Waters 2489, Operator'S Manual

Page: 138 / 234

4-4 Maintaining the Detector
Routine maintenance
The detector requires minimal routine maintenance.
To achieve optimal performance,
• replace solvent reservoir filters in your HPLC system regularly.
• filter and degas solvents to prolong column life, reduce pressure
fluctuations, and decrease baseline noise.
• flush buffered mobile phases out of the detector with HPLC-grade water
followed by a 5 to 10% methanol solution each time the detector is
powered-off. This process prevents
– plugging of the solvent lines and flow cell.
– damage to the components.
– microbial growth.
Maintaining the flow cell
A dirty flow cell can cause baseline noise, decreased sample energy levels,
calibration failure, and other problems with operation of the detector.
There are two phases in cleaning the flow cell:
• Flushing
• Removing and cleaning
If flushing is ineffective, remove and clean the flow cell. Replace flow cell
components as required.
This section provides information about the following procedures:
• Flushing the flow cell
• Removing and cleaning the flow cell
• Disassembling and reassembling the flow cell
Caution: Always replace the flow cell gaskets when cleaning,
rebuilding, or replacing other flow cell components.