Agilent 6890 User manual

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph

Maintaining Your GC

Agilent Technologies

Notices

No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Agilent Technologies, Inc. as governed by United States and international copyright laws.

Manual Part Number

G1530-90010

Edition

First edition, March 2007

Printed in USA

Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2850 Centerville Road Wilmington, DE 19808-1610 USA

Warranty

The material contained in this document is provided “as is,” and is subject to being changed, without notice, in future editions. Further, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Agilent disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, with regard to this manual and any information contained herein, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent shall not be liable for errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, use, or performance of this document or of any information contained herein. Should Agilent and the user have a separate written agreement with warranty terms covering the material in this document that conflict with these terms, the warranty terms in the separate agreement shall control.

Safety Notices

CAUTION

A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING

A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury or death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

1 About Maintaining the GC

Overview of Maintenance 10

Tools and Materials Required for Maintenance 12

Safety Information 14

Preparing the GC for Maintenance 15

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

Consumables and Parts for Columns 18

To Install a Capillary Column Hanger 19

To Condition a Capillary Column 20

To Cut a Loop from a Column 23

To Reverse a Column and Bakeout Contaminants 24

To Attach a Capillary Column Using SilTite Metal Fittings 26

To Disconnect Fused Silica Tubing From a SilTite Fitting 29

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Split/Splitless Inlet 32

Exploded Parts View of the Split/Splitless Inlet 35

To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless Inlet 36

To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet 40

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Insert Assembly of the Split/Splitless

Inlet 42

To Change the Liner and O-Ring on the Split/Splitless Inlet 44

To Replace the Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet 46

To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line 48

To Clean the Split/Splitless Inlet 49

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Split/Splitless Inlet 51

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Purged Packed Inlet 54

Exploded Parts View of the Purged Packed Inlet 57

To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed Inlet 58

To Change the Septum on the Purged Packed Inlet 62

Maintaining Your GC 3

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Purged Packed Inlet 64

To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet 66

To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet 68

To Change the Glass Liner on the Purged Packed Inlet 69

To Install an Insulation Cup on the Purged Packed Inlet 71

To Clean the Purged Packed Inlet 72

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Purged Packed Inlet 74

To Install a Packed Metal Column 75

To Install a Packed Column Adapter on a Detector Fitting 77

To Install a Packed Glass Column 79

To Condition a Packed Column 82

To Install Ferrules on a Packed Metal Column 84

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet 86

Exploded Parts View of the COC Inlet 89

To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet 90

To Check the Needle-to-Column Size on the COC Inlet 93

To Change a Septum on the COC Inlet 94

To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet 96

To Clean the COC Inlet 98

To Replace the Needle Support Assembly in a 7683B Injector 100

To Replace a Needle in a Syringe 103

To Replace the Fused Silica Needle in a Syringe for the COC Inlet 104

To Bakeout Contaminants from the COC Inlet 106

6 Maintaining the PTV Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the PTV Inlet 108

Exploded Parts View of the PTV Inlet 110

To Install a Capillary Column with the PTV Inlet 111

To Clean the Septumless Head on the PTV Inlet 114

To Replace the Septumless Head Teflon Ferrule on the PTV Inlet 117

To Change the Septum on the PTV Inlet 119

4 Maintaining Your GC

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Septum Head Assembly of the PTV

To Change the Liner on the PTV Inlet 123

To Replace the Inlet Adapter for the PTV Inlet 126

To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line 128

To Bakeout Contaminants from the PTV Inlet 129

7 Maintaining the VI

Consumables and Parts for the VI 132

Exploded Parts View of the VI 134

To Install a Capillary Column with the VI 135

To Attach a Sample Transfer Line to the VI 138

To Remove the VI Interface 139

To Clean the VI 140

To Install the VI Interface 141

To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line 142

Inlet 121

To Bakeout Contaminants from the VI Inlet 143

8 Maintaining the FID

Consumables and Parts for the FID 146

Exploded Parts Views of the FID 149

Selecting an FID jet 151

To Attach a Capillary Column Adapter on an Adaptable FID 153

To Install a Capillary Column in the FID 155

To Replace the FID Collector Assembly 158

To Replace an FID Jet 160

To Perform Maintenance on the FID Collector Assembly 163

To Check the FID Leakage Current 171

To Check the FID Baseline 172

To Install the FID Insulation Cup Assembly (Adaptable FID Only) 173

To Install the Optional FID PTFE Chimney Insert 175

To Bakeout the FID 176

9 Maintaining the TCD

Consumables and Parts for the TCD 180

Maintaining Your GC 5

To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD 182

To Install the Optional TCD Capillary Column Adapter 184

To Install a Capillary Column with the Optional TCD Capillary Column

Adapter 185

To Bakeout Contaminants from the TCD 187

10 Maintaining the uECD

Important Safety Information About the uECD 190

Consumables and Parts for the uECD 192

Exploded Parts View of the uECD 194

To Replace the uECD Fused Silica Indented Mixing Liner and Install the

Makeup Gas Adapter 195

To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD 198

To Install the Detector Insulating Cup 200

To Bakeout the uECD 202

11 Maintaining the NPD

Consumables and Parts for the NPD 206

Exploded Parts View of the NPD 209

Selecting an NPD jet 210

To Attach a Capillary Column Adapter on an Adaptable NPD 212

To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD 214

To Replace the NPD Bead Assembly 217

To Maintain the NPD Collector, Ceramic Insulators, and Jet 222

To Check the NPD Leakage Current 228

12 Maintaining the FPD

Consumables and Parts for the FPD 230

Exploded Parts View of the FPD 232

To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD 233

To Attach a Capillary Column to the FPD 235

To Change the FPD Wavelength Filter 237

To Remove the FPD Vent Tube 240

To Replace the FPD Ignitor 242

To Install the FPD Vent Tube and Cover 244

6 Maintaining Your GC

13 Maintaining a Valve

Consumables and Parts for Valves 246

Exploded Parts View of GC Rotary Valves 247

To Replace a Gas Sampling Valve Loop 248

To Align a Rotary Valve Rotor 250

To Replace a Rotary Valve in the Valve Box 251

To Remove the Upper Valve Box 254

To Install the Upper Valve Box 256

Maintaining Your GC 7

8 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph Maintaining Your GC

1 About Maintaining the GC

Overview of Maintenance 10

Tools and Materials Required for Maintenance 12 Safety Information 14 Preparing the GC for Maintenance 15

This section provides an overview of the maintenance procedures included in this document. It also lists the tools needed for routine maintenance and the safety information one should be aware of before performing a maintenance task.

Agilent Technologies

1 About Maintaining the GC

Overview of Maintenance

Where to find a procedure

This manual details the routine tasks needed to maintain the 6890 Gas Chromatograph (GC). The procedures assume a basic knowledge of tool use and of GC operation. Readers are, for example, expected to know how to:

• Safely turn devices on and off

• Load methods

• Change component temperatures, flows, and pressures

• Make typical pneumatic connections using Swagelok and

other standard fittings

Included in this manual are chapters on maintaining the following GC components:

• Capillary Columns

• Split/Splitless Inlet

• Purged Packed Inlet

• COC Inlet

• PTV Inlet

• Volatiles Inlet (VI)

• FID

• TCD

• uECD

• NPD

• FPD

• Valves

Each chapter includes:

• A list of the most commonly used consumables and parts for the component

• An exploded parts view of the component

• Detailed procedures for routine maintenance tasks

associated with the component

10 Maintaining Your GC

Early Maintenance Feedback feature

The Agilent Lab Monitor & Diagnostic Software includes the capability to alert users of upcoming maintenance needs. This feature, called Early Maintenance Feedback, notifies users when a counter (such as a septum counter, jet cleaning counter, injection counter, or uECD wipe test counter) has reached the specified maintenance point. After performing the required maintenance, reset the applicable counter to resume using the Early Maintenance Feedback feature. Refer to the features provided by the Agilent Lab Monitor & Diagnostic Software for more details on this.

About Maintaining the GC 1

Maintaining Your GC 11

1 About Maintaining the GC

Tools and Materials Required for Maintenance

Table 1 lists the tools needed for most GC maintenance procedures. The specific tools required to perform a maintenance procedure are listed in step 1 of the procedure.

Tab le 1 Tools and materials for GC maintenance

Common tools

Wrench, angled, septum nut (19251-00100)

Wrench, open-end, 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch (8710-0510)

Wrench, open-end, 9/16-inch and 7/16-inch (8710-0803)

Wrench, capillary inlet (G3452-20512)

Flathead screwdriver

Column cutter, wafer (5181-8836, 4/pk)

Driver, nut, 1/4-inch (8710-1561)

T-20 Torx key (8710-1807) or screwdriver

T-10 Torx key (8710-2140) or screwdriver

3-mm hex key wrench (8710-2411)

Electronic flow meter(s) or bubble meter(s) capable of calibrated measurements at 1, 10, and 100 mL/min flow ranges.

Electronic leak detector

Magnifying loupe, 20X (430-1020)

Metric ruler

Bench vise (for setting Swagelok fittings)

Razor or sharp knife

Tweezers (8710-0007) or thin needle-nose pliers (8710-0004)

Needle-nose pliers

ESD wrist strap (for installing new components)

Gloves, heat-resistant (for handling hot parts)

Wooden cotton swab (for removing FID filters)

Tools and materials for cleaning procedures

Cleaning brushes—The FID cleaning kit (9301-0985) contains appropriate brushes for cleaning detectors and inlets

Cleaning brushes—(8710-1346) For cleaning split/splitless inlet split vent fitting, FID and collectors

12 Maintaining Your GC

About Maintaining the GC 1

Tab le 1 Tools and materials for GC maintenance (continued)

Jet cleaning wire (.010 inch)

Clean, lint-free cloth (to protect contamination-sensitive detector parts)

Small ultrasonic cleaning bath with aqueous detergent (for cleaning detector and inlet parts)

Gloves, clean, lint-free, nylon (large: 8650-0030, small: 8650-0029) (for handling contamination-sensitive parts)

Steel wool, 0- or 00-grade (for cleaning an inlet’s septum seating surfaces)

* Included with the GC ship kits

Maintaining Your GC 13

1 About Maintaining the GC

Safety Information

Before performing a maintenance task, read the important safety and regulatory information found in the 6890 User Information book.

14 Maintaining Your GC

Preparing the GC for Maintenance

Before most maintenance procedures, the GC must be made ready. The purpose of this preparation is to avoid damage to both the instrument (electronics, columns, etc.) and the user (shocks, burns).

Column and oven preparation

The main hazards here are temperature (burns) and column exposure to air.

• Cool the oven by changing its setpoint to 35 °C. This allows the oven fan to assist cooling.

• Leave the carrier gas flow On until the oven has cooled. This protects the column from oxygen damage.

Inlet preparation

About Maintaining the GC 1

We are concerned with the possibility of burns and air intrusion into the column.

• After the oven and columns have cooled, reduce all inlet flows to 0.0 and turn the temperatures Off.

• For inlet-only maintenance, leave all detectors at their normal setpoints except for the TCD filament, which should be turned Off.

• If the column is to be removed, cap both ends to keep air out.

Detector preparation

This is another burn hazard area, plus the possibility of damage to the very sensitive electronics.

Some detectors (uECD, FPD, NPD) require 12 hours or longer to stabilize from the detector-off condition.

• To cool the detector, reduce the temperature setpoint to 35 °C.

• Some detectors (FID, NPD, FPD) use high voltages. The high voltage supply is part of the electrometer. Turn it Off to disable the high voltage.

• The filament in the TCD will be damaged if exposed to air while hot. To protect the filament, turn it Off.

Maintaining Your GC 15

1 About Maintaining the GC

16 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph Maintaining Your GC

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

Consumables and Parts for Columns 18

To Install a Capillary Column Hanger 19 To Condition a Capillary Column 20 To Cut a Loop from a Column 23

To Reverse a Column and Bakeout Contaminants 24 To Attach a Capillary Column Using SilTite Metal Fittings 26 To Disconnect Fused Silica Tubing From a SilTite Fitting 29

Agilent Technologies

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

Consumables and Parts for Columns

See the Agilent catalog for consumables and supplies for a more complete listing, or visit the Agilent Web site for the latest information (www.agilent.com/chem/supplies).

Tab le 2 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

.530 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.8-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 1.0-mm id 0.53-mm capillary columns 5080-8773 (10/pk)

Column nut, finger-tight (for

0.53-mm columns)

.320 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.5-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.250 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.100 and .200 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.37-mm id

0.45-mm and 0.53-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8293

0.32-mm capillary columns 5062-3514 (10/pk)

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm and 0.2-mm capillary columns

5062-3512 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

5062-3516 (10/pk)

Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

All Ferrule, no-hole Testing 5181-3308 (10/pk)

Capillary column blanking nut Testing–use with any ferrule 5020-8294

Column nut, universal Connect column to inlet or detector 5181-8830 (2/pk)

Column cutter, ceramic wafer Cutting capillary columns 5181-8836 (4/pk)

18 Maintaining Your GC

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

To Install a Capillary Column Hanger

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

WARNING

Be careful! The oven may be hot enough to cause burns. If the oven is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles while handling, cutting, or installing glass or fused silica capillary columns. Use care in handling these columns to prevent puncture wounds.

1 Prepare the column and oven for maintenance. See

“Preparing the GC for Maintenance” on page 15.

2 Select either the front or back hanger position. (Hanger is

shown in back position.)

Front position Back position

3 Insert the ends of the hanger into the slots in the selected

position.

Maintaining Your GC 19

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

To Condition a Capillary Column

1 Gather the following:

• One 7/16-inch, and 1/4-inch wrenches

• No-hole ferrule (See “Consumables and Parts for

Columns” on page 18.)

• Column nut

WARNING

Do not use hydrogen as the carrier for conditioning! It could vent into the oven and present an explosion hazard.

2 Prepare the column and oven for maintenance. See

“Preparing the GC for Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

3 Install the column into the inlet using the new ferrules. See:

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless

Inlet” on page 36

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed

Inlet” on page 58

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet” on

page 90

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the PTV Inlet” on

page 111

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the VI” on page 135

20 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

Cap the detector column fitting.

5 Set a minimum velocity of 30 cm/s, or as recommended by

the column manufacturer. Let gas flow through the column at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes to remove air.

WARNING

6 Program the oven from room temperature to the maximum

temperature limit for the column. Increase the temperature at a rate of 10 to 15 °C/min. Hold at the maximum temperature for 30 minutes.

7 Prepare the GC for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Be careful! The oven and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

8 Attach the column to the detector. For details, select your

specific detector from the following list:

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the FID” on page 155

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD” on page 214

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD” on page 182

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD” on page 198

• “To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD” on

page 233

Maintaining Your GC 21

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

Restore the analytical method.

• For FID or FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

• For NPD, immediately turn off the bead.

10 After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes, then ignite the

detector flame or bead.

22 Maintaining Your GC

To Cut a Loop from a Column

1 Gather the following:

2 Prepare the inlets for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

• New ferrule(s) for the column inlet connection

• Column cutter

for Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Loosen the inlet column nut and remove the column from the

inlet.

4 Uncoil one loop of column from the column hanger.

5 Cut the unwanted loop from the column.

6 Install the column into the inlet using the new ferrules. See:

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless

Inlet” on page 36

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed

Inlet” on page 58

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet” on

page 90

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the PTV Inlet” on

page 111

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the VI” on page 135

Maintaining Your GC 23

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

To Reverse a Column and Bakeout Contaminants

1 Gather the following:

• 1/4-inch wrench

• Column cutter

2 Prepare the GC for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

3 Disconnect the column from the inlet and detector.

4 If necessary, cut a loop from the column. (See “To Cut a Loop

from a Column” on page 23.) Do not attach the column to the inlet.

5 Remove the column from the hanger and reverse its position

(inlet and detector ends) and place the column back on the hanger.

6 Attach the column to the inlet.

Select your specific inlet from the following list:

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless

Inlet” on page 36

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed

Inlet” on page 58

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet” on

page 90

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the PTV Inlet” on

page 111

• “To Install a Capillary Column with the VI” on page 135

7 Attach your column to the detector.

Select your specific detector from the following list:

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the FID” on page 155

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD” on page 214

24 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD” on page 182

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD” on page 198

• “To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD” on

page 233

8 Set the column flow to the normal operating value, or set the

capillary column gas velocity to 30 cm/s.

For split splitless, PTV, and VI inlets select split mode and set the split vent flow to 200 mL/min.

9 Purge the column with carrier flow for at least 10 minutes

before heating the oven.

10 Set the inlet temperature to 300 °C or 25 °C above the

normal operating temperature.

11 Set the column oven 25 °C above the GC method final oven

temperature to bake contaminants out of the inlet, mostly through the split vent. Do not exceed the column manufacturer’s maximum temperature limit.

12 Bakeout for 30 minutes.

Maintaining Your GC 25

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

To Attach a Capillary Column Using SilTite Metal Fittings

This procedure is used to attach a capillary column to a Microfluidic splitter or switch or an Ultimate Union.

1 Gather the following:

• SilTite ferrules (see Table 3)

• Swaging nut for SilTite ferrules (G2855-20555)

• Two 1/4-inch open-end wrenches

• One 7/16-inch open-end wrench

• Column cutting tool (5181-8836)

• Internal nut (G2855-20530)

• Lint free gloves

Tab le 3 Available SilTite metal ferrule packages

CAUTION

Part number SilTite ferrule description

5188-5361 For 0.2- to 0.25-mm columns

5188-5362 For 0.32-mm columns

5188-5363 For 0.53-mm columns

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

2 Pass the tubing end through the internal nut and SilTite

ferrule leaving approximately 1 cm of fused silica tubing protruding beyond the ferrule. Thread the swaging nut onto the internal nut with the tube protruding.

26 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

Using two wrenches against each other, tighten the two nuts

together a little at a time, occasionally checking to see if the ferrule is gripping the tube. When the ferrule just starts to grip, notice position of the nuts and then tighten one of the nuts by turning 45 to 60 degrees of rotation, but no more than 60 degrees (one flat).

4 Remove the swaging nut.

Maintaining Your GC 27

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

NOTE

Using a wafer column cutter, trim the tubing at the small end of the ferrule, leaving approximately 0.3 mm of tubing extending beyond the ferrule.

Check the end of the tube with a magnifier. The end of the tube need not be perfectly square, but should not have cracks that extend under the ferrule.

It is important that the tube end does not extend beyond 0.5 mm from the end of the ferrule.

6 Insert the assembled ferrule and nut into the SilTite fitting.

Tighten with a wrench by only 15 to 20 degrees of rotation.

28 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining Capillary Columns 2

To Disconnect Fused Silica Tubing From a SilTite Fitting

Loosen and remove the internal nut. If tubing and ferrule do not come free, insert a pointed object (pen, paper clip) into the ferrule release hole and press firmly. You will hear a click as the ferrule releases.

The SilTite ferrule seal should remain leak-free for many disconnections and reconnections.

Maintaining Your GC 29

2 Maintaining Capillary Columns

30 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph Maintaining Your GC

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Split/Splitless Inlet 32

Exploded Parts View of the Split/Splitless Inlet 35 To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless Inlet 36 To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet 40

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Insert Assembly of the Split/Splitless Inlet 42

To Change the Liner and O-Ring on the Split/Splitless Inlet 44

To Replace the Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet 46 Check for leaks. 47 To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line 48

To Clean the Split/Splitless Inlet 49 To Bakeout Contaminants from the Split/Splitless Inlet 51

Agilent Technologies

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Split/Splitless Inlet

See the Agilent catalog for consumables and supplies for a more complete listing, or visit the Agilent Web site for the latest information (www.agilent.com/chem/supplies).

\<space>

Tab le 4 Split, splitless, direct, and direct connect inlet liners

Mode Description Deactivated Part number

Split Low-pressure drop, glass wool, single taper, 870 µL Yes 5183-4647

Split Glass wool, 990 µL No 19251-60540

Split—Manual only Empty pin and cup, 800 µL No 18740-80190

Split—Manual only Packed pin and cup, 800 µL No 18740-60840

Splitless Single taper, glass wool, 900 µL Yes 5062-3587

Splitless Single taper, no glass wool, 900 µL Yes 5181-3316

Splitless Dual taper, no glass wool, 800 µL Yes 5181-3315

Splitless—Direct inject 2-mm id, quartz, 250 µL No 18740-80220

Splitless—Direct inject 2-mm id, 250 µL Yes 5181-8818

Direct inject —Headspace or purge and trap

Direct column connect Single taper, splitless 4-mm id Yes G1544-80730

Direct column connect Dual taper, splitless 4-mm id Yes G1544-80700

1.5-mm id, 140 µL No 18740-80200

Tab le 5 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

.530 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.8-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 1.0-mm id 0.53-mm capillary columns 5080-8773 (10/pk)

Column nut, finger-tight (for

0.53-mm columns)

.320 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.5-mm id

0.45-mm and 0.53-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8293

0.32-mm capillary columns 5062-3514 (10/pk)

5062-3512 (10/pk)

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

0.32-mm capillary columns

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

32 Maintaining Your GC

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

5080-8853 (10/pk)

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Tab le 5 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns (continued)

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

.250 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.100 and .200 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.37-mm id

Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

All Ferrule, no-hole Testing 5181-3308 (10/pk)

Capillary column blanking nut Testing–use with any ferrule 5020-8294

Column nut, universal Connect column to inlet or detector 5181-8830 (2/pk)

Column cutter, ceramic wafer Cutting capillary columns 5181-8836 (4/pk)

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm and 0.2-mm capillary columns

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

5062-3516 (10/pk)

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

Tab le 6 Other consumables and parts for the split/splitless inlet

Description/quantity Part number

Septum retainer nut for headspace 18740-60830

Septum retainer nut 18740-60835

11-mm septum, high-temperature, low-bleed, 50/pk 5183-4757

11-mm septum, prepierced, long life, 50/pk 5183-4761

Merlin Microseal septum (high-pressure) 5182-3444

Merlin Microseal septum (30 psi) 5181-8815

Nonstick fluorocarbon liner O-ring (for temperatures up to 350 °C), 10/pk

Nonstick fluorocarbon liner O-ring for Flip Top Inlet Sealing System, 10/pk

Graphite O-ring for split liner (for temperatures above 350 °C), 10/pk

Maintaining Your GC 33

5188-5365

5188-5366

5180-4168

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Tab le 6 Other consumables and parts for the split/splitless inlet

Description/quantity Part number

Graphite O-ring for splitless liner (for temperatures above 350 °C), 10/pk

Split trap vent replacement kit, 2 filters and 4 O-rings G1544-80530

Retaining nut G1544-20590

Gold-plated seal (standard application) 5188-5367

Gold-plated seal with cross (high split flows) (includes SS washer)

Stainless steel washer (0.375-inch od), 12/pk 5061-5869

Reducing nut 18740-20800

Column nut, blanking plug 5020-8294

Capillary inlet preventative maintenance kit, split 5188-6496

Capillary inlet preventative maintenance kit, splitless 5188-6497

5180-4173

5182-9652

34 Maintaining Your GC

Exploded Parts View of the Split/Splitless Inlet

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Maintaining Your GC 35

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless Inlet

WARNING

Do not use hydrogen as the carrier for conditioning! It could vent into the oven and present an explosion hazard.

1 Gather the following (see “Consumables and Parts for the

Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32):

• Column

• Ferrule(s)

• Column nut

• Septum

• Column cutter

• Isopropanol

• Lab tissue

WARNING

• Metric ruler

• 1/4-inch open-end wrench

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the GC for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Verify that the correct glass liner is installed. (See

“Consumables and Parts for the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

4 Place the column on the hanger with the ends pointing up

and the label to the front.

CAUTION

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

36 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Place a septum, capillary column nut, and ferrule on the

column.

Ferrule

Column nut

Septum

6 Score the column using a glass scribing tool. The score must

be square to ensure a clean break.

7 Break off the column end by supporting it against the column

cutter opposite the scribe. Inspect the end with a magnifying loupe to make certain there are no burrs or jagged edges.

8 Wipe the column walls with a tissue dampened with

isopropanol to remove fingerprints and dust.

9 Position the column so it extends 4 to 6 mm above the end of

the ferrule. Slide the septum up the column to hold the column nut at this position.

4%6 mm

10 Thread the column nut into the inlet but do not tighten.

Maintaining Your GC 37

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Adjust the column position so that the septum contacts the

bottom of the column nut. Finger-tighten the column nut until it begins to grip the column.

12 Tighten the column nut an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn with a

wrench so that the column cannot be pulled from the fitting with gentle pressure.

13 Configure the new column.

14 Condition the column per the manufacturer’s

recommendation. (See “To Condition a Capillary Column” on page 20.)

15 Install the column into the detector. See:

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the FID” on page 155

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD” on page 182

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD” on page 198

• “To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD” on

page 233

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD” on page 214

16 After the column is installed at both inlet and detector,

establish a flow of carrier gas and purge as recommended by the column manufacturer.

17 Restore the analytical method.

• For FID or FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

• For NPD, immediately turn off the bead.

18 After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes then ignite the

detector flame or bead.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

38 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Allow the oven, inlet, and detector to equilibrate at operating temperature, then retighten the fittings.

Maintaining Your GC 39

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum. (See “Consumables and Parts for

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• 0- or 00-grade steel wool (optional)

• Tweezers

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap.

4 Use tweezers to remove the septum or Merlin Microseal from

the retainer nut. Do not gouge or scratch the interior of the septum head.

5 Firmly press the new septum or Merlin Microseal into the

fitting. The metal parts side of the Merlin Microseal should face down (toward the oven).

40 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Install the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap and finger-tighten. Tighten the septum retainer nut until the C-ring is about 1 mm above the nut.

CAUTION

Overtightening the septum nut can cause contamination.

1 mm

7 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 41

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Insert Assembly of the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• 0- or 00-grade steel wool (optional)

• Tweezers

• Compressed, filtered, dry air or nitrogen

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Unscrew the insert nut from the inlet body. Lift the septum

assembly straight up and away from the inlet to avoid chipping or breaking the liner.

4 Remove the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap.

5 Use tweezers to remove the septum or Merlin Microseal from

the retainer nut. (See “To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 40.)

6 Scrub the residue from the retainer nut and septum holder

with a small piece of rolled-up steel wool and tweezers. Do not do this over the inlet.

42 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Use compressed air or nitrogen to blow away the pieces of steel wool and septum.

8 Replace the insert retainer nut, tightening it to firm

finger-tightness. Do not overtighten.

9 Firmly press the new septum or Merlin Microseal into the

fitting. (See “To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 40.)

10 Replace the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap and

finger-tighten. (See “To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 40.)

11 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 43

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Change the Liner and O-Ring on the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement O-ring (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• Replacement liner

• Tweezers

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Unscrew the insert nut from the inlet body. Lift the septum

assembly straight up and away from the inlet to avoid chipping or breaking the liner.

4 Loosen the O-ring from the sealing surface with tweezers.

5 Grasp the liner with tweezers and pull it out.

6 Inspect the surface of the gold seal for graphite or rubber

septum contamination. If required, replace the gold seal. (See “To Replace the Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 46.)

44 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Clean the inlet if there is visible or suspected contamination. (See “To Clean the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 49.)

Clean O-ring residue from sealing surface.

CAUTION

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

7 Slide a new O-ring onto the replacement liner.

8 Return the liner to the inlet, pushing it all the way in until

the liner contacts the gold seal.

9 Replace the insert retainer nut, tightening it to firm

finger-tightness. Do not overtighten.

10 Turn on the inlet. Allow the inlet and column to purge with

carrier gas for 15 minutes before heating the inlet or the column oven.

11 Bakeout contaminants. (See “To Bakeout Contaminants from

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 51.)

12 Restore the analytical method.

13 Check for leaks.

Maintaining Your GC 45

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Replace the Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement gold seal (See “Consumables and Parts for

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• Replacement washer

• 1/4-inch wrench (for column)

• 1/2-inch wrench

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the inlet liner.

4 Remove the column from the inlet. Cap the open end of the

column to prevent contamination. Remove the insulation cup around the base of the inlet.

5 Loosen and remove the reducing nut. Remove the washer

and seal inside the reducing nut.

CAUTION

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

6 Put on gloves to protect the new gold seal and washer from

contamination. Put a new washer in the reducing nut and place the new gold seal on top of it (raised portion facing down).

46 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

Inlet gold seal

Washer

Reducing nut

Replace the reducing nut and tighten securely with a wrench.

8 Replace the inlet liner.

9 Install the column and the insulation cup.

10 Bakeout contaminants. (See “To Bakeout Contaminants from

Gold seal side view

Make sure raised portion faces down.

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 51.)

11 Restore the analytical method.

12 Check for leaks.

Maintaining Your GC 47

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line

1 Gather the following:

• New filter cartridge. (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• T-20 Torx screwdriver

2 Prepare the inlets for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC

for Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

The split vent trap may contain residual amounts of any samples or other chemicals you have injected into the GC. Follow your company’s safety procedures for handling these types of substances while replacing the trap filter cartridge.

3 Remove the plastic pneumatics cover (top, back of GC).

4 Lift the filter trap assembly from the mounting bracket and

unscrew the filter trap assembly.

5 Remove the old filter cartridge and two O-rings.

6 Verify the new O-rings are seated properly on the new filter

cartridge.

7 Install the new filter cartridge then reassemble the trap.

8 Place the filter trap assembly in the mounting bracket.

9 Fully tighten the split vent front weldment onto the trap.

10 Check for leaks.

11 Restore the analytical method.

48 Maintaining Your GC

To Clean the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 32.)

• Replacement liner

• Replacement O-ring

• Replacement gold seal

• Replacement washer

• Solvent that will clean the type of deposits in your inlet

• Compressed, filtered, dry air or nitrogen

• Beaker

• Cleaning brushes—The FID cleaning kit (part number

9301-0985) contains appropriate brushes

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

WARNING

CAUTION

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlets for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC

for Maintenance” on page 15.

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the inlet liner. (See “To Change the Liner and O-Ring

on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 44.)

4 Disconnect the column from the inlet.

5 Remove the reducing nut and gold seal. (See “To Replace the

Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 46.)

6 Place a beaker in the oven under the inlet to catch the

solvent.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

7 Soak a cleaning brush in the solvent and scrub the inside of

the inlet weldment. Repeat 10 times.

8 Rinse the inlet with the solvent.

9 Blow the inside of the inlet dry with compressed air or

nitrogen.

Maintaining Your GC 49

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

Install the gold seal and reducing nut.

11 Install the liner and O-ring.

12 Install the column. (See “To Install a Capillary Column with

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 36.)

13 Check for leaks.

14 Bakeout contaminants. (See “To Bakeout Contaminants from

the Split/Splitless Inlet” on page 51.)

15 Restore the analytical method.

50 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet 3

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Split/Splitless Inlet

1 Put the inlet into split mode.

2 Set the column flow to the normal operating value, or set the

capillary column gas velocity to 30 cm/s.

3 Set the inlet split vent flow to 200 mL/min.

4 Purge the column with carrier flow for at least 10 minutes

before heating the oven.

5 If the column is attached to the detector, set the detector

25 °C above normal operating temperature.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

If the column is not attached to the detector, cap the detector fitting.

6 Set the inlet temperature to 300 °C or 25 °C above the

normal operating temperature to bakeout contaminants from the inlet, mostly through the split vent.

7 Set the column oven 25 °C above the GC method final oven

temperature to bake contaminants from the column. Do not exceed the column manufacturer’s maximum temperature limit.

8 Bakeout for 30 minutes or until the detector baseline is free

of contamination peaks.

Maintaining Your GC 51

3 Maintaining the Split/Splitless Inlet

52 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph Maintaining Your GC

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Purged Packed Inlet 54

Exploded Parts View of the Purged Packed Inlet 57 To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed Inlet 58 To Change the Septum on the Purged Packed Inlet 62

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Purged Packed Inlet 64 To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet 66 To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet 68

To Change the Glass Liner on the Purged Packed Inlet 69 To Install an Insulation Cup on the Purged Packed Inlet 71 To Clean the Purged Packed Inlet 72

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Purged Packed Inlet 74 To Install a Packed Metal Column 75 To Install a Packed Column Adapter on a Detector Fitting 77

To Install a Packed Glass Column 79 To Condition a Packed Column 82 To Install Ferrules on a Packed Metal Column 84

Agilent Technologies

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Purged Packed Inlet

See the Agilent catalog for consumables and supplies for a more complete listing, or visit the Agilent Web site for the latest information (www.agilent.com/chem/supplies).

Tab le 7 Purged packed inlet parts

Description Part number/quantity

Preventative maintenance kit 5188-6498

Purged packed glass liners and column adapters

Glass liner 5080-8732 (25/pack) or

0.53-mm column adapter 19244-80540

1/8-inch column adapter 19243-80530

5181-3382 deactivated (5/pack)

1/4-inch column adapter 19243-80540

Recommended septa and O-rings for the purged packed inlet

11-mm solid septum, low-bleed, red 5181-1263 (50/pk)

11-mm septum with partial through-hole, low-bleed, red

11-mm septum, low-bleed, gray 5080-8896 (50/pk)

Merlin Microseal septum (30 psi) 5181-8815

11-mm high-temperature silicone septum (350 °C and higher)

Viton O-ring (Top insert weldment) 5080-8898 (12/pk)

5181-3383 (50/pk)

5182-0739 (50/pk)

Tab le 8 Nuts and ferrules for packed columns

Description Typical use Part number/quantity

1/8-inch id Swagelok stainless steel nut, front ferrule, back ferrule

1/8-inch id Swagelok brass nut, front ferrule, back ferrule

1/8-inch column 5080-8751 (20 each/pk)

1/8-inch column 5080-8750 (20 each/pk)

1/8-inch id Vespel/ graphite ferrule

54 Maintaining Your GC

1/8-inch column 0100-1332 (10/pk)

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Tab le 8 Nuts and ferrules for packed columns (continued)

Description Typical use Part number/quantity

1/8-inch id brass tubing nut

1/4-inch id Swagelok stainless steel nut, front ferrule, back ferrule

1/4-inch id Swagelok brass nut, front ferrule, back ferrule

1/4-inch id Vespel/ graphite ferrule

1/4-inch id brass tubing nut

1/8-inch column 5180-4103 (10/pk)

1/4-inch column 5080-8753 (20 each/pk)

1/4-inch column 5080-8752 (20 each/pk)

Inlet/detector liner/adapters 1/4-inch column

1/4-inch column 5180-4105 (10/pk)

5080-8774 (10/pk)

Tab le 9 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

.530 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.8-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 1.0-mm id 0.53-mm capillary columns 5080-8773 (10/pk)

0.45-mm and 0.53-mm capillary columns

5062-3512 (10/pk)

Column nut, finger-tight (for

0.53-mm columns)

.320 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.5-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.250 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.100 and .200 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.37-mm id

Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8293

0.32-mm capillary columns 5062-3514 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm and 0.2-mm capillary columns

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

5062-3516 (10/pk)

5181-3323 (10/pk)

Maintaining Your GC 55

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Tab le 9 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns (continued)

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

0.32-mm capillary columns

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

All Ferrule, no-hole Testing 5181-3308 (10/pk)

Capillary column blanking nut Testing–use with any ferrule 5020-8294

Column nut, universal Connect column to inlet or detector 5181-8830 (2/pk)

Column cutter, ceramic wafer Cutting capillary columns 5181-8836 (4/pk)

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

5080-8853 (10/pk)

56 Maintaining Your GC

Exploded Parts View of the Purged Packed Inlet

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Merlin cap

Merlin Microseal

Top insert weldment

O-ring

Glass liner

Ferrule

Septum nut

Septum

Adapter nut

Adapter

Insulation

Insulation cup

Ferrule

Column nut

Maintaining Your GC 57

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Column

• Ferrule (See “Consumables and Parts for the Purged

Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Column nut

• Glass liner

• Viton O-ring

• 0.53-mm column adapter

• Septum

• 1/4-inch wrench

• Metric ruler

• Lint-free gloves

WARNING

CAUTION

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Install a 0.53-mm column adapter. (See “To Install an

Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 66.)

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

4 Install a new Viton O-ring. (See “To Change the O-Ring on the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 68.)

5 Place a septum, capillary column nut, and ferrule on the

column.

58 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Ferrule

Column nut

Septum

6 Score the column using a glass scribing tool. The score must

be square to ensure a clean break.

7 Break off the column end by supporting it against the column

cutter opposite the scribe. Inspect the end with a magnifying loupe to make certain there are no burrs or jagged edges.

8 Wipe the column walls with a tissue dampened with

isopropanol to remove fingerprints and dust.

9 Position the column so it extends 1 to 2 mm above the end of

the ferrule. Slide the septum up the column to hold the column nut at this fixed position.

1%2 mm

Maintaining Your GC 59

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Thread the column nut into the inlet adapter but do not tighten.

11 Adjust the column position so that the septum is even with

the bottom of the column nut. Finger-tighten the column nut until it begins to grip the column.

12 Tighten the column nut an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn with a

wrench so that the column cannot be pulled from the fitting with gentle pressure.

13 Configure the new column.

14 Condition the column per the manufacturer’s

recommendation. (See “To Condition a Capillary Column” on page 20.)

15 Install the column into the detector. See:

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the FID” on page 155

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD” on page 182

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD” on page 198

• “To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD” on

page 233

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD” on page 214

16 After the column is installed at both inlet and detector,

establish a flow of carrier gas and purge as recommended by the column manufacturer.

17 Restore the analytical method.

• For FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

• For NPD, immediately set the bead voltage to 0.0.

18 After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes then ignite the

detector flame or adjust offset on the NPD bead.

60 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Allow the oven, inlet, and detector to equilibrate at operating temperature, then retighten the fittings.

Maintaining Your GC 61

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Change the Septum on the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Septum nut wrench

• 0- or 00-grade steel wool (optional)

• Tweezers

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap.

4 Use tweezers to remove the septum or Merlin Microseal from

the retainer nut. Do not gouge or scratch the interior of the septum head.

Septum retainer nut

Septum

5 Firmly press the new septum or Merlin Microseal into the

fitting. The metal parts side of the Merlin Microseal should face down (toward the oven).

62 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Merlin Microseal and cap

CAUTION

Standard septum

Replace the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap and

finger-tighten. Tighten the septum retainer nut until the C-ring is about 1 mm above the nut.

Overtightening the septum nut can cause contamination.

1 mm

7 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 63

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Septum nut wrench

• 0- or 00-grade steel wool (optional)

• Tweezers

• Compressed, filtered, dry air or nitrogen

• Ultrasonic cleaning bath

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlets for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC

for Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap.

4 Loosen the top insert weldment and remove.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

5 Use tweezers to remove the septum or Merlin Microseal from

the top insert weldment. Do not gouge or scratch the interior of the septum head.

6 Scrub the residue from the top insert weldment and septum

nut with a small piece of rolled-up steel wool and tweezers. Ultrasonically clean the retainer nut and top insert weldment.

7 Use compressed air or nitrogen to blow away the pieces of

steel wool and septum.

8 Wearing gloves, inspect the O-ring and replace, if necessary.

(See “To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 68.)

9 Install the top insert weldment and hand-tighten firmly.

64 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Firmly press the new septum or Merlin Microseal into the fitting.

11 Install the septum retainer nut or Merlin cap and

finger-tighten. Tighten the septum retainer nut until the C-ring is about 1 mm above the nut.

CAUTION

Overtightening the septum nut can cause contamination.

1 mm

12 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 65

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Brass tubing nut (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Adapter (0.53 mm, 1/8-inch packed, or 1/4-inch packed)

• 7/16-inch and 9/16-inch wrench

• Vespel/graphite ferrule

• Methanol

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Clean the end of the adapter with a lint-free cloth and

methanol to remove contamination such as fingerprints.

4 Place the tubing nut and Vespel/graphite ferrule on the

adapter.

66 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Inlet fitting

Ferrule

Tubing nut

Adapter

Insert the adapter straight into the inlet base as far as

possible.

6 Hold the adapter in this position and finger-tighten the nut.

7 Tighten an additional 1/4 turn with a wrench.

Maintaining Your GC 67

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement O-ring (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Septum nut wrench

• Tweezers

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Loosen the top insert weldment to remove the top portion of

the inlet.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

4 Use tweezers to remove the old O-ring.

5 Insert a new O-ring.

6 Install and tighten the top insert weldment.

7 Restore the analytical method.

68 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

To Change the Glass Liner on the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement glass liner (See “Consumables and Parts for

the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• 9/16-inch wrench

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Top insert weldment

Flared end

Glass liner

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Loosen the top insert weldment to remove the top portion of

the inlet.

4 Use a thin wire or wood splint to carefully lift and remove

the old glass liner.

CAUTION

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

Maintaining Your GC 69

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Wearing gloves, inspect the O-ring and replace, if necessary. (See “To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 68.)

6 Wearing gloves, grasp the flared end (top) of the replacement

glass liner with tweezers and install it in the inlet. If the glass liner does not seat properly because a capillary column is installed, remove the column, install the glass liner, and replace the column. (See “To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 58.)

7 Install the top insert weldment and hand-tighten firmly.

8 Restore the analytical method.

70 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

To Install an Insulation Cup on the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• No-hole ferrule

• Column nut

2 Install a plug (for example, a column nut with no-hole

ferrule) in the inlet capillary adapter.

3 Push the cup spring to the right. Slide the cup over the inlet

fitting so that the insulation at the top of the cup is flush against the oven roof.

4 Place the spring into the groove in the inlet liner. Remove the

column nut and no-hole ferrule.

Maintaining Your GC 71

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Clean the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement O-ring (See “Consumables and Parts for the

Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Replacement glass liner

• Replacement septum

• Solvent that will clean the type of deposits in your inlet

• Compressed, filtered, dry air or nitrogen

• Beaker

• Cleaning brushes—The FID cleaning kit (part number

9301-0985) contains appropriate brushes

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlets for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC

for Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If the inlet is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Remove the column.

4 Remove the septum nut and septum.

5 Remove the top insert weldment.

6 Remove the glass liner and O-ring.

7 If used, remove the adapter.

8 Ultrasonically clean the septum nut, top insert weldment,

and adapter (if used) in a suitable solvent.

9 Place a beaker in the oven under the inlet to catch the

solvent.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

10 Soak a cleaning brush with the solvent and vigorously scrub

the interior walls of the inlet.

11 Blow the inside of the inlet dry with compressed air or

nitrogen.

72 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Install the adapter, if used. (See “To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 66.)

13 Install the glass liner and O-ring. (See “To Change the Glass

Liner on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 69.)

14 Install the top insert weldment and finger-tighten.

15 Install the septum and septum nut. (See “To Change the

Septum on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 62.)

16 Attach the column. (See “To Install a Capillary Column with

the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 58.)

17 Check for leaks.

18 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 73

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Purged Packed Inlet

1 Set the column flow to the normal operating value, or set the

capillary column gas velocity to 30 cm/s.

2 Purge the column with carrier flow for at least 10 minutes

before heating the oven.

3 If the column is attached to the detector, set the detector

25 °C above normal operating temperature.

If the column is not attached to the detector, cap the detector fitting.

4 Set the inlet temperature to 300 °C or 25 °C above the

normal operating temperature.

5 Set the column oven 25 °C above the GC method final oven

temperature to bake contaminants out of the inlet. Do not exceed the column manufacturer’s maximum temperature limit.

6 Bakeout for 30 minutes or until the detector baseline is free

of contamination peaks.

74 Maintaining Your GC

To Install a Packed Metal Column

1 Gather the following:

• 7/16-inch, 9/16-inch, and 1/2-inch wrenches

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the GC for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

3 Prepare the packed metal column. (See “To Install Ferrules

on a Packed Metal Column” on page 84.)

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the oven, inlet, or detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

4 Install the 1/8-inch or 1/4-inch packed column inlet adapter,

if necessary. (See “To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 66.)

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

5 Attach the column to the inlet adapter. Finger-tighten the

nut.

6 Tighten the nut an additional 1/4 turn with a wrench (for a

1/8-inch column) or an additional 3/4 turn (for a 1/4-inch column).

Use two wrenches, one on the column nut and the other on the adapter, to prevent the adapter from rotating.

7 Press [Config] [Col 1] or [Config] [Col 2] and enter 0.00 in either

Length or Diameter, and identify the inlet and detector to

which the column is attached.

WARNING

Do not use hydrogen as the carrier for conditioning! It could vent into the oven and present an explosion hazard.

8 Condition the column, if necessary. (See “To Condition a

Packed Column” on page 82.)

Maintaining Your GC 75

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Load the GC maintenance method and wait for the GC to become ready.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the oven, inlet, or detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

10 If required, install the detector adapter. (See “To Install a

Packed Column Adapter on a Detector Fitting” on page 77.)

11 Attach the column to the detector or detector adapter.

Finger-tighten the nut.

12 Tighten the nut an additional 1/4 turn with a wrench (for a

1/8-inch column) or an additional 3/4 turn (for a 1/4-inch column).

13 Establish a flow of carrier gas and purge as recommended by

the packing manufacturer. Generally:

• 20 to 30 mL/min for 2-mm id glass or 1/8-inch od metal

columns

• 50 to 60 mL/min for 4-mm id glass or 1/4-inch od metal

columns

14 Restore the analytical method.

• For FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

WARNING

• For NPD, immediately set the bead voltage to 0.0.

15 After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes then ignite the

detector flame or adjust offset on the NPD bead.

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

16 Allow the oven, inlet, and detector to equilibrate at operating

temperature, then retighten the fittings.

76 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

To Install a Packed Column Adapter on a Detector Fitting

1 Gather the following:

• 7/16-inch, 9/16-inch, and 1/2-inch wrenches

• Vespel/graphite ferrule (See “Consumables and Parts for

the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Brass column nut

• Lint-free gloves

• Adapter. Select the appropriate adapter from one of the

parts lists shown below:

“Consumables and Parts for the FID” on page 146 (Packed columns can only be installed on an adaptable FID.)

“Consumables and Parts for the TCD” on page 180

“Consumables and Parts for the NPD” on page 206

WARNING

CAUTION

“Consumables and Parts for the FPD” on page 230

2 Prepare the column and oven for maintenance. See

“Preparing the GC for Maintenance” on page 15.

Be careful! The detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Assemble a nut and a ferrule onto the adapter.

4 Insert the adapter straight into the detector base as far as

possible.

Maintaining Your GC 77

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

Hold the adapter in this position and finger-tighten the nut.

6 Tighten an additional 1/4 turn with a wrench (for a 1/8-inch

column) or an additional 3/4 turn (for a 1/4-inch column).

78 Maintaining Your GC

To Install a Packed Glass Column

1 Gather the following:

• 9/16-inch wrench

• Two 1/4-inch brass nuts (See “Consumables and Parts for

the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Two 1/4-inch Vespel/graphite ferrules

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the GC for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the oven, inlet, or detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Assemble a brass nut and Vespel/graphite ferrule on each

end of the column.

Glass columns must be simultaneously inserted into the inlet and detector and installed parallel to the oven door. When conditioning the column, do not attach the column to the detector.

4 If conditioning the column, insert the column into the purged

packed inlet until it bottoms. Withdraw the column 1 to 2 mm. Finger-tighten the inlet column nut. (See “To Condition a Packed Column” on page 82.)

CAUTION

Overtightening the column nut or forcing it to bottom in either the inlet or detector may shatter the column.

Maintaining Your GC 79

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

WARNING

Tighten the inlet column nut 1/4 turn with a wrench.

Do not use hydrogen as the carrier for conditioning! It could vent into the oven and present an explosion hazard.

6 After conditioning, remove the column from the inlet.

7 Simultaneously insert the column into the inlet and detector

fittings but do not force it. It may be necessary to start the long end of the column in the inlet at an angle to clear the oven floor.

CAUTION

8 Withdraw the column 1 to 2 mm from both the inlet and

detector. Finger-tighten both column nuts.

Overtightening the column nut or forcing it to bottom in either the inlet or detector may shatter the column.

9 Tighten both column nuts 1/4 turn with a wrench.

10 Press [Config] [Column #], enter 0.00 in either Length or

Diameter, and identify the inlet and detector to which the

column is connected.

11 Establish a flow of carrier gas and purge as recommended by

the packing manufacturer. Generally:

• 20 to 30 mL/min for 2-mm id glass or 1/8-inch od metal

columns

• 50 to 60 mL/min for 4-mm id glass or 1/4-inch od metal

columns

12 Restore the analytical method.

• For FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

• For NPD, immediately set the bead voltage to 0.0.

80 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes then ignite the detector flame or adjust offset on the NPD bead.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

14 Allow the oven, inlet, and detector to equilibrate at operating

temperature, then retighten the fittings.

Maintaining Your GC 81

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Condition a Packed Column

1 Gather the following:

• Capillary adapter, column nut, and no-hole ferrule (for

• Two 7/16-inch wrenches

• 1/4-inch open-end wrench

• Lint-free gloves

WARNING

Do not use hydrogen as the carrier for conditioning! It could vent into the oven and present an explosion hazard.

2 Prepare the column and oven for maintenance. See

“Preparing the GC for Maintenance” on page 15.

FID and NPD), or 1/8-inch Swagelok cap (for TCD and FPD)

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If the oven, inlet, or detector is hot, wear gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Install the proper liner in the inlet and attach the column.

(See “To Install a Packed Metal Column” on page 75.)

4 Cap the detector(s) fittings with the capillary adapter,

no-hole ferrule and column nut (FID and NPD) or 1/8-inch cap (FPD and TCD).

5 Enter a column flow as recommended by the packing

manufacturer or an appropriate flow as follows:

• 20 to 30 mL/min for 2-mm id glass or 1/8-inch od metal

columns

• 50 to 60 mL/min for 4-mm id glass or 1/4-inch od metal

columns

6 Raise the oven temperature slowly to the conditioning

temperature for the column. The conditioning temperature is never higher than the maximum temperature limit for the column; 30 °C less than the maximum is usually sufficient.

82 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet 4

Continue conditioning overnight at the final temperature. Cool the oven to room temperature with carrier flow on.

8 Attach the column to the detector and maintain established

flow. (See “To Install a Packed Metal Column” on page 75.)

Maintaining Your GC 83

4 Maintaining the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install Ferrules on a Packed Metal Column

1 Gather the following:

• Wrenches

• Stainless steel male Swagelok fitting, 1/4- or 1/8-inch od

• Brass Swagelok nut and ferrule set (See “Consumables

and Parts for the Purged Packed Inlet” on page 54.)

• Lint-free gloves

2 Verify that the column end is cut square and is free of burns

and deformation.

3 Secure the fitting in a bench vise.

CAUTION

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

4 Assemble a Swagelok nut and ferrules onto the column.

Front ferrule

Back ferrule

Column nut

5 Fully insert the column into the vise-held fitting, then

withdraw 1–2 mm. Finger-tighten the nut.

6 Tighten the nut an additional 3/4 turn with a wrench (for a

1/8-inch column) or an additional 1-1/4 turn (for a 1/4-inch column).

7 Unscrew the column nut from the vise-held fitting and

remove the column. Ferrules should now be set in place on the column with the column end correctly positioned.

84 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 Gas Chromatograph Maintaining Your GC

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet 86

Exploded Parts View of the COC Inlet 89 To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet 90 To Check the Needle-to-Column Size on the COC Inlet 93

To Change a Septum on the COC Inlet 94 To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet 96 To Clean the COC Inlet 98

To Replace the Needle Support Assembly in a 7683B Injector 100 To Replace a Needle in a Syringe 103 To Replace the Fused Silica Needle in a Syringe for the COC Inlet 104

To Bakeout Contaminants from the COC Inlet 106

Agilent Technologies

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet

See the Agilent catalog for consumables and supplies for a more complete listing, or visit the Agilent Web site for the latest information (www.agilent.com/chem/supplies).

Tab le 1 0 Recommended septum nut and inserts for injections onto

0.53-mm columns

Column type Part number

Insert, fused silica, 0.53-mm id 19245-20580 (no rings)

Insert, aluminum-clad, 0.53-mm id 19245-20780 (4 rings)

Septum nut, 530 µm G1545-80520

Needle support assembly, 530 µm, for 7683B injector

G2913-60977

Tab le 1 1 Recommended parts for injections onto 0.25-mm and 0.32-mm

columns

Column type Part number

Insert, fused silica, 0.32-mm id 19245-20525 (5 rings)

Insert, 0.25-mm id 19245-20515 (6 rings)

Septum nut, 250/320 µm 19245-80521

Syringe barrel, removable needle, 5 µL 5182-0836

Needle, 250 µm (3/pk) 5182-0833

Needle, 320 µm (3/pk) 5182-0831

Needle support assembly,250/320 µm, for 7683B injector

G2913-60978

Tab le 1 2 Recommended parts for injections onto 0.2-mm columns

Description Part number/quantity

Insert, fused silica, 0.20-mm id 19245-20510

Cooling tower assembly 19230-80625

Syringe barrel, for fused silica needle, 10 µL 9301-0658

Replacement needles, fused silica, 0.18 mm 19091-63000 (6/pk)

Replacement Teflon ferrule for fused silica syringe 0100-1389

Removable stainless steel needle syringe, 10 µL 5182-9633

86 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

Tab le 1 2 Recommended parts for injections onto 0.2-mm columns

Description Part number/quantity

Replacement stainless steel needles, 0.23 mm 5182-9645 (3/pk)

Tab le 1 3 Recommended septa for the COC inlet

Description Part number/quantity

For 0.53-mm and 0.25/0.32-mm septum nuts

5-mm solid septum for manual and automatic injection

5-mm long-life septum 5183-4762 (50/pk)

5-mm advanced green septum 5183-4760 (50/pk)

5-mm, high-temperature, low-bleed septum 5183-4758 (50/pk)

5-mm through-hole septum for automatic injection

For the duckbill septum

Duckbill septum for manual injection only (must use cooling tower with duckbill)

5181-1261

5181-1260 (25/pk)

19245-40050 (10/pk)

Tab le 1 4 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

.530 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.8-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 1.0-mm id 0.53-mm capillary columns 5080-8773 (10/pk)

Column nut, finger-tight (for

0.53-mm columns)

0.45-mm and 0.53-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8293

5062-3512 (10/pk)

.320 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.5-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.250 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Maintaining Your GC 87

0.32-mm capillary columns 5062-3514 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

Tab le 1 4 Nuts, ferrules, and hardware for capillary columns (continued)

Column id (mm) Description Typical use Part number/quantity

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

.100 and .200 Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.37-mm id

Ferrule, Vespel/graphite,

0.4-mm id

Ferrule, graphite, 0.5-mm id 0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, 0.25-mm, and

Column nut, finger-tight (for .100- to .320-mm columns)

All Ferrule, no-hole Testing 5181-3308 (10/pk)

Capillary column blanking nut Testing–use with any ferrule 5020-8294

Column nut, universal Connect column to inlet or detector 5181-8830 (2/pk)

Column cutter, ceramic wafer Cutting capillary columns 5181-8836 (4/pk)

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

0.1-mm and 0.2-mm capillary columns

0.1-mm, 0.2-mm, and 0.25-mm capillary columns

0.32-mm capillary columns

Connect column to inlet or detector 5020-8292

5062-3516 (10/pk)

5181-3323 (10/pk)

5080-8853 (10/pk)

88 Maintaining Your GC

Exploded Parts View of the COC Inlet

Septum nut (0.53 mm)

Septum nut (0.25-mm and 0.32-mm columns)

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

Cooling tower assembly

Septum

Spring

Insert

Duckbill septum

Ferrule

Column nut

Maintaining Your GC 89

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Column nut and ferrule. (See “Consumables and Parts for

the COC Inlet” on page 86.)

• Column cutter

• 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch wrenches

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Before installing the column, be sure the correct insert is

installed for the needle and column. (See “To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet” on page 96.)

4 Place a capillary column nut and ferrule on the column.

Ferrule

Column nut

5 Score the column using a glass scribing tool. The score must

be square to ensure a clean break.

90 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

Break off the column end by supporting it against the column

cutter opposite the scribe. Inspect the end with a magnifying loupe to make certain there are no burrs or jagged edges.

7 Wipe the column walls with a tissue dampened with

isopropanol to remove fingerprints and dust.

8 Gently insert the column into the inlet until it bottoms.

9 Insert the column nut into the inlet fitting and finger-tighten.

WARNING

To avoid bending the inlet, always use two wrenches. Use a 5/16-inch wrench to support the inlet while tightening the column nut with a 1/4-inch wrench.

10 Tighten the column nut an additional 1/4 turn with a wrench

or until the column does not move.

11 If using an automatic injection system with a 0.25-mm or

0.32-mm column, verify that the column installation by manually pushing the syringe into the inlet.

12 Configure the new column.

13 Condition the column per the manufacturer’s

recommendation. (See “To Condition a Capillary Column” on page 20.)

Maintaining Your GC 91

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

Install the column into the detector. See:

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the FID” on page 155

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the TCD” on page 182

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the uECD” on page 198

• “To Install a Capillary Column Adapter in the FPD” on

page 233

• “To Install a Capillary Column in the NPD” on page 214

15 After the column is installed at both inlet and detector,

establish a flow of carrier gas and purge as recommended by the column manufacturer.

16 Restore the analytical method.

• For FPD, immediately turn off the flame.

• For NPD, immediately set the bead voltage to 0.0.

17 After the GC becomes ready, wait 10 minutes then ignite the

detector flame or adjust offset on the NPD bead.

WARNING

Be careful! The oven, inlet, and/or detector may be hot enough to cause burns. If they are hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

18 Allow the oven, inlet, and detector to equilibrate at operating

temperature, then retighten the fittings.

92 Maintaining Your GC

To Check the Needle-to-Column Size on the COC Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Insert (See “Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet” on

page 86.)

• Syringe needle

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

WARNING

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

3 Check the needle-to-column size to make certain that the

needle fits in the column.

4 Identify the correct insert for the column size. (See

“Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet” on page 86.) Use the insert that is the same size as the syringe needle to verify that the column you plan to use is the correct size.

5 Insert the column into one end of the insert.

Syringe

Insert

Column

6 Insert the syringe needle through the other end of the insert

and into the column. If the needle cannot pass easily into the column, reverse the insert to try the needle and column in the other end.

Maintaining Your GC 93

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

To Change a Septum on the COC Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Replacement septum. (See “Consumables and Parts for

the COC Inlet” on page 86.)

• Tweezers

• A thin wire (0.2-inch diameter) for removing septum from

inlet

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Replace the septum.

• If you are using a septum nut, grasp the knurling and

unscrew. Remove the old septum with tweezers. Use tweezers to install a new septum. Push the septum into the septum nut until properly seated. Firmly tighten the nut.

For 250/320-µm automated injections

For 530-µm automated injections

94 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

• If you are using a cooling tower, grasp the three rings and

unscrew. The spring and duckbill septum may pop out of the inlet when you remove the cooling tower. Be careful not to lose them. If they do not pop out, use a thin wire to remove them from the inlet. Insert the replacement duckbill septum into the spring and place in the inlet. Reattach the cooling tower assembly, then finger-tighten.

For manual 200-µm injections with fused silica needle

4 Before making an injection, check the alignment of the entire

assembly using the proper size syringe.

5 Restore the analytical method.

Maintaining Your GC 95

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• Lint-free gloves

• Replacement insert. (See “Consumables and Parts for the

COC Inlet” on page 86.)

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Remove the column from the inlet.

4 Locate the septum nut or cooling tower assembly at the top

of the inlet and remove it. If the septum remains in the septum nut, do not remove it unless you want to change it. If necessary, replace the existing septum or duckbill with a new one. (See “To Change a Septum on the COC Inlet” on page 94.)

5 Remove the spring from the inlet with an extraction wire and

set it aside. Be careful not to lose or damage it because you will use the spring to keep the new insert in position.

6 Remove the existing insert from the inlet by gently pushing it

out from below with a wire or piece of column. Store the insert for possible later use.

96 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

Check that the insert is the correct size for both the needle and column. (See “To Check the Needle-to-Column Size on the COC Inlet” on page 93.)

8 Lower the new insert straight into the inlet from the top.

9 Install the spring on top of the insert.

10 Install the septum and septum nut or duckbill septum and

cooling tower assembly and finger-tighten.

11 Install the column. (See “To Install a Capillary Column with

the COC Inlet” on page 90.)

Maintaining Your GC 97

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

To Clean the COC Inlet

1 Gather the following:

• 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch wrenches

• Cleansing bath

• Aqueous detergent

• Distilled water

• Methanol

• Compressed, filtered, dry air or nitrogen

• Lint-free gloves

2 Prepare the inlet for maintenance. See “Preparing the GC for

Maintenance” on page 15.

WARNING

CAUTION

Be careful! The oven and/or inlet may be hot enough to cause burns. If either is hot, wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

Wear clean, lint-free gloves to prevent contamination of parts with dirt and skin oils.

3 Remove the column.

4 Remove the septum nut or cooling tower and then remove the

septum.

5 Remove the existing insert from the inlet by gently pushing it

out from below with a wire or piece of column. Store the insert for possible later use.

98 Maintaining Your GC

Maintaining the COC Inlet 5

Fill an ultrasonic cleansing bath with aqueous detergent and place the spring and insert into it. Sonicate for 1 minute.

7 Drain the aqueous detergent and fill the bath with distilled

water. Sonicate for 1 minute.

8 Remove the spring and insert from the bath and rinse

thoroughly with water and methanol.

9 Dry the spring and insert with compressed air or nitrogen.

10 Install the insert. (See “To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet”

on page 96.)

11 Install the column. (See “To Install a Capillary Column with

the COC Inlet” on page 90.)

Maintaining Your GC 99

5 Maintaining the COC Inlet

To Replace the Needle Support Assembly in a 7683B Injector

1 Gather a 7683B needle support assembly for injections onto

530-µm or 250/320-µm columns.

250 µm/320 µm (G2913-60978)

2 Remove all vials and bottles from the turret, and disconnect

530 µm (standard, G2913-60978)

the injector cable from the GC.

3 Open the injector door.

4 Remove the syringe.

5 With your finger under the shaft near the bearing on the

needle support assembly, pull gently to release the bearing from the bearing clip in the syringe carriage.

100 Maintaining Your GC

Agilent 6890 User manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Overview of Maintenance

Where to find a procedure

Early Maintenance Feedback feature

Tools and Materials Required for Maintenance

Safety Information

Preparing the GC for Maintenance

Column and oven preparation

Inlet preparation

Detector preparation

Consumables and Parts for Columns

To Install a Capillary Column Hanger

To Condition a Capillary Column

To Cut a Loop from a Column

To Reverse a Column and Bakeout Contaminants

To Attach a Capillary Column Using SilTite Metal Fittings

To Disconnect Fused Silica Tubing From a SilTite Fitting

Consumables and Parts for the Split/Splitless Inlet

Exploded Parts View of the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Change the Septum on the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Insert Assembly of the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Change the Liner and O-Ring on the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Replace the Gold Seal on the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Replace the Filter in the Split Vent Line

To Clean the Split/Splitless Inlet

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Split/Splitless Inlet

Consumables and Parts for the Purged Packed Inlet

Exploded Parts View of the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the Purged Packed Inlet

To Change the Septum on the Purged Packed Inlet

To Clean the Septum Seat in the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install an Adapter on the Purged Packed Inlet

To Change the O-Ring on the Purged Packed Inlet

To Change the Glass Liner on the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install an Insulation Cup on the Purged Packed Inlet

To Clean the Purged Packed Inlet

To Bakeout Contaminants from the Purged Packed Inlet

To Install a Packed Metal Column

To Install a Packed Column Adapter on a Detector Fitting

To Install a Packed Glass Column

To Condition a Packed Column

To Install Ferrules on a Packed Metal Column

Consumables and Parts for the COC Inlet

Exploded Parts View of the COC Inlet

To Install a Capillary Column with the COC Inlet

To Check the Needle-to-Column Size on the COC Inlet

To Change a Septum on the COC Inlet

To Install an Insert on the COC Inlet

To Clean the COC Inlet

To Replace the Needle Support Assembly in a 7683B Injector