Waters 1500-Series, Operator'S Manual

Page: 143 / 188

Identifying chromatographic problems 6-9
Identifying chromatographic problems
The following table is a guide to troubleshooting and correcting
chromatographic problems.
Correcting chromatographic problems
Symptom Possible cause Corrective action
Erratic retention
times
Air bubble in pump head Degas all eluents and
prime pump (see
Chapter 4 ).
Malfunctioning check
valves
Replace pump check
valves (see page 5-14 ).
Leaking pump seals Replace pump seals (see
page 5-6 ).
Leaks around fittings Tighten fittings
Separation chemistry Check eluent and column.
Clogged eluent filters Replace filters.
Increased retention
times
Incorrect flow rate Change flow rate.
Incorrect eluent
composition
Change eluent
composition.
Column heater not turned
on
Turn column heater on.
Incorrect eluent Use correct eluent.
Column contaminated Clean or replace column.
Incorrect column Use correct column.
Air bubble in pump head Degas all eluents and
prime pump (see
Chapter 4 ).
Clogged eluent filter Replace filter.