3 Installing Intuvo 9000 GC Columns
Conditioning columns
5977B Series MSD Operating Manual 57
Conditioning columns
Conditioning a column before it is connected to the GC/MSD interface is
essential.
A small portion of the capillary column stationary phase is often carried away by
the carrier gas. This is called column bleed. Column bleed deposits traces of the
stationary phase in the MSD ion source. This decreases MSD sensitivity and
makes cleaning the ion source necessary.
Column bleed is most common in new or poorly cross-linked columns. It is much
worse if there are traces of oxygen in the carrier gas when the column is heated.
To minimize column bleed, all capillary columns should be conditioned before
they are installed in the GC/MSD interface. (See “To Condition an Intuvo
Capillary Column” on page 72.)
Tips and hints
• Always use carrier gas that is at least 99.9995% pure.
• Always wear clean gloves when handling a component’s click and run
connectors.
• Always wear clean gloves when handling a gasket.
• Always wear clean gloves when handling the 9000 GC/MS Tail.
If you are using hydrogen as a carrier gas, the hydrogen gas flow must be off
before turning off the MSD power. If the foreline pump is off, hydrogen will
accumulate in the MSD and an explosion may occur. Read “Hydrogen
Safety” on page 24 before operating the MSD with hydrogen gas.