5
Atmospheric Source Interface
Ion Transfer Tube
Thermo Scientific
TSQ Altis, Quantis, and Fortis Hardware Manual
19
Ion Transfer Tube
The ion transfer tube is a metal, cylindrical tube that assists in desolvating ions produced by
the API spray insert while transferring them into the vacuum system. The design of the ion
transfer tube is different for each MS system (
).
Figure 7.
Altis ion transfer tube
Figure 8.
Quantis ion transfer tube
Figure 9.
Fortis ion transfer tube
The heater block contains two heater cartridges that surround the ion transfer tube and heat
the tube to temperatures up to 400 °C (752 °F). A decreasing pressure gradient draws ions
into the ion transfer tube in the atmospheric pressure region. When you remove the ion
transfer tube (after it has cooled to room temperature), the vent prevent ball drops into place
to stop air from entering the vacuum manifold. Therefore, you can remove the ion transfer
tube for cleaning or replacement without venting the system.
