This section provides an overview of how to equilibrate the system and verify operational readiness. After completing these steps, the system is ready for sample processing.
NOTE
Equilibration time varies, and it may take some time to reach the expected values.
After setting the operating conditions, allow the system to equilibrate. During equilibration, the Inuvion ePanel displays the background conductivity (the conductivity of the eluent before sample injection) and the system backpressure.
Procedure
- Monitor the background conductivity to ensure that it is appropriate for your application.
- Monitor the system pressure to ensure that it is at the expected pressure for the installed column and is stable.
- If the pressure is lower than expected, gas is probably trapped in the system. To release the gas, remove the pump fitting on port P (2) on the injection valve. Allow the air to escape, and then reconnect the fitting.
- If the pressure fluctuates by more than about 0.13 MPa (20 psi), prime the pump (see Prime the analytical pump).
- If the pressure is higher than expected, there may be a restriction in the system plumbing.
Verify that the baseline conductivity is at the expected reading for your application and is stable. In general, the reading should be <30 µS for a system set up for suppressed anion analyses using carbonate-based eluent and <2 µS for hydroxide-based eluent. An unexpected reading may be due to the following factors: the conductivity is too high, or there is a baseline drift or excessive baseline noise (large fluctuations in readings).
- Verify that the cell heater temperature is at the set point and is stable. The temperature is at equilibrium when the Set Temperature and Current Temperature readings are the same.
- If a column heater is installed, verify that the temperature is at the set point and is stable. The temperature is at equilibrium when the Set Temperature and Current Temperature readings are the same.