Hach QC8500 Series 2, User Manual

Page: 44 / 104

42
Operation
Once the instrument is powered up:
1. Determine if the analysis to be performed requires a special detector. Most
QuikChem methods require a photometric detector module (
Figure 44 on page 43 ).
Note: The Ion Chromatography (IC) channel (optional) uses a conductivity module instead of a
photometric detector module.
2. Install the manifold on the channel that will run the analysis. Refer to section 4.7 and
Figure 43 on page 43 .
3. Make all the injection valve fluidic connections. Refer to section 4.7.1 on page 44 .
4. Make all the flow cell fluidic connections for the use of a photometric detector. Refer
to
section 4.3.3 on page 38 .
5. Set all pump tubes on the pump. The number of pump tubes varies from method to
method, but the sample line and at least one wash line (for the sampler) must be
used for any analysis.
6. Run deionized water through all the lines to make sure there are no leaks. During
nitrate analysis or any other method that requires a column, make sure that the
column is off line. If no leaks are found, put the reagents in line.
Note: Follow the QuikChem method notes for the startup of specific methods.
7. Set the heater controller temperature in the Omnion software under the Analyte tab.
Refer to the QuikChem method for temperature settings. Refer to the Omnion 3.0
Software User Manual for heater configuration information.
8. If the system has a dilutor, place the diluent line E in the diluent (i.e., deionized
water). Place empty test tubes in the empty tubes rack.
9. Pour the calibration standards into standard vials. Pour some samples into test tubes.
10. Run a worksheet with standards and samples to start the analysis. Refer to Figure 47
on page 49 .
4.6 Non-photometric detectors
Some methods require other types of detectors, such as fluoride, flame photometers,
conductivity, pH, etc. Non-photometric detectors, such as an ISE detector for
determination of fluoride, do not require the regular flow cell or interference filters. Follow
the instructions in the QuikChem method for fluidic connections.
4.7 Manifold installation
To install the manifold:
1. Unwrap the manifold from the bubble pack. The manifold is labeled with the
QuikChem method number and the name of the analyte.
2. Remove the sample loop and the interference filter bag taped to the bottom of
the manifold.
3. Place the flow cell in the lower slot in the detector. Insert the interference filter in the
upper slot.
4. Unwind the pump tubes and place the manifold on the sample processing module or
chosen channel. Channel one is always the closest to the System Unit.