22 Vacuum
Degasser
Unit
4. For weekend storage we recommend flushing 60/40% MeOH/Water
through the Vacuum Degasser, pump, column, flow cell (provided
your column is compatible with MeOH/Water). Then turn off the
Vacuum Degasser, pump and detector.
Long-term Shutdown
1. Follow Short-term Shutdown procedure Steps 1 and 2.
2. Remove the column and direct the pump output tubing to a beaker.
Flush the Vacuum Degasser, first with water and then with
isopropanol.
3. Turn off the Vacuum Degasser. Then disconnect the tubing between
the Vacuum Degasser and solvent reservoirs, and the Vacuum
Degasser and pump. Plug all of the ports on the Vacuum Degasser.
4. Store the Vacuum Degasser in a clean, dry location.
5. Before using the Vacuum Degasser, completely purge it with the
correct solvent for the column before reconnecting the column and
restarting the system.
Maintenance
You can experience long and trouble-free performance from your
Vacuum Degasser by performing both routine and preventive
maintenance procedures.
Preventative Maintenance
Perform preventive maintenance to ensure that your Vacuum Degasser
will perform consistently at an optimal level. To maintain the Vacuum
Degasser in the best condition, the following measures are
recommended:
1. Adhere to standard laboratory cleanliness practices.
- Use only high-purity solvents (preferably HPLC grade) for
mobile phases. Water should be bottled HPLC grade, or filtered
and deionized tap water.
- Filter all solvents to prevent particulate contamination and
tubing blockages.
2. Use only high-purity gases when drying contact areas.
- Ensure that all new tubing (stainless steel) is passivated and
thoroughly flushed before making pump connections.
- Follow the short- and long-term shutdown procedures that are
described above.
3. Routine cleaning of the external surfaces of the instrument can be
made using a clean, damp cloth. Immediately clean any spills which
occur on or near the instrument using methods appropriate for the
type of spill. Some solvents can damage the appearance and
function of the instrument.
Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance is defined as replacing the normal wear items when
you notice degradation in performance.
If you have a problem, you can save time and money by referring to the
Troubleshooting Guide before calling your Service Representative. Your
problem may be minor, and you may be able to correct it yourself using
the Troubleshooting Guide to pinpoint the cause.
