8
Installing Optional Kits
Installing the Merlin Microseal High Pressure Valve Kit
Thermo Scientific
TRACE 1300 and TRACE 1310 Hardware Manual
327
Installing the Merlin Microseal High Pressure Valve Kit
This section provides instructions for installing the Merlin Microseal™ High Pressure Valve kit
(PN 19050735) on the SSL, SSLBKF, HeS-S/SL, PTV, and PTVBKF injectors.
Introduction
The Merlin Microseal™ High Pressure Valve is a long-life replacement for the standard septum
on the SSL, SSLBKF, HeS-S/SL, PTV, and PTVBKF injectors of the TRACE 1300/TRACE
1310. High pressure capability allows operation from 15 to 700 kPa (2 - 100 psi). A top wiper
rib improves resistance to particulate contamination. The valve can be taken apart for
cleaning. High resistance to wear greatly reduces the shedding of valve particles into the
injection port liner. This eliminates a major source of septum bleed and ghost peaks in the
chromatogram. Longer life reduces the chances of valve leaks occurring during extended
automated runs. The low syringe insertion force makes manual injections easier.
The Microseal High Pressure valve requires a 0.63-mm diameter (0.025-in.) blunt tip syringe.
Syringe Compatibility
— The Microseal valve should be used only with a blunt-tipped
0.63-mm diameter (0.025-in.; 23 gauge) syringe needle.
• A needle with too small a diameter, such as a 0.43-mm diameter (0.017-in.; 23 gauge)
needle, will not seal properly.
• A needle with too large a diameter will overstretch and damage the O-ring and duckbill
seals.
• A sharp-pointed or sharp-edged syringe needle will slice or pierce the seals.
Temperature and Pressure Limits
— The operating temperature of the valve is lower than
the injection port temperature set point. For long term operation (> 6 months) use the
following limits for operating conditions:
• Injection port temperature < 350 °C; Pressure range: 15 - 700 kPa (2 - 100 psi)
Higher temperatures and pressures result in shorter lifetime. High temperature deterioration
can be recognized by leaks caused by stiffening and cracking of the Microseal valve,
particularly around the sealing flange.
Getting Started
Install the Microseal High Pressure Valve on the SSL, SSLBKF, HeS-S/SL, PTV, and
PTVBKF injector following the instructions in the next operating procedures.
•
“To install the Merlin Microseal Valve kit on the SSL/SSLBKF and HeS-S/SL injector”
•
“To install the Merlin Microseal Valve kit on the PTV/PTVBKF injector”
Note
Merlin Microseal™ is a trademark of the Merlin Instrument Company.