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Troubleshooting
Cooling fault diagnosis
Ensure that all connections to the stage and Dewar are as described in the specific user guide and that the
stage lid and top windows are properly sealed.
1. The cooling rate is less than programmed
There can be several causes of this problem, the most likely being that one of the connectors has
become blocked or damaged. Check that each tube is fitted tightly to the connector and that none
of the tubing is twisted or has come lose. The larger diameter tube leading from the LNP96
consists of a tube within a tube, check that the internal tube is connected, it may have come loose.
Any constrictions of either the tubing or the connector will have a drastic effect on the cooling
ability of the LNP96. If the connectors and tubing are OK, check that the capillary tubing to the
Dewar flask is not bent or damaged and that the filter is intact and unblocked. If any damage has
occurred to any of these items, they should be replaced. If no damage is found, check that the silver
block is not constricted. This can be checked, simply by blowing through one of the steel cooling
tubes using a compressed air line.
2.
Condensation and ice forming on the upper side of window
Realign the window gas tube clip to the required position in the stage lid.
3.
Condensation on the sample and/or the underside of lid window
This is due to the stage not being sealed properly and therefore allowing moisture in during purging
or cooling. Check that the lid and bottom window are sealed correctly and that the silicon seals are
in position.
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