6
Maintenance
Removing and Installing a GC Capillary Column
Thermo Scientific
TSQ Quantum XLS and TSQ Quantum GC User Guide
125
e.
Dip the column outlet in a small vial of methanol. Bubbles indicate there is flow
through the column.
f.
Allow the column
to purge for at least 10 minutes.
3. Perform a manual column leak check. Refer to the Ensuring Tightness chapter of the
TRACE GC Ultra Maintenance and Troubleshooting Manual
for instructions.
4. Perform a column evaluation. Refer to the Column chapter of the
TRACE GC Ultra
Operating Manual
for instructions. Refer to the
K-Factor Quick Reference
card for expected
K factors for various column diameters, column lengths, and carrier gases.
5. Perform an automatic column leak check.
a. Run an automatic leak check. Refer to the Column chapter of the
TRACE GC Ultra
Operating Manual
for instructions.
b. If the report indicates a leak, look for leaks and use the leak detector to fix leaks at all
the fittings in the GC.
c.
Repeat column evaluation and leak check procedures until no leaks can be found.
6. Condition the capillary column according to the manufacturer’s instructions. New
columns must be conditioned before inserting them in the mass spectrometer.
7. Connect the column to the transfer line.
a. Shut down and vent the mass spectrometer. See
b. Lower the GC oven temperature to 30 °C and allow it to cool before continuing.
Note
The K factor is a measure of the resistance of the column. A K factor that is too
low might indicate a leak in the system, while a K factor that is too high might
indicate a blockage.
CAUTION
Do not raise the oven temperature until you are sure the system is
leak-free. At temperatures above 100 °C, oxygen exposure will destroy the
column.
CAUTION
Do not insert the column into the transfer line during the co. The material
released from the column during the conditioning (column bleed) will contaminate
the ion source. You must then clean the ion source.
CAUTION
Never exceed the column manufacturer’s maximum operating
temperature.