Maintenance
Agilent Electrothermal Temperature Controller ETC 60 User’s Guide
42
Quartz Absorption Cell
The quartz absorption cell of the ETC 60 has a finite lifetime, which is dependent
upon the atomization temperature used and the effects of reagents and sample
matrices. Since the quartz cell of the ETC 60 is heated under controlled conditions,
an improvement in tube lifetime may result when compared to flame heating.
Typically the quartz cell will last between 300–1000 hours, depending upon
analytical conditions.
The lifetime of a quartz cell can be extended:
Cut the connecting tube from the gas-liquid separator to the quartz cell, and
insert a small plastic Y-connector. Close the tail of the ‘Y’ with a tube and
laboratory clip. Any spray or foam carried over by the gas stream from the
separator impinges on the walls of the ‘Y’ as the gas suddenly changes
direction. The resulting liquid drains into the ‘Y’ tail. Typically, less than 0.5 mL
will be collected during 8 hours of operation.
The best indication of whether a quartz cell has reached the end of its lifetime is
sensitivity. You should keep a record of cell sensitivity for each of the elements you
determine, and update it at the start of each analysis. An example of a table for
tracking sensitivity is provided in Appendix C.
The quartz absorption cell inside the workhead is replaceable. Once the cell fails, or
its sensitivity is affected, it should be replaced. Agilent recommends that you
always have spare cells available in case of breakage
Replacing the Absorption Cell
WARNING
Hot Surface – Electrical Shock
The workhead will be very hot, and contact with it could cause severe burns.
Always ensure that the workhead is allowed to cool before attempting to
remove or replace the cell.
The ETC 60 MUST be switched off at the power switch, and the mains cable
disconnected from the mains supply BEFORE any attempt is made to
remove or replace the cell.
To replace the absorption cell:
1
Ensure that the mains power is off and the power cable is removed.
