Particulate Matter
Take necessary precautions to minimize particulates in the laboratory environment. A layer of
dust on the electronic components could act as an insulating blanket, and reduce heat transfer
to the surrounding air.
Vibration
Ensure that lab benches are free from vibrations, e.g., those caused by equipment in adjoining
locations. Because the mechanical pump vibrates during operation, you should install it on the
floor beneath the Saturn GC/MS, rather than alongside the system on the workbench.
Exhaust System
It is your responsibility to provide an adequate exhaust system. Most compounds introduced
into the mass spectrometer will eventually be exhausted from the mechanical pump, along with
the small amounts of oil vapor that these pumps characteristically emit. Therefore, the pump
outlets should be connected to a fume exhaust system. Consult local regulations for the proper
method of exhausting the fumes from your system.
Gas Requirements
GC Carrier Gases
Helium
Minimum 99.998% ultra-high purity, with less than 1.0 ppm each of water, oxygen, and total
hydrocarbons. One 257 ft
3
tank with Matheson regulator #3104-580, or equivalent tank and
regulator.
NOTE: The presence of >1 ppm oxygen or water in the carrier gas supply may
significantly affect the performance of the Saturn GC/MS; it may also damage such
components as the capillary column, filaments, and multiplier. Varian recommends that
you verify that your gas suppliers use controlled tanks; this will ensure that purity
standards are maintained. If you purchase pure gases in contaminated tanks, you may
end up with a contaminated system requiring costly and time consuming repair.
Use of a carrier gas filter is required for optimum performance and to protect your system from
potential contamination. Your GC Accessory Kit includes a GC/MS Gas Clean Oxygen/Moisture
filter (part number CP-17973) and filter base. This easy-to-remove gas filter cartridge combines
three highly adsorptive materials in one filter to remove water, oxygen, and organic compounds
to purify the GC/MS gas. Carrier gas filters should be installed in a location where the indicator
is visible. The filter should be replaced when the indicator shows that the filter is saturated. For
replacement procedures, refer to the instructions enclosed with your filter.
CI Reagent Gases (with CI option only)
Methane, Isobutane
99.99% purity. One lecture bottle with a two-stage pressure regulator, which has a stainless
steel diaphragm and maximum inlet pressure of 15 psi (1 bar).
Ammonia
99.99%, anhydrous grade. One lecture bottle with a two-stage pressure regulator, which has a
stainless steel diaphragm and maximum inlet pressure of 15 psi (1 bar).
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Saturn 2000 GC/MS Pre-installation Instructions
