7.3
Section 7
TroubleshooTing
Pinnacle Operators Manual
Pickering Laboratories Inc.
General Procedure for Troubleshooting
• Examine the system front to back. Repair all leaks.
• Verify that all settings, eluants, reagents, valves, etc. are according to specifications.
• Have there been any changes in the system?
• Compare against reference conditions: standard sample, column, parameter log as appropriate.
• Gather information: observations, manuals, books, technical assistance.
• Test your conclusions about the nature of the problem.
• Start working.
Before making any change in the gradient, temperature, or other operating conditions, get at least two
chromatograms in a row with the same problem. After you make a change, get at least two chromatograms
showing the same effect of the change. This is especially true when you are trying to optimize gradient
conditions.
COMMON SYSTEM PROBLEMS
OBSERVED PROBLEM COMMON CAUSE ACTION TO TAKE NOTES
Low Reagent pressure Air in reagent pump
Reagent flow rate too low
Leaking fittings
Check for leaks
Change pump seals
Perform Flush Pump
Tighten leaking fittings
High Reagent pressure Obstruction of flow path by deposits
Over-tightened fittings
Pinched tubing
Obstruction of detector flow-cell
Defective back-pressure regulator
Determine the exact location of the
blockage.
Disconnect one fitting at a time,
moving backward from the back-
pressure regulator end, until the
pressure drops
For partial blockage, clean tubing with
solvent/water
For total blockage, replace appropriate
part
Reagent pump stops or delivers wrong
flow rate
Check pump setting
Check reagent pressurization
Check pump seal for leakage
Test or clean valves
continued
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