain stationary during the
expulsion phase of each cycle (pump plunger moves forward).
4. When you have finished checking the outlet valve, in the In the Furnace
Control window, click on Align Tip button.
5. In this dialog (see the previous screen shot), click on Set the depth of the
autosampler tip in the sampling cup. Select Use the rinse location and then
select Next.
6. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipet tip is at the correct depth inside
the rinsing port. Then click on Finish.
Note Do not attempt to take the valves apart or repair the valves or to
change individual components inside a valve. If repeated flushing does
not remedy a leaking valve, discard the valve and install a complete, new
valve.
Replacement Parts
Every day you count on PerkinElmer to provide you with solutions that deliver
reliable performance, control operating costs and maximize operational time. Our
complete portfolio of consumables, parts, supplies, training and service helps you
meet both routine and demanding measurement challenges. We invest heavily in
testing and validating our products to ensure you receive guaranteed compatibility
and performance-on-time, every time, for every instrument in your laboratory.
Replacement Parts for the PinAAcle 900 385
N3050103 Aluminum
N3050170 N3050670 Antimony
N3050105 N3050605 Arsenic
N3050115 N3050615 Cadmium
N3050114 Calcium
N3050119 Chromium
Replacement Parts for the PinAAcle 900 389
N3050121 Copper
N3050107 Gold
N3050126 Iron
N3050157 N3050657 Lead
N3050144 Magnesium
N3050145 Manganese
N3050134 N3050634 Mercury
N3050152 Nickel
N3050139 Potassium
N3050172 N3050672 Selenium
N3050148 Sodium
N3050191 N3050691 Zinc
Standard Description
Part No.
B0070699 Uncoated graphite tubes (not for use
with L’vov platforms) 50-Pack
B3001253 Uncoated graphite tubes (not for use
with L’vov platforms) 20-Pack
B3001264 Pyrocoated graphite tubes with
integrated platforms 20-Pack
B3001262 Pyrocoated graphite tubes with
integrated platforms 5-Pack
B0109322 Pyrocoated graphite tubes with grooves
for L’vov platforms 50-Pack
B3001254 Pyrocoated graphite tubes with grooves
for L’vov platforms 20-Pack
B0137111 Pyrocoated graphite tubes with grooves
for L’vov platforms
N9307834 HGA Advanced Platform Graphite
Tubes Pyrolytically Coated 5-Pack
N9307835 HGA Advanced Platform Graphite
Tubes Pyrolytically Coated 20-Pack
Introduction
PerkinElmer spectrometers are designed for routine, trouble-free operation. Many
errors are diagnosed immediately as they occur and a message containing details
of the problem appears on the screen. Often this information enables you to solve
the problem quickly.
Some difficulties may not be so easily diagnosed and solved. For this purpose, the
following troubleshooting suggestions are included to help you determine whether
the difficulties are due to unsuitable analytical techniques, incorrect instrument
parameters, or a malfunctioning of the instrument. If, after checking the instrument
against the symptoms described below, the instrument appears to be
malfunctioning, we strongly recommend that you contact your local PerkinElmer
service representative.
Performance Problems
Spectrometer
Initialization process fails. Communication cables Make sure that you use the
between the computer, spec- correct cables, and connect
trometer, and accessories are them to the correct communi-
not connected correctly. cation ports. See Connecting
the Computer and Printer on
page 128.
Lamp connector does not fit Lamp is not a PerkinElmer Use the lamps recommended
in the socket. lamp. Lamp is the older series for your spectrometer.
For some older lamps you
may need an adapter cable.
Lamp will not light. Lamp connector not plugged Connect the lamp to the cor-
in. rect socket in the lamp com-
partment.
Lamp old or damaged. Install a new lamp. See
Lamps on page 171.
Lamp energy low or no Lamp starting to deteriorate. Allow the lamp to warm up.
energy. EDL lamps may need 45 min-
utes to warm up. May also
use the maximum current,
within the recommended
range.
Wrong EDL coding plug con- Connect the correct EDL cod-
nected. ing plug to the correct socket.
The lamp is old. Install a new lamp. See
Lamps on page 171.
Performance Problems 401
The current setting is too low Use the Lamp Setup window
or high. to set the correct current. If
the current is too high, start
by reducing the current in
10% steps. With EDLs
reduce the current in 10-20
mA increments.
The system cannot find the EDL coding plug not con- Connect the correct EDL cod-
lamp nected, or the wrong EDL ing plug to the correct socket
coding plug is connected. as described in the user's
guide for your spectrometer.
The lamp is not coded, is an Use the lamps recommended
older lamp, or the lamp is not for your spectrometer.
from PerkinElmer.
Computer System
Computer not communicating Communication cable is not Make sure that you use the
with spectrometer. connected correctly. correct cable, and connect it
to the correct communication
ports.
The software is in Simulator Reconfigure the software to
mode. communicate with the spec-
trometer. See the help by
selecting F1 on the computer
keyboard; keyword: Recon-
figure.
Performance Problems 403
The software application Communication cable. Make sure that you use the
stops or hangs correct cable, and connect it
to the correct communication
ports.
An unsuitable power manage- Switch off the power manage-
ment system. ment feature of your com-
puter. Refer to the software
installation instructions for
your system.
The software is corrupted or Install the software correctly
not installed correctly. as described in the software
installation instructions for
the software.
Computer is not suitable or Make sure that the computer
has the wrong configuration. has the recommended specifi-
cation and configuration. See
the installation instructions
for the software.
The software application Use the Windows software to
stops or hangs. find the conflicts. For more
advice about suitable settings,
call your PerkinElmer office.
System is slow during data- The database has become In the Utilities tab select the
saving and data-recovery pro- very large. Data Manager icon to:
cedures. Make regular backups of the
data. Delete old, unwanted
data.
Archive wanted data on a dif-
ferent system, CDs or on
archiving devices to leave the
software database system free
to collect new data.
Pack the data.
404 Troubleshooting
Burner System
Flame will not ignite. No fuel or oxidant. Make sure that the fuel and
oxidant gas supplies are
turned on and set at the cor-
rect pressures.
Air has diffused into the fuel You may have to perform the
line while the instrument was ignite cycle a number of times
idle. before all the air is expelled
from the fuel line.
Performance Problems 405
The igniter is not aligned cor- Make sure that the end of the
rectly. igniter moves exactly over the
burner slot and that the burner
head is installed correctly.
See the users guide for the
burner.
Interlocks on the burner sys- Install the burner and drain
tem or drain are open. systems correctly. See the
users guide for the burner.
Flame extinguishes automati- Low gas pressures. Make sure that the fuel and
cally. oxidant gas supplies are
turned on and set at the cor-
rect pressures.
Safety interlocks are open Make sure that the burner sys-
because the burner system has tem is correctly installed and
been changed. all the interlocks are closed.
See Reassembling the Burner
System on page 243.
Flame unstable. Drain system is not operating If there is not a constant,
correctly. smooth flow down the drain
tube, extinguish the flame and
re-install the burner and drain
system correctly. See Drain
System Maintenance on page
246.
Burner head dirty. Clean the burner head. See
Cleaning the Burner Head on
page 235.
406 Troubleshooting
Flashback of flame. Leaks in fuel or oxidant lines, Check for leaks using an
or drain system. approved leak detection kit.
Install the gas lines correctly
using approved components.
Blocked burner slot. Clean the burner head slot.
See Cleaning the Burner
Head on page 235.
Cylinder air contains excess Use compressed air not
oxygen. breathing air, which may be
enriched with oxygen.
Wrong regulators. Use the correct regulator for
each type of gas.
Wrong gases connected. Make sure that the correct
gases are connected to the
correct inlets on the spec-
trometer. See Connecting the
Gases on page 120.
408 Troubleshooting
The furnace does not operate Normal or special gas pres- Make sure the connections
sures too low. and pressures are correct. See
Connecting the Gases on
page 120.
No graphite tube installed, or Insert a new graphite tube.
the tube is defective. See Inserting the Graphite
Tube on page 316.
The contact breaker switch on This switch is activated when
the rear of the spectrometer is the system draws too much
in the OFF position. current. Wait a few moments
before putting this switch to
the on position. If this switch
is activated frequently, call
your local PerkinElmer
office.
Furnace overheats The cooling system is not Wait at least 30 minutes to
switched on or not operating allow the furnace to cool,
correctly. then switch on the cooling
system. If the furnace contin-
ues to overheat, contact your
local PerkinElmer office.
Rapid corrosion of tube Argon flow rate is too low. Set suitable flow rates in each
Make sure that the argon gas step of the furnace program.
(or Nitrogen gas, or any inert Set the correct inlet pressure
gas) is clean and DRY. The for the argon.
supply - piping and tubing, of
this clean and DRY gas to the
furnace must also be clean
and dry.
The drying step is not ade- With the software, use the
quate. Solvent fumes remain Method Editor to enter a suit-
in and around the tube after able furnace program. See the
drying, when raising to higher Recommended Conditions.
temperatures of pyrolysis and Ensure that there is 5 to 10
atomization. seconds left in the drying
step, for the vapor to come
completely out of the graphite
tube, before going to the
pyrolysis step when tempera-
ture can go up to above 550
C.
Autosampler does not go to The wrong configuration of Select the correct sample tray
the correct locations. the tray for the autosampler. exit the software and run the
Reconfigure utility. To run
the Reconfigure utility, click
on Start>All Programs >
PerkinElmer Syngistix for
AA> Reconfigure.r. See the
help by selecting F1 on the
computer keyboard.
Autosampler does not oper- The communication cable is Make sure that you use the
ate. not connected correctly. correct cable, and connect it
to the correct communication
port.
Autosampler will not func- The autosampler is not Reconfigure the software to
tion. entered in the system configu- communicate with the spec-
ration or supported by this trometer. See the help by
version of software/system. selecting F1 on the computer
Use the system-supported keyboard; keyword: Recon-
autosampler. figure.
The autosampler is not If you are using the autosam-
switched on. pler with a controller, switch
this on.
The communication cable is Make sure that you use the
not connected correctly. correct cable, and connect the
cable to the correct communi-
cation port.
Performance Problems 411
Computer cannot communi- FIAS not entered in the sys- Reconfigure the software to
cate with FIAS. tem configuration communicate with the spec-
trometer. See the help by
selecting F1 on the computer
keyboard; keyword: Recon-
figure or the software installa-
tion instructions.
Not switched on. Switch on.
Communication cable is not Make sure that you use the
connected correctly. correct cable, and connect the
cable to the correct communi-
cation port.
FIAS has the wrong IEEE or Set the correct address using
serial address. the DIP switches. Refer to the
user's guide for FIAS.
No gas flow. Gas pressure is too low. The Switch off FIAS. If necessary,
gas supply is turned off or connect a new cylinder, then
empty. set the outlet pressure recom-
mended in the user's guide for
the flow-injection system.
Switch on FIAS.
The automatic gas stop is In the FIAS Control window,
active. click on Valve Fill/Inject.
Pump heads stop rotating. The pressure on the pump Use the pressure adjustment
magazines is too high screws to reduce the pressure.
412 Troubleshooting
Solution is leaking from the The carrier flow rate exceeds Set the carrier flow rate to be
connections between the the aspiration rate of the neb- about 1-2 mL/min less than
flow-injection system and the ulizer. the aspiration rate of the neb-
nebulizer. ulizer.
The source lamp or the deute- With the software, use the
rium lamp is failing, or the Lamp Setup window to set
current is too high or too low the correct current. Install
new lamps. See Lamp Life on
page 302.
Characteristic concentration Wrongly prepared reference Prepare new fresh, correct
is too high. solution or blank. concentration solutions.
Poor sensitivity.
Poor detection limit.
See the sections above on
noisy, erratic signals.
Unsuitable measurement With the software, use the
parameters in the method. Method Editor to select suit-
able measurement parame-
ters.
Unsuitable flame conditions. With the software, use the
Method Editor to select suit-
able measurement parame-
ters. See the Recommended
Conditions.
Burner position is not opti- To optimize the burner; see
mized. the help by selecting F1 on
the computer keyboard.
414 Troubleshooting
Poor sensitivity. Characteris- Wrongly prepared reference Prepare a new proven stan-
tic mass is too high. solution or blank. dard, freshly and accurately
prepared.
The standard solutions are too Prepare new standard solu-
"old" - solutions not prepared tions correctly.
fresh daily.
The standard and reference Prepare fresh acidified solu-
solutions are not acidified. tion daily.
The elements may drop out of
the solution.
Performance Problems 415
Very high blank signal for a Graphite tube or contacts are Install a new tube, and if nec-
dry firing contaminated. essary, new contacts. See
Inserting the Graphite Tube
on page 316.
Increased background signal Build up of matrix due to Increase the clean-out tem-
after several replicates inadequate clean-out. perature or time. Make a dry
firing to measure the signal.
Temperature above 2500 °C
for periods longer then 10
seconds will decrease the life-
time of the tube.
Poor precision The autosampler pipet tip is Make sure that the pipet tip
not aligned correctly. injects the solution at the cor-
rect place within the graphite
tube. Make sure that the pipet
tip enters the solution in the
sample cup. See AS 900 Fur-
nace Autosampler Mainte-
nance on page 379 or the help
by selecting F1 on the com-
puter keyboard.
The autosampler probe is not Flush the inside and outside
clean. of the autosampler probe with
isopropyl alcohol for five
minutes before re-use. Should
consider to add 1% methanol
in the rinsing solution for rou-
tine operation.
Performance Problems 419
Leaks in the fluid system. Make sure that all the connec-
tions are tight. Tighten them
by hand or with the tube con-
nector key. Do not over-
tighten or distort the
connectors. If necessary,
install new connectors.
Contaminated or blocked Clean the entire fluid system
fluid system. as described in the users
Examples: guide for the flow-injection
Tin II chloride was previously system. Install the Reductant
used in the system. Change Kit.
A precipitate has blocked the
manifold.
FIAS-valve is blocked.
FIAS-MHS components
Poor sensitivity. The waste flow rate from the Adjust the flow; see the user's
Characteristic mass is too gas/liquid separator is too guide for the flow-injection
high. high - sample vapor is escap- system or the help by select-
ing with the waste. ing F1 on the computer key-
board.
The waste flow rate from the Adjust the flow. Clean and
gas/liquid separator is too low dry the sample transfer tube.
- liquid is entering the sample If it is contaminated, install a
transfer tube. new tube.
The membrane in the gas/liq- Install a new, dry membrane.
uid separator is wet.
The carrier gas flow is wrong. Optimize the carrier gas flow;
see the user's guide for the
flow-injection system or the
help by selecting F1 on the
computer keyboard.
424 Troubleshooting
The carrier or reductant flow Make sure that the feed tubes
rates are wrong. for the carrier and reductant
are in the correct containers.
Set the correct flow rates as
described in the user's guide
for the flow-injection system
or the help by selecting F1 on
the computer keyboard.
Double peaks - FIAS MHS. The concentration of the ana- Dilute the samples.
lyte is too high.
The temperature of the quartz See the Recommended Con-
tube is too low for atomiza- ditions. Use the Method Edi-
tion to occur. tor to set the correct
temperature on the FIAS
page. If necessary, increase
the temperature setting
slightly.
Air is trapped in, or entering Make sure that all the connec-
the fluid system. tions are tight. Tighten them
by hand or with the tube con-
nector key. Do not over-
tighten or distort the
connectors. If necessary,
install new connectors. Flush
the fluid system thoroughly to
remove trapped air.
The carrier or reductant flow Make sure that the feed tubes
rates are wrong. for the carrier and reductant
are in the correct containers.
Set the correct flow rates as
described in the users guide
for the flow-injection system
or the help by selecting F1 on
the computer keyboard.
No acid in the sample solu- See the Recommended Con-
tions, or the acid concentra- ditions. Use more concen-
tion is too low. trated or more acid in the
sample solutions.
Index: A I-1
Flashbacks 34 G
Flow Injection Autosampler Gas Connectors 90
troubleshooting 410 Gas Controls 97
Flow Injection System Gas Cylinders
troubleshooting 411 handling 28
Flow Injection Technique identiying 26
troubleshooting 422 safe handling 26
Fume Ventilation 47 safety 59
Furnace storing 27
troubleshooting 408 Gas Delivery Lines
furnace safety 59
closing after contact change 343, 373 Gas Hazards
opening for contact change 363 summary 25
Furnace Analysis Technique Gas Requirements 58
troubleshooting 414 graphite contact surfaces
Furnace Autosampler 104 cleaning 322, 357
troubleshooting 408 graphite contacts
Furnace Gas Requirements 61 changing 362
Furnace Gases cleaning 355
connecting 123 Graphite Furnace
Furnace System high temperatures 23
shut down 211 maintenance for the PinAAcle 900H
Furnace Systems 351
Zeeman Graphite 22 Graphite Furnace Atomizer 102
Furnace Technique Graphite Furnace Maintenance 313
setting up for the PinAAcle H 203 graphite shield ring
setting up for the PinAAcle T/Z 200 installing 361
Furnace Windows Graphite Tube
cleaning 348, 377 changing for the PinAAcle 900H 358
furnace windows cleaning 320, 355
cleaning 377 conditioning 345
refitting 377 conditioning for the PinAAcle 900H
removing 375 361
Fuses heating manually 347
changing 228 inserting 316
safety 8
I-4 Index: H
N Nitrogen Gas
Nebulizer connect 124
high sensitivity nebulizer 274 Nitrous Oxide 30
high sensitivity plastic nebulizer with O
chemical resistant o-rings 286 opening the furnace
impact bead,removing and replacing for contact change 363
294 Optical Schematics 83
installation 146 Optical System 81
metal body 255 Organic Drain Vessel 252
reinstallling 258 Organic Solvents 272
removing 255 plastic nebulizer 285
metal body adjusting fir maximum ab- plastic nebulizer with chemical resis-
sorbance 261 tant o-rings 298
metal body removing 264 P
metal body, optimum performance 273 PC Configuration 75
metal cleaning 260 penetration depth of pipet tip in graphite
metal, reinstalling 258 tube 159, 165
metal, removing 255 pipet tip
performance 263 immersion depth in sample cup 167
plastic nebulizer with chemical resis- penetration depth in graphite tube 159,
tant o-rings adjust to maximum 165
absorbance 297 placing the system 136
plastic nebulizer with chemical resis- Plastic Nebulizer
tant o-rings to maintain opti- with chemical resistant o-rings adjust to
mum performance 299 maintain optimum performance
plastic, adjusting for maximum absor- 299
bance 284 with chemical resistant o-rings adjust to
plastic, cleaning 279, 280, 292 maximum absorbance 297
plastic, optimum performance 286 Power Consumption
plastic, reassembling 296 54
plastic, reinstalling 278 Precautions
plastic, removing 274, 287 Safety 2
removal 252
removing and replacing the impact
bead 281
I-6 Index: Q
Internet: http://www.perkinelmer.com
email: info@perkinelmer.com