2 Preparing the mass spectrometer for
operation
This chapter describes how to start and shut down the mass spectrometer.
2.1 Preparing to start the mass spectrometer
This instrument is compatible with the ACQUITY UPLC system. If you are not using an ACQUITY
UPLC system, refer to the documentation relevant to the system you are using.
Notice: To avoid causing severe damage to the instrument, use only compatible
solvents.
Strong solvents used to prepare mobile phases for normal-phase LC-MS, for example, hexane or
tetrahydrofuran (THF), will adversely affect the performance of the materials shown in the table
Items exposed to solvents (Page 171) and must not be used. You must evaluate the safety
issues if these solvents are used as additives to the mobile phases at reduced concentration, or
as sample diluents.
See also: Refer to the following sources for more details:
• Appendix Materials of construction and compatible solvents (Page 171) of this guide, for
mass spectrometer solvent information
• Appendix C of the ACQUITY UPLC System Operator's Guide (71500082502), for solvent
compatibility with ACQUITY devices
To prepare the mass spectrometer for startup:
Warning: To avoid igniting flammable solvents, never let the nitrogen supply pressure
fall below 400 kPa (4.0 bar, 58 psi).
1. On the rear panel, ensure that the nitrogen supply is connected to the instrument’s nitrogen
inlet connection (see Rear panel (Page 36)).
Requirements:
• The nitrogen must be dry and oil-free, with a purity of at least 95% or, for APGC use, at
least 99.999%. Regulate the supply at 600 to 690 kPa (6.0 to 6.9 bar, 90 to 100 psi).
• A gas-fail device must be installed, to interrupt the flow of LC solvent should the
nitrogen supply fail.
2. Ensure that the wash solvent bottle is placed in the solvent tray on top of the instrument,
and that the end of the tubing from the fluidics valve is fully submerged in the solvent.
January 10, 2022, 715006200 Ver. 01 (previously released as Rev. A)
Page 38
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