Shimadzu GC - User Manual

This following description is only valid for basic GC instruments and does not mention
all possible additions and modifications. If you own a more specialized instrument or if
you are unsure, we strongly recommend contacting your local Shimadzu representative
before taking any actions. Our specialists can give customized directions free of charge
via telephone or e-mail and thereby prevent possible damages to your system.
Preparing your Shimadzu Gas Chromatograph for Shutdown
Step 1: Turn GC system off (Stop the GC).
Do not turn off GC power when the system is hot. First, turn off heat control to cool
down the oven and other heated modules. There are several ways to do this.
a) From LabSolutions software, you can either press “System off” from Acquisition menu at the
left (1) or press “System off” from tool bar on top (2).

Summary

Preparing your Shimadzu Gas Chromatograph for Shutdown

Stop GC System Operation

Learn how to stop the Gas Chromatograph system, including methods via LabSolutions software and front panel controls.

Wait for GC to Cool Down

Protect the ECD Detector

Turn Off GC Power

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

This document provides instructions for preparing a Shimadzu Gas Chromatograph (GC) for shutdown, focusing on basic GC instruments. It emphasizes the importance of proper shutdown procedures to prevent damage to the system, especially when dealing with heated modules and sensitive detectors like the Electron Capture Detector (ECD).

Function Description:

The document outlines the steps to safely power down a Shimadzu GC system. This involves first turning off heat control to allow the oven and other heated modules to cool down, then waiting for the system to reach a safe temperature before finally cutting off gas flow and electrical power. Specific instructions are provided for different GC models, including the GC-2010/2014 and GC-2030, and for using the LabSolutions software. A key aspect of the shutdown process is the protection of the ECD detector, which requires special attention to prevent atmospheric gases from entering and potentially damaging it.

Usage Features:

The shutdown process can be initiated through multiple interfaces:

• LabSolutions Software: Users can click "System off" from the Acquisition menu on the left side of the screen or from the toolbar at the top. This software interface provides a visual and intuitive way to manage the GC's operational status.
• GC-2010/2014 Front Panel: For these models, users press the "SYSTEM" button (located above the screen) and then "PF1" (below the screen) to stop the GC. This provides a direct hardware interface for control.
• GC-2030 Front Panel: On the GC-2030, users press the home button, navigate to the menu, and select "stop GC," followed by pressing "GC stop sequence." This indicates a menu-driven approach on the device itself.

A critical usage feature is the instruction to not turn off GC power when the system is hot. This highlights a safety and maintenance protocol to prevent thermal stress and potential damage to components. The document also specifies that all temperature zones should be below 50°C before turning off gas flow, indicating a clear temperature threshold for safe operation.

Maintenance Features:

The document places a strong emphasis on maintenance and protective measures, particularly for the ECD detector.

• ECD Protection: The safest solution for ECD protection is a built-in bypass for the make-up gas, which ensures a minimal protective gas flow even when the GC is electrically switched off. This bypass is standard on the GC-2030 and optional for the GC-2010 and GC-2010Plus. Users are advised to ensure that cut-off valves and regulators for the make-up gas remain open if this bypass is present.
• Manual ECD Protection (if no bypass or full shutdown desired): If a bypass is not available or if a complete gas shutoff is intended, a specific procedure is outlined:
  1. Remove the column from the ECD detector.
  2. Close the opening with a blind plug (ferrule with wire inside).
  3. Cap the ECD vent at the back of the GC with a G-type plug and three aluminum gaskets. This process ensures that the ECD cells are filled with inert Makeup Gas, preventing atmospheric contamination. The document includes diagrams showing the ECD vent, G-type plugs, and aluminum gaskets, aiding in visual identification for maintenance.
• Gas Flow Management: After the GC has cooled, electronic gas flow controllers will stop when power is turned off. However, manual flow controllers require user intervention (using cut-off valves or turning off regulators). For long-term shutoff, turning off the gas tanks is recommended, which is a key maintenance step for extended periods of non-use.
• Power Switches: The document illustrates the location of power switches for different GC models:
  • GC-2010 series: Power button is located in the front right side.
  • GC-2030/GC-2014: Power button is also on the right side. These visual aids assist users in locating the correct power controls for their specific instrument.

The document also includes a disclaimer that the information is valid for basic GC instruments and recommends contacting a local Shimadzu representative for more specialized instruments or if unsure, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance for complex setups. This highlights a crucial aspect of maintenance and support.

Shimadzu GC Specifications