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HGA 900 Users Guide

Release History

Part Number

Release

09936667

Publication Date
December 2003

Any comments about the documentation for this product should be addressed to:
PerkinElmer Inc.
710 Bridgeport Avenue
Shelton
Connecticut 06484-4794
U.S.A.
Or emailed to: info@perkinelmer.com
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 particular
purpose.
PerkinElmer shall not be liable for errors contained herein for incidental consequential
damages in connection with furnishing, 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 Instruments Inc.
Copyright 2003 PerkinElmer Instruments Inc.
Trademarks
Registered names, trademarks, etc. used in this document, even when not specifically
marked as such, are protected by law.
PerkinElmer is a registered trademark of PerkinElmer, Inc.
e-ssentials is a trademark of PerkinElmer, Inc.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction
About This Manual.................................................................................. 1
Conventions Used in this Manual.............................................................. 2
Notes, cautions and warnings ............................................................. 2
Warning Signs on the Instrument .............................................................. 3
Chapter 2 Safety Practices
Chapter Overview.................................................................................... 5
Safety Conventions .................................................................................. 6
Correct use of the instrument ............................................................. 7
Precautions.............................................................................................. 8
Environmental Conditions ........................................................................ 9
Electrical Safety .....................................................................................10
Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders...............................................................12
Identification of Gas Cylinders..........................................................12
Storing Cylinders .............................................................................13
Handling Cylinders ..........................................................................14
Handling compressed gases ..............................................................15
Operating Conditions ..............................................................................16
Laboratory hygiene ..........................................................................17
Laboratory ventilation ......................................................................17
Waste disposal.................................................................................17
Safe handling of chemicals ......................................................................18
Safety practices for electrothermal atomization .........................................20
Safety interlocks ..............................................................................20
Hazards with electrothermal atomization ...........................................21
References for laboratory safety practice..................................................22
Regulatory information ...........................................................................23
Electrical protection .........................................................................23
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ...............................................24
Symbols used on the instrument...............................................................25
Warning markings on the instrument........................................................26
Warning markings on the graphite furnace.........................................26
Warning markings on the power unit .................................................27

Table of Contents

Chapter 3 Preparing Your Laboratory


Chapter Overview...................................................................................29
Electrical requirements............................................................................30
Operating conditions ...............................................................................31
Operating requirements ....................................................................31
Bench and location requirements.......................................................31
Fume ventilation ..............................................................................32
Gas supply requirements .........................................................................33
Furnace gases ..................................................................................33
Cooling the furnace system.....................................................................35
Cooling system ................................................................................35
External cooling ...............................................................................35
Computer and printer ..............................................................................37
Chapter 4 System Description
Major Components .................................................................................39
Furnace design .................................................................................39
The graphite tube and contacts..........................................................40
The furnace gas system.....................................................................43
Cooling the furnace system...............................................................45
Techncial data..................................................................................47
AS-800 Furnace Autosampler..................................................................50
Autosampler design..........................................................................50
Techncial data..................................................................................56
Literature on Electrothermal Atomization.................................................57
Chapter 5 Installation
Before you install the graphite furnace.....................................................59
When the graphite furnace arrives .....................................................59
Before the service engineer arrives....................................................59
When the service engineer arrives .....................................................60
Installing the HGA 900 system................................................................61
Summary of the installation procedure...............................................61
Installing the HGA 900 system on the spectrometer............................62
Removing the front panel..................................................................64
Connecting the furnace gases ............................................................65
Connecting cooling sources for the furnace system.............................70
Installing the furnace autosampler............................................................76
The first installation .........................................................................76

ii

HGA 900 Users Guide

Connecting the drain tube and waste bottle ........................................76


Connecting the rinse feed tubes and the rinse bottle ............................78
Installing sample trays and containers................................................80
Electrical connections .............................................................................83
Connecting the graphite furnace system to the AAnalyst 400 ..............84
Electrical connectors and switches.....................................................86
Installation Kit ........................................................................................90
Spares Parts Available ............................................................................92
HGA Graphite Furnace ...........................................................................94
Graphite components........................................................................94
Matrix modifiers ..............................................................................94
Window components ........................................................................94
Tools ...............................................................................................95
Furnace gas and cooling systems .......................................................95
Obtaining supplies, replacement parts, and accessories..............................96
Chapter 6 Preparing for Analysis
Setting up the system for analyses using the furnace technique .................97
Summary of the procedure................................................................97
Setting up the graphite furnace ..............................................................100
Moving the furnace in and out of the atomizer compartment .............100
Aligning the graphite furnace..........................................................102
Setting up the autosampler ....................................................................105
Perform these steps before the start of every analysis run:.................105
Filling and flushing the rinsing system.............................................105
Rinsing solutions............................................................................106
Aligning the autosampler................................................................107
Checking the solution droplet delivery.............................................113
Shutting down the system......................................................................116
Chpater 7 Maintenance
Introduction .........................................................................................117
If the graphite furnace does not function correctly ........................117
Checklists for regular maintenance tasks ................................................119
Furnace, maintenance checklist .......................................................119
Cooling system, maintenance checklist ............................................120
Autosampler, maintenance checklist ................................................120
Graphite furnace maintenance procedures ..............................................122
Procedures described......................................................................122

iii

Table of Contents

Opening and closing the furnace .....................................................122


Cleaning the graphite tube and graphite contacts ..............................126
Changing the graphite tube .............................................................128
Heating the graphite furnace manually.............................................134
Changing the graphite contacts........................................................135
Checking and cleaning the furnace windows ....................................146
Power unit maintenance procedures.......................................................150
Parts that may be serviced by the user..............................................150
Resetting the automatic circuit breaker ............................................150
Changing the fuses.........................................................................152
Changing the air filter.....................................................................153
Cooling system maintenance procedures................................................155
Procedures described......................................................................155
Emptying the cooling system ..........................................................155
Refilling the cooling system............................................................158
Changing the cooling system fuse ...................................................159
Autosampler maintenance procedures....................................................161
Routine maintenance......................................................................161
Valve maintenance.........................................................................161
Checking the valves .......................................................................164
Removing the rinse pump valves and sample pump tube connectors .166
Cleaning the valves, tube connectors and pump heads ......................169
Assembling and installing the valves ...............................................170
Repairing a pipet............................................................................174
Installing a new pipet assembly .......................................................177
Aligning the pump heads ................................................................180
Chapter 8 Warnings .......................................................................... 183
Index.................................................................................................. 219

iv

Introduction

HGA 900 Users Guide

About This Manual


This hardware guide is divided into following chapters:
Chapter 1 Introduction
This chapter contains a brief introduction on the instrument, the conventions and
warnings used in the manual.
Chapter 2 Safety Practices
Important safety information for the HGA 900 is provided in this chapter.
Chapter 3 Preparing Your Laboratory
The preparation of your laboratory needed for the HGA 900. Laboratory requirements for
the instrument are reviewed in this chapter.
Chapter 4 System Description
This chapter contains information on the components of the instrument, how it works and
instrument specifications.
Chapter 5 Installation
Information on installing and re-installing your instrument should you ever need to move
your system is provided.
Chapter 6 Preparing for Analysis
Procedures for preparing and setting up for sample analysis are provided in this chapter.
Chapter 7 Maintenance
Maintenance and cleaning procedures for the various components of your instrument are
provided.
Chapter 8 Warnings
This section contains translations of the safety conventions and warnings used in this
guide.

Introduction

Conventions Used in this Manual


Normal text is used to provide information and instructions.
Bold text refers to text that is displayed on the screen.
UPPERCASE text, for example ENTER or ALT, refers to keys on the PC keyboard. '+' is
used to show that you have to press two keys at the same time, for example, ALT+F.

All eight digit numbers are PerkinElmer part numbers unless stated otherwise.

Notes, cautions and warnings


Three terms, in the following standard formats, are also used to highlight special
circumstances and warnings.
NOTE: A note indicates additional, significant information that is provided with some
procedures.

CAUTION

We use the term CAUTION to inform you about situations that could result in
serious damage to the instrument or other equipment. Details about these
circumstances are in a box like this one.

We use the term WARNING to inform you about situations that could result in
personal injury to yourself or other persons. Details about these
circumstances are in a box like this one.
WARNING

HGA 900 Users Guide

Warning Signs on the Instrument

Warning, hot surface.

Warning, risk of electric shock.

Warning (refer to accompanying documents).

Introduction

Safety Practices

HGA 900 Users Guide

Chapter Overview
This chapter describes the general safety practices and precautions that must be
observed when operating the HGA 900.
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 HGA 900 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.

Safety Practices

Safety Conventions
Possible hazards that could harm the user or result in damage to the instrument
are clearly stated at appropriate places throughout this manual.
Translations of the warning messages used in this guide are given in Chapter 8,
Warnings.
The following safety conventions are used:
This symbol alerts you to situations that could result in personal
injury to yourself or other persons.
WARNING

Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.

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.

HGA 900 Users Guide

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.

CAUTION

The term CAUTION alerts you to situations that could result in


serious damage to the instrument or other equipment.
Details about these circumstances are in box like this one.

Correct use of the instrument


Before you install or use your instrument, and in order to get the best results, you
should be familiar with all of the instruments in the system and know how to
operate them. You should also be aware of the safety procedures in force in your
laboratory, especially those concerning atomic spectrometry instruments. Consult
the guides supplied with the instruments before you start.
If you use the instrument in a manner not specified in the guide, or if you use it
for a purpose other than that intended, you may damage the instrument, or
compromise your own, or someone elses, safety.
This instrument should only be operated by persons who are suitably qualified
and have received adequate training.

Safety Practices

Precautions
Be sure that all instrument operators read and understand the
precautions listed below. It is advisable to post a copy of the
precautions near or on the instrument shelf.
WARNING

The following precautions must be observed when using the HGA 900:

Be sure that the voltage of the HGA 900 corresponds to the voltage used in
your laboratory.

Never remove the side panels of the HGA 900 without shutting down the
instrument and disconnecting the instrument power cord from line power.

Do not immerse the purge gas exit line in a liquid, as the liquid may be
drawn back into the sample holder.

Only high quality purge gases should be used with the HGA 900. 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.

HGA 900 Users Guide

Environmental Conditions
The instrument should be used indoors in a laboratory having the environmental
conditions as recommended in the Installation chapter (Chapter 5) in this guide.

Safety Practices

Electrical Safety
The instrument has been designed to protect the operator from potential electrical
hazards. This section describes some recommended electrical safety practices.

WARNING

Lethal voltages are present at certain areas within the


instrument. Installation and internal maintenance of the
instrument should only be performed by a PerkinElmer
service engineer or similarly authorized and trained person.
When the instrument is connected to line power, opening the
instrument covers is likely to expose electrically charged
parts. Even when the power switch is off, high voltages can
still be present. Capacitors inside the instrument may still be
charged even if the instrument has been disconnected from all
voltage sources.

The instrument must be correctly connected to a suitable electrical supply. The


supply must have a correctly installed protective conductor (earth ground) and
must be installed or checked by a qualified electrician before connecting the
instrument.

WARNING

Any interruption of the protective conductor (earth ground) inside or


outside the instrument or disconnection of the protective conductor
terminal is likely to make the instrument dangerous. Intentional
interruption is prohibited.

When working with the instrument:

Connect the instrument to a correctly installed line power outlet that has a
protective conductor connection (earth ground).

Do not operate the instrument with any covers or internal parts removed.

10

HGA 900 Users Guide

Do not attempt to make internal adjustments or replacements except as


directed in the manuals.

Disconnect the instrument from all voltage sources before changing any
fuses.

Only a PerkinElmer Service engineer, or authorized factory trained


personnel can open the instrument if further adjustment, maintenance, or
repair is needed.

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.

NOTE: The HGA 900 power unit is provided with an operational on/off switch and with
a circuit breaker. The operational on/off switch turns the instrument on and off,
but it does not disconnect the instrument from the line power supply. The circuit
breaker functions as a disconnecting device and disconnects the instrument
entirely from the line power supply.
Further information on these two switches is provided in chapter 5,
Installation, the section called Electrical connectors and switches.

11

Safety Practices

Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders


Gases commonly used with the HGA 900 include argon and nitrogen. The major
hazard associated with these gases is suffocation. This can occur if the gas is
allowed to escape in an enclosed area and displaces the oxygen in the air. These
gases are neither explosive nor combustible.

WARNING

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.

NOTE: The permanent installation of gas supplies is the responsibility of the user and
should conform to local safety and building codes.
If liquid argon or nitrogen is used, the gas cylinder must be fitted with an overpressure regulator, which will vent the cylinder as necessary to prevent it from
becoming a safety hazard.
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.

Compressed Gas Association (USA), "Safe Handling of Compressed Gases


in Containers," pamphlet no. P-1, 1984.

Compressed Gas Association (USA), "The Inert Gases Argon, Nitrogen


and Helium," pamphlet no. P-9, 1992.

Identification of Gas Cylinders

12

Legibly mark cylinders to identify their contents. Use the chemical name or
commercially accepted name for the gas.

HGA 900 Users Guide

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.

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.

Arrange gas hoses where they will not be damaged or stepped and where
things will not be dropped on them.

Perform periodic gas leak tests by applying a soap solution to all joints and
seals.

13

Safety Practices

Handling Cylinders
Review the following precautions with the customer 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.

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.

14

HGA 900 Users Guide

Handling compressed gases


Summary of gas hazards
Hazards associated with the different gases used in graphite furnace atomic
absorption spectrometry are presented in the table below:

Gas

Suffocation

Explosion

Spontaneous Decomposition
or Combustion

Argon

Nitrogen

Contact the gas supplier for a Material Safety Data Sheet containing detailed
information on the potential hazards associated with the gas.

15

Safety Practices

Operating Conditions
Warning: Explosive Atmosphere
This instrument is not designed to operate in an explosive atmosphere.
WARNING
The instrument will operate correctly under the following conditions:

Indoors.

Ambient temperature +15 C to +35 C (+59 F to +95 F), with a


maximum change not exceeding 2.8 C (5 F) per hour.

Ambient relative humidity 20% to 80%, without condensation.

Altitude in the range 0 m to 2000 m.

The location must be free of dust, smoke, and corrosive fumes.

Safe Operating Conditions

Indoor

Temperature +5 C to +40 C (+41 F to +104 F).

Relative humidity 20% to 80%, without condensation.

Altitude in the range 0 m to 2000 m.

Safe Storage 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 0 m to 12000 m.

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.

16

HGA 900 Users Guide

Laboratory hygiene

Keep the work area scrupulously clean to avoid contaminating your samples
and to maintain a safe working environment. Clean up spilled chemicals
immediately and dispose of them properly.

Do not allow smoking in the work area. Smoking is a source of significant


contamination and also a potential route for ingesting harmful chemicals.

Do not store, handle, or consume food in the work area.

Laboratory ventilation
Toxic combustion products, metal vapor, 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.

Waste disposal
Contents of waste containers
The materials that you collect in waste containers may include small amounts of
the substances that were analyzed and other chemicals used in the analyses. 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.

17

Safety Practices

Safe handling of chemicals


Some chemicals used with the instrument may be hazardous or may become
hazardous after completion of an analysis.
The responsible body1 must take the necessary precautions to ensure that the
surrounding workplace is safe and that instrument operators are not exposed to
hazardous levels of toxic substances (chemical or biological) as defined in the
applicable national, state, and local health and safety regulations and laws.
Venting for fumes and disposal of wastes must be in accordance with all national,
state, and local health and safety regulations and laws.

CAUTION

Before using any cleaning or decontamination methods except those


specified by the manufacturer, users should check with the manufacturer
that the proposed method will not damage the equipment.

Use, store, and dispose of chemicals in accordance with the manufacturers


recommendations and the applicable national, state, and/or local regulations.

Wear appropriate eye protection at all times while handling chemicals.

Depending on the types of chemicals you are handling, wear safety glasses
with side shields, or goggles, or a full-face shield.

Wear suitable protective clothing, including gloves if necessary, resistant to


the chemicals you are handling.

When preparing chemical solutions, always work in a fume hood that is


suitable for the chemicals you are using.

Perform sample preparation away from the instrument to minimize


corrosion and contamination.

Definitions from IEC 1010-1:

Responsible body: individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, and
for ensuring that operators are adequately trained.
Operator: person operating equipment for its intended purpose.

18

HGA 900 Users Guide

Clean up spills immediately using the appropriate equipment and supplies,


such as spill cleanup kits.

Do not put open containers of solvent near the instrument.

Store solvents in an approved cabinet (with the appropriate ventilation)


away from the instrument.

19

Safety Practices

Safety practices for electrothermal atomization


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 elses, 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.
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.

20

HGA 900 Users Guide

Hazards with electrothermal atomization


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 HGA graphite furnace can generate temperatures of up to 3000 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.

21

Safety Practices

References for laboratory safety practice

Bretherik, L., Bretheriks Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards, 4th ed.,


Butterworth & Co. Ltd., London, UK, 1990.

Safe Practices in Chemical Laboratories,


Royal Society of Chemistry, London, UK, 1989.

Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory, 5th edition, Luxon, S.G., ed.,


Royal Society of Chemistry, London, UK, 1992.

CRC Handbook of Laboratory Safety, 3rd edition, Furr, K., ed.,


The Chemical Rubber Co. Press, Florida, USA, 1990.

Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories,


National Research Council, National Academic Press, Washington D.C.,
USA, 1981.

Saxs Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials,


9th edition, Sax, N.I. and Lewis, R.J., eds.,Wiley, New York, USA, 1998.

Pohanish, R.P. and Greene, S.A., Hazardous Materials Handbook,


Wiley, New York, USA, 1996.

Compressed Gas Association, Inc., Arlington, VA 22202, USA, various


publications.

Data Sheets provided by chemical manufacturers, e.g.:


USA, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS),
FRG, DIN-Sicherheitsbltter,
UK, Hazard Data Sheets.

22

HGA 900 Users Guide

Regulatory information
This instrument has been designed to comply with a wide variety of international
standards governing the safety of laboratory equipment. In routine use, the
instrument poses virtually no risk to you. If you take some simple, commonsense precautions, you can maintain the continued safe operation of the
instrument.

Electrical protection
Insulation
Class I as defined in IEC 1010-1.
Installation category
This instrument is able to withstand transient overvoltage according to
Installation Category II as defined in IEC 1010-1 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.

23

Safety Practices

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)


Europe
All information concerning EMC standards is in the Declaration of Conformity,
and these standards may change as the European Union adds new requirements.
United States (FCC)
This instrument is classified as digital device used exclusively as industrial,
commercial, or medical test equipment. It is exempt from the technical standards
specified in Part 15 of FCC Rules and Regulations, based on Section 15.103 (c).

24

HGA 900 Users Guide

Symbols used on the instrument


Any of the following symbols can be used on the instrument:
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.
This symbol indicates the risk of electric shock.

This symbol indicates the risk of hot surfaces.

This symbol indicates the protective conductor terminal.

This symbol indicates the off position of the circuit breaker. With
the switch in this position, the instrument is disconnected entirely
from the line power supply.
This symbol indicates the on position of the 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.
This symbol indicates the operational on/off switch. This switch
turns the instrument on and off, but it does not disconnect the
instrument from the line power supply.
This symbol indicates alternating current.

25

Safety Practices

Warning markings on the instrument


Warning markings on the graphite furnace

A
Risk of hot surfaces
Risque de surfaces chaudes
Gefahr durch heisse Oberflchen
Safety/Regulatory Information

26

HGA 900 Users Guide

Warning markings on the power unit

B
Power outlets
Power outlets for a printer, computer, or monitor.
Only connect a printer, a computer, or a monitor to the respective power outlet
when the equipment requires 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz.
C
Cooling system outlet
Connect the cooling system to this power outlet only.
Do not connect the cooling system to any other supply.
Do not connect other equipment to this power outlet.

27

Safety Practices

28

Preparing Your
Laboratory

The HGA 900 Users Guide

Chapter Overview
The items shown in the following checklist need to be considered when preparing
the laboratory for the HGA 900.

Electrical requirements

Operating conditions

Gas supply requirements

Cooling the furnace system

Computer and printer

29

Preparing Your Laboratory

Electrical requirements
The HGA 900 graphite furnace requires a stable electrical supply of 230 V,
50 Hz or 60 Hz, capable of delivering 16 A, that has a correctly wired protective
earthling system (ground connection).
The line power cable has a 3-pole connector (line + neutral + protective earth),
conforming to IEC 309-2, rated for 16 A. The cable is 3 meters long.
The line power supply should be free of line transients in excess of 50 V peak. If
the electrical supply voltage produces large AC line voltage fluctuations, a
qualified electrician should install a voltage regulator between the electrical
outlet and the instrument.
The power demand of the graphite furnace is approximately 3600 VA, the
maximum graphite tube temperature is 3000 C. Monitoring of the energy
required for each user-defined furnace program reliably prevents the line power
supply from being overloaded.
The line power supply point must be within 3 meters of the rear of the
spectrometer.
We recommend that you connect the spectrometer, computer, printer, and any
accessories to the same phase of the line power supply and the same protective
earth.
The line power supply must conform with local safety regulations and be
checked by a qualified electrician before you connect the instrument to line
power.
See the guides for the computer and printer and any other instruments for
information about their power requirements.

30

The HGA 900 Users Guide

Operating conditions
Warning: Explosive Atmosphere
This instrument is not designed for operation in an explosive atmosphere.
WARNING

Operating requirements
The instrument will operate correctly under the following conditions:

Indoors.

Ambient temperature+15 C to +35 C (+59 F to +95 F), with a


maximum change not exceeding 2.8 C (5 F) per hour.

Ambient relative humidity 20% to 80%, without condensation.

Altitude in the range 0 m to 2000 m.

The location must be free of dust, smoke, and corrosive fumes.

Bench and location requirements


The location you choose for the spectrometer and graphite furnace must fulfill
the criteria listed below:

Place the spectrometer on a sturdy bench or trolley (cart) capable of


sustaining the weight. The work surface must be level, flat, clean, dry,
and free from vibration. It should be strong and stiff enough to bear the
weight of the spectrometer system over a long period without warping or
bending. A movable table is very convenient, but make sure that the
wheels can be securely locked.

31

Preparing Your Laboratory

Position the bench or trolley out of direct sunlight and away from
radiators and heaters.

Position the system near to the electricity and gas supply points, and
close to a source of cooling water.

Position the system so that the atomizer compartment is located beneath


a suitable fume ventilation system.

Make sure that there is space at the rear and sides of the system for air to
circulate freely.

Make sure that there is sufficient room for you to work comfortably with
the instruments, and that you can reach the connections at the rear of the
instruments and the electricity and gas supply points.

Fume ventilation
You must provide an efficient fume ventilation system to remove the fumes
generated by the atomizer.
The specification for a suitable system is described in brochure no. L-301
Preparing Your Laboratory for PerkinElmer Atomic Spectroscopy Instruments.
This brochure is available from PerkinElmer.
Warning: Toxic Gases Fume Ventilation System

WARNING

Without adequate ventilation, potentially toxic vapors can build up in the


laboratory.

32

You laboratory must have a reliable fume ventilation system before you
use this instrument.

The HGA 900 Users Guide

Gas supply requirements


The permanent installation of gas supplies is the responsibility of the user and
should conform to local safety and building regulations.
PerkinElmer recommends that cylinders be stored outside the laboratory and that
gases be piped to the spectrometer system in approved gas lines.

The user must provide the gas supplies, regulators, connectors, and
valves.
Either the gas supplier or PerkinElmer can supply the correct regulators
and valves.

You must be able to reach the on/off valves easily and see the pressure
indicators.

Consult the chapter 2, Safety Practices for recommended safety


procedures.
Warning: Compressed Gases
High pressure gas cylinders can be dangerous if mishandled or misused.

WARNING

Always handle gas cylinders with the caution and observe your local
regulations for the safe handling of gas cylinders.

Furnace gases
Inert gas
The graphite furnace requires a supply of inert gas to prevent the tube and the
analyte atoms from being oxidized when the tube is heated.
Argon is the recommended inert gas.
If you cannot obtain argon, you can use purified nitrogen, but nitrogen does not
provide such efficient protection as argon at temperatures above 2000 C.
Nitrogen can also react with the samples and the graphite tube at typical
atomization temperatures.

33

Preparing Your Laboratory

Warning: Toxic Gases


If you use nitrogen as the inert gas, toxic cyanogens gas (CN)2 will be
produced when the furnace is above 2300 C.

WARNING

Make sure that the main laboratory fume ventilation system removes
all gases and fumes emitted by the furnace.

Special gas
For some applications you may want to use a special gas. A typical example is
the use of air during one of the pyrolysis steps to better ash organic materials.
Table 3-1 Specifications and Requirements of the Furnace Gases
Gas

Purity

Outlet Gauge Pressure


KPa
P max
P min

P min

P max

P min

P max

99.996%

350

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

1.2

Nitrogen 99.996%

350

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

1.2

Particle free; 350


water free

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

1.2

Argon

Special

bar

Max.
flow rate
L/min

psig

Set the outlet gauge pressure for each gas to a value just below the maximum
value (Pmax).

Never set the outlet pressure for each gas to a value exceeding the maximum
(Pmax).

34

The HGA 900 Users Guide

Cooling the furnace system


The graphite furnace uses water cooling to allow the graphite tube to return to its
equilibrium temperature (approximately ambient) quickly between measurements
(see chapter 4, System Description for more information). The power unit also
incorporates cooling coils to maintain the electronic components at a comfortable
working temperature.

Cooling system
PerkinElmer offers a recirculating cooling system; it is provided with one version
of the HGA 900 system and can also be purchased as an option. It provides
coolant at a constant temperature and flow rate, to allow the most reproducible
analytical conditions. It also makes the system independent of external water
supplies and saves water (see chapter 4, System Description for more
information). This cooling system includes a pressure-sensitive safety device that
opens a bypass if the internal pressure in the circulatory system increases to
above a safe value.
Power requirements: 230 V; 50/60 Hz (electrical power is supplied by the HGA
900 power unit).
Part Number: B019-8072

External cooling
If you intend to run the graphite furnace without the PerkinElmer cooling system,
you must connect another suitable source of cooling, such as the main water
supply or a laboratory thermostat. If you connect the HGA 900 system to the
main water supply, make sure that the water meets the requirements given in
Table 3-2.

35

Preparing Your Laboratory

Table 3-2 Specifications and Requirements of the Furnace Gases


Water quality

sediment-free drinking water

Temperature

20-40 C

Flow rate

Not less than 2 L/min

Pressure

Min. 2.5 bar (250 kPa, 35 psig)


Maz. 3.5 bar (350 kPa, 50 psig)

pH

between 6.5 and 7.5

Hardness

Not greater than 14 , or 100 ppm

Unfiltered industrial water should not be used.


A water hose kit with pressure relief valve is provided with one version of the
furnace system which you must permanently install in the water supply line to
the HGA 900 power unit. This valve opens if the water pressure to the furnace
system exceeds 4 bar. This feature eliminates the risk of damage to the water
hoses and hose fittings in the furnace system through excess water pressure.
The water pressure to the furnace system should be at least 2.5 bar (35 psig). If
the pressure is lower, the flow rate of water through the system is reduced and
heat will not be removed quickly enough.
The maximum water pressure to the furnace system is 3.5 bar (50 psig); the
pressure relief valve opens automatically if the water inlet pressure exceeds 4 bar
the slightly higher pressure of 4 bar allows for minor daily fluctuations in the
pressure of the main water supply.

36

The HGA 900 Users Guide

Computer and printer


PerkinElmer offers a suitable computer for controlling the spectrometer and
graphite furnace, and a suitable printer. Contact your local PerkinElmer office for
more information.
PerkinElmer cannot accept responsibility for incorrect functioning of the
spectrometer system if you are not using the computer offered with the
spectrometer by PerkinElmer.

37

Preparing Your Laboratory

38

System Description

HGA 900 Users Guide

Major Components
Furnace design
The HGA 900 is a longitudinally-heated graphite furnace for electrothermal
atomization in atomic absorption spectrometry. The furnace is heated electrically.
The voltage is applied along the graphite tube, parallel to the radiation beam.
The HGA 900 system is comprised of a graphite furnace with a power unit, and
an AS-800 autosampler. The system mounts at the left-hand end of the
spectrometer. The graphite furnaceautosampler assembly is mounted on a swing
arm at the front of the power unit. The swing arm allows you to move the
graphite furnace autosampler assembly from the standby position in front of the
power unit into the spectrometers atomizer compartment. Alignment controls on
the furnace enable you to align the furnace accurately in the spectrometers
radiation beam.
The power unit houses the power supply, system electronics, and the inert gas
control pneumatics for the furnace. The power unit is connected to the furnace
via a flexible conduit which carries the electrical cables and the gas and water
tubes. The gas and electrical supplies for the furnace are controlled from the
power unit.
The HGA 900 system does not have any operating controls (except for the
electrical on/off switch). Control is via the same software that is used to control
the spectrometer system.

39

System Description

Figure 4-1 HGA 900 System

The graphite tube and contacts


The graphite tube is held in position in the furnace by two graphite contacts.
These provide the electrical contacts for the heating. The contact surfaces must
be perfectly clean and smooth to allow consistent heating conditions.
The contacts have precisely engineered holes for the gas flows.

40

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 4-2 Graphite components of the furnace


The graphite tube is made of electrographite with a coating of pyrolytic graphite.
The standard graphite tubes have an integrated platform. This enables the sample
and the atmosphere in the graphite tube to be in thermal equilibrium during the
atomization step. This is an important requirement of the STPF concept
(Stabilized Temperature Platform Furnace).
Maximum power heating
Maximum power heating provides the most rapid heating of the tube and thus
atomization of the sample. The heating rate is approximately 2000 C/s. It is
recommended for the atomization step of most analyses and is an important
component of the STPF concept.
To select this method of heating, you enter 0 (zero) for the Ramp Time in the
atomization step of the furnace program.
Time-controlled heating
Time-controlled heating is used for program steps other than the atomization
step, except in special situations.
To select this method of heating you enter a time between 1 and 99 (seconds) for
the Ramp Time in the relevant furnace program step. The heating rate is always
lower than the maximum power heating rate.

41

System Description

Temperature control
The temperature regulation system of the HGA 900 continuously monitors the
effective voltage across the tube and uses this together with the initial and final
temperatures to control the heating during program steps other than atomization.
During maximum power heating, the emission temperature of the tube, measured
by an optical sensor, is also used to control the heating.

Figure 4-3 Optical senor on the furnace

42

HGA 900 Users Guide

The furnace gas system


Principle of the gas purging system
To prevent the graphite tube from being oxidized during the atomization step of a
graphite furnace analysis, an inert gas atmosphere inside and outside the graphite
tube is essential.
The furnace gas system supplies two independently controlled flows: the external
protective flow and the internal purge flow.
The furnace gas system has two inlets, the Normal Gas inlet and the Special Gas
inlet, to allow you to connect two separate gas supplies to the furnace.
The Normal Gas inlet provides:

The inert gas that prevents the graphite tube and sample from oxidizing
at high furnace temperatures.

The pneumatic pressure that holds the furnace closed and ensures that the
graphite tube makes good electrical contact with the graphite contacts.
Even when the spectrometer is switched off, the furnace is held closed if
there is pressure in the gas supply line. If you release the pressure in the
lines you can open the furnace.

The Special Gas inlet supplies the furnace with a special purge gas during some
steps of a furnace program. This is optional but is useful for particular
applications; for example, air may produce more effective ashing of organic
materials.
The gas connections are located at the front of the power unit, behind the cover
panel.
NOTE: The furnace will operate correctly only if there is gas pressure at both gas inlets.
If you are not using a special gas, you must connect the inert gas to both inlets
using the Y-connector provided.

43

System Description

Figure 4-4 Schematic of furnace gas flows (not to scale)


The external protective gas flow
The external gas flow protects the outside of the graphite tube from being
oxidized when the graphite tube is heated. Usually argon is used. The gas enters
the furnace through the rear of both contacts and flows into the space between
these and the graphite tube. It flows over the outside of the graphite tube and
exits through the sample injection hole and through the gap between the two
contacts. The external gas flow, 2 x 450 mL/minute, starts when power to the
system is switched on and stops automatically when the furnace has been idle for
10 minutes. During a furnace program the external gas flows continuously.
The internal purge gas flow
The internal gas flow enters the graphite tube at both ends and exits through the
sample injection hole. The flow starts as soon as you start a furnace program and
stops automatically when the furnace has been idle for 10 minutes.
Usually an inert gas, argon, is used to protect both the inside of the graphite tube
and the sample from being oxidized. The internal flow also purges vapors and
fumes, produced during the drying and pyrolysis steps, out of the tube. You can

44

HGA 900 Users Guide

also use a special gas for the internal gas flow. This is optional but is useful for
particular applications. For example, air may produce more effective ashing of
organic materials.
For each step of the furnace program you must select either the inert gas or the
special gas and the required flow rate.
The flow values are valid for argon. If you use nitrogen, the actual flow rate will
differ slightly from the values indicated.
During each step of the furnace program the gas flows at the rate specified for
that step. For any step where you specify a lower flow rate than that for the
previous step, the system reduces the flow five seconds before the step starts.
This ensures that the flow is stable when the step starts.
Selecting zero flow for the atomization step ensures that the graphite tube and
sample are in thermal equilibrium; an important requirement of the STPF
concept.
Inert gas
Argon is the recommended inert gas. It does not react with either the graphite
tube or the sample at the temperatures used in the furnace.
Although nitrogen can be used, it is not recommended as an inert gas for the
furnace. It can react both with the graphite tube and samples at normal
atomization temperatures. Nitrogen does not provide such efficient protection for
the graphite tube as argon at temperatures above 2000 C and can react with the
graphite tube to form toxic cyanogen gas, (CN)2, at temperatures above 2300 C.

Cooling the furnace system


For rapid and accurate temperature control, the furnace must be both heated and
cooled. Cooling is achieved using water flowing through tubes that are integrated
into the furnace. At optimum water temperature and flow rate, the furnace can be
cooled in about 20 seconds from its maximum temperature to that of the
incoming cooling water. The temperature of the furnace housing is measured
during operation and the furnace is shut down if the temperature rises to above
120 C. The power unit also incorporates cooling coils to maintain the electronic
components at a comfortable working temperature.

45

System Description

Cooling system
PerkinElmer offers a recirculating cooling system. It provides coolant at a
constant temperature and flow, to allow the most reproducible analytical
conditions. It also makes the system independent of external water supplies and
saves water. Electrical power to the cooling system is provided by the power
unit. The system shuts down automatically if the furnace has been idle for more
than 10 minutes.
The cooling system uses a 1:10 solution of glycerol in sediment-free drinking
water.
The cooling system also includes a pressure-sensitive safety device. If the
pressure in the circulatory system increases to above a factory-preset value an
internal bypass opens. This feature eliminates the risk of damage to the furnace
system through excess pressure. A pressure increase could be caused, for
example, if one of the hoses is kinked.

Figure 4-5 Furnace cooling system

46

HGA 900 Users Guide

Technical data
Graphite furnace
Principle
Longitudinally-heated graphite furnace for electrothermal
atomization.
Temperature range Ambient temperature (20 C) to 3000 C, programmable in steps of
10 C.
Heating rate
Programmable up to approx. 2000 C/s (maximum power heating).
Gas requirements
Inert gas supply required for operation (not provided); argon
recommended. A second, special gas can also be used.
Automatic gas shutdown when the furnace has been idle for 10
minutes.
Pressure: 350400 kPa (3.54 bar, 5158 psig) Gas flow: max. 1200
mL/min
Gas flows
Internal flow, selectable flow rates: 2x 0, 10, 160 mL/min
External flow, fixed: 2 x 450 mL/min
Cooling
Sediment-free drinking water.
Water consumption: max. 2.5 L/min
Water pressure: max. 3.5 bar (350 kPa, 50 psig)
The use of the (optional) Recirculating Cooling System is
recommended (see earlier in this chapter and chapter 7,
Maintenance, for more information).
Furnace program
Up to twelve independent steps.
Parameters: Isothermal temperature holding time: 099 s, in steps of
1s
Isothermal temperature: 203000 C in steps of 10 C. Heating rate:
programmable, time-dependent or maximum power.
Internal gas flow
Read delay
Read time
Power
230 V; 50/60 Hz; power consumption 3600 VA
requirements

47

System Description

Safety features

Electrical
protection
Technical
standards

48

Automatic circuit breaker to prevent the furnace drawing too much


current.
Software monitoring prevents the creation of furnace programs that
would draw too much power.
Safety lock to prevent operation with the furnace open or with a
defective tube.
Protection against overheating of the furnace or power unit.
Safety lock to prevent operation with low gas pressure.
The software continuously monitors the status of the system and informs
the user of any problems. If the user attempts to perform an action that
could have serious consequences, suitable messages appear on the touch
screen.
As defined in EN 61010-1-1993 (IEC 1010-1):
Insulation: Class I
Insulation category (overvoltage category): II
Pollution degree: 2
Classified as a laboratory instrument. Complies with the applicable
European Union directives and standards for safety and electromagnetic
compatibility for CE marking. Complies with the applicable Canadian
standards for safety for CSA/NRTL marking. The instrument has been
developed and is produced in compliance with ISO 9001.

HGA 900 Users Guide

Environmental
requirements
Dimensions
Mass (weight)

Ambient temperature +15 C to +35 C (+59 F to +95 F), with a maximum


change not exceeding 2.8 C (5 F) per hour.
2080% relative humidity; non-condensing.
Power unit alone: 320 mm wide x 470 mm high x 630 mm deep.
Power unit with furnace and autosampler in the standby position:
600 mm wide x 470 mm high x 970 mm deep.
43 kg

Cooling System
Principle
Self-priming recirculating system with fan-assisted heat exchanger.
Coolant
1:10 mixture of glycerol in sediment-free drinking water.
Volume
Approx. 5 L
Water
Output: 36 C 5 C
temperature
Inlet max: 90 C
Fan cut-in temp: 40 C
Flow
2.5 L/min
3
Air flow
Approx. 400 m /hour
Water pressure 300 kPa, (3 bar, 43 psig). Pressure-sensitive safety device opens if the
internal pressure increases to above a factory-preset value.
Connections
Reinforced hose, i.d. 8 mm; automatic connectors with integral shut-off
valves.
Power
230 V, 50/60 Hz, Power consumption: approx. 140 VA
requirements
Technical
Classified as a laboratory instrument accessory. Complies with the
standards
applicable European Union directives and standards for safety and
electromagnetic compatibility for CE marking. Complies with the
applicable Canadian standards for safety for CSA/NRTL marking. The
instrument has been developed and is produced in compliance with ISO
9001.
Dimensions
Width: 200 mm
Height: 375 mm
Depth: 500 mm
Mass (weight)
Approx. 18 kg with coolant.

49

System Description

AS-800 Furnace Autosampler


Autosampler design
The autosampler contains all the mechanical and electrical components required
to withdraw the correct volume of solution from a selected container, inject it
into the graphite tube, and rinse the pipet tip. Using the autosampler to inject
solutions into the graphite tube considerably improves the precision of the
analytical results compared to that for manual pipetting. The volumes pipetted
and the positioning of the droplet inside the graphite tube are much more
reproducible when performed by the autosampler.
The autosampler is mounted directly in front of the graphite furnace. You move
the graphite furnaceautosampler as a complete unit in and out of the
spectrometers atomizer compartment.
Sample and rinse pumps
The sample and rinse pumps are mounted on the side of the sample table. They
are driven by stepping motors to guarantee the precision and accuracy of the
selected volumes.
The rinse pump contains ball valves at the inlet and outlet. The sample pump
contains no valves.
The rinse pump delivers a fixed volume of rinsing liquid. The sample pump
delivers the volume that you select in the application program.
The sample table
The autosampler arm moves the pipet tip between the pipetting location and the
sample injection hole of the graphite tube. The autosampler arm and motor
assembly is fixed to the sample table. The sample tray trough and the overflow
rinsing port are mounted on a movable plate on the sample table. A stepping
motor slews the plate to position the correct reagent or sample container, or the
rinsing port, at the pipetting location.

50

HGA 900 Users Guide

The sample tray sits in the sample tray trough, which has a plastic cover. The
cover protects the samples from contamination and reduces the rate of
evaporation of the solvent. You can reduce the rate of evaporation further by
pouring a small volume of water into the sample tray trough.
The sample tray is removable. It is useful to have several trays so that you can
load trays while one tray of samples is being analyzed.
There are two types of sample tray available, with either 88 or 148 locations for
samples and reagents.

51

System Description

Figure 4-6 AS-800 furnace autosampler (1)

52

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 4-7 AS-800 furnace autosampler (2)


Sample and reagent containers
These containers are available with volumes of 1.2 mL, 2.5 mL or 7 mL. They
are made of polypropylene.
As well as for samples, you can use these containers for calibration solutions,
modifier solutions, or sample solutions for special applications.

53

System Description

Controlling the autosampler


Via the AA WinLab32 application, you control exactly how and when the
solutions will be taken up and injected into the graphite tube. For example you
can select:

The order in which the solutions will be taken up.

To pipet some or all of the solutions one after another and inject them
into the graphite tube together.

To pipet some or all of the solutions separately and inject them


separately into the graphite tube.

The autosampler operating cycle


1. You start the analysis with a software command.
The furnace program starts. The pipet tip is in the rinsing port.
2. The rinse pump performs three cycles, rinsing the pipet tip with 4.5 mL
of rinsing liquid.
3. The autosampler arm rises and the movable plate positions the requested
solution at the pipetting location. Simultaneously, the sample pump
draws a small bubble of air into the pipet tip to separate the rinsing liquid
from the solution being pipetted.
4. The autosampler arm lowers the pipet tip into the solution and the sample
pump draws the selected volume of solution into the tip. The autosampler
arm rises.
5. If you selected to pipet more than one solution in one step:
The container with the next solution is brought to the pipetting
location.
A small bubble of air is drawn into the pipet tip.
Step 4 is repeated for this solution.
Step 5 is repeated until all the solutions you selected have been taken
up into the pipet tip.

54

HGA 900 Users Guide

6. The autosampler arm swings over to the graphite furnace and injects
the solutions into the graphite tube.
7. The autosampler arm swings back to the sample table and
simultaneously the movable plate positions the rinsing port at the
pipetting location. The rinse pump rinses the pipet tip with rinsing
liquid.
8. Steps 3 through 7 are repeated for each step of the analysis program
that requires solutions to be pipetted.
9. When all the solutions have been injected into the graphite tube, the
pipet tip returns to the rinsing port and the rinse pump rinses the
pipet tip with rinsing liquid.
10. The furnace program continues to the end and the analyte signal is
measured.
11. The preceding steps are carried out for each replicate of every
sample and calibration solution.

55

System Description

Technical data
AS-800 furnace Autosampler
Principle
Random access furnace autosampler with programmable
sample volume.
Can combine and dilute solutions automatically in the
graphite tube and produce calibration solutions from a stock
solution.
Control
From the spectrometers application program.
Sample trays
Removable trays with 88 and 148 locations.
Rinsing
A rinsing port is integrated with the sample table. This
rinses the inside and outside of the pipet tip.
Minimum required 0.1 mL
sample volume
Pipetted volume
Minimum: 1.0 L; maximum: 99 L.
For the best precision a minimum of 5 L is recommended.
Maximum = volume of one solution or the sum of individual
solution volumes pipetted together; for example: [sample +
matrix modifier + diluent
+ air bubble volumes].
Power
The autosampler draws its power from the furnace power
requirements
unit.
Safety and
As defined in EN 61010-1-1993 (IEC 1010-1: 1990 + A1 +
EMC standards
A2) and EN 61010-2-061:1996.
Electromagnetic compatibility: EN 61326-1:1997.
Environmental
Ambient temperature +15 C to +35 C (+59 F to +95 F),
requirements
with a maximum change not exceeding 2.8 C (5 F) per
hour.
2080% relative humidity; non-condensing.
Dimensions
Width: 270 mm
Height: 200 mm
Depth: 340 mm
Mass
approx. 6 kg
(weight)

56

HGA 900 Users Guide

Literature on Electrothermal Atomization


The following monograph provides detailed information on electrothermal
atomization and other aspects of atomic absorption analyses:
B. Welz and M. Sperling, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry,
third, completely revised edition, Wiley-VCH, New York and Weinheim, 1999,
ISBN 3-527-28571-7

57

System Description

58

Installation

HGA 900 Users Guide

Before you install the graphite furnace


When the graphite furnace arrives
The complete HGA 900 System consists of the Graphite Furnace with the Power
Unit and the AS-800 Autosampler. The graphite furnaceautosampler assembly
is mounted on a swing arm at the front of the power unit. The swing arm allows
you to swing the graphite furnace assembly between the standby position at the
front of the power unit and the spectrometers atomizer compartment.
We recommend that only a PerkinElmer service engineer or PerkinElmer trained
and authorized person install the HGA 900 system initially on the spectrometer.
Warning: Risk of injury through lifting

WARNING

The instrument weighs approximately 43 kg.


Improper lifting can cause painful and sometimes permanent back injury.

Use proper lifting techniques to lift or move the instrument.

The complete HGA 900 System is shipped in a single shipping crate.


Open the crate and remove small items.

Visually check the HGA 900 and any other equipment for obvious signs
of damage. If you find that something is damaged, file a claim with the
authorized carrier immediately and inform your local PerkinElmer office.

Contact your local PerkinElmer office to arrange for installation. A


PerkinElmer service engineer will install the HGA 900 and put it into
operation for the first time.

Before the service engineer arrives


You must make sure that the fume ventilation system and the necessary gas
supply lines and regulators are installed. See chapter 3, Preparing your
Laboratory for more information.

59

Installation

Although you should not attempt to install the HGA 900 on the spectrometer
yourself, we recommend that you read the installation instructions to learn about
the HGA 900 and its requirements before you start using it.
Warning: Risk of injury

WARNING

When shipped the graphite furnace is secured in the standby position at


the front of the power unit. If the graphite furnace is moved away from
this position before the system has been bolted to the spectrometer, there
is a risk that the system can tip over and fall off the bench. This could
cause serious injury if the system fell on anybodys legs or feet.

Never move the graphite furnace away from the standby position
when the HGA 900 System is not bolted to the spectrometer.

When the service engineer arrives


The service engineer will:

60

remove the shipping locks;

perform preinstallation checks;

install the HGA 900 on the spectrometer;

make sure that everything functions correctly.

HGA 900 Users Guide

Installing the HGA 900 system


We recommend that only a PerkinElmer service engineer or PerkinElmer trained
and authorized person install the HGA 900 system initially on the spectrometer.
Should you attempt to do this yourself, PerkinElmer cannot be held responsible
for any damage or malfunctioning of the graphite furnace system or
spectrometer. The instructions in this chapter are primarily intended for
occasions when you might want to move the spectrometer/HGA 900 system
short distances to a new location within the laboratory.
Read the instructions carefully and be sure that you understand them thoroughly
before you attempt to move and reinstall the system.
The HGA 900 power unit is secured at the left-hand side of the spectrometer by a
special bracket. When moved into the spectrometers atomizer compartment, the
graphite furnace assembly is retained in place by two brackets. The PerkinElmer
service engineer will install these brackets on the spectrometer at the first
installation of the HGA 900 system.

Summary of the installation procedure


1. Install the HGA 900 system on the spectrometer.
2. Connect the furnace gases.
3. Connect the furnace system cooling source:
I. Install the cooling system.
or
II. Connect an external cooling source.
4. Install the AS-800 furnace autosampler.
5. Make the electrical connections.

61

Installation

Installing the HGA 900 system on the spectrometer

Figure 5-1 HGA 900 System


1. Make sure that the spectrometer is switched off.
2. Place the HGA 900 system on the left-hand side of the spectrometer.
3. Carefully slide the HGA 900 system alongside the spectrometer so that the
slots in the casting at the bottom of the power unit pass over the bracket at
the base of the spectrometer.

62

HGA 900 Users Guide

4. Pass the long-head bolt through the hole in the casting and tighten with a
7 mm socket wrench. You may have to maneuver the HGA 900 system
slightly until the holes line up before you can tighten the long-head bolt.

Figure 5-2 HGA 900 System installed on the spectrometer


Risk of damage to the instrument
CAUTION

Do not move the spectrometer/HGA 900 system when the two


instruments are bolted together. Mechanical damage may occur.

Make sure that there is enough space at the rear and sides of the
spectrometer/ HGA 900 system for air to circulate freely.

63

Installation

Removing the front panel


The inlet manifolds for the furnace gases and cooling water are located behind
the panel at the front of the power unit.
The front panel is retained by three pegs which engage in spring clips in the
frame of the power unit. To remove the front panel you must first move the
graphite furnace into the spectrometers atomizer compartment.

Figure 5-3 Removing the front panel of the power unit


1. If necessary, move the graphite furnace into the spectrometers atomizer
compartment (see chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis for more information).
2. Grip the lower edge of the panel and firmly but carefully pull the panel off
the lower two spring clips on the power unit. Then pull the panel off the
upper spring clip.
NOTE: To replace the front panel, locate the pegs over the spring clips on the power
unit, then push the front panel firmly into the spring clips.

64

HGA 900 Users Guide

Connecting the furnace gases


The connectors for the furnace gases are located behind the front panel of the
power supply. Further information on the functions of the furnace gases is
provided in chapter 4, System Description.
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 an inert gas only you must
connect the gas to both inlets using the Y-connector.
What you need to provide:

A suitable supply of argon (or nitrogen) and if necessary a suitable supply of


a special gas. The gases must conform to the requirements listed in chapter 3,
Preparing Your Laboratory.

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.
0992-3183.

The gas supply systems must comply with your local safety regulations.
Refer also to the information given in chapter 2, Safety Practices.
What is provided with the HGA 900 system:

About 10 m of special gas tube, B050-8264.

A Y-connector with automatic push-fit connectors, 0992-0179.

Connecting argon (or nitrogen) only


1. Remove the front panel of the power unit (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
2. Make sure that the argon (or nitrogen) supply is turned off.

65

Installation

3. 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.
4. Connect the long gas tube to the argon (or nitrogen) pressure regulator. Use a
connector or adapter suitable for the gas regulator. Make sure that all the
connections are secure.
5. Pass the gas tube to the front of the power unit. Make sure that it cannot be
damaged or strained.
6. Push the two short tubes and the long tube into the connectors on the Yconnector as shown on the following page.
7. Push the free ends of the two short gas 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: Turn the gas off at the tank.
Carefully push the black locking ring of the connector into the connector and
pull the tube out of the connector.
8. Replace the front panel (see the procedure earlier in this chapter).

66

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-4 Connecting argon (or nitrogen) only

67

Installation

Connecting both argon and a special gas


1. Remove the front panel of the power unit (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
2. Make sure that the gas supplies are turned off.
3. 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.
4. Connect the gas tubes to the argon (or nitrogen) and special gas pressure
regulators. Use the R '' screw connectors provided or use a connector or
adapter suitable for the gas regulator. Make sure that all the connections are
secure.
5. Pass the gas tubes to the front of the power unit. Make sure that they cannot
be damaged or strained.
6. 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: Turn the gas off at the tank.
Carefully push the black locking ring of the connector into the connector and
pull the tube out of the connector.
7. Replace the front panel (see the procedure earlier in this chapter).

68

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-5 Connecting argon (or nitrogen) and a special gas

69

Installation

Connecting cooling sources for the furnace system


Installing the cooling system
PerkinElmer provides a recirculating cooling system with one version of the
HGA 900 system (for more information see chapter 4 System Description).
Connecting and disconnecting the water hoses
The inlet and outlet hoses are permanently attached to the cooling system. They
have automatic connectors which are marked with the direction of the water
flow.
1. Remove the front panel of the power unit (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
2. Place the cooling system in a convenient position on the floor underneath the
spectrometer. Do not place the cooling system on the same bench as the
spectrometer since vibrations can adversely influence the spectrometer.
Make sure that:

You can reach the on/off switch at the rear.

There is space at the rear and sides of the cooling system for air
to circulate freely.

There is space to remove the stopper and fill the system.

You can see the water level indicator.

3. Pass the two hoses from the cooling system to the front of the power unit.
Make sure they are not strained.
4. Push the hose connectors onto the correct fittings on the spectrometer as
shown on the following page.
The connectors are spring loaded. Push them straight onto the fittings until
they click into place.

70

HGA 900 Users Guide

NOTE: To disconnect the water hoses:


Carefully pull the knurled locking ring down slightly, to release the lock, and pull
the connector off the fitting on the power unit.
5. Replace the front panel (see the procedure earlier in this chapter).

Figure 5-6 Connecting the cooling system to the power unit (front of
instrument)

71

Installation

Filling the cooling system


The cooling system is self-priming; air in the system is removed automatically as
the cooling system operates. The coolant is a 1:10 solution of glycerol in water
(1 part glycerol plus 9 parts water).
NOTE: The cooling system contains 0.5 L glycerol when it leaves the factory.
(See chapter 7 Maintenance for the procedure to follow when you empty and
refill the cooling system. 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.
3. Replace the stopper securely.

Figure 5-7 Connecting the cooling system to the power unit

72

HGA 900 Users Guide

Connecting external cooling sources


If you intend to run the HGA 900 system without the PerkinElmer cooling
system, you must connect another suitable source of cooling, such as the main
water supply or a laboratory thermostat. If you connect the HGA 900 system to
the main water supply, make sure that the water pressure is as given in Table 5-1.
A water hose kit with pressure relief valve is provided with one version of the
furnace system which you must install in the water supply line to the HGA 900
power unit. This valve opens if the water pressure to the furnace system exceeds
4 bar. This feature eliminates the risk of damage to the furnace system through
excess water pressure.
The cooling water must conform to the requirements listed in chapter 3
Preparing Your Laboratory.
Water pressure-Leaking hose fittings or burst water hoses.
CAUTION

If the water inlet pressure is too high, hose fittings may leak or hoses
may even burst.

For reliable and safe operation, you must install the pressure
relief valve kit B313-0124 in the water supply line.

The hoses provided in the kit are fitted with automatic connectors that
incorporate stop valves; these valves prevent water from running out when the
hoses are disconnected. The hoses are marked with the direction of the water
flow.

73

Installation

Table 5-1. Pressure for the Cooling Water Supply


Outlet Pressure

Pmin

Pmax

250

350

kPa

2.5

3.5

bar

36

50

psig

Check the water pressure to your laboratory and make sure that the water
inlet pressure is set to a value between the minimum value (Pmin) and the
maximum value (Pmax).

Make sure that the outlet pressure is never set to a value exceeding the
maximum pressure (Pmax).

1. The PerkinElmer service engineer will connect the pressure relief valve to
the water tap (faucet).
2. Make sure that the drain hose from the pressure relief valve hangs down into
a suitable laboratory sink or drain.
3. Remove the front panel of the power unit (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
4. Connect the inlet hose (marked WATER IN) to the fitting at the bottom of
the pressure relief valve.
5. Connect the other end of the inlet hose to the fitting marked H2O In on the
HGA 900 power unit.
The connectors are spring loaded. Push them straight onto the fittings until
they click into place.

74

HGA 900 Users Guide

6. Connect the outlet hose (marked WATER OUT) to the fitting marked H2O
Out on the HGA 900 power unit.
NOTE: To disconnect the water hoses:
Carefully pull the knurled locking ring down slightly, to release the lock, and pull
the connector off the fitting on the power unit.
7. We recommend that you fit a proprietary flow indicator in the outlet hose so
that you can easily monitor that cooling water is flowing.
8. Place the free end of the outlet hose in a suitable laboratory sink or drain.
Make sure that the hose cannot slip out.
9. Replace the front panel (see the procedure earlier in this chapter).

Figure 5-8 Connecting the main water supply to the power unit (front of
instrument)

75

Installation

Installing the furnace autosampler


The first installation
A PerkinElmer service engineer will install the furnace autosampler at the same
time as the HGA 900 system. The autosampler is bolted onto a bracket at the
front of the furnace.
Usually there is no need to remove the autosampler. When you are working with
a different atomizer, or when you wish to perform graphite furnace maintenance
procedures, you swing the complete graphite furnaceautosampler assembly
away from the atomizer compartment to the standby position at the front of the
power unit.

Connecting the drain tube and waste bottle


The basic waste bottle provided with the instrument is made from polyethylene
(PE). PE is resistant to most commonly-used solutions. A PTFE waste bottle is
offered as an option. If you are using an aggressive rinsing solution, particularly
if it attacks PE, you should use the PTFE waste bottle.
You may have to change the drain tube more often if you are using an aggressive
rinsing solution.
1. Push one end of the drain tube onto the drain outlet on the rinsing port.
2. Slip the rinsing port onto the guides on the left-hand side of the circular
trough for the sample tray.
3. Place the waste bottle in a convenient location underneath the autosampler,
such as on a shelf underneath the laboratory bench.
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.
Make sure that the drain tube cannot slip accidentally out of the waste bottle.

76

HGA 900 Users Guide

5. Position the waste bottle so that when you move the graphite furnace
assembly into and out of the atomizer compartment the drain tube does not
pull out of the bottle or catch on any objects.

Figure 5-9 Connecting the main drain tube and waste bottle (front of
instrument)

77

Installation

Connecting the rinse feed tubes and the rinse bottle


The basic rinse bottle provided with the instrument is made from polyethylene
(PE). PE is resistant to most rinsing solutions that are commonly used. A PTFE
rinse bottle is offered as an option (see the spare parts list at the end of this
chapter for a part number). If you are performing trace analyses, you may prefer
to use the PTFE bottle to reduce the risk of contamination. If you are using an
aggressive rinsing solution, use the PTFE rinse bottle.
NOTE: New plastic components may be contaminated with copper as a result of the
production process. We recommend that you rinse all new components in dilute
nitric acid and then in deionized water before you use them.
1. You require:

a rinse bottle and the cap with the small hole,

the rinse feed assembly, consisting of a flexible PTFE tube with two
screw fittings and a rigid FEP tube with a complementary screw thread.

2. Push the notched end of the rigid tube through the bottle cap until the tube
touches the base of the bottle.
3. Connect one end of the flexible tube to the rigid tube.
4. Place the rinse bottle in a convenient location underneath the autosampler,
such as on a shelf underneath the laboratory bench.
The top of the rinse bottle must be lower than the rinse pump to prevent
siphoning.
5. Connect the other end of the flexible tube to the inlet fitting of the rinse
pump.
6. Position the rinse bottle so that when you move the graphite furnace
assembly into and out of the atomizer compartment the rinse feed tube does
not pull the bottle over or catch on any objects.

78

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-10 Connecting the rinse feed tubes and rinse bottle

79

Installation

Installing sample trays and containers


Types of sample tray
Two sample trays are provided with the autosampler: one tray has 88 locations
while the other has 148 locations.
You select the type of sample tray you are going to use in the software. The
procedure is described in the WinLab 32 for AA Online Help.
To install the sample tray and cover
1. Grip the hub of the sample tray and lower it onto the drive spindle.
2. Rotate the tray gently until the tab on the hub locates in the slot on the drive
spindle. There is a notch in the outer ring of sample locations to mark the
position of the tab.
3. Place the sample tray cover over the hub and line it up so that the tabs on the
sample tray trough engage in the notches in the cover. The ports in the cover
are on 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.

80

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-11 Location of the notch and hub on the sample tray.

81

Installation

Sample cups and reagent containers


Cup or container volume,
material

88-location tray
locations

148-location tray
locations

1.2 mL; polypropylene

Not suitable

1-120, 122, 123, 125,


127, 128, 130, 132, 133,
135, 137, 138, 140

2.5 mL; polypropylene

1-80

121. 124, 126, 129, 131,


134, 136, 139

7 mL; polypropylene

81-88

141-148

Polypropylene containers are suitable for organic solvents

Quick Reference
A slot is provided underneath the autosampler into which you can insert the
Quick Reference. We recommend that you keep the Quick Reference with the
autosampler at all times since it contains important maintenance information,
particularly maintenance of the valves.

82

HGA 900 Users Guide

Electrical connections
Warning: Electrical Hazard

WARNING

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.

Read the following instructions very carefully before connecting any cables.
See chapter 3, Preparing Your Laboratory, for the specification of the line
power supply.
Summary

1. Make sure that the spectrometer is switched off.


2. Make sure that the circuit breaker on the rear panel of the HGA 900 power
unit is set to the off position (marked).
3. Make sure that the operational on/off switch located on the left-hand side of
the power unit is set to off.
4. If they are currently switched on, switch off the computer and all other
instruments that you will connect to the spectrometer, power unit, or
computer. See the guides for the individual instruments for the procedure to
use.
5. Disconnect the line power cords of the spectrometer and all other instruments
from the line power supply.
6. Connect the instrument control cables and power cords as described on the
following pages.
NOTE: The correct procedure for powering up the system is described in chapter 6,
Preparing For Analysts.

83

Installation

Connecting the graphite furnace system to the


AAnalyst 400
Refer to the following figure while you are connecting the system. The functions
of the individual connectors and switches are shown in the next section, electrical
connectors and switches.
1. Connect the Read cable between the Instrument connector on the rear panel
of the HGA 900 power unit and the connector on the front of the
spectrometer:
2. Connect the IEEE cable (B051-0293) between the Communication
connector on the rear panel of the HGA 900 power unit and the IEEE
connector on the front of the computer.
3. For connections to the AAnalyst 400 which uses a computer, connect the PC
to the system:
I. Connect the RS232 to the RS232 connector on the PC.
II. Connect the other end of this cable to the RS232 connector on the
front of the spectrometer.
4. If you are using the optional cooling system, connect the cooling system to
the special outlet on the rear panel of the HGA 900 power unit. Use the line
cord provided with the cooling system.
5. Refer to the Users Guide for your computer on how to connect the mouse,
monitor, and printer.

84

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-12 Electrical connections for the HGA 900 to the AAnalyst 400

85

Installation

Electrical connectors and switches

Figure 5-13 Operational on/off switch on the HGA 900 power unit

86

HGA 900 Users Guide

Figure 5-14 Rear panel of the HGA 900 power unit

87

Installation

Item
1

Designation

Communication

Instrument

Cooling System
~230 V 50/60 Hz

5
6
7

~230 V 50/60 Hz
~230 V 50/60 Hz
~230 V 50/60 Hz

88

Function

Operational on/off switch. This switch turns


the instrument on and off, but it does not
disconnect the instrument from the line
power supply.
Socket for the IEEE communication cable to
the spectrometer.
Socket for the Read cable to the
spectrometer.
Power outlet for the recirculating cooling
system. Connect the cooling system to this
socket. This outlet is switched by the power
unit and switches off the cooling system if
the furnace has been idle for more than 10
minutes. Do not connect other equipment
to this power outlet.
Power outlet for a printer.
Power outlet for a computer.
Power outlet for a monitor.
Note: Only connect a printer, a computer, or
a monitor to the respective
power outlet when the equipment requires
230 V AC, 50/60 Hz.
Circuit breaker. An automatic switch that
prevents the system from drawing too much
current. In the off position (marked O), the
instrument is disconnected entirely from the
line power supply. In the on position
(marked I), the instrument is connected to the
line power supply but is not necessarily
switched on and operational. The circuit
breaker is set to 12.5 A at the manufacturing
site.

HGA 900 Users Guide


Item

Designation

Function

9
10

F1

11

F2

12

F3

Captive line power cord for the power unit.


Fuse for the cooling system power outlet; 4
A slowblow (T).
Fuse for the printer power outlet; 4 A slowblow (T).
Fuse for the computer power outlet; 4 A
slow-blow (T).

13

F4

Fuse for the monitor power outlet; 4 A slowblow (T).

89

Installation

Installation Kit
Items Included in the Installation Kit with a circulating cooling
system (Part No. N315-0005)
Part No.

Description

Quantity

B315-0050

HGA 900 Furnace Accessory

B300-1500

AS 800 Autosampler

B019-8072

Circulating Cooling System

B000-8286

Washer #DIN125

B000-8943

Washer # DIN9021

B003-9777

Lock Washer

B005-4945

Nut

B005-5474

Washer #6.4 DIN 9021

B005-5883

Screw Clamp

B005-5934

Screws #M6 x 12 DIN 912

B011-2552

Plug for HGA 900

B016-0561

Screw M4 x 8 DIN 7985

10

90

HGA 900 Users Guide

Items Included in the Installation Kit (Part No. N315-0006)


Part No.

Description

Quantity

B315-0050

HGA 900 Furnace Accessory

B300-1500

AS 800 Autosampler

B000-8286

Washer #DIN125

B000-8943

Washer # DIN9021

B003-9777

Lock Washer

B005-4945

Nut

B005-5474

Washer #6.4 DIN 9021

B005-5883

Screw Clamp

B005-5934

Screws #M6 x 12 DIN 912

B011-2552

Plug for HGA 900

B016-0561

Screw M4 x 8 DIN 7985

10

B313-0124

Water Tube Kit (5 Bar)

NOTE: This installation kit does not contain a circulating cooling system.

91

Installation

Spares Parts Available


Part No.

Description

Quantity

0992-0179

Y-connector

0992-0583

Union Nut

0992-3472

Rear Clamping Ring

0992-3473

Front Clamping Ring

B001-8079

Union Nut

B002-3662

Disk

B004-8138

Clamping Utter

B007-2601

Top Screw for Autosampler

B008-0112

Tube Alignment Tool

B008-0259

Instrument Mirror

B012-8495

Graphite contacts (left-hand and


right-hand)

1 pair

B014-7498

Plastic Tube Insert

B015-5574

Safety Insert

B016-0561

Screw #DIN 7985 M 4x8

B016-6485

Gas Connection

B016-6859

Sub Unit Terminal and Cable

92

HGA 900 Users Guide

Spare Parts Available (continued)


Part No.

Description

Quantity

B050-2706

Air Filter

B050-5368

Cleaning Tips

1 package (10 tips)

B050-8264

Special gas tube (FLEXO)

10 m

B050-9449

Suitcase AAnalyst

B051-0293

Communication Cable

B300-1262

Graphite Tube with Platform

B312-1301

Contact Changing Tool

B312-1302

Read Cable

B313-0064

Furnace Retaining Screw

B313-0085

Plate with Nuts

B313-0127

Insertion Sheet

B315-0163

Special bracket, secures HGA


900 system to spectrometer

B315-1264

Left-hand bracket

B315-1265

Right-hand bracket

B011-2552

Plug

N315-0331

Cable

0993-6667

HGA 900 Users Guide

A Spares Parts Kit is available and the Part Number is N315-0199.

93

Installation

HGA Graphite Furnace


Graphite components
Description
Pyrocoated graphite tubes with integrated platforms
Pyrocoated graphite tubes with grooves for Lvov
platforms
Lvov platforms
Pyrocoated graphite tubes (not for use with Lvov
platforms)
Uncoated graphite tubes
(not for use with Lvov platforms)
Graphite contacts (left-hand and right-hand)
Graphite shield rings

Pkg
20
5
50
20
5
50
20
5
50
20
5
50
20
1 pair
5

Part No.
B300-1264
B300-1262
B010-9322
B300-1254
B013-7111
B010-9324
B300-1256
B013-7112
B009-1504
B300-0342
B010-5197
B007-0699
B300-1253
B012-8495
B010-5113

Matrix modifiers
Description
Magnesium nitrate modifier (10 g/L Mg, 100 mL)
Palladium nitrate modifier (10 g/L Pd, 50 mL)

Part No.
B019-0634
B019-0635

Window components
Description
Window
Mount
Collar

94

Part No.
B008-0850
B312-0683
B312-0294

HGA 900 Users Guide

Tools
Description
Set of tools, for changing the contacts
Tube alignment tool
Insertion tool for Lvov platforms

Part No.
B312-1301
B008-0112
B011-2657

Furnace gas and cooling systems


Description
Drain fitting for the automatic connectors to empty the cooling
system hoses (2 required)
Gas tube
Tube cutter for the gas tube
Y-connector for the gas tube
Cooling system, 230 V, 50/60 Hz
Water hose kit with pressure relief valve
Glycerol (85%) for cooling systems

Part No.
B019-3243
B050-8264
0992-3183
0992-0179
B019-8072
B313-0124
B050-5133

95

Installation

Obtaining supplies, replacement parts, and


accessories
Supplies, replacement parts, and accessories can be ordered directly from
PerkinElmer, using the part numbers quoted in the guides provided with the
instrument.
e-ssentials PerkinElmer Instruments on-line catalog, your single source for
quality supplies and accessories.
http://essentials.perkinelmer.com/
PerkinElmers 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 1-800-762-4000, 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.

96

Preparing for
Analysis

HGA 900 Users Manual

Setting up the system for analyses


using the furnace technique
The HGA 900 graphite furnace is operated via the same PerkinElmer AA
WinLab32 software that is used to operate the AA spectrometer. If your
spectrometer is an AAnalyst 400, you will need to purchase the AA WinLab32
software and an appropriate computer before you can operate the HGA 900.
Your PerkinElmer office will be pleased to advise you.

Summary of the procedure


For detailed information, refer to the Online Help in AA WinLab32.
1. Read the safety information at the front of this guide before you operate
the system.
2. Make sure that the spectrometer, graphite furnace power unit, and other
ancillary instruments are correctly installed and connected to their line
power supplies.
Make sure that the coolant hoses are connected correctly to the power
unit.
Where applicable, make sure that the cooling system is filled to the Max
mark (for more information see Filling the cooling system in Chapter 5
Installation).
3. Switch on the fume ventilation system for the work area.
4. If necessary, move the furnace assembly into the atomizer compartment
(for more information see Setting up the graphite furnace in Chapter 6
Preparing for Analysis).
5. Turn on the inert (and special) gas for the furnace and adjust the outlet
gauge pressures to the recommended values (See Table 6-1).
6. Turn on the cooling water to the system:
I. If you are using the circulatory cooling system, switch it on by
pressing the power switch located on the rear panel. You can leave
this switch permanently in the on position since power is supplied
by the HGA 900 power unit.
or
97

Preparing for Analysis

II. If you are using the main water supply, set a flow rate of
approximately 2.5 L/min.
NOTE: If the water is too cold or flowing too fast, moisture may condense on the
graphite contacts or on the furnace windows. Moisture on the graphite contacts
leads to shorter lifetimes of the graphite tube and contacts, while moisture on the
windows leads to a reduction in the radiant energy.
7. Switch the circuit breaker on the rear panel of the HGA 900 power unit to the
on position (marked). You can leave this switch permanently in the on
position during routine operation; you switch the power unit on and off via
the operational on/off switch located on the lower left-hand side of the unit.
8. Switch on the power unit with the operational on/off switch.
9. Switch on the computer.
If your computer has a power management system, switch this off.
10. Switch on the spectrometer and other accessories (see Switching on the
System in the Online Help in AA WinLab32).
11. Start AA WinLab32: In the AA WinLab32 group, double click on the AA
WinLab32 icon.
12. Select the atomization technique:
I. In the File menu, click on Change Technique.
or
II. On the Toolbar, click on Technique. In the Select Technique dialog,
click on Furnace and then on OK.
13. Create or open a method (see the Online Help in AA WinLab32).
14. Install and align the lamp(s) that you require (see Installing the Lamp(s) and
Aligning Lamps sections in the AAnalyst 400 Hardware Guide or AAnalyst
200 Users Guide).
15. If required, install and condition a graphite tube (for more information see
the procedures for installing and conditioning a graphite tube in Chapter 7
Maintenance).
16. Optimize the position of the furnace (see the procedure, Aligning the
graphite furnace later in this chapter).
17. Set up the furnace autosampler (see the procedure later in this chapter).

98

HGA 900 Users Manual

You should now optimize the analytical conditions. Refer to the Online Help in
AA WinLab32.
Procedures for shutting down the system are described on the last page of this
chapter.
Table 6-1 Required Pressure for the Furnace Gases
Gas

Outlet Gauge Pressure


KPa

bar

psig

P min

P max

P min

P max

P min

P max

Argon

350

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

Nitrogen

350

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

Special

350

400

3.5

4.0

50.0

58.0

Set the outlet gauge pressure for each gas to a value just below the
maximum value (Pmax).

Never set the outlet gauge pressure to a value exceeding the maximum
pressure (Pmax).
Warning: Toxic Gases
If you use nitrogen as the inert gas, toxic cyanogens gas (CN)2 will be
produced when the furnace temperature is above 2300 C.

WARNING

Make sure the main laboratory fume ventilation system removes all
gases and fumes emitted by the furnace.

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Setting up the graphite furnace


Moving the furnace in and out of the atomizer
compartment
NOTE: You can move the graphite furnace and the furnace autosampler as a complete
assembly in and out of the atomizer compartment.
To move the furnace in:
1. If the flame is burning, extinguish it, shut down the gases, and bleed the gas
supply lines (see Extinguishing the flame in the Online Help in AA
WinLab32).
2. Remove the burner assembly from the spectrometer (see Removing the
burner assembly section in the spectrometer hardware guide).
3. From the standby position in front of the power unit, pull the furnace
assembly forward to the stop.
4. Swing the furnace assembly carefully around to just in front of the
spectrometers atomizer compartment.
5. Gently push the furnace assembly into the atomizer compartment to the stop.
6. Secure the furnace assembly to the two brackets in the atomizer compartment
using the locking screws.

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To move the furnace out:


Warning: High Temperatures Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

1. Unscrew the two locking screws in the atomizer compartment.


2. Pull the furnace assembly forward out of the atomizer compartment.
3. Swing the furnace assembly carefully around to in front of the power unit.
4. Gently push the furnace assembly back to the standby position.

Figure 6-1 moving the furnace assembly into and out of the atomizer
compartment

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Warning: High temperature, UV Radiation Risk of Burns and Eye


Damage

WARNING

The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures, and can emit
UV radiation which can damage your eyes when it is heated to
incandescence. The furnace is exposed when it is in the standby position,
thus increasing these risks.

Never heat the furnace when it is in the standby position. Always


move it into the atomizer compartment before you heat it.

Aligning the graphite furnace


The graphite furnace must be correctly aligned in the radiation beam.
Once you have aligned the furnace, it remains aligned during routine operation.
Nevertheless, always check alignment of the furnace:
NOTE: When aligning the HGA900 furnace position, you should use a Cu lamp (or a
similarly intense lamp such as Cr or V with an emission line in the range of 350
+ 50 nm) and the largest slit available (2.3x2.7). This will give the optimal
furnace position for the best emission rejection performance for elements that
use the largest slit (such as As).

when you move it into the atomizer compartment in case someone has
altered the alignment controls while the furnace was in the standby position.

if you change from a graphite tube without a platform to one with a platform.

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Figure 6-2 Alignment controls on the furnace


To align the graphite furnace:
Refer to Figure 6-2 for the alignment controls.
1. Install and align a Cu lamp (or a similarly intense lamp such as Cr or V with
an emission line in the range of 350 + 50 nm).
2. Set the slit to the largest setting (i.e., 2.3x2.7).
3. If on, switch off the deuterium lamp of the background corrector.
4. Move the furnace out of the atomizer compartment (see the procedure earlier
in this chapter).

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Preparing for Analysis

5. Check that the graphite tube you intend to use for your analyses is installed
in the furnace.
6. Remove both window assemblies from the furnace (see the procedure in
chapter 7, Maintenance).
7. Autozero the spectrometer.
I. In the Tools menu, click on Continuous Graphics.
II. Click on Autozero.
8. Move the furnace back into the atomizer compartment (see the procedure
earlier in this chapter). The absorbance reading should be less than 0.002.
If it is not, align the furnace as described in step 9.
9. Align the furnace:
I. Move the locking lever to the left to release lateral (left-right)
movement of the furnace.
II. Rotate the vertical (up-down) and horizontal (forward-backward)
alignment controls alternately and in small increments to find the
position that gives minimum absorbance reading on the display.
III. Grasp the furnace assembly at the base and carefully move the
furnace laterally to the left and to the right to find the position that
gives minimum absorbance reading on the display.
IV. Repeat the horizontal, vertical, and lateral adjustments until you
have obtained the min imum absorbance reading.
V. Move the locking lever to the right to lock the furnace.
10. When you have completed furnace alignment, autozero the spectrometer:
I. In the Tools menu, click on Continuous Graphics.
II. Click on Autozero.
11. Refit both window assemblies (see the procedure in chapter 7, Maintenance).
12. The absorbance reading after replacing the windows should be about 0.06
0.09 when measured at the Cu line at 324.75 nm. The absorbance increases
toward shorter wavelengths.

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Setting up the autosampler


Perform these steps before the start of every analysis
run:
1. Fill and flush the rinsing system (see the procedure below).
2. Align the autosampler arm (see the procedure later in this chapter).
3. Adjust the penetration depth of the pipet tip in the graphite tube (see the
procedure later in this chapter).
4. Adjust the immersion depth of the pipet tip in the sample cup (see the
procedure later in this chapter).
5. Check delivery of the solution droplet (see the procedure later in this
chapter).

Filling and flushing the rinsing system

You must fill the rinsing system before the start of every analysis run to
make sure that the tubes are completely filled with fresh rinsing liquid, to
remove entrained air bubbles, and as part of routine valve maintenance.

You must flush the rinsing system at the end of every analysis run as part of
routine valve maintenance.

Follow the steps below to fill and flush the rinsing system:
1. Make sure that the rinsing system components are correctly installed, in good
condition, and suitable for the rinsing liquid you will use.
2. Prepare the rinsing solutions that you require, see following page.
3. Fill the rinse bottle with the first, clean, particle-free, rinsing liquid. If there
are particles in the rinsing liquid they can lodge in the valves, causing leaks
and non-reproducible results.

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4. Fill and flush the system:


I. In the Furnace Control window, click on Flush Sampler.
This activates a rinse cycle.
II. Repeat sub step 1 as often as required to completely fill the rinsing
system with rinsing liquid and flush all the air out.
5. Empty the waste bottle. Dispose of any hazardous waste correctly.
6. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for each further rinsing solution.
NOTE: Make certain there are no air bubbles in the rinsing system. Air bubbles can lead
to non-reproducible results.

Rinsing solutions
Use the following rinsing solutions in the given sequence:
Before the start of every analysis series:
If the rinsing solution you intend to use is miscible with the solution currently in
the system, use your intended rinsing solution. If the rinsing solution you intend
to use is not miscible with the solution in the system, you must use intermediate
rinsing liquids.
For example, to change from an acidic liquid to an organic solvent, you could
use:
1. Deionized water.
2. Isopropanol or other water-miscible solvent.
3. Final organic solvent.
After an analysis series:
1. If you have been using an organic rinsing liquid, use isopropanol or other
water-miscible solvent.

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2. Dilute nitric acid. This is especially important for elements with a tendency
to carryover.
3. Isopropanol.
4. Deionized water.

Aligning the autosampler

You must align the autosampler to make sure that:


the delicate tip of the sampling pipet enters the sample injection
hole in the graphite tube without striking the edge of the hole;
the pipet tip does not strike the integrated platform or the wall of
the tube;
the measurement solution is correctly dispensed.

You must check alignment of the autosampler:


before the start of every analysis run;
every time you change the graphite tube or contacts, or open and
close the furnace;
every time you realign the furnace.

To align the autosampler arm and adjust the penetration depth:


A summary of the procedure is presented below. For detailed information, refer
to the Online Help in AA WinLab32.

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Risk of damage to the autosampler


CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.
1. Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand. Move it only
with the depth control wheel.

Refer to Figure 6-3 the alignment controls.


1. Raise the pipet tip out of the rinsing port:
I. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler wizard appears.
II. In this dialog, select Align the autosampler tip in the graphite
tube. The autosampler arm is unlocked and the pipet tip moves to
a position directly above the graphite tube. Select Next.
2. Using the depth control wheel, very carefully lower the pipet tip to just
above the graphite contact. Do not allow the pipet tip to touch any part of the
furnace.
3. Adjust the forward/backward and left/right controls on the autosampler until
the pipet tip is more or less directly above the injection hole.

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Figure 6-3 Alignment controls on the autosampler


Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage
The lamps may emit UV radiation which can damage your eyes.

WARNING

Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when aligning the


autosampler.

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Preparing for Analysis

4. View the inside of the furnace:


II. Place a piece of white card behind the right-hand furnace window
to provide a white background when you view the inside of the
graphite tube.
III. Hold the instrument mirror provided with the autosampler next to
the left-hand furnace window and position it so that you can see
into the graphite tube. Wear UV-absorbing glasses when viewing
the graphite tube.
5. Then very carefully lower the pipet tip with the depth control wheel into the
tube to check that the pipet tip does not strike the edge of the injection hole.
Do not lower the pipet tip so far that it could strike the integrated platform or
tube wall (see the following figure). View the inside of the graphite tube
while you are doing this.
6. In the wizard select Finish to save the new position.
Saving can take several seconds.
NOTE: Once you have saved this depth position, do not inadvertently change it by
clicking on Yes to the query Do you want to save this position? When using the
wizard select Check the autosampler tip alignment in the graphite tube. Only
click on Yes when you have readjusted the depth.
To check and readjust the penetration depth of the pipet tip in the
graphite tube:
A summary of the procedure is presented below. For detailed information, refer
to the Online Help in AA WinLab32.
Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage
The lamps may emit UV radiation which can damage your eyes.

WARNING

110

Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when aligning the


autosampler.

HGA 900 Users Manual

Risk of damage to the pipet tip.


CAUTION

The pipet tip enters the graphite tube when you issue the In Tube command.
The pipet 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.

1. Before you use this procedure, align the autosampler arm as described in the
procedure above.
2. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler wizard appears.
3. In the wizard select Check the autosampler tip alignment in the graphite
tube. The autosampler arm is unlocked and the pipet tip enters the graphite
tube.
4. View the inside of the furnace:
I. Place a piece of white card behind the right-hand furnace window
to provide a white background when you view the inside of the
graphite tube.
II. Hold the instrument mirror provided with the autosampler next to
the left-hand furnace window and position it so that you can see
into the graphite tube. Wear UV-absorbing glasses when viewing
the graphite tube. Select Next in the Wizard.
5. View the depth of the capillary in the graphite tube.
6. If no adjustments are made, select Cancel in the Wizard. If adjustments are
made to the depth of the capillary, select Finish on the Wizard to save the
new position.

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NOTE: Once you have saved this depth position, do not inadvertently change it by
clicking on Yes to the query Do you want to save this position? Only click on Yes
when you have readjusted the depth.

Figure 6-4 Penetration depth of pipet tip in the graphite tube


To adjust the immersion depth of the pipet tip in the sample cup:
A summary of the procedure is presented below. For detailed information, refer
to the Online Help in AA WinLab32.
Preliminary procedure
1. Align the sampler arm (see the procedure earlier in this chapter).
2. Put a sample cup in location 1 of the sample tray (for visual comparison).
3. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler wizard appears.
4. In the wizard select set the depth of the autosampler tip in the sampling
cup and Use the rinse location. The pipet tip moves to a position directly
above the rinsing port.
5. Adjust the depth control wheel to lower the arm so that the depth of the pipet
tip in the rinsing port is approximately the correct depth for the tip inside the
sample cup. Select Next in the Wizard.

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6. In the Align Autosampler wizard click on Finish to save the new position.
Finely adjusting the depth in the sample cup
1. Make a preliminary adjustment as described above.
2. Put a sample cup in location 1 of the sample tray.
3. In the Align Autosampler Wizard, select Use a Sample Cup. The pipet tip
moves into the sample cup. Select Next.
4. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipet tip is at the correct depth
inside the cup.
5. In the Align Autosampler Wizard, select Finish to save the new position.
NOTE: Once you have saved this depth position, do not inadvertently change it by
clicking on Yes to the query Do you want to save this position

Checking the solution droplet delivery


Once you have aligned the autosampler as described in the preceding sections,
you can check that solutions will be correctly dispensed by injecting blank
solution into the graphite tube.
Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage
The lamps may emit UV radiation which can damage your eyes.

WARNING

Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when aligning the


autosampler.

1. Create a furnace program comprising drying, pyrolysis, atomization, and


clean-out. Enter the total volume of solution that you will use in the
subsequent analyses. Refer to the Online Help in AA WinLab32 on how to
create a method.

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2. Place a sample cup containing blank solution in location 1 in the


autosampler.
Use an identical blank solution to the one you will use for the subsequent
analyses.
3. In the Automated Analysis window, on the Setup page, in the Locations
column, enter the autosampler location of the blank solution.
4. View the inside of the furnace:
I. Place a piece of white card behind the right-hand furnace window
to provide a white background when you view the inside of the
graphite tube.
II. Hold the instrument mirror provided with the autosampler next to
the left-hand furnace window and position it so that you can see
into the graphite tube. Wear UV-absorbing glasses when viewing
the graphite tube.
5. Start the method:
In the Automated Analysis window, on the Analyze page, click on Analyze
Samples.
6. Look into the mirror and watch the delivery of the solution droplet onto the
platform or tube wall.
7. Remove the mirror and white card before the atomization step starts and
allow the furnace program to run to completion.
8. If the solution droplet delivery was unsatisfactory, make the appropriate
small adjustments to the penetration depth of the pipet tip (see the procedure
earlier in this chapter).
9. Repeat step 4 through step 8 to dispense further aliquots of blank solution
until you are satisfied with the delivery.
The pipet tip is at the correct height when the solution droplet contacts the
graphite surface just before leaving the tip.
If the pipet tip is too far above the platform or tube wall and the droplet does

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not contact the graphite surface, liquid may remain in the tip, leading to
pipetting errors.
If the pipet tip is too near to the platform or tube wall, liquid may hang up on
the tip, leading to pipetting errors

Figure 6-5 checking the solution droplet delivery

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Shutting down the system


1. Flush the autosampler rinsing system (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
Use the following rinsing liquids:
II. Flush the system well with the rinsing liquid used for the analyses.
III. Flush the system with nitric acid (this step is especially important
for elements with a tendency to carryover).
IV. Flush the system well with isopropanol.
V. Finally flush the system well with deionized water.
2. Exit AA WinLab32.
3. Switch off the graphite furnace power unit at the operational on/off switch.
4. Switch off the spectrometer.
5. Turn off the gas supplies at source.
6. Empty the autosampler waste bottle.
Dispose of hazardous waste and organic solvents safely, according to your
local safety regulations.
7. Remove all test samples and reagents from the sample tray. Wipe up any
spillages.
8. Switch off the computer and printer according to the directions provided with
these instruments.

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Maintenance

HGA 900 Users Manual

Introduction
This chapter describes the routine maintenance procedures required to keep your
instrument in proper working condition and to ensure the highest possible level
of performance. It includes maintenance checks that should be done on a daily
basis and maintenance procedures that should be done periodically depending on
instrument use. This chapter is divided into several sections, each section
covering maintenance procedures for a particular component of the system.
You should perform only the maintenance procedures described in this chapter. If
additional maintenance is required, contact a PerkinElmer Service Engineer.
Before using any cleaning or decontamination methods except those
specified by the manufacturer, users should check with the
manufacturer that the proposed method will not damage the
equipment.

CAUTION

If the graphite furnace does not function correctly

Switch off the HGA 900 system and make sure it cannot be operated.

Contact your local PerkinElmer office.


Unauthorized adjustments and Servicing
Only a PerkinElmer service engineer or similarly trained and
authorized person should be permitted to service the instrument.

WARNING

Do not attempt to make adjustments, replacements, repairs or


modifications to this instrument except as described in the
documentation supplied with the instrument.

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Maintenance

You should only perform the maintenance procedures described in this guide.
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:

Electrical components inside the instrument.

Before the service engineer arrives:


1. Make sure that the instrument and the work area are clean.
2. Empty the autosampler waste bottle and remove the samples and
reagents from the autosampler.

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Checklists for regular maintenance tasks


It is not possible to say exactly how often you must perform the procedures
described here. This depends on the number and type of samples that you
analyze. At first you should perform most of the checks before each batch of
samples (one autosampler tray). You will soon be able to decide how often you
need to perform the checks and maintenance procedures for each type of sample
that you analyze.

Furnace, maintenance checklist


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.
Graphite tube

Check the condition of the graphite tube. If pitted or


excessively worn, install a new one.

Graphite contacts

Check the condition of graphite contacts. If they are pitted


or cracked, install new ones (see the procedure later in this
chapter).
Every time that the furnace is opened, remove any particles
from inside the contacts using a small vacuum cleaner or a
cleaning swab.

Furnace windows

Clean the windows regularly (see the procedure later in


this chapter). How frequently depends on the type of
samples being analyzed.

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Maintenance

Cooling system, maintenance checklist


Water level

Make sure that the water level is always at the MAX. mark. Fill
up the system when necessary (see the procedure later in this
chapter).

Autosampler, maintenance checklist


Autosampler external
surfaces

Wipe over the surfaces with a lint-free cloth moistened


with a dilute solution of 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
system

Fill and flush the rinsing system before the start of


every analysis run. Flush the rinsing system when you
have finished an analysis run (see the procedure later in
this chapter).
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.

Valves

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
(see the procedure later in this chapter).

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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.

Rinse bottle

Make sure that the rinse bottle is always filled with


clean, particle-free rinsing liquid.

All tubing

Make sure that all the tubes are clean and free from
kinks.
Change any tubes that may be damaged or
contaminated.

Pipet tip

Make sure that the pipet tip is not damaged. If the tip is
damaged you may get pipetting errors during the
analyses. Repair the tip or install a new pipet assembly
if necessary (see the procedure later in this chapter).

Pump heads

Make sure that the pump heads are not loose. Tighten
the pump head retaining ring if necessary. Make sure
that pump heads remain vertical, with the arrow
aligned vertically (see the procedure later in this
chapter).

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Maintenance

Graphite furnace maintenance procedures


Procedures described

Opening and closing the furnace.

Cleaning the graphite tube and contacts.

Changing the graphite tube.

Conditioning the graphite tube.

Changing the graphite contacts.

Checking and cleaning the furnace windows.

Opening and closing the furnace


You must open the furnace to install or change the graphite tube, and also to
clean inside the graphite contacts (note that a different opening procedure is
required when you change the graphite contacts see the procedure later in this
chapter).
You can open the furnace and change the graphite tube while the furnace is
located in the spectrometers atomizer compartment, but access to the graphite
contacts is easier if you move the furnace assembly out of the atomizer
compartment to the standby position in front of the power unit.
To open the furnace and remove the graphite tube:
Warning: High Temperatures-Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

WARNING

122

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

HGA 900 Users Manual

1. Make sure that the furnace is cool.


2. If required, carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position
in front of the power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for
Analysis).
3. Release the pressure holding the furnace closed. In the Furnace Control
window, click on Open/Close. The furnace opens and the graphite tube
is accessible.
4. Remove the graphite tube with the tool provided.
Do not touch the graphite tube with bare fingers.

Figure 7-1 The graphite furnace in the open position

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Maintenance

To insert the graphite tube and close the furnace:


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.
1. Take a graphite tube with integrated platform and insert it into the righthand 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
at the rear of the furnace.

Figure 7-2 Graphite tube viewed from the left-hand end


2. Insert the alignment tool (provided) into the sample port with the flat side
facing the left while carefully moving and turning the tube so that the tip
of the alignment tool goes into the sample introduction hole in the tube.

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HGA 900 Users Manual

Figure 7-3 Inserting the alignment tube


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.
4. Remove the alignment tool.
5. Carefully move the furnace assembly into the spectrometers atomizer
compartment (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
6. If you have installed a new graphite tube, perform the procedure outlined
in Conditioning the graphite tube, later in this chapter. If you are
reusing a previously conditioned graphite tube, heat manually at 2500 C
for 5 seconds to remove surface contamination (see the procedure later in
this chapter).

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Maintenance

NOTE: 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 the procedure in chapter 6,
Preparing for Analysis).
8. Check alignment of the furnace autosampler (see the procedure in
chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).

Cleaning the graphite tube and graphite contacts


Good, reproducible analytical results depend on good electrical contact between
the graphite contacts and the graphite tube. The contact surfaces of the graphite
tube and the graphite contacts must be smooth and clean to allow good electrical
contact.
After prolonged use the graphite contacts may become contaminated with
remnants of samples and small particles of graphite. Even quite small particles
can spoil the contact and cause poor analytical results.
Every time that you open the furnace, clean the contacts as described later in this
chapter.
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.

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Heating the graphite tube to remove contamination


Warning: High Temperature, UV Radiations-Risk of Burns and Eye
Damage

WARNING

The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures and can emit UV
radiation which can damage your eyes, when it is heated to incandescence.
The furnace is exposed when it is in the standby position, thus increasing
these risks.

Never heat the furnace when it is in the standby position. Always move it
into the atomizer compartment before you heat it.

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 the procedure later in this chapter). If there are stubborn deposits in the tube
that you cannot remove, discard the tube and use a new one.
Cleaning the contact surfaces of the graphite tube and contacts
Warning: High Temperatures-Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

WARNING

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

1. If required, carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position in


front of the power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for
Analysis).
2. Remove the furnace windows (see the procedure later in this chapter).
3. Open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see the procedure later in
this chapter).
4. 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.
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Maintenance

5. 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 the procedure later in this chapter).
6. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see the procedure later in this
chapter).
7. Refit the windows (see the procedure later in this chapter).
8. If using a new tube, condition the graphite tube (see the procedure later in
this chapter).

Changing the graphite tube

Figure 7-4 Graphite components of the furnace

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HGA 900 Users Manual

The standard graphite tubes have integrated platforms. If you are going to use a
tube without an integrated platform, insert a Lvov platform into the graphite
tube by following the instructions in the next section. Once the platform is
installed, proceed as given below to install the graphite tube.
NOTE: Do not handle graphite tubes with bare fingers. Perspiration from your fingers
can attack the pyrolytic coating.
Warning: High Temperatures-Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

WARNING

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

1. If required, carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position


in front of the power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6).
2. Open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see the procedure earlier
in this chapter).

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Maintenance

Figure 7-5 Graphite shield


3. If required, install or change the graphite shield ring.
Slide the shield ring with its large plane face toward the furnace block
over the left-hand furnace contact.
4. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see the procedure earlier in
this chapter).
5. Make sure that the shield ring is in contact with the left-hand furnace
block.

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6. If you have installed a new graphite tube, perform the procedure outlined
in Conditioning the graphite tube (later in this chapter).
If you are reusing a previously conditioned graphite tube, heat manually
at 2500 C for 5 seconds to remove surface contamination (see the
procedure later in this chapter).
NOTE: Every time you open the furnace, subsequently always heat it out manually at
2500 C for approximately 5 seconds.
Inserting a Lvov platform
This procedure is only required when you are using graphite tubes without
integrated platforms.
NOTE: Do not handle graphite tubes and Lvov platforms with bare fingers. Perspiration
from your fingers can attack the pyrolytic coating.
1. Place the Lvov platform with the sample cavity downward onto the flat
surface of the insertion tool.
Take care not to touch the platform, and especially the sample cavity, with
bare fingers. Wear gloves or handle the platform carefully by its ends.
Lvov
platform
Graphite tube

Insertion tool

Figure 7-6 Lvov platform


2. Hold the graphite tube horizontally so that the horizontal grooves are at the
top and the sample introduction hole is at the bottom.

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3. Guide the edges of the platform into the grooves in the graphite tube and then
push the platform into the tube with the insertion tool. While inserting the
platform, squeeze the handle of the insertion tool so that the edges of the
platform are pressed into the grooves in the tube.
The platform is seated correctly when you feel resistance to further insertion.

Figure 7-7 Inserting the Lvov platform into the graphite tube
4. Carefully remove the insertion tool.
5. Lightly shake the graphite tube to make sure that the Lvov platform is
securely seated. It the platform falls out, repeat the above steps.
6. If required, you can push the platform out of the tube by inserting the
insertion tool into the other end of the tube.
7. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see the procedure earlier in this
chapter).
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.
Lvov 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.
Conditioning the graphite tube
We recommend that you run the graphite tube conditioning program every time
that you change the graphite tube or platform. The conditioning procedure

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removes adsorbed gases and surface contamination from the graphite, and
ensures reproducible performance.
After conditioning, it is good practice to verify that the tube and/or platform are
sufficiently clean for the element you wish to determine.
In order to do this, run your method for this element, but do not inject a sample.
Perform a dry fire instead. Evaluate the results obtained. If the absorbance
value is too high for this element, heat the tube manually at 2500 C for 10
seconds and then repeat the dry fire.
Warning: High Temperatures-Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

WARNING

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage


When the graphite furnace is heated to incandescence, e.g. during
the atomization step, the furnace can emit UV radiation which can
damage your eyes.
Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when looking at
the furnace.

Toxic Gases

WARNING

If you use nitrogen as the inert gas, toxic cyanogen gas (CN)2 will
be produced when the furnace temperature is above 2300 C.
Make sure that the main laboratory fume ventilation system
removes all gases and fumes emitted by the furnace.

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To condition the graphite tube:


1. On the Toolbar, click on Furnace.
2. In the Furnace Control window, click on Condition Tube.
The system uses a special furnace program to heat the tube to successively higher
temperatures.

Heating the graphite furnace manually


Warning: High Temperatures-Risk of Burns
The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.

WARNING

Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite


components, until they have cooled to room temperature.

Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage


When the graphite furnace is heated to incandescence, e.g. during the
atomization step, the furnace can emit UV radiation which can damage
your eyes.
Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when looking at the
furnace.
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.
To enter the temperature manually and heat the furnace:
1. On the Toolbar, click on Furnace.
2. In the Furnace Control window, click on the Cleanout Temp entry field
and type the required temperature (e.g. 2400 C).

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3. Click on Start to heat the furnace.


The furnace is heated to the selected temperature and continues to heat until
you stop it.
4. After about 10 s, click on Start again to stop furnace heating.

Changing the graphite contacts


Change the graphite contacts when one or both contacts are badly contaminated
or show visible pits and small cracks. Always change both contacts at the same
time.
Summary of the procedure
Always change the graphite contacts in the following sequence:
1. Carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position in front of the
power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
2. Open the furnace and remove the graphite tube (see the procedure later in
this chapter).
3. Remove the right-hand contact (see the procedure later in this chapter).
4. Remove the left-hand contact (see the procedure later in this chapter).
5. Install a new left-hand contact (see the procedure later in this chapter)
6. Install a new right-hand contact (see the procedure later in this chapter).
7. Insert the graphite tube and close the furnace (see the procedure later in this
chapter).
8. Move the furnace back into the atomizer compartment (see the procedure in
chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
9. Condition the graphite tube
10. Align the furnace (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
11. Align the autosampler (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for
Analysis).

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Special tools to change the contacts are provided with the furnace. These are used
in different configurations for different procedures as depicted in the following
illustrations.
Risk of damage to the optical sensor.
CAUTION

Take care not to damage the optical sensor when you remove
or install the graphite contacts.

To open the furnace for contact change:


1. Make sure that the furnace is cool.
2. Exit AA WinLab32:
In the File menu, click on Exit.
3. Switch off the power unit at the operational on/off on the left-hand side
panel.
4. Carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position in front of the
power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
5. Remove both furnace windows (see the procedure later in this chapter).
6. Open the furnace manually and remove the graphite tube:
a. Turn off the normal and special gas supplies.
b. Disconnect the normal gas tube from the inlet manifold on the
power unit: Carefully push the black locking ring of the
connector into the connector and pull the tube out of the
connector. This releases the gas pressure.
c. Pull the right-hand furnace block by hand to the side.
The graphite tube is now accessible.
d. Remove the graphite tube.
Do not touch the graphite tube with bare fingers.

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Figure 7-8 The graphite furnace in the open position


7. Very carefully, using a small screwdriver, lever the graphite shield ring from
the left-hand contact.
To remove the right-hand contact:
1. Take the contact installation tool provided and slide the dome-shaped
extractor onto the bolt. Pass the bolt from the internal side of the furnace
through the right-hand contact and out through the window cavity. The lugs
on the extractor fit over the furnace block.
2. Screw the traction nut with its long side toward the furnace block onto the
free end of the bolt.
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.
4. Disassemble and remove the installation tool.
5. Now remove the left-hand contact.

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Figure 7-9 Removing the right-hand contact

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To remove the left-hand contact:


1. Take the contact installation tool provided and slide the dome-shaped
extractor onto the bolt. Pass the bolt from the internal side of the furnace
through the left-hand contact and out through the window cavity. The lugs on
the extractor fit over the furnace block.
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.
NOTE: Take care not to damage 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.
4. Disassemble and remove the installation tool.
5. Now install a new left-hand contact.

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Figure 7-10 Removing the left-hand contact

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To install the left-hand contact:


1. Slide the long arm of the plastic alignment gauge and the replacement
left-hand (short) contact onto the bolt, so that the contact fits in the ring
in the gauge. Pass the bolt from the internal side through the left-hand
furnace block and out through the window cavity.
2. 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.
NOTE: Take care not to damage the optical sensor.
3. 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.
4. Disassemble and remove the installation tool.
Take care not to scratch or damage the contact.
5. Now install a new right-hand contact.

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Figure 7-11 Installing the left-hand contact

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To install the right-hand contact:


1. Slide the short arm of the plastic alignment gauge and the replacement
right-hand (long) contact onto the bolt, so that the contact fits in the ring
in the gauge and the lug in the ring inserts into the sample introduction
port of the contact.
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.
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.

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Figure 7-12 Installing the right-hand contact


5. Disassemble and remove the installation tool.
Take care not to scratch or damage the contact.

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6. Slide the graphite shield ring with its large flat face toward the furnace
block over the left-hand contact.

Figure 7-13 Installing the graphite shield ring


To close the furnace after contact change:
1. Insert the graphite tube and align it with the alignment tool (see the
procedure earlier in this chapter).
2. Reconnect the normal gas tube to the inlet manifold and turn on the gas
supplies for the furnace. The furnace closes.
3. Remove the alignment tool.
4. Refit the windows (see the procedure later in this chapter).
5. Move the furnace back into the atomizer compartment (see the procedure
in chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
6. Switch on the power unit.
7. Start AA WinLab32.
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Maintenance

8. Condition the graphite components (see the procedure later in this


chapter).
9. Check alignment of the furnace (see the procedure in chapter 6,
Preparing for Analysis).
10. Check alignment of the furnace autosampler (see the procedure in
chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).

Checking and cleaning the furnace windows


The quartz furnace windows seal the ends of the furnace where the radiation
beam enters and exits.
Over a period of time sample constituents can accumulate on the windows. This
reduces the intensity of the radiation and thus the sensitivity and precision of the
analytical results.
Remove the windows and clean them regularly. How frequently you do this
depends on the type of samples that are being analyzed.
If you analyze samples that have dirty matrices, such as blood, sugar and oil,
you will probably have to clean the furnace windows more often than if you were
analyzing clean samples, such as drinking water.
To remove the windows:
The window assemblies are retained in the furnace by bayonet mounts.
1. Make sure that the furnace is cool.
2. If required, carefully move the furnace assembly to the standby position in
front of the power unit (see the procedure in chapter 6, Preparing for
Analysis).

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Figure 7-14 Removing furnace windows


3. Remove the right-hand window assembly:
a. Turn the window assembly counterclockwise to release the bayonet lock.
b. Pull the window assembly out of the furnace.
4. Remove the left-hand window assembly:

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Maintenance

a. Turn the window assembly counterclockwise to release the bayonet


lock.
b. Pull the window assembly out of the furnace.
NOTE: Take care not to damage the optical sensor.
To refit the windows
1. Refit the right-hand window assembly:
a. Insert the window assembly into the window port and carefully engage
the bayonet lock.
b. Turn the window assembly clockwise to secure the bayonet lock.
2. Refit the left-hand window assembly:
a. Insert the window assembly into the window port and carefully engage
the bayonet lock.
b. Turn the window assembly clockwise to secure the bayonet lock.
To clean the windows
1. Remove the windows from the furnace (see the previous procedure).
2. Dismantle the window assemblies and remove the quartz windows carefully
from the mounts as follows:
a. Carefully pull the collar out of the mount.
b. Carefully push the window out of the mount with a plastic pipet tip.

Figure 7-15 Dismantling the window assemblies

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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 windows, rub the surfaces of the windows as little as
possible. Discard scratched windows.
5. Reassemble the windows:
a. Carefully drop the window into the mount, making sure that it sits
correctly.
b. Push in the collar.
6. Refit the windows in the furnace (see the previous procedure).

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Power unit maintenance procedures


Parts that may be serviced by the user
The only parts that you should attempt to maintain are those described below.
The electronic components in the instrument do not contain any parts which you
can maintain yourself. If there is a problem, contact your local PerkinElmer
office.
If any fuses blow frequently or if the automatic circuit breaker switch is activated
frequently, contact your local PerkinElmer office for advice.

Resetting the automatic circuit breaker


The power unit has an automatic circuit breaker which prevents the system from
drawing too much current.
When the circuit breaker is activated, the switch flips to the off position
(marked O). This can happen while an analysis is running.
1. To reset the switch, wait a few seconds then put the switch to the on position
(marked ).
If this switch is activated frequently, contact your local PerkinElmer office
for advice.

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Figure 7-16 Location of circuit breaker

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Maintenance

Changing the fuses

WARNING

Electrical Hazard
Use only fuses with the correct current rating and of the specified
type for replacement.
Do not use makeshift fuses and do not short-circuit the fuse
holders.
Disconnect power cord from the AC power outlet before replacing
any fuses.

1. Switch off the power unit and all other instruments connected to it as
described in the relevant guides.
2. Switch the circuit breaker on the rear panel of the power unit to the off
position (marked O).
3. Disconnect the power units line power cord from the line power supply.
4. Disconnect all the line power cords from the sockets at the rear of the power
unit.
5. To change the fuses numbered F1, F2, F3, F4:
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.
c. Screw the fuse holder into the correct socket.
6. Reconnect the line power cords correctly.

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Figure 7-17 Fuses on the rear panel of the power unit

Changing the air filter


To make sure that the electrical components in the power unit are properly
cooled, the air filter must allow sufficient air into the instrument. Check the filter
regularly and change it if it is dirty.
You should not need to change the filter more than once every year if the

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Maintenance

environmental conditions are as described under in Chapter 2, Preparing Your


Laboratory.
Replacement filters are available; see chapter 5, Installation, for the part number.
1. Carefully pull off the snap-on plastic grid that holds the air filter in place.
2. Replace the filter and push the grid back into place.

Figure 7-18 Location of air filter

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Cooling system maintenance procedures


NOTE: The following directions are only relevant if you have installed the (optional)
cooling system.

Procedures described

Emptying the cooling system.

Refilling the cooling system.

Changing the cooling system fuse.

Emptying the cooling system


Usually there is no need to empty the cooling system. This may only be
necessary when you want to move the complete analysis system to a new
location.
The hoses attached to the cooling system have automatic valves that shut when
you disconnect them from the inlet manifold of the power unit.
To empty the cooling system you require two drain fittings (P/N B019-3243) to
open the valves.
1. Remove the front panel of the power unit see chapter 5, Installation for the
procedure).
2. For each hose, carefully pull on the knurled locking ring slightly to release
the lock on the connector, and then pull the connector off the fitting on the
inlet manifold of the power unit.
3. Remove the stopper from the top of the cooling system twist and pull.
4. Hold the hoses over a waste water container or drain, and insert drain fittings
into the automatic connectors.
Allow the water to drain out of the hoses.
5. Temporarily disconnect the cooling system line cord from the special outlet
at the rear of the power unit and connect it to one of the other outlets.
6. Switch on the cooling system and pump out the remaining liquid in the
system.

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Maintenance

7. If there is sediment in the water when you empty the cooling system, fill the
system with water and pump it out again several times to completely flush
the system.
8. For each hose, carefully pull the locking ring on the drain fitting down
slightly to release the lock, and then pull the drain fitting out of the
connector.
9. Reconnect the cooling system hoses to the power unit.
10. Reconnect the line cord to the special outlet at the rear of the power unit.

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Figure 7-19 Cooling system hoses

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Maintenance

Refilling the cooling system


The cooling system is self-priming; air in the system is removed automatically as
the cooling system operates. The coolant is a 1:10 solution of glycerol in water
(1 part glycerol plus 9 parts water). Do not use antifreeze.
1. Reconnect the cooling system hoses to the power unit.
Make sure that you remove the drain fittings from the cooling system hoses
as described above.
2. Remove the stopper from the top of the cooling system twist and pull.
3. Pour 0.5 L of glycerol into the cooling system.
Do not use antifreeze.
4. Fill the cooling system up to the MAX mark with sediment-free drinking
water about 4.5 L.
Do not use deionized water since this can cause corrosion.
5. Replace the stopper securely.

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Figure 7-20 Water level indicator

Changing the cooling system fuse

WARNING

Electrical Hazard
Use only fuses with the correct current rating and of the specified type
for replacement.
Do not use makeshift fuses and do not short-circuit the fuse holders.
Disconnect power cord from the AC power outlet before replacing any
fuses.

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Maintenance

NOTE: In addition to the fuse in the cooling system, shown here, there is a fuse in the
power outlet on the HGA 900 power unit.
1. Switch off the cooling system with the switch on the rear panel.
2. Disconnect the line power cord from the socket.
3. Behind this socket is the cover of the fuse holder.
Use the tip of a small screwdriver to carefully lever open the fuse holder.
4. Remove the blown fuse.
5. Insert a new fuse of the correct type and rating. Correct fuse: 230 V, 1.6 A,
slow-blow.
6. Close the fuse holder and reconnect the line power cord.
7. Switch on the cooling system with the switch on the rear panel.

Figure 7-21 Changing the cooling system fuse

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Autosampler maintenance procedures


Routine maintenance
The autosampler is a precision instrument constructed from high quality
components. It is capable of dispensing volumes of liquid in the microliter range.
To maintain this high level of performance, you must treat the autosampler with
due care.
Procedures described

Valve maintenance

Repairing the pipet tip

Installing a new pipet assembly

Aligning the pump heads


Risk of damage to the autosampler

CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.

Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand.

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 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.

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Maintenance

The only routine maintenance that the valves require is to flush them thoroughly
before and after every analysis.
Flushing the valves and rinsing system
1. Make sure that the rinsing system components are correctly installed, in
good condition, and suitable for the rinsing liquid you will use.
2. Prepare the rinsing solutions that you require, see following page.
3. Fill the rinse bottle with the first, clean, particle-free, rinsing liquid.
If there are particles in the rinsing liquid they can lodge in the valves,
causing leaks and non-reproducible results.
4. Flush the system:
a. In the Furnace Control window, click on Flush Sampler.
This activates a rinse cycle.
b. Repeat sub step 1 as often as required to completely flush the rinsing
system with rinsing liquid and flush all the air out.
5. Empty the waste bottle. Dispose of any hazardous waste correctly.
6. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for each rinsing solution.
NOTE: Make certain there are no air bubbles in the rinsing system. Air bubbles can lead
to non-reproducible results.
Rinsing solutions
Use the following rinsing solutions in the given sequence:
Before the start of every analysis series:
If the rinsing solution you intend to use is miscible with the solution in the
system, use your intended rinsing solution. If the rinsing solution you intend to
use is not miscible with the solution in the system, you must use intermediate
rinsing liquids.

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For example, to change from an acidic liquid to an organic solvent, you could
use:
1. Deionized water.
2. Isopropanol or other water-miscible solvent.
3. Final organic solvent.
After an analysis series:
1. If you have been using an organic rinsing liquid, use isopropanol or other
water-miscible solvent.
2. Dilute nitric acid. This is especially important for elements with a tendency
to carryover.
3. Isopropanol.
4. Deionized water.
Before performing maintenance on the system:
1. Isopropanol.
2. Deionized water.
After performing maintenance on the system:
1. Isopropanol.
2. The rinsing solution you intend to use next or deionized water.

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Maintenance

Checking the valves


Risk of damage to the autosampler
CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.

Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand.

If you experience problems such as poor precision or recovery, check to see if the
rinse pump valves are leaking.
To check the outlet valve
1. Raise the pipet tip out of the rinsing port:
a. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler Wizard appears.
b. In the Wizard, select Set the depth of the autosampler tip in the
sampling cup and Use the rinse location. The pipet tip rises to a
position directly above the rinsing port.
c. Select Next and then Finish.
2. Start a rinse cycle (see the previous procedure).
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.
At the end of a rinse cycle the sample pump draws the rinsing liquid droplet
back into the pipet tip.

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To check the inlet valve


1. Start a rinse cycle (see the following procedure).
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 valves, in the Align Autosampler
Wizard, Set the depth of the autosampler tip in the sampling cup and
Use the rinse location. Then select Next.
5. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipet tip is at the correct depth
inside the rinsing port.
6. Select Finish.
7. Thereafter repeat the rinse cycle as often as required to remove air bubbles.
Remove persistent bubbles by flushing the system first with isopropanol and
then with aqueous rinsing liquid.
If a valve is leaking, clean it as described on the following pages. If cleaning
does not remedy the problem, replace the complete valve.
NOTE: Do not attempt to repair the valves or change individual components inside the
valve. If any components are damaged or worn, discard the valve and install a
complete, new valve.

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Maintenance

Removing the rinse pump valves and sample pump


tube connectors
NOTE: Avoid handling the internal valve components with bare fingers as much as
possiblegrease from your fingers can interfere with the correct functioning of
the valves. Wear suitable gloves.
Risk of damage to the autosampler
CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.

Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand.

1. Disconnect the tubes from the pumps.


When you unscrew the nuts (A), make sure that you do not lose any of the
ferrules from the ends of the tubes.

Figure 7-22 Pump connections

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2. Unscrew the valve retaining rings.


Carefully withdraw the valves from the rinse pump or the tube connectors
from the sample pump. Be very careful not to lose any of the parts from
inside the valves.

Figure 7-23 Sample pump components

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Maintenance

Figure 7-24 Rinse pump components


3. Remove the components from inside the rinse pump valves.
Do not use sharp or pointed tools to remove them.
Handle the seals with especial care; they are very delicate and easily
damaged.
Keep the components from the different valves separate.

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Figure 7-25 Valve components

Cleaning the valves, tube connectors and pump


heads
NOTE: Never use any sharp tools to clean the pump components.
Avoid handling the internal valve components with bare fingers as much as
possiblegrease from your fingers can interfere with the correct functioning of
the valves. Wear suitable gloves.
1. Clean the valve components in an ultrasonic bath.
Use a dilute solution of laboratory detergent.
Rinse them thoroughly with deionized water.
2. Rinse the sample pump tube connectors thoroughly with deionized water.
3. Rinse the inlet and outlet chambers (C) of the pump heads thoroughly with
deionized water.

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Maintenance

Figure 7-26 Pump heads


NOTE: Do not remove the pump heads from the pumps. This operation should only be
performed by a PerkinElmer service engineer or similarly trained person.

Assembling and installing the valves


1. If any of the valve components are damaged or worn, discard the valve and
install a complete, new valve.
2. Reassemble the valves. See Figure 7-25.
Do not mix components from different valves. Make sure that the shiny side
of the seal is directed toward the ruby ball.
3. Place the valves and tube connector in the rinse pump head. Screw on the
retaining rings finger-tight. Do not use tools or overtighten the retaining
rings; this may deform the seals and cause leaks.
Make sure that you use the outlet valve, which has a black seal, and not one
of the sample pump tube connectors.
Make sure that the black seal of the inlet valve faces the tube connector.

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Figure 7-27 Sample pump components

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Maintenance

Figure 7-28 Rinse pump components


4. Place the tube connectors in the sample pump head.
Make sure that you do not use the rinse pump outlet valve which has a black
seal.
5. Screw on the retaining rings finger-tight.
Do not use tools or overtighten the retaining rings; this may deform the
connections and cause leaks.
6. Make sure that all the tubes in the rinsing system are clean before you
reconnect the tubes to the pumps.
7. Reconnect the tubes to the correct sides of the pumps.
Make sure that the ferrules are positioned correctly.
Screw on the nuts firmly by hand; do not use any tools.

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The rinse feed tube has a larger diameter than the other tubes and uses larger
ferrules and a larger nut.

Figure 7-29 Pump connections


8. Make sure that the pump heads are correctly aligned (see the following
procedure).
9. Prime and flush the rinsing system (see the procedure earlier in this chapter):
a. Flush the rinsing system with isopropanol.
b. Flush the rinsing system well with the usual rinsing liquid.
NOTE: Always prime and flush the rinsing system after you have performed any work on
the components.

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Maintenance

Repairing a pipet
The complete pipet is an assembly that consists of the sample tube fitted through
a mount and a flexible sleeve. The mount is provided with a groove that locates
the mount in the correct position in the clip at the end of the autosampler arm.
The pipet tip is that portion of the sample tube protruding from the mount.
If the pipet tip becomes damaged you can repair it as given below:
Risk of damage to the autosampler
CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.

Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand.

1. Raise the pipet tip out of the rinsing port:


a. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler Wizard appears.
b. In this wizard select Set the depth of the autosampler tip in the
sampling cup and Use the rinse location. The pipet tip rises to a
position directly above the rinsing port.
2. Unthread the tube from the hooks on the arm.

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HGA 900 Users Manual

Figure 7-30 Hooks on the autosampler line


3. Pull the mount out of the clip at the end of the autosampler arm.
4. Hold the plastic mount in one hand and the end of the damaged pipet tip,
with grips, in the other hand. Pull the tube through the mount until
approximately 10 mm of undamaged PTFE tube are outside the flexible
sleeve.

Figure 7-31 Removing the damaged pipet tip

175

Maintenance

5. Using a sharp blade, cut off the PTFE tube at a slight angle to leave
approximately 7 mm of tube extending out of the sleeve.

Figure 7-32 PTFE tube


6. Push the mount into the clip at the end of the autosampler arm.
Make sure that the groove in the mount fits correctly in the clip.
7. Rethread the sample tube through the hooks on the autosampler arm such
that it forms a smooth loop from the mount (see the next procedure).
8. When you have finished, in the Align Autosampler Wizard select Next.
9. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipet tip is at the correct depth
inside the rinsing port (see chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
10. Click on Finish.
11. Fill and flush the rinsing system (see the procedure earlier in this chapter):
a. Flush the rinsing system with isopropanol.
b. Flush the rinsing system well with the usual rinsing liquid.
NOTE: Always fill and flush the rinsing system after you have performed any work on the
components.

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HGA 900 Users Manual

Installing a new pipet assembly


The complete pipet is an assembly that consists of the sample tube fitted through
a plastic mount. The mount is provided with a groove that locates the mount in
the correct position in the clip at the end of the autosampler arm. The pipet tip is
that portion of the sample tube protruding from the mount.
If the pipet tip becomes damaged and cannot be further repaired or if the sample
tube is kinked or contaminated, you should replace the complete assembly.
Risk of damage to the autosampler
CAUTION

You can cause irreparable damage to the gears if you attempt to move
the autosampler arm by hand.

Never attempt to move the autosampler arm by hand.

To remove the old pipet assembly


1. Raise the pipet tip out of the rinsing port:
a. In the Furnace Control window, click on Align Tip.
The Align Autosampler Wizard appears.
b. In this wizard select Set the depth of the autosampler tip in the
sampling cup and Use the rinse location. The pipet tip rises to a
position directly above the rinsing port.
2. Remove the pipet assembly:
a. Unscrew the knurled nut that connects the sample tube to the sample
pump. Remove the nut and ferrules from the tube and save the nut.
b. Unthread the tube from the hooks on the arm.
c. Pull the mount out of the clip at the end of the autosampler arm.
d. Remove the entire sample tube from the sample table.

177

Maintenance

Figure 7-33 PTFE tube


To install the new pipet assembly
NOTE: Handle the sample tube with care. Do not damage the delicate pipet tip and do
not kink the tube.
1. Push the mount into the clip at the end of the autosampler arm.
Make sure that the groove in the mount fits correctly in the clip.
2. Take the sample tube in a smooth loop from the mount to the hooks on the
autosampler arm and then thread it through the hooks on the autosampler
arm.

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HGA 900 Users Manual

3. Pass the sample tube around the back of the motor assembly and thread it
through hook H1 on the sample table. Leave a sufficiently large loop so that
the autosampler arm can move freely.
4. Thread the sample tube through hooks H2 and H3 on the sample table and
pass it to the top of the sample pump.
5. Take two new ferrules from the ferrule kit provided with the autosampler.
Slide the knurled nut, the back ferrule, and then the front ferrule onto the
tube.
NOTE: Make sure the ferrules are the correct way round.
6. Screw the knurled nut finger-tight onto the sample pump.
Do not use force.
7. When you have finished select Next in the Wizard.
8. Adjust the depth control wheel so that the pipet tip is at the correct depth
inside the rinsing port (see chapter 6, Preparing for Analysis).
9. Select Finish.
10. Fill and flush the rinsing system (see the procedure earlier in this chapter):
a. Flush the rinsing system with isopropanol.
b. Flush the rinsing system well with the usual rinsing liquid.
NOTE: Always fill and flush the rinsing system after you have performed any work on the
components.

179

Maintenance

Figure 7-34 Pump connections

Aligning the pump heads


To align the pump heads
1. Use the special wrench provided to loosen the retaining ring that secures the
pump head.
2. Set the pump head so that the molded arrow is pointing upward. The pump
head has a lug that engages in a notch on the pump mount when the pump
head is set correctly.

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HGA 900 Users Manual

Figure 7-35 Pump head


3. Use the special wrench provided to tighten the retaining ring. Do not use
excessive force.
NOTE: Do not remove the pump heads from the pumps. This operation should only be
performed by a PerkinElmer service engineer or similarly trained person.

181

Maintenance

182

Warnings

Warnings

This section contains translations of the safety conventions and warnings used in
this guide.
Deutsch

bersetzungen der Warnungen


Dieser Abschnitt enthlt die bersetzungen der in diesem
Handbuch verwendeten Warnungen.

espaol

Traducciones de las advertencias


Esta seccin contiene traducciones de las advertencias utilizadas
en el presente manual.

franais

Traduction des avertissements


Cette section comprend la traduction des conventions et
avertissements de scurit utiliss dans ce guide.

italiano

Traduzione dei simboli di avvertenza


La presente sezione contiene la traduzione dei simboli di
avvertenza utilizzati nel presente manuale.

183

HGA-900 Users Manual

This symbol alerts you to situations that could result in personal injury to
yourself or otherpersons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.

WARNING
Deutsch

Dieses Symbol warnt vor Situationen, in denen Sie oder andere Personen
verletzt warden knnen.
Einzelheiten darber sind in einem Rahmen wie diesem angegeben.

espaol

Este smbolo le advierte de situaciones que pueden provocar lesiones


corporales a usted o a otras personas.
En los recuadros como ste se proporciona informacin sobre este tipo de
circunstancias.

franais

Ce symbole vous signale des situations pouvant occasionner des


dommages corporals l'utilisateur ou d'autres personnes.
Les dtails sur ces circonstances sont donnes dans un encadr semblable
celui-ci.

italiano

Questo simbolo segnala situazioni che possono generare incidenti a voi


stessi o ad altre persone.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come questo.

184

Warnings

185

HGA-900 Users Manual

Caution, risk of electric shock. This symbol alerts you to the risk of
electric shock that could result in personal injury toyourself or other
persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
Deutsch

Dieses Symbol warnt vor Gefahr durch elektrischen Stromschlag,


durch den Sie oder andere Personen verletzt werden knnen.
Einzelheiten darber sind in einem Rahmen wie diesem angegeben.

espaol

Este smbolo le advierte del peligro de descarga elctrica que puede


provocar lesiones corporales a usted o a otras personas.
En los recuadros como ste se proporcionainformacin sobre este tipo
de circunstancias.

franais

Ce symbole vous avertit d'un risque d'lectrocution pouvant


occasionner des dommages corporels l'utilisateur ou d'autres
personnes.
Les dtails sur ces circonstances sont donnes dans un encadr
semblable celui-ci.

italiano

Questo simbolo vi mette in guardia da folgorazione che pu causare


incidenti a voi stessi o ad altre persone.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come questo.

186

Warnings

187

HGA-900 Users Manual

Caution, hot surface. This symbol alerts you to the risk of hot surfaces
that could cause personal injury toyourself or other persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
Deutsch

Dieses Symbol warnt vor Gefahr durch heie Oberflchen, durch die
Sie oder anderePersonen verletzt werden knnen.
Einzelheiten darber sind in einem Rahmen wie diesem angegeben.

espaol

Este smbolo le advierte del peligro de que las superficies calientes


provoquen quemaduras a usted o a otras personas.
En los recuadros como ste se proporciona informacin sobre este
tipo de circunstancias.

franais

Ce symbole vous avertit d'un risque de surfaces chaudes pouvant


occasionner des dommages corporels l'utilisateur ou d'autres
personnes.
Les dtails sur ces circonstances sont donnes dans un encadr
semblable celui-ci.

italiano

Questo simbolo vi mette in guardia da superfici molto calde che


possono causare incidenti a voi stessi o ad altre persone.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come questo.

188

Warnings

189

HGA-900 Users Manual

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.
Deutsch

Dieses Symbol warnt vor Gefahr durch UV-Strahlung, die bei Ihnen
oder anderen Personen zu Augenverletzungen fhren knnen.
Einzelheiten darber sind in einem Rahmen wie diesem angegeben.

espaol

Este smbolo le advierte del peligro de que usted u otras personas sufran
lesiones en los ojos a consecuencia de la radiacin ultravioleta.
En los recuadros como ste se proporciona informacin sobre este tipo
de circunstancias.

franais

Ce symbole vous avertit d'un risque de rayonnement ultraviolet pouvant


occasionnerdes lsions oculaires l'utilisateur ou d'autres personnes.
Les dtails sur ces circonstances sont donnes dans un encadr
semblable celui-ci.

italiano

Questo simbolo vi mette in guardia da radiazione ultravioletta che pu


causare lesioni agli occhi a voi stessi o ad altre persone.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come questo.

190

Warnings

191

HGA-900 Users Manual

CAUTION

The term CAUTION alerts you to situations that could result in serious damage
to theinstrument or other equipment.
Details about these circumstances are described in a message similar to this
one.

Deutsch

Achtung:
Der Ausdruck CAUTION (ACHTUNG) warnt vor Situationen, die eine ernste
Beschdigung des Gerts oder anderer Systemteile zur Folge haben knnen.
Einzelheiten darber sind auf die gleiche Weise wie dieser Text hervorgehoben.

espaol

Advertencia:
El trmino CAUTION (ADVERTENCIA) le previene de situaciones que pueden
provocar averas graves en ste u otros equipos.
En los recuadros como ste se proporciona informacin sobre este tipo de
circunstancias.

franais

Attention:
Le terme CAUTION (ATTENTION) vous signale des situations susceptibles de
provoquer de graves dtriorations de l'instrument ou d'autre matriel.
Les dtails sur ces circonstances figurent dans un message semblable celui-ci.

italiano

Attenzione:
Con il termine CAUTION (ATTENZIONE) vi si mette in guardia da situazioni
che possono comportare il serio danneggiamento della strumentazione o di altre
apparecchiature.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come questo.

192

Warnings

193

HGA-900 Users Manual

Only a PerkinElmer service engineer or similarly trained and authorized


person should be permitted to service the instrument.

WARNING
Deutsch

Do not attempt to make adjustments, replacements, repairs, or


modifications to this instrument except as described in the
documentation supplied with the instrument.

Warnung: Unzulssige Arbeiten am Gert


Wartungs- oder Reparaturarbeiten oder Justierungen, die in der
Benutzerdokumentation zum Gert nicht beschrieben sind, drfen nur vom
PerkinElmer-Kundendienst oder von entsprechend ausgebildeten und
autorisierten Fachkrften ausgefhrt werden.

espaol

Advertencia: Ajustes y servicios sin autorizacin


Slo un ingeniero de Servicio Tcnico de PerkinElmer o una persona de
formacin y autorizacin similares podrn realizar trabajos de revisin y
mantenimiento del instrumento.

Franais

No intente realizar ningn tipo de ajuste, sustitucin o reparacin en


este aparato, a excepcin de lo descrito en la Documentacin del
Usuario que se adjunta.

Danger: Rglages et entretien non autoriss


Seul un ingnieur du service aprs vente PerkinElmer ou une personne
autorise et de mme formation sont autorises intervenir sur
l'instrument.

194

Ne pas essayer d'effectuer des rglages, des remplacements, des


rparations ou des modifications sur cet instrument d'une manire
autre que celle dcrite dans la documentation fournie avec
l'instrument.

Warnings

Italiano

Pericolo: Regolazioni e manutenzione non autorizzati


L'asservimento dello strumento permesso esclusivamente ad un tecnico
di assistenza della PerkinElmer oppure da simile persona addestrata e
autorizzata.

Non provare ad eseguire regolazioni, sostituzioni, riparazioni o


modifiche a questo strumento se non come descritto nella
documentazione allegata allo strumento.

195

HGA-900 Users Manual

Explosive Atmosphere
This instrument is not designed for operation in an explosive atmosphere.

WARNING
Deutsch

Warnung: Explosionsfhige Atmosphren


Das Gert darf nicht in explosionsfhigen Atmosphren betrieben werden.

espaol

Advertencia: Atmsfera explosiva


Este aparato no est diseado para utilizarlo en atmsferas explosivas.

franais

Danger: Atmosphre explosive


Cet instrument n'est pas conu pour fonctionner dans une atmosphre
explosive.

italiano

Pericolo: Atmosfera esplosiva


Questo strumento non concepito per operare in atmosfera esplosiva.

196

Warnings

Risk of injury through lifting


The instrument weighs approximately 43 kg. Improper lifting can cause
painful and sometimes permanent back injury.

WARNING

Deutsch

Warnung: Verletzungsgefahr durch Heben einer schweren Last


Das Gert hat eine Masse von ca. 43 kg.
Falsches Anheben kann schmerzhafte und unter Umstnden bleibende
Rckenschden zur Folge haben.
Wenden Sie zum Anheben oder Bewegen des Gerts nur geeignete
Techniken an.

espaol

Advertencia: Peligro de lesiones al levantar el instrumento


El aparato pesa 43 kg aproximadamente.
Si lo alza de manera indebida puede sufrir usted lesiones dolorosas y en
ciertos casos permanentes en la espalda.
Aplique tcnicas apropiadas para alzar o mover el aparato.

franais

Danger: Risque de blessure lors de la manutention


L'instrument pse environ 43 kg.
Une manipulation incorrecte peut entraner des douleurs au dos risquant de
perdurer.
Utiliser des techniques de levage appropries pour lever ou dplacer
l'instrument.

Use proper lifting techniques to lift or move the instrument.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

Italiano

Pericolo: Rischio di infortunio in caso di sollevamento


Lo strumento pesa allincirca 43 kg.
Se sollevato senza le dovute precauzioni possibile che si causino dolorosi e
permanenti infortuni alla schiena.

198

Muovere o sollevare lo strumento utilizzando le oopportune tecniche di


sollevamento e di spostamento.

Warnings

WARNING

Deutsch

Electrical Hazard
Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside the
instrument or disconnection of the protective conductor (earth/ground)
terminal is likely to make theinstrument dangerous.
Intentional interruption is prohibited.
Lethal voltages are present in the instrument
Even with the power switch off, line power voltages can still be
present within the instrument.
When the instrument is connected to line power, terminals may be live,
and opening covers or removing parts (except those to which access
can be gained without use of a tool) is likely to expose live parts.
Capacitors inside the instrument may still be charged even if the
instrument has been disconnected from all voltage sources.
Warnung: Gefhrdung durch Elektrizitt
Das Gert muss zum Betrieb immer geerdet sein.
Trennen oder entfernen Sie unter keinen Umstnden die Schutzleiter im
Gert oder in der Netzzuleitung.
Gefhrliche Spannung im Gert
Auch in ausgeschaltetem Zustand kann an einigen Stellen im
Gert Netzspannung anliegen, wenn das Gert am Stromnetz
angeschlossen ist.
Wenn das Gert am Stromnetz angeschlossen ist, stehen
Anschlsse mglicherweise unter Spannung. Durch das ffnen
von Abdeckungen und Entfernen von Teilen (mit Ausnahme derer,
auf die ohne Werkzeuge zugegriffen werden kann) werden u.U.
stromfhrende Teile freigelegt.
Auch bei ausgeschaltetem Gert und getrennter Netzverbindung
knnen Kondensatoren im Gert noch mit gefhrlicher Spannung
geladen sein.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

espaol

Advertencia: Peligro elctrico


Cualquier interrupcin del conductor de proteccin dentro o fuera del
aparato, o la desconexin del terminal del mismo (toma de tierra) pueden
ocasionar serios peligros al manejar el equipo.
Prohibida la interrupcin intencionada.
En el aparato existen voltajes letales
Incluso con el interruptor desconectado puede haber voltaje dentro
del equipo.
Cuando el aparato se encuentre conectado a la red elctrica, los
terminales pueden estar bajo corriente y stos quedar expuestos al
abrir las cubiertas o al extraer componentes (exceptuando aquellos a
los cuales se puede acceder con la mano).
Los condensadores internos del aparato pueden permanecer cargados
incluso cuando el aparato haya sido desconectado de la lnea de
voltaje.

franais

Danger: Risque d'lectrocution


Toute interruption du conducteur de protection l'intrieur ou l'extrieur de
l'instrument ou dconnexion du raccord du conducteur de protection (terre)
peut rendre l'instrument dangereux.
Il est interdit d'interrompre volontairement ce conducteur.
Tensions rsiduelles mortelles dans l'instrument
Mme lorsque l'interrupteur est sur arrt, des tension rsiduelles
peuvent encore tre prsentes dans l'instrument.
Lorsque l'instrument est reli au secteur, les raccords peuvent tre
sous tension, et des parties sous tension peuvent tre dcouvertes en
ouvrant des capots ou enretirant des pices ( l'exception de celles
auxquelles il est possible d'accder manuellement).

200

Les condensateurs contenus dans l'instrument peuvent encore tre


chargs, mmesi l'instrument a t dconnect de toutes sources de
tension.

Warnings

Italiano

Pericolo: Rischio di folgorazione


Qualsiasi interruzione del conduttore di protezione allinterno o allesterno
dello strumento o il suo scollegamento (terra) pu rendere pericoloso lo
strumento. Qualsiasi interruzione intenzionale proibita.
Allinterno dello strumento sono presenti tensioni mortali
Anche se l'interruttore principale spento possibile che all'interno
dello strumento siano presenti tensioni simili a quelle di rete.
Quando lo strumento collegato alla rete elettrica possibile che i
terminali siano sotto tensione e scoperti; aprendo i coperchi
protettivi o staccando dei componenti (fatta eccezione per quelli a
cui possibile accedere senza l'uso di utensili) possibile esporre
parti sotto tensione.

Anche dopo che lo strumento stato scollegato da qualsiasi


sorgente di tensione possibile che i condensatori all'interno dello
strumento siano carichi.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

202

Warnings

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
Deutsch

Warnung: Gefhrdung durch Elektrizitt


Um Verletzungsgefahr durch elektrische Spannung und
Beschdigungsgefahr der Gerte zu vermeiden, schalten Sie alle
Gerte des Meplatzes AUS und trennen Sie die
Netzverbindungen, bevor Sie irgendwelche elektrischen
Verbindungen herstellen oder ndern.

espaol

Advertencia: Peligro elctrico

Para evitar posibles daos personales y al equipo, apague todos


los mdulos del sistema y desconctelos de la toma de corriente
antes de ejecutar las operaciones descritas ms abajo.

franais

Danger: Risque d'lectrocution


Afin d'viter des blessures ventuelles et des dtriorations de
l'instrument, mettre tous les instruments du systme hors tension et
les dconnecter de l'alimentation secteuravant d'excuter les
procdures dcrites ci-aprs.

italiano

Pericolo: Rischio di folgorazione


Prima di procedere alle operazioni descritte sotto , per prevenire
lesioni personali o danni allo strumento, spegnete tutti gli
strumenti all'interno del sistema e scollegateli dall'alimentazione
elettrica.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

204

Warnings

WARNING

Electrical Hazard
Use only fuses with the correct current rating and of the specified type
for replacement.
Do not use makeshift fuses and do not short-circuit the fuse holders.
Disconnect power cord from the AC power outlet before replacing any
fuses.

Deutsch

Warnung: Gefhrdung durch elektrischen Strom


Verwenden Sie nur Sicherungen des gleichen Typs und mit der
angegebenen Belastbarkeit.
Verwenden Sie keine Behelfssicherung und schlieen Sie nicht den
Sicherungshalter kurz.
Trennen Sie das Stromkabel von der Steckdose bevor Sie Sicherungen
auswechseln.

espaol

Advertencia: Peligro elctrico


Utilice nicamente fusibles con el amperaje correcto y con el tipo
especificado para sureemplazo.
No use fusibles improvisados ni cortocircuite los portafusibles.
Desconecte el cable de la toma de corriente alterna antes de
reemplazar los fusibles.

franais

Danger: Risque d'lectrocution


N'utiliser pour le remplacement que des fusibles d'amprage correct et
de type spcifi.
Ne pas utiliser de fusibles provisoires et ne pas court-circuiter les
porte-fusibles.
Dconnectez le cordon d'alimentation de la prise de courant avant de
remplacer les fusibles.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

Italiano

206

Pericolo: Rischio di folgorazione


Se necessario sostituirli, utilizzare esclusivamente fusibili di corretto
tipo e valore.

Non utilizzare fusibili di fattura artigianale e non cortocircuitare i


tienifusibili.

Scollegare la spina dalla presa di alimentazione c.a. prima di


sostituire un fusibile.

Warnings

Warning: UV Radiation Risk of Eye Damage


The lamps may emit UV radiation which can damage your eyes.
Always wear UV-absorbing safety glasses when aligning the
autosampler.
Deutsch

Warnung: UV-Strahlung Gefhrdung der Augen


Die Strahlungsquellen knnen UV-Strahlung emittieren und dadurch
Augenschden verursachen.
Tragen Sie whrend der Probenautomatjustierung eine
Schutzbrille, die die emittierte UV-Strahlung ausreichend
absorbiert.

espaol

Advertencia: Radiacin ultravioleta Peligro de dao a los ojos


Las lmparas pueden emitir radiacin utravioleta que puede ser
perjudicial para los ojos.
Al realizar el ajuste del automuestreador, utilice siempre gafas de
seguridad que absorban este tipo de rayos.

franais

Danger: Rayonnement UV
Les lampes peuvent mettre des UV susceptibles de provoquer des lsions
oculaires.

Toujours porter des lunettes de protection absorbant les UV pour


aligner l'chantillonneur automatique.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

Italiano

208

Pericolo: Radiazioni UV Rischio di lesioni agli occhi


Le lampade possono emettere radiazioni UV che possono lesionare gli
occhi.
Durante lallineamento dellautocampionatore indossate sempre
occhiali di sicurezza in grado di assorbire le radiazioni UV.

Warnings

Warning: High Temperatures Risk of Burns


The graphite furnace can generate very high temperatures.
Do not touch any parts of the furnace, especially the graphite
components, until they have cooled to room temperature.
Deutsch

espaol

Warnung: Verbrennungsgefahr
Der Graphitofen erzeugt sehr hohe Temperaturen.
Vergewissern Sie sich, da der Ofen auf Raumtemperatur
abgekhlt ist, bevor Sie Ihn anfassen oder ffnen.
Advertencia: Altas temperaturas Riesgo de quemaduras
El horno de grafito puede alcanzar temperaturas muy altas.
Asegrese, antes de tocar cualquier parte del horno, sobre todo
sus componentes de grafito, de que ste se haya enfriado hasta
alcanzar la temperatura ambiente.

franais

Danger: Tempratures leves Risque de brlures


Le four en graphite peut gnrer de trs hautes tempratures.
Ne toucher aucun des lments du four, en particulier les
composants en graphite, avant qu'ils n'aient refroidi la
temprature ambiante.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

Italiano

210

Pericolo: Alte temperature Rischio di ustioni


Il forno a grafite pu generare temperature estremamente elevate.
Non toccare nessun componente del forno, soprattutto i componenti in
grafite, sino a che essi non si sono raffreddati sino a raggiungere
temperatura ambiente.

Warnings

Toxic Gases

WARNING
Deutsch

If you use nitrogen as the inert gas, toxic cyanogen gas (CN)2 will be
produced when the furnace temperature is above 2300 C.
Make sure that the main laboratory fume ventilation system
removes all gases and fumes emitted by the furnace.
Warnung: Giftiges Abgas
Bei Verwendung von Stickstoff als Inertgas bildet sich bei
Ofentemperaturen ber 2300 C giftiges Dicyan (CN)2.

Es mu sichergestellt sein, da die aus dem Graphitofen


austretenden Abgase von der Haupt-Absauganlage sicher
abgesaugt werden

espaol

Advertencia: Gases txicos


Si se utiliza nitrgeno puro como gas inerte, al aumentar la temperatura
del horno por encima de 2300 C se producir gas ciangeno (CN)2, que
es txico.
Cercirese de que el sistema principal de extraccin de humos
elimine todos los gases y humos emitidos por el horno.

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Danger: Gaz toxiques


Si de l'azote est utilis comme gaz inerte, du gaz cyanogne (CN)2 toxique
se forme lorsque la temprature du four dpasse 2300 C.
Vrifier que le systme principal d'extraction des fumes limine
tous les gaz et fumes mis par le four.

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Italiano

Pericolo: Gas tossici


Se usate lazoto quale gas inerte allora, quando il forno raggiunge
temperature al di sopra di 2300 C, si former del gas cianogeno tossico
(CN)2.

212

Assicuratevi che l'impianto principale di estrazione fumi del


laboratorio elimini tutti i gas e le esalazioni emesse dal forno.

Warnings

Symbols used on the instrument


Any of the following symbols can be used on the instrument:
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Symbole am Gert
Eines der folgenden Symbole kann sich am Gert befinden:
Smbolos usados en el equipo
Usted puede aplicar al equipo cualquiera de los siguientes
smbolos:
Symboles utiliss sur l'instrument
Tous les symboles suivants peuvent tre utiliss sur l'instrument :
Contrassegni utilizzati sullo strumento
Qualsiasi dei seguenti contrassegni pu essere utilizzato sullo
strumento:

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HGA-900 Users Manual

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.
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214

Dieses Symbol bedeutet, da hier eine mgliche Gefahr besteht und


der Benutzer im Handbuch nachschlagen mu, um eine
Beschreibung der Gefahr und deren Vermeidung zu erhalten.
Este smbolo indica que existe un peligro potencial y que el usuario
tiene que consultar el manual para hallar una explicacin del
peligro y de los modos de evitarlo.
Ce symbole indique un danger potentiel et invite l'usager consulter
le manuel d'utilisation pour obtenir un expos de ce danger et les
moyens de l'viter.
Questo simbolo indica un pericolo potenziale e che l'operatore deve
consultare il manuale per eventuali spiegazioni riguardo ad
eventuali pericoli e su come evitarli.

Warnings

This symbol indicates the risk of electric shock

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Dieses Symbol warnt vor Gefahr durch elektrischen Strom.


Este smbolo indica la existencia de riesgo de descarga elctrica.
Ce symbole indique un risque d'lectrocution.
Questo simbolo indica il pericolo di folgorazione.

This symbol indicates the risk of hot surfaces.

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Dieses Symbol warnt vor Gefahr durch heie Oberflche.


Este smbolo indica peligro de tocar superficies calientes.
Ce symbole indique un risque de surfaces chaudes.
Questo simbolo indica il pericolo di superfici molto calde.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

This symbol indicates the off position of the circuit breaker.

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216

Dieses Symbol zeigt die Stellung Aus des Leistungsschalters.


Este smbolo indica que el interruptor principal de la red o del
cortacircuitos est desconectado.
Ce symbole indique que l'interrupteur ou le coupe-circuit principal est
en position arrt.
Questo simbolo indica la posizione di spento dell'interruttore principale
di alimentazione o il separatore di circuito.

Warnings

This symbol indicates the on position of the 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.
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Dieses Symbol zeigt die Stellung Ein des Netzschalters oder Leistungsschalters. Wenn
der Schalter auf dieser Position steht, wird das Gert mit Netzstrom versorgt, mu
jedoch nicht notwendigerweise eingeschaltet und betriebsbereit sein.
Este smbolo indica que el interruptor principal de la red o del cortacircuitos est
conectado. Cuando el interruptor se encuentra en esta posicin, el equipo est
conectado a la red elctrica, pero no est necesariamente encendido o en estado
operacional.
Ce symbole indique que l'interrupteur ou le coupe-circuit principal est en position
marche. Quand l'interrupteur est dans cette position, l'instrument est connect
l'alimentation secteur, mais n'est pas ncessairement en circuit et oprationnel.
Questo simbolo indica la posizione di acceso dell'interruttore principale di
alimentazione o il separatore di circuito. Se l'interruttore si trova in questa posizione
lo strumento collegato all'alimentazione elettrica ma non necessariamente attivo e
operativo.

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HGA-900 Users Manual

This symbol indicates the operational on/off switch.


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Dieses Symbol kennzeichnet den Bereitschaftsschalter.


Este smbolo indica el interruptor operacional conectado/desconectado.
Ce symbole reprsente l'interrupteur d'arrt/marche.
Questo simbolo indica l'interruttore acceso/spento.

This symbol indicates alternating current.


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218

Dieses Symbol kennzeichnet Wechselstrom.


Este smbolo indica la existencia de corriente alterna.
Ce symbole reprsente le courant alternatif.
Questo simbolo indica corrente alternata.

Index
A
AAnalyst, 84
About this manual, 1
Changing Air Filter;Replacing Air Filter
changing, 153
Automatic Circuit Breaker
resetting
Resetting, 150
Autosampler
alignment procedures, 107
connecting drain tube and waste
bottle, 76
connecting rinse feed tubes and rinse
bottle, 78

installing sample trays and containers,


80
installing, 76
maintenance
autosampler, 161
installing a new pipet
installing, 177
aligning pump heads
aligning, 180
rinsing solutions, 106, 162
installin g sample tray cover
installing, 80
types of sample tray, 80
setting up, 105

Index

removing rinse pump valves


removing from rinse pump, 166
unlocking autosampler arm, 108
valve maintenance
maintenance
autosampler valves, 161
C
Changing
graphite tube
changing, 128
circuit breaker, 98
Connecting
argon
connecting
nitrogen
connecting, 65
furnace, 65
special gas
connecting, 68
Electrical Connections
electrical, 83
Graphite Furnace, 84
Conventions
notes, cautions and warnings, 2
Cooling System (recirculating)
Installing;Installing the Cooling
System, 70
connecting and disconnecting water
hoses, 70
filling, 72
maintenance
cooling system, 155
Cooling System Fuse
changing
cooling system, 159

220

E
External Cooling
connecting
external cooling sources, 73
F
Fitting ferrules
fitting, 172
furnace
viewing inside graphite tube;viewing
inside graphite tube
viewing inside graphite tube during
alignment, 110
setup procedures, 104
Furnace
Aligning, 102
closing;Closing the Furnace
aligning;Aligning Graphite Tube
inserting, 124
opening for contact change
for contact change, 136
opening;Opening the Furnace
graphite tube, 123
setup procedures, 100
Setting up for Furnace Analyses
setting up, 97
Fuses
Changing, 152
G
Graphite Components, 94
Graphite Contacts
changing
graphite contacts, 135
graphite tube
integrated platform, 129
Graphite Tube

HGA 900 Users Guide

cleaning
graphite tube
cleaning
graphite contacts, 126
conditioning, 132
Heating the Graphite Tube
heating
removing contamination by
heating, 127
I
Installation, 61
graphite components, 94
installation kit, 90
spares parts, 92
Installation Kit, 90
L
L vov Platform
inserting;Inserting a L vov platform
L vov platform, 131
Labels
warning signs, 3
M
Checklists for Maintenance Tasks
checklists, 119
O

P
Pipet
repairing;Repairing a Pipet
repairing a pipet, 174
Power Unit
electrical connectors and switches, 86
maintenance procedures
power unit, 150
Removing Front Panel of Power Unit
removing front panel, 64
S
Shutting Down the System, 116
Spares Parts, 92
V
Valves
assembling and installing, 170
autosampler
valves checking, 164
cleaning
valves
cleaning
pump heads, 169
W
connecting water hoses
connecting, 70, 74

operational on/off switch, 98

221

Index

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