Maintenance and care
PlasmaQuant MS product family
106
10.3.4
Cleaning the torch
CAUTION
Plasma is extremely hot. Risk of burns! Wait for approx. 5 min after extinguishing the
plasma before you dismantle the torch!
During normal operation, deposits may form on the torch that may interfere with the
operation of the instrument. Periodically inspect the torch for deposits or stains and
clean as required. Weekly cleaning of the torch is recommended to avoid analytical
problems.
1.
Turn off the plasma by clicking on the
[P
LASMA
] button on the main toolbar or
pressing [F4].
2.
Open the plasma compartment lid.
3.
Remove the clamp that secures the
spherical joint of the torch and the
transfer tube.
4.
Rotate the mounting arm of the spray
chamber slightly outward to disengage
the transfer tube and the torch.
5.
Disconnect the plasma and auxiliary gas
tubing from the torch.
It is not necessary to disconnect the
plasma and auxiliary gas tubing from the
gas outlets in the plasma compartment.
Check the plasma and auxiliary gas
tubing for wear. Replace the tubing, if
necessary.
6.
Turn the torch clamp locking knob 90° to
release the clamp holding the torch in
position and swing the clamp arm clear
of the torch.
7.
Remove the torch from the torch
compartment.