Page 1
GC/MS
®
TORION
Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS)
T-9
User’s Guide
Page 2
ii . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Release History
Part Number Release Publication Date
09931327 D November 2017
Any comments about the documentation for this product should be addressed to:
User Assistance
PerkinElmer, Inc.
710 Bridgeport Avenue
Shelton, Connecticut 06484-4794
U.S.A.
EU Importer:
PerkinElmer Ltd
Chalfont Road
Seer Green
Beaconsfield
Bucks
HP9 2FX
United Kingdom
On the internet: http://www.perkinelmer.com/contactus/
Notices
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
Except as specifically set forth in its terms and conditions of sale, PerkinElmer makes no warranty
of any kind with regard to this document, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
PerkinElmer shall not be liable for errors contained herein for incidental consequential damages in connection
with furnishing, performance or use of this material.
Copyright Information
This document contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright.
All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever or translated into
any language without the prior, written permission of PerkinElmer, Inc.
Copyright © 2017 PerkinElmer, Inc.
Produced in the U.S.A.
Trademarks
Registered names, trademarks, etc. used in this document, even when not specifically marked as such, are
protected by law.
PerkinElmer is a registered trademark of PerkinElmer, Inc.
Page 3
Table of Contents . iii
CE Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer: PerkinElmer, Inc.
710 Bridgeport Avenue
Shelton, CT 06484
®
Manufacturer: Torion
732 East Utah Valley Drive, Suite 120
American Fork, Utah 84003
Telephone No. (801) 705-6600
Product: Torion T-9 GC/MS
Model Number: NTSST090500
The undersigned hereby declares, on behalf of PerkinElmer Incorporated of American Fork, Utah,
that the above-referenced product, to which this CE declaration relates, is in conformity with the
provisions of:
• Council Directive 2006/42/EC (May 17, 2006) on the Approximation of the Laws of the
Member States Relating to Machinery;
• Council Directive 2004/108/EC (December 15, 2004) on Electromagnetic Compatibility;
• Standards used: EN 61326-1:2006, EN 61326-2-6:2006
• Council Directive 2006/95/EC (December 12, 2006) on Low Voltage Equipment Safety;
• Standard used: IEC 61010-1:2001 / EN 6061-1 (Second Edition)
• Council Directive 2000/14/EEC amended by Directive 2005/88/EC (June 17, 2006) about
noise limits and labeling requirements machines intended for use outdoors.
Technologies Inc.
The Technical Construction File required by this Directive is maintained at the PerkinElmer, 732 East
Utah Valley Drive, Suite 120, American Fork, Utah 84003.
Edgar Lee
CTO/VP
Page 4
iv . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Page 5
Table of Contents
CE Declaration of Conformity .......................................................................... iii
Table of Contents ................................................................................................ 1
1 Introduction..................................................................................................... 7
Overview ............................................................................................................ 8
Conventions Used in this Manual ..................................................................... 8
About Notes, Cautions, and Warnings ......................................................... 8
2 Safety Practices ............................................................................................... 11
Overview ............................................................................................................ 12
Precautions for the Instrument............................................................................. 13
Precautions for Customers ................................................................................... 15
Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders ............................................................................. 15
General Operating Conditions............................................................................... 16
Environmental Conditions .................................................................................... 17
Electrical Safety .................................................................................................. 18
Electrical Requirements ................................................................................... 19
The AC Line Cord ........................................................................................... 19
ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) .................................................................... 21
Europe ........................................................................................................... 21
South Korea ................................................................................................... 21
United States (FCC) ........................................................................................ 21
Pollution Degree ............................................................................................. 21
Installation Category ...................................................................................... 21
Warning Labels ................................................................................................... 22
Warning Signs on the Instrument ......................................................................... 24
WEEE Instructions for PerkinElmer Products ......................................................... 25
Decontamination ................................................................................................. 26
Cleaning the Instrument ................................................................................. 26
3 System Overview ............................................................................................. 27
What is solid phase microextraction (SPME)? ........................................................ 28
What is the Torion T-9 GC/MS? ............................................................................ 29
About the Power Supply and Battery ............................................................... 30
What is the Custodion SPME syringe? ................................................................... 31
What is low thermal mass (LTM) gas chromatography? ......................................... 32
What is toroidal ion trap mass spectrometry (TMS)? .............................................. 34
4 Basic Custodion Operations ............................................................................. 37
Prepare the Custodion SPME Syringe for Sampling ................................................ 38
Using the Custodion ............................................................................................ 39
Sample Headspace Vapors from Liquid or Solid Samples ................................... 39
Sample Gases ................................................................................................ 40
Sample Liquids ............................................................................................... 40
Sample Solids ................................................................................................. 41
Sample Unknown Liquids and Solids ................................................................ 41
Performing an Injection with the Custodion Syringe .............................................. 44
5 Basic Operation................................................................................................ 45
Overview ............................................................................................................ 46
Startup ............................................................................................................... 47
Running with External Power and Carrier Gas................................................... 47
Home Screen ................................................................................................. 50
Using the Custodion Syringe ........................................................................... 51
Performing a System Blank Run ........................................................................... 56
Page 6
2 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
System Blank ................................................................................................. 56
SPME Blank .................................................................................................... 60
Performance Validation ........................................................................................ 63
Sample Concentration ..................................................................................... 69
Sample Analysis .................................................................................................. 71
Using Alerts for Hazardous Compounds ....................................................... 76
Viewing Spectra of a Specific Scan .............................................................. 76
Review the Results of an Analysis......................................................................... 82
Viewing the Results on the Torion T-9 GC/MS System....................................... 82
Previous Results ........................................................................................ 82
Quantitative Analysis ...................................................................................... 85
Exporting Files ............................................................................................... 87
Advanced Menu .................................................................................................. 90
Procedure ...................................................................................................... 90
Activating a Procedure ............................................................................... 90
Ending a Procedure ................................................................................... 91
Selecting a Different Procedure .................................................................. 92
Status/Diagnostics .......................................................................................... 93
Gas Chromatography Tab........................................................................... 93
Mass Spectrometry Tab .............................................................................. 93
Versions Tab ............................................................................................. 94
Status Tab ................................................................................................ 94
Edit Tab .................................................................................................... 95
Current Problems Tab ................................................................................ 98
Performance Validation ................................................................................... 98
Manage Files .................................................................................................. 99
Methods ........................................................................................................ 100
System Settings ............................................................................................. 103
Setting the Date and Time ......................................................................... 103
Password .................................................................................................. 104
Network Connection .................................................................................. 104
Network Settings on the Instrument ........................................................... 105
Power Management ................................................................................... 106
Shutdown ........................................................................................................... 108
Turning off the System ................................................................................... 108
Exiting the Software ....................................................................................... 109
6 Software .......................................................................................................... 113
Software Programs .............................................................................................. 114
Chromion® .................................................................................................... 114
TightVNC Viewer ............................................................................................ 114
NIST .............................................................................................................. 114
Chromion Installation and Operation .................................................................... 115
Chromion Main Screen ......................................................................................... 116
Connecting Chromion to a Networked Instrument ............................................ 118
Chromion Menu Bar ............................................................................................. 124
File Menu ....................................................................................................... 124
Edit Menu ...................................................................................................... 125
Preferences ............................................................................................... 125
Decimal Display ......................................................................................... 125
Data Review Tab ....................................................................................... 125
Real Time Plots Tab ................................................................................... 129
File Manager Tab ....................................................................................... 129
NIST Tab .................................................................................................. 133
Page 7
Table of Contents . 3
Target Library ........................................................................................... 134
Hazard Levels ............................................................................................ 134
Method Menu ...................................................................................................... 137
Creating a New Method .................................................................................. 138
Load and Delete Methods ............................................................................... 140
Importing a Method ........................................................................................ 141
Saving a Method ............................................................................................ 142
Save Method As ............................................................................................. 142
Rename Method ............................................................................................. 142
Export Method ............................................................................................... 143
Send Method to Instrument ............................................................................ 143
Help Menu .......................................................................................................... 145
Gas Chromatograph ............................................................................................ 146
Gas Chromatograph Mini Toolbar ................................................................ 147
GC Settings Tab ............................................................................................. 148
Heaters ..................................................................................................... 148
Column ..................................................................................................... 148
Split Injection ............................................................................................ 149
Sample Introduction .................................................................................. 150
Readbacks ................................................................................................ 150
Solvent Delay ............................................................................................ 150
Retention Time Calibrations Tab ...................................................................... 151
Target Library Editor ........................................................................................... 153
Target Library Editor Mini Toolbar ............................................................... 153
Target List Setup Tab ..................................................................................... 157
Mass List ................................................................................................... 157
Deconvolution Parameters Tab (Target Library Editor) ...................................... 162
Deconvolution Parameters Mini Toolbar ...................................................... 162
Target List Search ..................................................................................... 163
Unknown Identification .............................................................................. 164
Unknown Libraries ..................................................................................... 165
Quant Overrides Tab ...................................................................................... 166
Quant Concentrations Tab .............................................................................. 167
Quant Files Tab .............................................................................................. 169
Quant Review Tab .......................................................................................... 170
Groups Tab .................................................................................................... 171
Performance Validation ........................................................................................ 175
Performance Validation Mini Toolbar ........................................................... 175
Performance Validation and Calibration Tab ..................................................... 177
Mass Item Table ........................................................................................ 177
Tests Section ............................................................................................. 179
Deconvolution Parameters Tab (Performance Validation) .................................. 180
Performance Validation Settings Tab................................................................ 180
Mass Range Tab ............................................................................................. 180
Tools .................................................................................................................. 181
Data Review................................................................................................... 181
Data Review Mini Toolbar ........................................................................... 181
Setting the Cursor Mode ............................................................................ 189
Additional Functionality Icons ..................................................................... 191
Data Review Menu Items ........................................................................... 197
Deconvolution Window ................................................................................... 201
Spectra Graphs/Charts .................................................................................... 205
Add Peak to Library ........................................................................................ 205
Page 8
4 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Peak Details .............................................................................................. 206
Library Search ................................................................................................ 208
NIST .............................................................................................................. 209
Mass Spectrometer .............................................................................................. 212
Mass Spectrometer Mini Toolbar ................................................................. 212
MS Parameters Tab ........................................................................................ 214
MS Calibrations Tab ........................................................................................ 216
File Manager ....................................................................................................... 217
File Manager Mini Toolbar .......................................................................... 217
Computer Section – Right click functionality ................................................ 218
SD Card Section – Right click functionality ................................................... 220
Supported File Types ................................................................................. 222
Library Editor ...................................................................................................... 223
Library Editor Mini Toolbar ......................................................................... 224
Real Time Plots ................................................................................................... 231
Real Time Plots Mini Toolbar ...................................................................... 231
TIC Graph Tab .......................................................................................... 232
Spectra Graph Tab ..................................................................................... 233
Data Logger Tab........................................................................................ 233
Logging..................................................................................................... 234
Edit Data Logger Item List ......................................................................... 234
Clear Chart ................................................................................................ 236
Desorption .......................................................................................................... 237
Desorption Mini Toolbar ............................................................................. 238
Log Data Tab ............................................................................................ 240
Batch Processing ................................................................................................. 242
Batch Processing Mini Toolbar .................................................................... 242
Reports .............................................................................................................. 244
Reports Mini Toolbar ...................................................................................... 244
Creating a Report ........................................................................................... 244
Header Information ................................................................................... 246
Report Data .............................................................................................. 246
TightVNC Viewer ................................................................................................. 251
NIST .................................................................................................................. 252
7 Advanced Operations ....................................................................................... 253
Loading Operational Settings when Running an Analysis ........................................ 254
Reset and Restart Buttons on the Instrument ................................................... 254
Deleting Sample Data from the SD Card .......................................................... 255
8 Maintenance .................................................................................................... 257
GC Injection Port Maintenance ............................................................................. 258
Accessing the GC Injection Port ....................................................................... 258
Septum Replacement ...................................................................................... 258
Injection Liner and Seal Cleaning or Replacement ............................................ 259
How to “Bake Out” the GC Injection Port and Column ........................................... 260
Changing the Battery ........................................................................................... 261
Changing the Carrier Gas Cartridge ...................................................................... 262
Removing/Replacing the SD Card ......................................................................... 263
9 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 265
Troubleshooting Guide......................................................................................... 266
Torion T-9 GC/MS will not turn on ................................................................... 266
Torion T-9 GC/MS will not turn off ................................................................... 266
Torion T-9 GC/MS cannot maintain vacuum ..................................................... 266
GC baseline is noisy, or drifts upward .............................................................. 266
Page 9
Table of Contents . 5
GC peaks are asymmetric ............................................................................... 267
GC peaks are eluting late ................................................................................ 268
Acquired mass spectra are noisy ..................................................................... 269
Results are not reproducible ............................................................................ 270
There is no instrument signal .......................................................................... 270
Acquired mass spectra are not correct ............................................................. 270
SPME fiber came off inside the GC inlet ........................................................... 271
Torion T-9 GC/MS fails to identify a compound ................................................. 271
Torion T-9 GC/MS falsely identified a compound .............................................. 271
Torion T-9 GC/MS fails to reach set temperatures............................................. 271
Torion T-9 GC/MS is unable to run on battery power ........................................ 272
Torion T-9 GC/MS suddenly powers down ........................................................ 272
Page 10
6 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Page 11
1
Introduction
Page 12
8 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Overview
Conventions Used in this Manual
About Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE:
This chapter contains a brief introduction to the Torion T-9 GC/MS® and Custodion® products.
This user’s manual provides step-by-step instructions for operating and trouble-shooting the Torion
T-9 GC/MS and the Custodion line of solid phase microextraction (SPME) syringes. Both basic
operations (such as running a sample and changing the batteries) and advanced operations (such as
re-analyzing data and changing the instrument operating parameters) are included.
The Torion T-9 GC/MS is used to separate and identify volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds
present in gas, liquid and solid samples. The Custodion SPME syringe is used to extract various
classes of compounds (depending on the sorbent coating of the fiber) and to concentrate the sample
for improved sensitivity at low concentrations. The Custodion is used to introduce the sample into
the Torion T-9 GC/MS.
After injecting a sample into the Torion T-9 GC/MS it is separated into its chemical components.
Resolved components are characterized by retention time from the gas chromatograph (GC) and
mass spectral fingerprint from the toroidal ion trap mass spectrometer (TMS). The mass spectral
fingerprints of the chemicals are compared to a database of known mass spectral fragmentation
patterns, and are identified by the on-board library.
Normal text is used to provide information and instructions.
Bold text refers to text that is displayed on the screen.
UPPERCASE text, for example ENTER or ALT, refers to keys on the PC keyboard. '+' is used to show
that you have to press two keys at the same time, for example, ALT+F.
All eight digit numbers are PerkinElmer part numbers unless stated otherwise.
Three terms, in the following standard formats, are also used to highlight special circumstances and
warnings.
A note indicates additional, significant information that is provided with some procedures.
Page 13
Overview . 9
We use the term CAUTION to inform you about situations that
could result in
or other
equipment. Details about these circumstances are in a box like
this one.
Caution (Achtung)
Bedeutet, daß die genannte Anleitung genau befolgt werden
muß, um einen
zu vermeiden.
Caution (Bemærk)
Dette betyder, at den nævnte vejledning skal overholdes nøje
for at undgå en
.
Caution (Advertencia)
Utilizamos el término
(ADVERTENCIA) para advertir
sobre situaciones que pueden provocar
o en otros. En recuadros éste se proporciona información
sobre este tipo de circunstancias.
Caution (Attention)
Nous utilisons le terme
(ATTENTION) pour signaler les
situations susceptibles de provoquer de
ou d'autre matériel. Les détails sur ces circonstances
figurent dans un encadré semblable à celui-ci.
Caution (Attenzione)
Con il termine
(ATTENZIONE) vengono segnalate
situazioni che potrebbero arrecare
o ad
altra apparecchiatura. Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze
in un riquadro come questo.
Caution (Opgelet)
Betekent dat de genoemde handleiding nauwkeurig moet
worden opgevolgd, om
te
voorkomen.
Caution (Atenção)
Significa que a instrução referida tem de ser respeitada para
evitar a
.
CAUTION
D
DK
E
F
serious damage to the instrument
Geräteschaden
beskadigelse af apparatet
CAUTION
averías graves en este
equipo
CAUTION
graves détériorations de
l'instrument
I
NL
P
CAUTION
gravi danni allo strumento
beschadiging van het instrument
danificação do aparelho
Page 14
10 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
WARNING
We use the term WARNING to inform you about situations
that could result in
to yourself or other persons.
Details about these circumstances are in a box like this one.
Warning (Warnung)
Bedeutet, daß es bei Nichtbeachten der genannten Anweisung
zu einer
des Benutzers kommen kann.
Warning (Advarsel)
Betyder, at brugeren kan blive
, hvis anvisningen ikke
overholdes.
Warning (Peligro)
Utilizamos el término
(PELIGRO) para informarle
sobre situaciones que pueden provocar
a
usted o a otras personas. En los recuadros como éste se
proporciona información sobre este tipo de circunstancias.
Warning (Danger)
Nous utilisons la formule
(DANGER) pour avertir des
situations pouvant occasionner des
à
l'utilisateur ou à d'autres personnes. Les détails sur ces
circonstances sont données dans un encadré semblable à
celui-ci.
Warning (Pericolo)
Con il termine
(PERICOLO) vengono segnalate
situazioni che potrebbero provocare
.
Troverete informazioni su tali circostanze in un riquadro come
questo.
Warning (Waarschuwing)
Betekent dat, wanneer de genoemde aanwijzing niet in acht
wordt genomen, dit kan leiden tot
van de
gebruiker.
Warning (Aviso)
Significa que a não observância da instrução referida poderá
causar um
D
DK
personal injury
Verletzung
kvæstet
E
F
I
NL
P
WARNING
daños personales
WARNING
dommages corporels
WARNING
incidenti alle persone
verwondingen
ferimento
ao usuário.
Page 15
2
Safety Practices
Page 16
12 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Overview
This chapter describes the general safety practices and precautions that must be observed when
operating the Torion T-9.
This advice is intended to supplement, not supersede, the normal safety codes in the user's country.
It is also a supplement to the PerkinElmer standard Safety and Health Policy. The information
provided does not cover every safety procedure that should be practiced. Ultimately, maintenance of
a safe laboratory environment is the responsibility of the analyst and the analyst's organization.
Please consult all manuals supplied with the T-9 and accessories before you start working with the
instrument. Carefully read the safety information in this chapter and in the other manuals supplied.
When setting up the instrument or performing analyses or maintenance procedures, strictly follow
the instructions provided.
This equipment requires no specified inspection or preventive maintenance to ensure the continuous
functioning of its safety features.
Page 17
Precautions for the Instrument . 13
Precautions for the Instrument
Be sure that all instrument operators read and understand
the precautions listed below. It is advisable to post a copy of
the precautions near or on the instrument shelf.
Assurez-vous que tous les opérateurs d'instruments lisent et
comprennent les précautions indiquées ci-dessous. Il est
conseillé de poster une copie des précautions à proximité ou
à l'étagère de l'instrument.
Do not operate the instrument with any covers or parts
removed. Disconnect the power supply whenever cover is
removed.
Ne faites pas fonctionner l'instrument avec des couvercles
ou des pièces enlevés. Débranchez l'alimentation électrique
chaque fois que le couvercle est enlevé.
Do not attempt to make adjustments, replacements or
repairs to this instrument except as described in the
accompanying user documentation.
N'essayez pas de faire des ajustements, des remplacements
ou des réparations à cet instrument, sauf comme décrit dans
la documentation de l'utilisateur qui l'accompagne.
AVERTISSEMENT
Dispose of waste in accordance with the regulations
applicable to your locality, state and/or country.
Éliminer les déchets conformément à la réglementation
applicable à votre localité, votre état et / ou votre pays.
The protection provided by this equipment may be impaired
if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by
PerkinElmer.
La protection fournie par cet équipement peut être altérée si
l'équipement est utilisé de manière non spécifiée par
PerkinElmer.
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
WARNING
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
The following precautions must be observed when using the instrument:
• The instrument is field portable and can be placed on the ground therefore before starting the
instrument ensure that it is placed on a level stable surface.
Page 18
14 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
• Do not block the side vents (if they are open) or rear vents and ports on the instrument to
prevent potential damage to the electronics or mechanical pumping systems.
• If there is blowing dust or rain, make sure that the side and top covers are closed.
• If the instrument is being used in an area where there is the potential for exposure to chemical
vapors make sure all of the covers are in place.
• If the instrument has been exposed to hazardous chemicals thoroughly decontaminate the
system by wiping with a 5% bleach solution before returning to the lab.
• This instrument is not intrinsically safe and should not be operated in explosive environments.
Page 19
Precautions for Customers
The laboratory manager is responsible for warning operators
of this instrument about biohazardous materials that are
processed in this instrument and about wastes that result from
the operation of this instrument.
Le responsable du laboratoire est responsable de l'alerte des
opérateurs de cet instrument à propos des matériaux à risque
biologique qui sont traités dans cet instrument et à propos des
déchets résultant du fonctionnement de cet instrument.
The laboratory manager is responsible for disposing of any
biohazardous materials and minimizing any biohazards before
the equipment is removed from use, transported or processed
for disposal.
Le responsable du laboratoire est responsable de l'élimination
des matières dangereuses et minimise les risques biologiques
avant que l'équipement ne soit utilisé, transporté ou
transformé pour être éliminé.
Safe Handling of Gas Cylinders
Precautions for Customers . 15
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
• Appropriate venting, sample and waste collection needs to be provided.
Helium is the only gas required for use with the System. The major hazard associated with this gas
is suffocation. This can occur if the gas is allowed to escape in an enclosed area and displaces the
oxygen in the air. Helium is neither explosive nor combustible.
The Helium Gas comes in a 98 mL steel cylinder at 2500 psi that can be used for up to 150 analyses.
Page 20
16 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
General Operating Conditions
The Torion T-9 is field portable has been designed and tested in accordance with PerkinElmer
specifications and in accordance with industry safety requirements.
This equipment requires no specified inspection or preventive maintenance to ensure the continuous
functioning of its safety features.
The instrument can be used under the following conditions:
• Temperature: +5°C to +45°C (+41°F to +113°F)
• Relative humidity: 20% to 80%, without condensation
If possible, avoid any adjustment, maintenance and repair of the opened, operating instrument. If
any adjustment, maintenance and repair of the opened instrument is necessary, this must be done
by a skilled person who is aware of the hazard involved. Whenever it is likely that the instrument is
unsafe, make it inoperative. The instrument may be unsafe if it:
• shows visible damage
• fails to perform the intended measurement
• has been subjected to prolonged storage in unfavorable conditions
• has been subjected to severe transport stresses.
Page 21
Environmental Conditions
If the instrument is used in a manner not specified herein,
the protection provided by the instrument may be impaired.
Si l'instrument est utilisé d'une manière non spécifiée ici, la
protection fournie par l'instrument peut être altérée.
Environmental Conditions . 17
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
The instrument has been designed to be safe under the following conditions:
• Safe operating temperatures +5°C to +45°C (+41°F to + 113°F).
• Relative humidity: 20% to 80%, without condensation
Storage conditions:
• Ambient temperature: –20°C to +70°C (–4°F to +140 °F)
• Relative humidity: 20% to 80%, without condensation
Page 22
18 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Electrical Safety
Any interruption of the protective conductor (earth ground)
inside or outside the instrument or disconnection of the
protective conductor terminal is likely to make the
instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.
Toute interruption du conducteur de protection (terre à
terre) à l'intérieur ou à l'extérieur de l'instrument ou la
déconnexion de la borne du conducteur de protection risque
de rendre l'instrument dangereux. Une interruption
intentionnelle est interdite.
Grounding circuit continuity is vital for safe operation of the
instrument. Never operate the equipment with the grounding
conductor disconnected.
La continuité du circuit de mise à la terre est essentielle pour
un fonctionnement sûr de l'instrument. Ne jamais utiliser
l'équipement avec le conducteur de mise à la terre
déconnecté.
The instrument has been designed to protect the operator from potential electrical hazards. This
section describes some recommended electrical safety practices.
The instrument must be correctly connected to a suitable electrical supply. The supply must have a
correctly installed protective conductor (earth ground) and must be installed or checked by a
qualified electrician before connecting the instrument.
The instrument can also run on a 30V, 6.8 Ah Lithium Ion rechargeable battery. Using a battery
powered run time of 5 minutes there can be ≤ 2.5 hours of continuous run time. This translates
into 15-25 runs per battery charge depending on whether the Torion T-9 GC/MS is turned off
between analyses.
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
When working with the instrument:
• Connect the instrument to a correctly installed line power outlet that has a protective conductor
connection (earth ground).
• Do not operate the instrument with any covers or internal parts removed.
• Do not attempt to make internal adjustments or replacements except as directed in the
manuals.
• Disconnect the instrument from all voltage sources before opening it for any adjustment,
replacement, maintenance, or repair. If afterwards, the opened instrument must be operated
for further adjustment, maintenance, or repair, this must only be done by a PerkinElmer
Service engineer or other qualified service personnel
• Whenever it is possible that the instrument is no longer electrically safe for use, make the
instrument inoperative and secure it against any unauthorized or unintentional operation. The
electrical safety of the instrument is likely to be impaired if, for example, the instrument shows
visible damage; has been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavorable conditions; or has
been subjected to severe stress during transportation.
Page 23
Electrical Requirements
The AC Line Cord
Do not disconnect or defeat safety ground on the power cord.
Electrical Safety . 19
Voltage
Frequency 47-63 Hz
Power Max 160 VA
85 -264V AC
Ground is necessary for safe operation of the instrument and
proper functioning of the electronic circuitry.
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENT
1. Make sure you have selected the proper line cord for your location. The following table shows
some typical AC line cords.
2. Ensure that the power switch is off and plug one end of the line cord into the power module on
the instrument and the other into the AC supply.
The line cord should have the electrical rating and plug
appropriate for your location. See the figure below for the
correct cord.
Ne pas débrancher ou vaincre le sol de sécurité sur le cordon
d'alimentation. Le sol est nécessaire pour un fonctionnement
sûr de l'instrument et le bon fonctionnement des circuits
électroniques. Le cordon de ligne doit avoir la puissance
électrique et la fiche appropriée pour votre emplacement. Voir la
figure ci-dessous pour le cordon correct.
Page 24
20 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Page 25
ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) . 21
ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Europe
South Korea
United States (FCC)
Note:
Pollution Degree
Installation Category
All information concerning EMC standards is in the Declaration of Conformity, and these standards
may change as the European Union adds new requirements.
PerkinElmer instruments have been designed and manufactured, having regard to the state of the
art, to ensure that:
• the electromagnetic disturbance generated does not exceed the level above which radio and
telecommunications equipment or other equipment cannot operate as intended;
• it has a level of immunity to the electromagnetic disturbance to be expected in its intended
use which allows it to operate without unacceptable degradation of its intended use.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential may cause harmful interference in which user will be
required to correct the interference at their own expense.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by PerkinElmer could cause the instrument to
violate FCC (U.S. Federal Communications Commission) emission regulations, and because of this
violation could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
This product will operate safely in environments that contain nonconductive foreign matter up to
Pollution Degree 2 in EN/IEC 61010-1.
This product will operate safely in electrical power environments that are rated as Installation
Category II in EN/IEC 61010-1.
Page 26
22 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Warning Labels
Caution: Hot Surface
Attention: Surface Chaude
The following labels are on the instrument.
Hot surface by injection port
Emergency power off, emergency reset, SD card slot, USB port and LAN port. Located
under the cover on top of the instrument.
Label on door cover located on top of instrument.
Page 27
Warning Labels . 23
Carrier gas vent, helium inlet, power connection and minim USB port located on back of
instrument
Product Label located on bottom of instrument
Page 28
24 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Warning Signs on the Instrument
Caution: Risk of electric shock.
ATTENTION: risque de choc électrique.
Indicates alternating current
Indicates the OFF position of the main power switch
Indicates the ON position of the main power switch
Indicates the protective conductor terminal
Caution: Risk of danger.
Documentation must be consulted to determine the nature
of the potential hazard and any actions which have to be
taken.
Attention: Risque de danger.
La documentation doit être consultée afin de déterminer la
nature du danger potentiel et les mesures à prendre.
Caution: Hot surface.
Attention: Surface chaude.
Page 29
WEEE Instructions for PerkinElmer Products . 25
WEEE Instructions for PerkinElmer Products
or
A label with a crossed-out wheeled bin symbol and a rectangular bar indicates that the product is
covered by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive and is not to be disposed
of as unsorted municipal waste. Any products marked with this symbol must be collected separately,
according to the regulatory guidelines in your area.
The objectives of this program are to preserve, protect and improve the quality of the environment,
protect human health, and utilize natural resources prudently Requirements for waste collection,
reuse, recycling, and recovery programs vary by regulatory authority at your location. Contact your
local responsible body (for example, your laboratory manager) or authorized representative for
information regarding applicable disposal regulations. Contact PerkinElmer at the web site listed
below for information specific to PerkinElmer products.
Web address:
http://www.perkinelmer.com/WEEE
For Customer Care telephone numbers select “Contact us” on the web page.
Products from other manufacturers may also form a part of your PerkinElmer system. These other
producers are directly responsible for the collection and processing of their own waste products
under the terms of the WEEE Directive. Please contact these producers directly before discarding
any of their products.
Consult the PerkinElmer web site (above) for producer names and web addresses.
Page 30
26 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Decontamination
Cleaning the Instrument
Before using any cleaning or decontamination methods except those specified by PerkinElmer, users
should check with PerkinElmer that the proposed method will not damage the equipment.
Customers wishing to return instrumentation and/or associated materials to
PerkinElmer for repair, maintenance, warranty or trade-in purposes are advised that all
returned goods must be certified as clean and free from contamination.
The customer's responsible body is required to follow the “Equipment Decontamination Procedure”
and complete the “Certificate of Decontamination”. These documents are available on the
PerkinElmer public website:
http://www.perkinelmer.com/Content/technicalinfo/dts_instrumentdeconprocedure.pdf
If you do not have access to the internet contact Customer Care:
Customer Care USA:
(8:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. EST)
Customer Care Canada: 800-561-4646
Customer Care EU: 0800 40 858 (Brussels)
0800 90 66 42 (Monza)
If you are located outside of these regions, please call your local PerkinElmer sales office for more
information.
1-800-762-4000 (inside the USA)
(+1) 203-925-4602 (outside the USA)
Exterior surfaces may be cleaned with a soft cloth, dampened with a mild detergent and water
solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Page 31
3
System Overview
Page 32
28 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
What is solid phase microextraction (SPME)?
This chapter provides an overview of solid phase microextraction (SPME), low thermal mass (LTM)
gas chromatography (GC) and toroidal ion trap mass spectrometry (TMS)
Solid phase microextraction (SPME) is a sampling method for extracting target chemicals from a gas,
liquid or dissolved solid sample and concentrating them for subsequent analysis. Compared to
liquid-liquid extraction and cartridge-based solid phase extraction, SPME is faster and less prone to
user error. Following extraction, SPME allows immediate introduction of sample into the analytical
instrument.
SPME consists primarily of a fused silica or metal rod that is approximately one centimeter in length
and a tenth of a millimeter in diameter. The rod is typically coated with a polymeric material called
a sorbent. The rod and sorbent together are referred to as the SPME fiber. The chemical properties
of the sorbent determine the classes of compounds that selectively absorb or adsorb onto the fiber.
Solvents should not absorb preferentially over target chemicals, otherwise a different sorbent or
solvent may be necessary.
The SPME fiber is stored inside a protective needle called the SPME needle. The fiber is extended
out of the SPME needle during the extraction and desorption of a sample. The SPME needle is
connected to a spring loaded plunger that extends and retracts the fiber. The complete apparatus is
called the SPME syringe.
Each chemical is extracted into the SPME coating according to its equilibrium distribution between the
coating on the fiber and the liquid (or gas) phase around the fiber. This equilibrium depends on the
chemical nature of the polymeric phase, the solvent, the temperature, and the volume of both the
polymeric phase and the solvent. Extraction can take under a minute depending on sample volume
and concentration. Equilibration of the fiber with its surrounding matrix usually requires a longer
period of time (several minutes to several hours). After equilibrium has been achieved, the
concentrations of target chemicals on the fiber and in the solution remain constant. The amount of a
chemical extracted by the fiber is proportional to the concentration of the sample before and after
equilibrium.
Sensitivity to a target chemical extracted by SPME can be improved significantly in three ways:
increasing the sorbent thickness on the sampling fiber, employing a more selective sorbent, or
changing the extraction temperature. A thicker sorbent layer absorbs more target chemical, increasing
the sensitivity to all absorbed chemicals; however, thicker sorbent also increases the equilibration time
between the absorbed chemical and the chemical in solution. Rather than thicker sorbent, longer fibers
may be used to increase sensitivity; however, longer fibers may not be used on the Torion T-9 GC/MS,
the instrument is not designed to accept them and they may break inside the injection port. Sorbents
with greater selectivity to the target chemicals will improve sensitivity; however, they may also increase
the extraction of unwanted chemicals. Finally, changing the extraction temperature will affect the
sensitivity of a target chemical. The sensitivity for high mass and high boiling chemicals will generally
improve with increased temperature, particularly for headspace (gas) extractions. Increasing the
temperature will also decrease the equilibration time. High temperature extractions of volatile
chemicals in solution may decrease the sensitivity to those chemicals when sampling by immersion
because volatile chemicals are more likely to leave the solution as vapor at higher temperatures.
Page 33
What is the Torion T-9 GC/MS? . 29
What is the Torion T-9 GC/MS?
The Torion T-9 GC/MS is an easy to use, hand-portable system. The primary purpose of the Torion
T-9 GC/MS is to allow rapid chemical analysis and detection on-site so that informed decisions based
on chemical analysis can be made as quickly as possible. The combination of low thermal mass GC
and TMS allows rapid separation of chemicals in the sample and generation of a mass spectral
fingerprint for each chemical. The on-board central processing unit (CPU) uses deconvolution to
extract the mass spectrum of each chemical and then compare the spectrum and retention time to a
library of retention times and mass spectra of known chemicals, and indicates whether or not any of
the target chemicals in the library are present in the sample. In addition to known chemical libraries
it also compares the information to libraries of unknown compounds to provide information about
unexpected compounds that are present in the sample.
The top panel of the Torion T-9 GC/MS contains the battery compartment, display screen, power
and operating buttons, SPME sample injection port, memory card slot, Ethernet port, carrier gas
cartridge connection, status lights, and manual shut-off access. The internal components are
precision mechanical and electronic parts, including heaters, vacuum pumps, pressure controller, gas
flow lines, circuit boards, CPU, SPME injector, low thermal mass GC, and TMS.
Page 34
30 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
About the Power Supply and Battery
The Torion T-9 GC/MS can operate from a power supply connected to line power or a battery. Under
typical operating conditions the battery will allow field operation for about 2 hours. The actual run
time may vary by up to ±15 minutes depending on the frequency of injections. The battery used is a
15 V 13.8 mAH rechargeable Li ion battery.
The battery can be charged either with an external charger or by plugging the instrument into line
power (see Running with External Power and Carrier Gas on page 47). When charging the
battery in the instrument, the instrument does not have to be on, just simply plugged into line
power.
The following image shows the battery indicator lights on the Torion T-9 GC/MS.
• If the top indicator light is lit the Torion T-9 GC/MS is connected to line power and there is
not battery installed.
• If the second indicator light is lit then the Torion T-9 GC/MS is operating from battery power
only.
• If the bottom indicator light is lit the Torion T-9 GC/MS is connected to line power and the
battery is installed and charging.
The Torion T-9 GC/MS battery will charge when line power is connected and the instrument is not
running. When the instrument is running the battery will only charge during times when the overall
power draw is sufficiently low to allow extra power to be diverted to the charging operation. Power
will not be drawn from the battery as long as the external line power is connected.
Page 35
What is the Custodion SPME syringe? . 31
What is the Custodion SPME syringe?
The SPME syringe designed for the Torion T-9 GC/MS is called the Custodion. The Custodion
triggers the injection and analysis to start on the Torion T-9 GC/MS without having to push a “start
analysis” button.
The SPME syringe consists primarily of a barrel, plunger, spring, protective needle, and retractable
fiber.
Page 36
32 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
What is low thermal mass (LTM) gas chromatography?
phasestationaryinvolume
phasemobileinvolume
phasemobileinmass
phasestationaryinmass
phasemobileinionconcentrat
phasestationaryinionconcentrat
K ×==
100000
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
60000
70000
80000
90000
110000
120000
130000
140000
3
2
1
4
5
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
Time (min)
2.0
t
In microcolumn gas chromatography (GC), volatile chemicals separate as they travel through a
capillary column. Separation is dependent upon the equilibrium distribution of each chemical
between a liquid coating on the capillary wall and the carrier gas flowing through the capillary. An
equilibrium constant called the partition coefficient, K, governs the separation of chemicals and is a
ratio of the concentration of the target chemical in the stationary phase coating versus the mobile
phase (carrier gas). The affinity of a chemical for the stationary phase is a function of temperature
and determines the chemical’s partitioning between the two phases.
The partition coefficient of a chemical is related to its retention time, t
. The retention time is the
R
time a chemical takes to travel through the column. The typical representation of a GC analysis is a
plot of detector response as a function of time, called a chromatogram (see below). The time at the
center of the near Gaussian peak of a resolved chemical is its retention time, and the area under the
peak is related to the amount of chemical extracted and may be corresponded to the amount of
chemical in the sample.
R
1. Dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP)
2. 2-Chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (1/2 HD)
3. Diethylmalonate (DEM)
4. Methyl salicylate (MES)
5. 2-Chloroacetophenone (CN)
A chemical that is volatile within the temperature range of the GC method parameters will eventually
exit the column (assuming the compound is not irreversibly adsorbed to the capillary coating). If the
same method parameters are always used, a specific chemical will have the same retention time.
Tentative identification of a chemical can be made by comparing its retention time with retention
times of known standards. Changing the temperature of the capillary column will change the
retention times of compounds being analyzed. Usually, the temperature of the column is increased
during an analysis to reduce the time of the analysis. This is typically done with the capillary column
installed in a convectively heated GC oven.
The degree of separation of two chemicals that exit the capillary column at the detector is called
resolution. Two chromatographic peaks are completely resolved when the baseline signal is present
between them; otherwise, they are only partially resolved.
In chromatographic systems with detectors like flame ionization that does not produce selective data
retention time and peak separation are critical to successful peak identification and quantitation.
Peaks with similar retention times may be resolved by reducing their peak widths or by changing
Page 37
What is low thermal mass (LTM) gas chromatography? . 33
their relative retention times. Peaks that are partially resolved or totally unresolved are referred to as
co-eluting peaks.
In some cases it is not possible to achieve complete resolution. It not uncommon to find cases
where two peaks will almost completely overlap. Using mass spectrometry adds the element of
mass spectral data to the analytical equation. Using sophisticated deconvolution algorithms (see the
software section of this manual for a detailed description of deconvolution) that rely on only a small
amount of resolution and mass spectral finger print recognition can provide a way of identifying and
quantifying analytes that co-elute.
Low thermal mass (LTM) GC refers to a miniaturized form of GC in which the convectively heated
column oven is replaced with direct electrical resistive heating of the capillary column. LTM GC uses
a conventional GC column that is intertwined with resistive heating and temperature-sensing wires
and wrapped with aluminum foil for greater heating efficiency. The low thermal mass of this column
heating arrangement allows for much smaller instrumentation and lower operating power as well as
faster heating and cooling of the column. The GC in the Torion T-9 GC/MS is an LTM GC.
Page 38
34 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
What is toroidal ion trap mass spectrometry (TMS)?
The purpose of mass spectrometry (MS) is to measure the presence and abundance of a chemical’s
m/z)
characteristic ion fragments according to the values of their mass-to-charge ratios (
involves several steps to generate a mass spectrum of a chemical: ionization, mass analysis, and
detection.
Ionization is necessary for producing electrically charged fragments (i.e., ions). A plot of the
m/z
abundances of ions produced from a chemical as a function of
chemical has a characteristic mass spectrum that can be used as a chemical fingerprint to identify
the chemical and differentiate it from other chemicals. Soft ionization methods primarily produce
molecular ions or ions related to the molecular ion (e.g., abstraction of hydrogen or addition of
hydrogen or other species). Hard ionization processes yield fragments of the chemicals. The
following is an example of a mass spectrum obtained by the Torion T-9 GC/MS showing the mass-tocharge (m/z) of ionized fragments of diethyl phthalate.
is called a mass spectrum. Each
. MS
Electron ionization is a hard ionization method in which the sample intersects an energetic (for
example, 70 eV) beam of electrons that are drawn from a current-carrying filament. The interaction
of the chemicals in the sample and the electrons in the electron beam creates charged fragments.
The ionized chemical fragments are separated by a mass analyzer before they are registered by the
detector. Typical mass analyzers include quadrupole, time-of-flight, and ion traps. The Torion T-9
GC/MS uses a miniaturized toroidal ion trap (TMS) mass analyzer that possesses advantages of low
power consumption, and high sensitivity. Mass analysis is accomplished by first trapping ions in the
trap with an RF electric field and then applying a constant frequency tickle voltage as the RF
amplitude voltage is increased, causing ions to be ejected from the ion trap to the detector based on
m/z
and their resonant frequency for ejection. Discrete ranges (windows) of the
m/z
are assigned to discrete
of the toroidal ion trap showing trapping of ions (red dots) in a toroidal geometry around the center
electrode.
Ion detection provides the abundances of the fragment ions in the mass spectrum. The detector in
the Torion T-9 GC/MS is a continuous dynode electron multiplier. Positive ions exiting the trap are
directed by a negative bias to strike a surface at the entrance of the detector. The surface emits
electrons when struck by ions with sufficient energy. The electrons are directed by a positive bias
striking further along the continuous dynode, emitting increasingly more electrons as they
values of the detected ions. The following figure is a cut-away drawing
ejection RF voltage
Page 39
What is toroidal ion trap mass spectrometry (TMS)? . 35
sequentially strike the dynode in areas of decreasing negative voltage. The positive bias ultimately
directs the electrons to a collector at the end of the continuous dynode, that produces a measurable
m/z
voltage that is proportional to the number of ions of each type (i.e.,
analyzer.
A variety of mass analyzers are available for laboratories, however, few are available as portable
instruments due to overall size and power requirements. The latest advancement in miniaturization
of mass spectrometers is the miniaturized TMS. The miniaturized TMS requires less power, and
operates under higher pressures than quadrupole mass spectrometers. Furthermore, the
miniaturized TMS combines many advantages of larger non-toroidal ion traps, such as simplicity,
pressure tolerance, and comparable ion storage volume. The miniature TMS operates at less than
2.5 kV, compared to 15 kV for the larger alternative portable ion trap. The following figure is a top
view of the Torion T-9 GC/MS.
value) isolated by the mass
Page 40
36 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Page 41
4
Basic Custodion Operations
Page 42
38 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Prepare the Custodion SPME Syringe for Sampling
Each Custodion SPME syringe is shipped with the syringe needle protected by a screw-tight cap.
Prior to use, remove the protective cap. Prior to initial use, the SPME fiber should be conditioned
by placing it in a heated GC injection port for at least 15 minutes. For multiple-use application, the
SPME fiber in the Custodion syringe should be cleaned before re-use as outlined in the following
steps:
1. Insert the syringe needle (with the fiber retracted) of the Custodion syringe into the
injection port of the Torion T-9 GC/MS or other GC (heated to at least 250ºC).
2. Depress the plunger to extend the SPME fiber and allow the fiber to desorb contaminants
for 30–60 seconds or longer if necessary.
3. Depress the plunger to retract the SPME fiber.
4. Remove the Custodion syringe needle from the injection port.
5. Start the Torion T-9 GC/MS and conduct a System Blank Run to remove any compounds
that may have desorbed from the SPME fiber into the GC (for instructions on performing
a System Blank Run see System Blank on page 56 in Chapter 5 Basic Operation).
6. If large amounts of sample are visible in the blank analysis repeat the SPME cleaning
process until no large peaks are visible in the System Blank Run.
Page 43
Using the Custodion . 39
Using the Custodion
Sample Headspace Vapors from Liquid or Solid Samples
Be certain that the SPME fiber is retracted inside the Custodion
needle (i.e., protective needle) before piercing it through the
sample vial septum.
Soyez certain que la fibre SPME est rétractée à l'intérieur de
l'aiguille du Dépositaire (c.-à-d., Une aiguille protectrice) avant
de la percer à travers le septum du flacon d'échantillon.
Be careful not to bend the flexible SPME needle when piercing
the septum.
Veillez à ne pas plier l'aiguille SPACE flexible lors du perçage du
septum.
Try to keep the Custodion syringe needle above the surface of
the sample to prevent uptake of liquid onto the SPME fiber by
capillary action.
Essayez de garder l'aiguille de la seringue du Dépositaire audessus de la surface de l'échantillon pour empêcher l'absorption
de liquide dans la fibre SPME par une action capillaire.
NOTE:
Be certain that the SPME fiber is completely retracted before
pulling the Custodion syringe needle out through the sample
septum.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est complètement rétractée
avant de tirer l'aiguille de la seringue du Dépositaire à travers le
septum de l'échantillon.
Detection of target chemicals by the Torion T-9 GC/MS depends on adsorption to (extraction) and
desorption from (injection) the SPME fiber. Adsorption depends on the partition coefficient of the
target chemical between the fiber coating and the sample matrix. Detection also depends on the
volatility and molecular mass of the target chemical (45–500 amu).
Place the liquid or solid sample into a vial. Leave sufficient volume (headspace) above the sample
for sampling vapors when the SPME fiber is fully extended from the Custodion syringe needle.
1. Cap the vial with a septum cap.
2. Insert the Custodion needle through the sample vial septum.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
CAUTION
ATTENTION
CAUTION
ATTENTION
3. Depress the Custodion plunger to extend the fiber into the headspace sample.
Depress the plunger until you hear or feel a click then release the plunger.
4. After the desired extraction time, depress the Custodion plunger to retract the fiber into
the syringe needle
5. Remove the Custodion syringe needle from the sample vial.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
Page 44
40 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Sample Gases
Sample Liquids
Samples that are too concentrated will overload the GC column
and TMS, possibly requiring cleaning of the system (Custodion
SPME fiber, ion trap, etc.) before the next sample can be
analyzed. Of particular concern is the viscosity of the liquid
sample. Viscous samples should never be sampled and analyzed
directly.
Les échantillons trop concentrés surchargeront la colonne GC et
TMS, nécessitant peut-être un nettoyage du système (fibre
Custodion SPME, piège ionique, etc.) avant que l'échantillon
suivant puisse être analysé. La viscosité de l'échantillon liquide
est particulièrement préoccupante. Les échantillons visqueux ne
doivent jamais être échantillonnés et analysés directement.
Be certain that the SPME fiber is retracted inside the Custodion
syringe needle before piercing it through the sample vial
septum.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est rétractée à l'intérieur de
l'aiguille de la seringue du Dépositaire avant de la percer à
travers le septum du flacon d'échantillon.
Be careful not to bend the flexible SPME needle when piercing
the septum.
Veillez à ne pas plier l'aiguille SPACE flexible lors du perçage du
septum.
Vapors in air or other gas samples can be sampled directly or from a gas sampling container
using the Custodion syringe. The steps for vapor headspace analysis (as discussed above) should
be followed when applicable.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
1. Place the liquid or dissolved solid sample into a sample vial. Add sufficient volume of
liquid to completely immerse the SPME fiber when it is fully extended from the Custodion
syringe needle.
2. Cap the vial with a septum cap.
3. Insert the Custodion syringe needle through the sample vial septum.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
CAUTION
ATTENTION
4. Check for adequate space inside the vial to extend the Custodion fiber without touching
the sides or bottom of the vial.
5. Depress the Custodion plunger to extend the fiber into the sample and start the timer.
Carefully swirl (agitate) the liquid sample in the vial around the SPME fiber to increase
contact of the fiber coating with as much of the total sample volume as possible, making
certain that the fiber coating is always covered with the liquid sample.
Page 45
Using the Custodion . 41
Make certain that there is enough liquid in the sample vial to
completely cover the SPME fiber coating when it is extended
into the sample and the sample is agitated.
Assurez-vous qu'il y a suffisamment de liquide dans le flacon
d'échantillon pour couvrir complètement le revêtement de
fibres SPME lorsqu'il est prolongé dans l'échantillon et que
l'échantillon est agité.
Be certain that the SPME fiber is completely retracted before
pulling the Custodion syringe needle out through the sample
septum.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est complètement rétractée
avant de tirer l'aiguille de la seringue du Dépositaire à travers le
septum de l'échantillon.
Sample Solids
Sample Unknown Liquids and Solids
NOTE:
CAUTION
ATTENTION
6. After the desired extraction time, depress the Custodion plunger to retract the fiber into
the syringe needle.
7. Remove the Custodion syringe needle from the sample vial.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
8. Prior to injection on the Torion T-9 GC/MS, extend the SPME fiber out of the Custodion
syringe needle and shake off residual sample droplets that may have been taken up in
the syringe needle during sampling.
Always perform vapor headspace analysis of a solid sample as described above before attempting
other sampling methods.
Dissolve (or suspend) a small amount of the solid sample in the appropriate solvent and
follow steps 2–8 as described above for sampling liquids.
The following two pages provide sequential procedures for trouble-shooting liquid and solid
unknowns that are too dilute or too concentrated when initially sampled by headspace. The first
step with any unknown compound is to sample the headspace. If detection of target chemicals is
too low or too high, follow the flow chart on the next two pages to improve detection.
Each box in the flow chart provides a new method for sample preparation to increase or decrease
the concentration of extracted chemicals. If the results are not improved by performing the
method in the first box, move on to the next box and perform the subsequent sample handling
procedure.
Page 46
42 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Liquid Unknown S ample
Take headspace of sample in environment
Increase exposure time
Place sample into a vial and take headspace
Heat vial (warm with hand or other means
suc h as equipment in mobile lab) and take
heads pace
Immerse S PME direc tly into liquid
Take heads pace with shorter exposure time
R educe the time of exposure in injector port.
Us e a syring e to take the heads pace and
deliver it into another vial. Take hea dspa ce
of the tra nsferred headspace.
Allow sample on S PME to evaporate before
injection (do this by exposing the S P ME
fiber to the atmos phere)
Dilute sa mple in appropriate solvent.
Immers e S P ME directly in liquid of the
dilution. Do this in a mobile lab under
en gine ering control. B e ca re ful of pos s ible
reactions with solvent. Use the M-8 paper
test to determine whether an aqueous or an
organic solvent s hould be used.
If s a m p le de te c tion is too low If s a m p le de te c tion is too hig h
Page 47
Using the Custodion . 43
S olid Unknown S ample
Increa se exposure time
Place sample into a vial and take headspace
Hea t vial (warm with hand or other mea ns
suc h as equipment in mobile lab) and take
heads pace
Dis solve s ample in appropriate solvent.
Immers e S P ME direc tly in liq uid o f the
dilution. Do this in a mobile lab under
engineering control. Be careful of possible
reactions with solvent. Use the M
-8 paper
test to determine whether an aqueous or an
organic solvent s hould be used.
Take headspace with s horter exposure time
R educe the time of exposure in injector port
Use a s yringe to take the headspace and
deliver it into another vial. Ta ke heads pace
of the transferred heads pace .
Allow sample on S PME to evaporate before
injection (do this by exposing the SPME fiber
to th e a tmos ph e re )
Dilute sa mple in appropria te solvent.
Immers e S P ME direc tly in liq uid o f the
dilution. Do this in a mobile lab under
engineering control. Be careful of possible
reactions with solvent. Use the M-8 paper
test to determine whether an aqueous or an
organic solvent s hould be used.
If s ample d e te c tion is too low If s ample d e te c tion is too h ig h
Take headspa ce of sample in environment
Page 48
44 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Performing an Injection with the Custodion Syringe
Ensure the SPME fiber is completely withdrawn inside the
syringe needle before removing the Custodion from the injector
port; otherwise the SPME fiber may be damaged.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est complètement retirée à
l'intérieur de l'aiguille de la seringue avant de retirer le gardien
du port de l'injecteur; Sinon la fibre SPME pourrait être
endommagée.
SPME syringe
Interface between
injector
Injector (hidden
Inlet of GC
Contact Points
When performing an injection with the Custodion Syringe on the Torion T-9 GC/MS make sure the
gold rings on the Custodion Syringe touch the contact points on the GC injection port. When the
contact points connect with the Custodion Syringe the instrument automatically starts a run.
Conversely the instrument will NOT start an analysis if the Custodion Syringe does not come in
contact with the contact points.
1. Follow the on screen instructions as to when to depress the plunger to expose the SPME
fiber.
2. Depress the plunger until you hear or feel a click and then release the plunger. Similar to
using a ball-point pen.
The following image shows a cutaway diagram of the SPME inside the GC injector port.
Custodion syringe and
under face plate)
3. Follow the on screen instructions as to when to depress the plunger to retract the SPME
fiber inside the protective needle.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
Page 49
5
Basic Operation
Page 50
46 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Overview
This chapter describes the functionality of the instrument control interface. This includes a description
of each screen and the functions available from the screen.
Your interface is run using Windows CE™ as the operating system.
1. Upon initialization the instrument will boot into the Windows CE main screen.
2. To launch the software double-click on the GC-MS icon.
The Torion T-9 GC/MS™ system is equipped with a touch screen interface. It also has a USB
port and a USB mouse can be connected directly to the instrument. The functionality of the
touch screen is the same as for a mouse.
Touching the screen will select a button and activate the commands associated with the
button.
Using a mouse to position a pointer over a button and then clicking on the button with the
mouse will also activate the command associated with the button.
3. An alternative option is to run the instrument directly from a PC using a VNC viewer.
A free VNC viewer is available for the software. For instructions on how to install and use the
viewer refer to TightVNC Viewer in Chapter 6 Software.
4. The instrument has a stylus attached to facilitate operation of the touch screen. The location
of the stylus is shown below.
Page 51
Startup . 47
Startup
Running with External Power and Carrier Gas
NOTE:
This chapter provides basic instructions on how to use the Custodion® and Torion T-9 GC/MS®.
If running in a portable mode, skip to Step 4 below.
External power should only be connected while the instrument is powered off. The indicator light will
change to indicate that the external power has been connected. If a battery is present then both the
line power and battery power lights will be lit. The battery power will not be used when line power is
connected.
Also, for stationary (non-portable) operation, an alternate external carrier gas supply line can be
connected to the back of the Torion T-9 GC/MS.
1. Turn off the instrument prior to connecting the 24VDC adapter.
2. Connect the 24VDC adapter to the external port.
With the correct adapters the power supply can be connected to external power from 100–250
volts 50-60 Hz AC. The following figure shows the power supply connected to the back of the
instrument.
3. Connect the lab helium to the external helium port located at the rear of the Torion T-9
GC/MS. The fitting that connects to the Torion T-9 GC/MS is a quick connection type of fitting
that attaches to 1/16” PEEK tubing.
The quick connect is attached when it clicks into place and cannot be removed without sliding
the locking cylinder back.
To disconnect the external helium carrier slide the locking cylinder on the quick connect back
until the quick connect slides off of the instrument helium connection.
If a helium cartridge is attached to the instrument, an external helium cartridge may also be attached
to the instrument at the same time. The internal pressure of the helium cartridge is regulated to 65 ±7
PSI. As long as the external helium cartridge has a pressure of 80 PSI or greater the helium in an
attached cartridge will be preserved, and can be used after disconnecting from the external helium
source.
Page 52
48 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Prior to the next step, regulate the external gas pressure to a
minimum of 80 psi.
Avant l'étape suivante, réglez la pression de gaz externe à un
minimum de 80 psi.
The following figure shows the Torion T-9 GC/MS rear connection ports: (1) 24VDC Adapter
connection and (2) Helium external port.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
4. Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds.
Wait for the initial screen to appear as shown below.
Page 53
Startup . 49
®
Once the instrument is booted up, the Windows
CE screen will be displayed with the GC-MS
software icon.
5. Use the stylus to double tap the GC-MS icon to start the Torion T-9 GC/MS operating system.
As soon as the software starts, the instrument will enter the pump down state automatically.
Once a vacuum is established then the instrument will initialize the heated zones to the
method set points.
The following screen shows the instrument screen that is displayed during establishment of the
vacuum and temperatures. The progress bars show the progress of the instrument initialization
process.
After the system has established vacuum and temperature the following Home screen will be
displayed.
Page 54
50 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Home Screen
The Home screen is used to initialize all operations. In addition, this is the screen that the instrument
returns to whenever the Home button is selected from any other screen.
In the middle section of the status bar, the name of the activated method is displayed. In this example
the method name is Target rev7A.
The type of sample is displayed just below the method name in the status bar. In this example the
sample type is Sample.
1. To view the status of the power, helium, and instrument touch any of the icons in the top
right corner of the screen once with the stylus and a “balloon” appears with the expanded
view of the instrument status.
2. To make the expanded view balloon disappear, click again in the icon status area.
The icons in the upper-right corner of the screen are used to monitor status.
• The battery icon shows the amount of power left in the battery or if it is connected to AC
power.
• The second icon is the helium icon and shows the amount of helium left.
Page 55
Startup . 51
NOTE:
Using the Custodion Syringe
Make certain that the SPME fiber is retracted into the Custodion
syringe needle, before inserting the needle into the injection port.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est rétractée dans l'aiguille de la
seringue du Dépositaire, avant d'insérer l'aiguille dans le port
d'injection.
Be sure the face of the Custodion syringe completely contacts the
contact points as soon as the syringe is inserted.
Assurez-vous que le visage de la seringue du Dépositaire contacte
complètement les points de contact dès que la seringue est
insérée.
Be sure the SPME fiber has been retracted into the syringe
needle, before removing the needle from the injection port.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME a été rétractée dans l'aiguille de
la seringue, avant de retirer l'aiguille du port d'injection.
If the system is connected to an external helium source and a helium cartridge is not installed in the
Torion T-9 GC/MS system, the icon will indicate that the amount of helium left is zero (0).
• The last icon shows the status of the instrument.
Refer to Chapter 4 Basic Custodion Operations for details about collecting samples with the
Custodion syringe.
To prepare the Torion T-9 GC/MS for analysis:
1. Allow the Torion T-9 GC/MS to warm up before sampling.
2. After collecting sample on the SPME fiber, press the Start Run button on the Home screen.
The following injection instructions screen will appear.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
CAUTION
ATTENTION
3. Insert the Custodion SPME syringe needle into the injection port.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
Page 56
52 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
a. The gold rings on the SPME syringe holder must contact the points indicated on the GC
injection port. The following figures show (1) SPME Syringe Gold Rings and (2) GC
Injection Port Contacts.
b. The instrument will NOT start an analysis if the SPME syringe does not come in contact
with the GC Injection Port Contacts.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. Immediately depress the plunger until you hear or feel a
click, then release the plunger. While the Please Wait… screen is displayed a sample
desorption from the SPME is being taken after the injection is made.
The following screen is displayed after the time for the wait screen is completed.
5. After a few seconds you will be instructed to remove the syringe.
Page 57
Startup . 53
Ensure the SPME fiber is completely withdrawn inside the
syringe needle, before removing the Custodion from the injector
port. Failure to do so may result in the SPME fiber being
damaged and may also cause a helium leakage.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est complètement retirée à
l'intérieur de l'aiguille de la seringue, avant de retirer la
Custodion du port de l'injecteur. Le non-respect de cette
consigne peut entraîner l'endommagement de la fibre SPME et
provoquer également une fuite d'hélium.
You should follow the on-screen instructions to remove the SPME.
6. Immediately depress the plunger on the SPME syringe to retract the fiber into the Custodion
needle and remove the syringe.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
The following cutaway diagram shows the Custodion syringe inserted into the injector port
with fiber retracted.
(1) SMPE Syringe
(2) Interface between Custodion syringe and
injector
(3) Injector (hidden under face plate)
(4) Inlet of GC column
A screen similar to the following displays a chromatogram while running a sample.
Page 58
54 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Table 5-1 Screen Table Descriptions
7. When the GC-MS analysis of the sample is complete, the following screen will appear.
This screen displays the chromatogram and library hits.
Heading Description
RT The chromatographic Retention Time.
Identification The name of the compound.
Alert The compound type of hazard level which is created in Chromion.
Match The statistical confidence of the assignment based on the parameters
in the compound agent library.
Conc The concentration units defined in the method using the Chromion
software.
Alerts can be configured by you. Refer to Chapter 6 Software for instructions on setting up
custom alerts.
8. Once you have finished reviewing or recording the results, select Home.
Page 59
Startup . 55
The Waiting icon in the status bar will appear and the Start Run button will be gray while the
column temperature is returning to the initial temperature setting in preparation for the next
analysis.
9. To run another sample press the Start Run button and follow the on-screen instructions.
Page 60
56 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Performing a System Blank Run
NOTE:
System Blank
Two types of blank runs can be performed to determine whether or not:
• The Torion T-9 GC/MS components (i.e. column, injector, or ion trap) are clean and ready to
perform an analysis, and
• The Custodion SPME fiber is clean and ready for use.
System Blank - Type 1: Does not require the use of the Custodion syringe. Refer to the “System
Blank” section below.
• From the Analysis Type field, click on the drop-down menu and select System Blank.
• Press the Start Run button. The instrument will initiate the normal run procedures, but will not
prompt you to insert the SPME syringe.
Neither type of blank run is used for a background subtraction by the Torion T-9 GC/MS. However, the
chromatographic and mass spectrometric data from a blank run may help identify contamination in the
instrument or on the SPME fiber.
SPME Blank - Type 2: A blank run of the Custodion fiber is performed as if a sample has already
been placed onto the fiber. The purpose of this run is to verify the cleanliness of the SPME fiber.
Refer to:
• The “SPME Blank” section of this chapter
• The “Startup” section of this chapter
• The “Analyzing a Sample” section of this chapter
It is recommended that after initial startup a System Blank be performed to ensure that the instrument
is clean, i.e. column, injector, and ion trap, and ready for a Sample run. This run does not require the
use of the Custodion syringe.
To run a system blank:
1. Select System Blank from the Analysis Type drop-down menu on the Home screen.
Page 61
Performing a System Blank Run . 57
The file name is in a date and time stamp format.
The default Data File Name will show System Blank plus the date and time. However, a
specific file name can be assigned to the run by selecting the current name in the field and
entering the specific name. A keyboard will pop up on the screen which can be used to replace
or append a custom name by entering text.
2. Press the Start Run button.
The system will start to perform a blank run automatically. During the run a screen similar to
the following the will be displayed.
3. After a run if there are any peaks present continue to perform blank runs until the baseline is
clean.
The following screen shows a chromatogram of a clean system blank where there are no
contaminant peaks.
While the results are being processed the following screen is displayed after the System Blank
run is finished and the system is processing the run data looking for any contamination peaks.
Page 62
58 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
NOTE:
A screen similar to the following is displayed after the system blank is performed and
analyzed.
Blank runs should look like the following chromatogram (only a small single peak is present at
approximately 1.0 on the X-axis). If additional peaks are observed in the chromatogram and do not go
away after 7 system blanks, contact PerkinElmer.
Above is an image of a successful chromatogram of a System Blank run without contaminants
peaks.
• If there were any contaminant peaks, the contaminants might be identified by the on-
board instrument library.
• If any positive identifications were made they would be listed in the identification table at
the bottom of the screen.
Page 63
Performing a System Blank Run . 59
The following screen is an example of a contaminated System Blank run. As shown in the text
at the top of the screen an actual System Blank was run, but there were contaminant peaks.
The peaks were either identified or listed as unknown compounds by the library.
4. Tapping the stylus on the X-axis opens a pop-up options list, where you can select to
Enable Annotations of the peaks.
The names of the peaks will appear in the chromatogram as in the image below.
Page 64
60 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
SPME Blank
NOTE:
new
Prepare the Custodion SPME Syringe for Sampling
Prepare the Custodion SPME Syringe for Sampling
When finished, press the Home button to return to the home screen.
5. From the results screen choose Home to continue running the instrument.
6. On completion, press the Home button to return to the Home screen.
The second type of blank run is called the ‘blank’ Sample run. A ‘blank’ Sample run is to ensure that
the SPME fiber is clean at the beginning of each new Sample run and also before taking a Sample of
an unknown substance.
For cleaning
38 in Chapter 4 Basic Custodion Operations.
page
To confirm that the SPME fiber is clean and ready for a Sample run, go the Home screen and select
Sample in the Analysis Type field.
For new SPME fibers, refer to
Chapter 4
To run a SPME blank, follow this procedure:
1. To confirm that the SPME fiber is clean and ready for a Sample run go the Home screen and
SPME fibers refer to
.
select Sample from the Analysis Type drop-down menu.
on
on page 38 in
Page 65
Performing a System Blank Run . 61
Make certain that the SPME fiber is retracted into the Custodion
syringe needle, before inserting the needle into the injection port.
Be sure the face of the Custodion syringe completely contacts the
contact points as soon as the syringe is inserted.
Be sure the SPME fiber has been retracted into the syringe needle,
before removing the needle from the injection port.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME est rétractée dans l'aiguille de la
seringue Custodion, avant d'insérer l'aiguille dans l'orifice
d'injection.
Assurez-vous que le visage de la seringue Custodion contacte
complètement les points de contact dès que la seringue est insérée.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME a été rétractée dans l'aiguille de la
seringue, avant de retirer l'aiguille du port d'injection.
NOTE:
2. Without placing a sample on the SPME syringe select the Start Run button on the Home
screen.
The injection instructions will appear.
3. The system will automatically start a run. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete
the injection process.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
4. When instructed, remove the Custodion syringe fiber from the injection port.
This is called a ‘blank’ Sample run. It is used for the purpose of cleaning the SPME fiber.
If amounts of sample are visible in the results analysis window the SPME syringe is
contaminated. Repeat this operation until no peaks are visible in the ‘blank’ Sample run
results.
5. If no peaks are identified in the summary table as shown below, select Home and then
continue to run the Performance Validation. Refer to the Performance Validation section of
this chapter.
If peaks are identified in the summary table, select Home and then repeat this procedure.
Page 66
62 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
NOTE:
Blank runs should look like the chromatogram shown above (only a single small peak is present at
approximately 1.0 on the x-axis). Sometimes if a SPME fiber is contaminated, it will take a few
injections to clean. If after a few injections the runs are not cleaning up, replace the SPME fiber.
6. The end run data should look the same as the system blank.
• If there are peaks or if compounds are identified and displayed in the report a second
blank analysis should be performed.
• If there are still peaks after several injections and the system blank was clean then try
using a new SPME fiber.
To thoroughly clean the old fiber:
a) Place it in the injection port while the system is not in analysis mode.
b) Expose the fiber by clicking the plunger on the SPME syringe and leaving the exposed
SPME fiber in the injection port for 1 to 2 minutes.
c) Press the plunger again to retract the fiber into the SPME syringe needle and withdrawal
the SPME from the injection port.
d) Perform a System Blank run and a ‘blank’ Sample run to ensure that the fiber is clean.
Page 67
Performance Validation . 63
Performance Validation
Be careful not to bend the flexible SPME needle when inserting
into the vial.
Veillez à ne pas plier l'aiguille SPACE flexible lors de l'insertion
dans le flacon.
Refer also to the Performance Validation section located in the Chromion software chapter.
Purpose of a Performance Validation (PV):
To calibrate the instrument to display the correct masses.
To calibrate the retention times of the peaks for better unknown compound detection.
Verify instrument performance:
• Sensitivity
• Mass resolution
• Chromatographic performance
• Mass range
• Compound identification
• GC retention time
1. Verify appropriate System and SPME blanks have been performed. See the “System Blank”
and “SPME Blank” sections of this chapter.
2. On the home screen, open the drop-down box for Analysis Type and select Performance
Validation.
3. Insert the Custodion syringe needle into the CALION Performance Validation vial.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
4. Depress the Custodion plunger to extend the fiber into the CALION PV vial and take a sample.
Page 68
64 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Check that the SPME fiber is retracted into the Custodion
syringe needle, before inserting the needle into the injection
port on the instrument.
Vérifiez que la fibre SPME est rétractée dans l'aiguille de la
seringue du Dépositaire avant d'insérer l'aiguille dans le port
d'injection de l'instrument.
NOTE:
Be sure the face of the Custodion syringe (the red disc with the
gold rings) makes good contact with the contact points on the
instrument as soon as the syringe is inserted.
Assurez-vous que le visage de la seringue du Dépositaire (le
disque rouge avec les bagues en or) entre en contact avec les
points de contact de l'instrument dès que la seringue est
insérée.
Expose the fiber for 30 seconds in the
CALION vial.
5. Depress the plunger to retract the fiber into the syringe needle and remove the syringe from
the CALION vial.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
6. Press the Start Run button, for the injection type displayed on the button. There are three
injection types that can be used on the instrument.
SPME
Liquid Inject
Needle Trap
The injection type on the Start Run button of the instrument can be changed using the
Chromion software in the Gas Chromatograph window of the method.
7. When prompted by the software insert the Custodion SPME syringe needle into the injection
port.
For PV runs, there is a delay of a few seconds between pressing Start Run and getting the insert
syringe message.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
Page 69
Performance Validation . 65
NOTE:
The gold rings on the Custodion SPME syringe must contact the points on the GC injection
port. The instrument will NOT start an analysis if the Custodion syringe does not come in
contact with these contact points.
SPME syringe gold rings (2) GC injection port contacts
(1)
It is important to be sure the plunger is not depressed until the SPME syringe is fully inserted.
However, the time between the insertion of the syringe and the depression of the plunger should be
minimal, so no vapors are lost during the sample introduction.
8. The screen will display Please Wait… while the standard analytes are being desorbed from
the SPME.
Page 70
66 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Be sure the SPME fiber has been retracted into the syringe
needle, before removing the needle from the injection port.
NOTE:
9. When prompted retract the fiber and remove the syringe needle.
CAUTION
This process normally takes about 90 seconds for Performance Validation (PV) runs.
10. If the result is a PASS the following screen displays. You can return to the home screen.
11. If the result displays a FAIL as shown in the below screen, re-run the Performance
Validation by pressing the button Set Values and Re-Run.
The PV sample must be reinserted into the system within 60 second of pressing the Set
Values and Re-run button. Otherwise the system will time out and you will need to re-start
the Performance Validation process from the home screen.
Page 71
12. Follow the instructions displayed below the PASS/FAIL indicators.
A yellow PASS result for any of the tests (in this case the Resolution test) indicates that while
the overall test results meet the minimum requirements for validating the performance of the
instrument, some routine maintenance may be required.
Performance Validation . 67
13. To view and export the report, press View Details then View Report.
14. If you have not achieved a PASS after 13 attempts, contact PerkinElmer.
15. Press View Report to examine the details of the failures. Pressing the Up or Down and Left
or Right buttons shown in the following screen to navigate through the data.
Page 72
68 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
16. To export the data to a USB drive press the Export button.
17. Insert a USB drive into the slot under the Utility Cover. Press Export Files.
A window displays with the SD card file structure on the instrument.
18. Select the USB Drive shown in the following screen.
Page 73
19. Press OK to export the data files.
Sample Concentration
On completion a confirmation message displays a successful export.
Performance Validation . 69
20. Press the Back button to return to the Performance Validation Results screen.
When the instrument is being run, the split flow settings in the GC method are used automatically.
Occasionally users may see samples with very low concentrations to very high concentrations where
the split flow should change, but the method does not need to be changed.
In this case choose an appropriate sample concentration setting, which will change the split flow
without having to change the method.
From the Home screen, a user would choose the following Sample Concentrations to have the
following effect on the Split Flow, refer to Table 5-2, Split Valve Flow Ratios.
Page 74
70 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Table 5-2 Split Valve Flow Ratios
Split 50 to1 • High Concentration_Open = 0
• VOC-Low Concentration_Open = 10
• SVOC-Low Concentration_Open = 10
• High Concentration_Closed = 30
• VOC-Low Concentration_Closed = 30
• SVOC-Low Concentration_Closed = 30
Split 10 to 1 • High Concentration_Open = 0
• VOC-Low Concentration_Open = 2
• SVOC-Low Concentration_Open = 7
• High Concentration_Closed = 30
• VOC-Low Concentration_Closed = 10
• SVOC-Low Concentration_Closed = 10
Page 75
Sample Analysis . 71
Sample Analysis
NOTE:
On the Home screen of the instrument the Sample file name can be changed to reflect the type of
run being performed, if desired.
To perform a Sample Analysis, follow this procedure:
1. To edit the displayed file name, click in the Data File Name field to open the on-screen
keyboard and enter the changes.
An external keyboard may also be plugged into Torion T-9 GC/MS’s USB port for entering sample
names.
2. Choose Start Run to begin the run.
The current Injection Type displays on the Start Run button.
Once the Start Run process begins the screen will prompt for the injection as shown
previously.
3. When prompted by the software insert the Custodion SPME syringe needle into the injection
port.
Page 76
72 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Be sure the face of the Custodion syringe (the red disc with the
gold rings) makes good contact with the contact points on the
instrument as soon as the syringe is inserted.
Assurez-vous que le visage de la seringue du Dépositaire (le
disque rouge avec les bagues en or) entre en contact avec les
points de contact de l'instrument dès que la seringue est
insérée.
NOTE:
CAUTION
ATTENTION
The gold rings on the Custodion SPME syringe must contact the points on the GC injection
port. The instrument will NOT start an analysis if the Custodion syringe does not come in
contact with these contact points. The following figure shows (1)
GC injection port contacts.
SPME syringe gold rings (2)
The screen will display “Please Wait…” while the standard analytes are being desorbed from
the SPME.
After the specified time the screen will prompt the user to Depress and release plunger,
then remove syringe.
It is important to be sure the plunger is not depressed until the SPME syringe is fully inserted.
However, the time between the insertion of the syringe and the depression of the plunger should be
minimal, so no vapors are lost during this sample introduction.
Page 77
Sample Analysis . 73
Be sure the SPME fiber has been retracted into the syringe
needle, before removing the needle from the injection port.
Assurez-vous que la fibre SPME a été rétractée dans l'aiguille de
la seringue, avant de retirer l'aiguille du port d'injection.
The analysis may take several seconds to minutes depending on the injection type used to
complete.
4. Retract the fiber when prompted and remove the Custodion SPME syringe.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
The following screen is displayed during a sample run.
5. Select the Split View option from the above run screen.
Page 78
74 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
a. With the Split View option selected during a run, the total ion chromatogram (TIC) is
plotted at the top of the screen and the mass spectra are shown on the bottom plot.
b. The spectra plot shows the most recently collected spectra.
c. Selecting the Plot View option will return the screen to displaying chromatographic
data only.
d. Extended Run allows you to extend the run past what is setup in the method to
ensure enough peaks are displayed.
e. The Stop Run button stops the analysis and the screen changes to an intermediate
screen. The intermediate screen is shown at the end of any run while the system is
processing the data collected by the system. The intermediate screen is described
later in the chapter.
f. The Diagnostics button opens diagnostics screens which display the status of various
parameters which will be discussed later in this chapter.
6. The Processing Results screen is displayed between the end of the data collection and
when the results are displayed.
Page 79
Sample Analysis . 75
NOTE:
VNC
ESC
Stop Run
Cancel Run
NOTE:
If the Cancel Run button is pressed during the data processing step, the software will stop
processing the data and no results will be saved for that sample.
If
is being used to navigate the instrument and it becomes necessary to stop the processing of a
sample or performance validation run clicking the
run process if the buttons
The following screen shows the library results screen displayed at the end of a run. The table
on the bottom of the screen shows the post run results table, or the library hits, depending on
levels that have been defined in the Chromion software. Red alerts indicate levels set above
50 and Yellow indicates levels below 50.
Refer to the Analyzing a Sample section in this chapter for a detailed description of the
table.
and
key on the computer keyboard will abort the
are not visible for use on the VNC window.
The system automatically searches the target-ion-compound library. If a peak is detected, it will either
be named accordingly to library searching results, or it will be identified as an unknown if no library
match is found. In addition, the standard instrument method searches the unknown library for the
method of the unknown compound identification automatically on board (989 compounds). These
compounds, if detected, will be illustrated in the hit list with asterisks (*) in front of them. The entire
NIST database may also be searched by connection via cross-over cable to the system PC. Refer also
to the “Searching the External Unknown ID Library” section of this chapter.
Page 80
76 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Using Alerts for Hazardous Compounds
Chapter 6 Software
Table 5-3 Alert Descriptions
Viewing Spectra of a Specific Scan
If an Alert has been programmed into the method for a specific compound or multiple compounds the
hazard level text will appear in the Alert column on the instrument results window at the end of a run.
A popup message will display as notification for the first threat level detected. Click OK to dismiss the
dialog.
If desired, alerts can be configured by the user using Hazard Levels in the Chromion software which
will then display on the instrument as an Alert on the results window at the end of a run.
Refer to
for instructions on how to create Hazard Levels and use them with
alerts on the instrument.
• A red alert is identified with hazard levels 50 to 100. These user-defined levels could be
considered critical or life-threatening.
• An orange alert is identified with hazard levels 49 and below. These levels could be
considered serious but not life-threatening.
The following table shows examples of Hazard Levels defined in the Chromion software.
Alert Description
CWA-I Incapacitating agent
CWA-N Nerve agent
CWA-B Blister agent
EXP Explosive
TIC-X Extreme hazard (according to ITF-40 list)
NARC Narcotic
TIC-H High hazard (according to ITF-40 list)
TIC-M Toxic industrial chemical - medium hazard (according to ITF-40 list)
TIC-L Toxic industrial chemical - low hazard (according to ITF-40 list)
The spectra of a specific scan can be viewed by placing the cursor at the desired scan in the TIC plot
at the top of the screen that has been zoomed.
Page 81
Sample Analysis . 77
1. Place the cursor at the location where the spectra are required.
The following image shows the spectra of the compound peak selected in the image.
2. Clicking Split View displays the spectra of the selected scan in the lower pane.
3. Click and drag the cursor to form a square around the peaks to zoom in on the
chromatograph.
The screen below shows the zoom functionality in the spectra or Split View.
Page 82
78 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
The spectra plot can now be viewed more clearly using the zoom functionality.
The following image shows the zoom functionality being used in the chromatogram section of
the run results.
4. Clicking on the x-axis opens an options list.
Page 83
Sample Analysis . 79
5. Selecting Enable Annotations will place the compound name on the peaks.
When selecting Enable Annotations the compound name will appear on the peak in the TIC
graph.
6. After zooming in on either the TIC plot or the spectra plot tap the bottom axis area of the plot
with the stylus.
A popup box displays with the option to Zoom Normal or Zoom Out.
• Zoom Normal restores the full view of the TIC plot or the spectra plot depending on which plot
axis was selected.
• Zoom Out returns to the view of the last zoom selection. If zoomed in twice the view returns to
the first zoomed in view.
Page 84
80 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
7. Selecting the More Options button displays a popup with additional functions.
8. Details When clicking Details for the selected compound in the results list information will be
retrieved from the NIOSH database which is located on the SD card.
The image below is the NIOSH information for the compound Bromoform which is selected in
the image above.
Page 85
Sample Analysis . 81
Export to USB… - This option can be used to export .RES file to the USB drive. This file
contains the RAW data, method information, .CDF file and the report file. The .TXT includes
the summary of the analysis report.
Export Report (Wireless) - Used to export a report containing the analysis report using the
wireless modem to a remote PC that is equipped with a wireless modem.
View Report Displays the report in text view.
Switch View Mode - This option toggles the view between the Plot View and the results of a
Group status view. See Groups in Chapter 6 Software of this manual.
9. Selecting the Home button returns the screen to the home screen for the next analysis.
Page 86
82 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Review the Results of an Analysis
Viewing the Results on the Torion T-9 GC/ MS System
Previous Results
This section explains how to view the results of an analysis after the run has been completed. The
results may be viewed on the Torion T-9 GC/MS system or on a PC using the Chromion software.
The results of an analysis include:
• a chromatogram,
• the mass spectra of compounds detected, and
• a list of identified chemicals.
On-site analysis will rely heavily on the library of target chemicals placed on the Torion T-9 GC/MS.
More extensive libraries can be accessed for comparison when using the PC application software. You
may also add chemicals into the Torion T-9 GC/MS library.
The results of an analysis appear after each run on the display screen of the Torion T-9 GC/MS
system. Previous run results may also be viewed post analysis by selecting the Previous Results
button from the Home screen.
This function allows previous run files to be viewed on the Torion T-9 GC/MS system.
1. From the Previous Results screen touch the drop-down arrow on the Folder list to display a
list of folders on the SD card as shown below.
Page 87
2. Highlight and double-touch the desired folder.
A list of all the data files within the chosen folder will be displayed.
Review the Results of an Analysis . 83
3. Touch the data file to be viewed from the list.
You can move through the Results list by either using the arrows and sliders on the edge of
the results window or by using the Up and Down buttons.
Page 88
84 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
4. Touch the View button to view on the instrument the results of the data file.
The following screen is displayed while the instrument loads the data file.
After the data file has been loaded into the window the previous results of the run will be
displayed.
Page 89
Review the Results of an Analysis . 85
Quantitative Analysis
To activate the Quantitative Analysis:
1. From the Advanced menu, select Method.
2. The Methods window displays. Select a method that has been set up for quantitative analysis
in the Chromion software.
3. Press Activate.
4. A screen prompt suggests you run a system blank, select Yes or No.
The Home screen displays the name of the quantitative analysis method in the status bar. The
Start Run button now displays the type of sample injection selected in the quantitative
analysis method.
Page 90
86 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
5. Enter an appropriate Multiplier if the actual sampling conditions are different from what is
specified in the Method.
For example, if the Method specifies sample collection of 1.0 L of air, but you were only able
to collect 0.5 L, you would enter a multiplier of 2.00 (1.0 L / 0.5 L).
6. Press the Start Run button and follow the on-screen prompts.
The next screen shows how the system displays the concentration results for a Quantitative
Method. The concentration units displayed in the CONC column are defined in the method
using the Chromion software.
Page 91
Review the Results of an Analysis . 87
Exporting Files
There are two ways to export files from the instrument SD card to a USB storage device.
1. From the Home screen choose the Previous Results button, and then select a file for
exporting.
2. Click the Export button.
A list from which to export the file now displays two additional files besides the .RES file. The
report or .TXT file and the .CDF file are now available. Select the files to be included in the
export by placing a checkmark next to the file.
Insert a USB drive into the USB port under the Utility Cover and press Export Files.
Page 92
88 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
The following screen will be displayed.
The Windows CE directory for the Torion T-9 GC/MS system is displayed on the left. The Hard
Disk is the storage device plugged into the USB port.
3. You should navigate to and highlight the location where the data files are to be exported.
4. Click OK to export the data files.
When the data files have successfully been exported the following screen will be displayed.
5. Click OK to close the dialog and then the click the Home button to return to the home screen.
The Export Files function can also be accessed from the Results Data screen by clicking
More Options as shown in the image below.
Page 93
Review the Results of an Analysis . 89
Details
Export to USB
Export Report
(Wireless)
6. With a USB inserted into the instrument click on Export to USB.
Select the files and click Export Files.
7. Choose the Hard Disk for the USB drive and click OK.
A message will appear indicating a successful export.
Hazard database information is displayed for selected chemicals in the
results list.
Used to export .cdf .res and .txt files to the USB drive.
• .cdf contains the processed GCMS data analysis
• .res contains raw data, method information .cdf file and report file
• .txt includes the summary of the Analysis report
Used to export a report containing the Analysis Report Summary using
the wireless modem to a remote PC base station that is equipped with a
wireless modem.
Page 94
90 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Advanced Menu
Procedure
Activating a Procedure
The information available through the Advanced menu include items from system data to instructions
on shutting down the instrument.
Selecting the Advanced button displays the following menu screen.
Torion T-9 GC/MS software navigation is driven by a function called a Standard Operating
Procedure (SOP). A Procedure consists of a series of pre-programmed steps (like a macro language)
that are automatically executed to guide you in the operation of the Torion T-9 GC/MS system.
Contact PerkinElmer for more details on how to create Procedures.
There are two types of Procedures that can be created for the Torion T-9 GC/MS software:
Locked
Unlocked
To select and activate a Procedure:
1. From the Home screen select Advanced followed by Procedure.
2. Select the desired Procedure.
3. Select Activate.
When a Procedure is activated, it will begin executing the pre-programmed steps in the
Procedure. In most cases, it will begin by going back to the Home screen. In addition, the
prefix for the automatically generated Sample name on the Home page is the name of the
Procedure.
A locked Procedure forces you to perform operations (such as running a System
Blank or Performance Validation) in the exact order programmed into the Procedure.
Unlocked Procedures can still be set up to guide you through a series of suggested
operations, but they also allow you to deviate from the pre-programmed operations.
Page 95
Advanced Menu . 91
NOTE:
Default
Ending a Procedure
The
Procedure is the simplest type of Procedure. It is an unlocked Procedure that allows you to
analyze samples using the currently active Method. This Procedure provides unrestricted access to all
operations of the Torion T-9 GC/MS software, excepting those that require a password.
4. Pressing the View button allows you to view the contents of a Procedure.
If there is interest in creating proprietary custom Procedures based on the Standard Operating
Procedures developed locally for use on the Torion T-9 system, contact PerkinElmer for more
information.
To end (stop running) an active Procedure:
1. From the Home screen click Advanced followed by clicking Procedure.
Page 96
92 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Selecting a Different Procedure
2. Pressing End SOP (see the above screen) displays an intermediate screen that indicates the
current procedure has ended.
3. Pressing Restart Procedure restarts the current (just ended) Procedure from the beginning.
4. Pressing Activate Last Method allows you to continue running samples using the currently
activated Method. This operation creates a new temporary Procedure (named “activated”) that
is based on the current Default Procedure. Thus, the prefix for the automatically generated
Sample name changed to “activated” when this operation is used.
5. Pressing Previous Results allows viewing of previously collected sample data. Refer to the
Previous Results section of this chapter.
6. Pressing Advanced will return you to the advanced menu items.
There are two additional procedures that can be run, 20Sample and BlankPV rev3.
To select a different Procedure to run:
1. From the Home screen select Advanced followed by Procedure.
2. Select one of these other Procedures from the list.
3. Select Activate and follow the prompts.
Page 97
Advanced Menu . 93
Status/Diagnostics
Gas Chromatography Tab
Mass Spectrometry Tab
Selecting Status/Diagnostics displays the following screen, under which the following tabs are
available: Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Versions, Status, Edit and Current Problems.
This tab shows the actual temperatures and pressures of the various components of the GC. It also
shows the Split/Splitless Settings for the currently active method.
This screen shows actual values from the mass spectrometer. These values are used by service
personnel to diagnose potential problems with the instrument.
Page 98
94 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
Versions Tab
Status Tab
With the Versions tab selected all build numbers of software can be viewed. This information is helpful
when determining the correct control software has been activated on the instrument.
This screen shows the percent of Battery life remaining, as well as other data on instrument
temperatures and runs.
Page 99
Advanced Menu . 95
Edit Tab
This screen has the settings for Filament Current, Detector Voltage, and the Ion Target. These
values can be manually set by touching the desired field with the stylus.
As soon as the field is touched with the stylus or with the mouse when using VNC a screen will
open in which to enter the password which is required to make a change.
4. Enter the password and then click Continue.
Contact a PerkinElmer Service Representative for the T-9 password.
editable.
5. Place the cursor next to the value and erase the contents then enter the new value.
A floating keyboard will be displayed with which to make the desired changes by taping the
stylus on the numbers.
The fields are now
Page 100
96 . Torion T-9 User’s Guide
These changes take effect immediately (even in the middle of a
run) and should only be adjusted by experienced users.
Ces changements entrent en vigueur immédiatement (même au
milieu d'une course) et ne devraient être ajustés que par des
utilisateurs expérimentés.
As soon as the values have been changed click on the Home button. The changes will be
saved and the home screen will display.
CAUTION
ATTENTION
6. Another function available on the Edit screen is to exit the instrument software. Click on the
button Exit Software.
The password screen appears.
Loading...