AA Instruments

SpectrAA GTA-120 Pre-analysis Checklist

Graphite tube atomization is a microanalytical technique that demands a particularly

high standard of care in all activities affecting the precision and accuracy of the
analytical result. Strict cleanliness is essential in all laboratory procedures—
contamination must be avoided. Ideally, your laboratory should be air-conditioned and
draught-free. All sample preparation should be carried out in an area well separated
from the instrument.

1) Check that all the required hardware is correctly installed.

9 Check that the workhead is correctly aligned and installed.

9 Ensure that the Waste Tube is not submerged in the waste bucket.

2) Turn on the instrument and GTA accessory.

9 Verify Hollow Cathode Lamp alignment and that a good EHT or % Gain
for the lamp is achieved (Note the value is obtained on the Alignment
Window).
9 Check that the sample is dispensing correctly.

3) Check that the gas supplies are adequate and that the water supply
system is connected correctly.

9 Set the delivery pressure of the gases to be used and check there are no
leaks. Check that the water supply is on and connected correctly. The
recommended argon pressure is 20-29 psi.

4) Open the SpectrAA software and create a worksheet or open an

existing worksheet.

5) Select samples to be analyzed. Select Optimize and ensure the

system is correctly aligned.

9 Align the GTA workhead in the optical path.

9 Align the capillary to the graphite tube.

9 When establishing optimum operating parameters, you should ensure

that the droplet is being properly dispensed into the furnace.

Note: If you are using a graphite platform, using a reduced slit height may be
beneficial.
AA Instruments
SpectrAA GTA-120 Cleaning and Maintenance Checklist

Align the Workhead

To align the GTA workhead:

1) First pull the workhead out of the light path and align the lamps. Then put the workhead
back into the operating position.
2) Hold a piece of white card between the left-hand end of the workhead and the sample
compartment window.
3) Use the workhead height adjustment knob (at the lower front of the workhead base) until
the light is passing through the furnace. Then remove the card and optimize the signal
using the height adjustment.

Graphite Electrodes

When you first set up your GTA, the electrodes that connect to the graphite tube will appear clean,
shiny and smooth. However, after a while, the electrodes may become pitted or eroded, and you may
see a drop in precision and begin to experience the ‘Tube fault’ error. You should then replace the
electrodes. Both electrodes are press-fitted into their housings. A tool kit is provided which enables you
to extract and replace the electrodes. When you are removing and replacing electrodes:
1) Replace both electrodes—never replace one only.
2) Remove the right-hand electrode first and then the left-hand electrode.
3) Always replace the left-hand electrode first and then the right-hand electrode.
4) Remove both electrodes before attempting to fit the replacements.
5) Use the tooling exactly as described in these instructions. When passing the bolt through
the new electrodes, make sure that the threaded portion of the bolt does not damage the
electrode.

Quartz Windows

The quartz window assemblies on either side of the furnace need to be cleaned regularly.
To remove a window assembly, first grasp the knurled edge of the window and then pull it out of the
furnace while twisting it.

Carefully clean both sides of the quartz window. Use only alcohol and an optical tissue. Never use
coarse cloths or abrasive cleaning agents. Inspect the inside of the window mounting and clean off
any contamination. To replace the window assemblies, push and twist the assembly back into the
electrode housing.

Capillary Tip

The capillary tip should be clean, straight and the opening must be cut cleanly at a right-angle to the
capillary.

If the capillary tip is damaged, cut off the damaged portion with a sharp scalpel or razor blade. Cut
the capillary neatly at a right angle. Remove the smallest length of capillary possible. Reset the
height of the capillary. Wipe the outside of the tip occasionally with dilute acid (e.g. 1% HNO3) on a
tissue. Replace the capillary tubing as needed; refer to the “Help” for guidance.