Troubleshooting
79
5
Table 5-1 Correcting Pump Problems
Symptom
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
High pressure
Pump flow rate set too high
Set the correct flow rate.
High-pressure limit set too low
Set the high-pressure limit to
the correct value.
Blocked column
Clean the column according to
the column care and use
manual.
Blocked mixer
Backflush or disassemble the
mixer.
Viscous eluents in use
Check eluent viscosity (the
observed pressure may be
normal for the column/eluent
blend). If necessary, change to
a less viscous eluent.
Defective pressure transducer
Contact Waters Technical
Service.
Blocked outlet tubing or fluid
path (in pump outlet, detector,
column, or injector)
Locate the source of the
blockage. Clean or replace
tubing according to the appro-
priate operator’s guide.
Ambient temperature has
changed
Stabilize the operating
temperature.
Low pressure
Pump flow rate set too low
Set the correct flow rate.
Low-pressure limit set too high Set the low-pressure limit to
the correct value.
Eluent reservoir empty
Fill the reservoir.
Air in eluent lines
Prime the pump (see
Section 3.2.1, Priming the
Pump
).
Incorrect eluent used
Use the correct eluent.
Leaks
Carefully tighten any loose
fittings.
Ambient temperature has
changed
Stabilize the operating
temperature.
