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FOCUS GC
Gas Chromatograph
Instruction Manual
PN 31709412, Revis i o n Ma y 20 07
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FOCUS™ GC Instruction Manual
May 2007 Edition
Part Number 317 094 12
© 2007 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.
Printed in I taly
Published by Thermo Electron S.p.A., Strada Rivoltana, 20090 Rodano - Milan - Italy
Tel: +39 02 95059355 Fax: +39 02 95059388
Printing History: First Edition, released June 2002
Second Edition, released May 2003
Third Editio n, released Ap ril 2004
Fourth Edition, released Nove m ber 2004
Fifth Edition, released January 2005
Sixth Edition, released Septe m ber 2005
Seventh Edition, released June 2006
Eight Edition, released January 2007
Ninth Edition, released May 2007
Disclaimer
Technical Information contained in th is publication is for referenc e purposes only and is subject to change without notice. Every effort has
been made to supply complete and accura te information; however, Thermo Fisher Scientific assumes no re sponsi bi li ty and wi ll not be liable
for any errors, omissions, damage, or loss that mi ght resul t fr om any use of this manual or the information contained therein (even if this
information is properly followed and problems still arise).
This publication is not part of th e A gre ement of Sale between Ther mo Fisher Scientific and the purchas er of a FOCUS™ GC system. In the
event of any conflict be tween the provisions of thi s do cument and those cont ai ned in Thermo Fisher Scientifi c’s Terms and Conditions, the
provisions of the Terms and Conditions shall govern.
Reference to System Configurations and Specifications supercede all previous information and are subject to change without not ice.
Trademarks
FOCUS™ GC is a tradema r k of T he r m o Thermo Scientific Inc., and its subsidi ari e s. O th er brand and product names ma y be tra de marks or
registered trad em arks of their respective companies .
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Declaration
Manufacturer: Thermo Electron S.p.A.
Thermo Electron S.p.A. is the manufacturer of the instrument described in this
manual and, as such, is responsible for the inst rument safety, reliability and
performance only if:
• installation
• re-calibration
• changes and repairs
have been carried out by authorized personnel and if:
• the local installation complies with local law regulations
• the instrument is used according to the instructions provided and if its
operation is only entrusted to qualified trained personnel
Thermo Electron S.p.A. is not liable for any damages derived from the
non-compliance with the aforementioned recommendations.
Thermo Electron S.p.A.
Strada Rivoltana
20090 RODANO (MI)
ITALY
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iv Instruction Manual
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Contents
About This Manual...............................................................................................................................xiii
Overview.................................................................................................................................xiii
Conventions Used in This Manual...........................................................................................xv
Instrument Markings and Symbols.......................................................................................xviii
Using the FOCUS GC Document Set......................................................................................x x
Classification of the Instrument ..............................................................................................xxi
Technical Features ..................................................................................................................xxi
Safety Information .................................................................................................................xxii
Use of Gases..............................................................................................................xxii
Using Hydrogen................................................................................................................. ...xxiii
Using the Hydrogen Sensor.....................................................................................xxiv
Cleaning and Decontamination.............................................................................................xxiv
Chapter 1
FOCUS GC Description.................................................. ..... ..... ..... ................................. .... ............... 25
Instrument Overview................................................................................................................26
FOCUS GC Components............................................................................................26
Pneumatic Compartment................................................................................26
Analytical Unit...............................................................................................26
Electronic Compartment................................................................................27
Status Panel and Keypad................................................................................27
Gas Control................................................................................................................. 27
Carrier Gas Control........................................................................................27
Detector Gas Control.....................................................................................28
Column Oven..............................................................................................................28
Injector........................................................................................................................28
Split/Splitless (S/SL) Injector........................................................................28
Purged Packed Column (PPKD) injector.......................................................29
Columns......................................................................................................................29
Detector.......................................................................................................................29
Flame Ionization Detector (FID)...................................................................29
Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)..........................................................30
External Detectors..........................................................................................30
Instrument Automation...............................................................................................30
Data Systems Interface................................................................................................30
GC Parts Description................................................................................................................31
Front Panel..................................................................................................................31
Column Oven.................................................................................................32
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Contents
User Interface ................................................................................................ 32
Electronic Compartment................................................................................ 33
Rear Panel................................................................................................................... 35
Carrier Gas Inlet Port..................................................................................... 36
Detector Gases Inlet Ports............................................................................. 36
Servo Air for Gas Sampling Valve Inlet Port................................................ 36
Gas Sampling Valve Sample In/Out Ports .................................................... 37
Electrical Connections................................................................................... 37
Oven Exhaust Vent........................................................................................38
Top Panel.................................................................................................................... 39
Gas Sampling Valve Overview.................................................................................. 40
Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface .........................................................................................................41
Overview.................................................................................................................................. 42
The Display................................................................................................................. 42
The Display LEDs...................................................................................................... 44
The FOCUS GC Keypad............................................................................................ 45
Parameters Entry ........................................................................................... 46
User Interface Main Menu....................................................................................................... 47
Oven............................................................................................................................47
Inlet............................................................................................................................. 48
Carrier.........................................................................................................................48
Detector ...................................................................................................................... 48
No Detector ................................................................................................... 49
External Detector........................................................................................... 49
Signal..........................................................................................................................49
External Detector........................................................................................... 50
Autosampler................................................................................................................ 50
Sequence..................................................................................................................... 50
Others..........................................................................................................................51
Configuration........................................................................................................................... 51
When to Configure..................................................................................................... 51
Configuration Menu................................................................................................................. 52
Oven Configuration Menu.......................................................................................... 53
Carrier Configuration Menu....................................................................................... 54
Detector Configuration Menu..................................................................................... 55
Autosampler Configuration Menu.............................................................................. 56
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Contents
AS 2000 Autosampler....................................................................................56
AI 3000/AS 3000...........................................................................................56
Messages........................................................................................................57
General Configuration Menu...................................................... ......... .......................58
Keyboard & Display Configuration Menu..................................................................58
Beep Table.....................................................................................................59
Handshake Configuration Menu.................................................................................60
Time Configuration Menu ..........................................................................................61
Valves Configuration Menu........................................................................................61
Run Time Events......................................................................................................................62
Run-Log ...................................................................................................................................64
Time .........................................................................................................................................66
Valves.......................................................................................................................................67
Info/Diagnostics.......................................................................................................................68
Chapter 3
Gas Control ................................... ..... ..... .... ..... ................................. ................................................71
Gas Supplies.............................................................................................................................72
Carrier Gas Regulation.............................................................................................................75
Detector Gas Regulation..........................................................................................................75
Measuring Gas Flow................................................................................................................78
Carrier Gas Parameters ............................................................................................................80
Flow Mode..................................................................................................................80
Constant Flow................................................................................................80
Constant Pressure...........................................................................................80
Chapter 4
Column Oven ....................................................................................................................................83
Column Oven Overview ..........................................................................................................84
Oven Safety.................................................................................................................85
Column Oven Configuration....................................................................................................86
Oven Parameters ......................................................................................................................87
Chapter 5
Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) ...........................................................................................................93
S/SL Overview.........................................................................................................................94
Septum ........................................................................................................................97
Liners ..........................................................................................................................97
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Packed Columns............................................................................................98
S/SL Injection Techniques..................................................................................................... 101
Split Injection Technique.......................................................................................... 101
Splitless Injection Technique.................................................................................... 103
Refocusing the Sample................................................................................ 105
Flooding....................................................................................................... 106
S/SL Inlet Parameters............................................................................................................ 107
Chapter 6
Purged Packed Column Injector (PPKD) .........................................................................................113
PPKD Overview .................................................................................................................... 114
Septa ......................................................................................................................... 116
Liners........................................................................................................................ 116
PPKD Injection Techniques .................................................................................................. 116
PPKD Injector Menu............................................................................................................. 116
Chapter 7
Column ...............................................................................................................................................125
Introduction............................................................................................................................ 126
Capillary and Wide-bore Columns........................................................................................ 126
Using Correct Fittings .............................................................................................. 126
Column Ferrules.......................................................................................... 126
Packed Columns .................................................................................................................... 128
Metric Packed Columns............................................................................................ 128
Using Correct Metric Fittings...................................................................... 128
Imperial Packed Columns......................................................................................... 129
Using Correct Imperial Fittings................................................................... 129
Installation............................................................................................................................. 132
Keeping Leaks Under Control............................................................................................... 146
Column Evaluation................................................................................................... 146
Identifying and Removing Leaks............................................................................. 146
Expected K Factor.................................................................................................... 150
K Factor Tables ........................................................................................................ 150
Helium Carrier Gas Theoretical K Factor................................................... 151
Nitrogen Carrier Gas Theoretical K Factor................................................. 152
Hydrogen Carrier Gas Theoretical K Factor............................................... 153
Column Conditioning............................................................................................................ 156
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Chapter 8
Flame Ionization Detector (FID) .......................................................................................................157
FID Overview.........................................................................................................................158
Detector Base Body ..................................................................................................158
Detector Gas..............................................................................................................159
Jet..............................................................................................................................159
Selectivity..................................................................................................................160
Temperature..............................................................................................................160
FID Gas Supplies...................................................................................................................161
FID Installation......................................................................................................................162
FID Menu...............................................................................................................................164
Flame Out Conditions...............................................................................................165
Detector Signal Parameters ....................................................................................................166
Chapter 9
Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD) .............................................................................................171
TCD Overview.......................................................................................................................172
TCD Gas Supplies..................................................................................................................174
Columns....................................................................................................................175
TCD Operating Modes...........................................................................................................175
Constant Temperature...............................................................................................175
Constant Voltage.......................................................................................................175
Selecting TCD Operating Parameters................................................................................. ...177
Using the CT Mode...................................................................................................177
Using the CV Mode..................................................................................................177
Suggested Operating Values.....................................................................................178
TCD Menu .............................................................................................................................179
Detector Signal Parameters ....................................................................................................181
Chapter 10
Autosamplers ....................................................................................................................................187
Autosampler Overview..........................................................................................................188
Sequence of Sample..................................................................................................188
Autosampler Configuration.......................................................................................189
Autosampler Menu....................................................................................................189
AS 2000 Autosampler Menu..................................................................................................190
Internal Standard Use........................................................................... ......... ............192
AI 3000/AS 3000 Menu.........................................................................................................193
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Sequence Programming......................................................................................................... 195
Chapter 11
Getting Started .................................................................................... ..............................................197
Instrument Set-up................................................................................................................... 198
Run Time Events................................................................................................................... 202
Controlling Valves................................................................................................................. 206
Run Time Control (Gas Sampling Valve Only)....................................................... 206
Manual Control......................................................................................................... 206
Instrument Start-Up............................................................................................................... 208
Instrument Status Messages................................................................................................... 211
Not Ready................................................................................................................. 211
Stand-By................................................................................................................... 212
Prep-Run................................................................................................................... 212
Ready to Inject.......................................................................................................... 213
Ready to Inject with an Autosampler enabled.......................................................... 213
Run............................................................................................................................ 213
Chapter 12
Checkout Using FID with S/SL..........................................................................................................215
SOP number: P0407/05/E - 31 May 2006............................................................................. 216
Scope ........................................................................................................................ 216
Preliminary Operations............................................................................................. 216
Parts Referenced....................................................................................................... 218
Analytical Conditions Required for FID-S/SL......................................................... 219
Chapter 13
Checkout Using TCD with S/SL........................................................................................................229
SOP number: P0473/04/E - 02 May 2007............................................................................. 230
Scope ........................................................................................................................ 230
Preliminary Operations............................................................................................. 230
Parts Referenced....................................................................................................... 232
Analytical Conditions Required for TCD-S/SL ....................................................... 233
Chapter 14
Checkout Using TCD with PPKD......................................................................................................243
SOP number: P0474/05/E - 02 May 2007............................................................................ 244
Scope ........................................................................................................................ 244
Preliminary Operations............................................................................................. 244
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Parts Referenced .......................................................................................................246
Analytical Conditions Required for Splitless Injection............................................248
Chapter 15
Maintenance and Troubleshooting 257
Maintenance...........................................................................................................................259
How To Perform Maintenance..................................................................................259
Suggested Maintenance Schedule.............................................................................259
Septa.............................................................................................................259
Ferrules and Seals........................................................................................260
Traps ............................................................................................................260
Detector Unit................................................................................................260
Maintenance Schedule Table....................................................................................260
Instrument Cleaning............................................................................................... ...261
Maintaining a SSL Injector....................................................................................................262
When Replacing the Standard Septum......................................................................262
When Cleaning or Replacing the Liner.....................................................................262
If the Glass Liner Breaks Inside the Injector............................................................263
Related Operating Sequences....................................................................................263
Maintaining a PPKD Injector.................................................................................................276
When replacing the septum.......................................................................................276
When replacing the liner...........................................................................................276
Maintaining a FID..................................................................................................................282
FID Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................295
Change in Sensitivity...................................................................................295
Gases............................................................................................................295
Flame Ignition..............................................................................................296
Maintaining a TCD ................................................................................................................298
TCD Troubleshooting............................................................................................................300
Sensitivity..................................................................................................................300
Baseline drift.............................................................................................................300
Negative peaks..........................................................................................................300
Troubleshooting the TCD.........................................................................................301
Maintaning Gas Sampling Valve...........................................................................................304
Analytical Troubleshooting....................................................................................................306
Instrument Troubleshooting......................................................................................307
Error Messages.......................................................................................................................307
Guide to Solve Analytical Problems......................................................................................309
Contents
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Contents
Chapter 16
LAN Option Set-up.............................................................................................................................321
Introduction............................................................................................................................ 322
IP Address and LAN Communication Port.............................................................. 322
Reset Button ............................................................................................................. 323
Network Cables ........................................................................................................ 323
Set-Up.................................................................................................................................... 324
Appendix A
Customer Communication................................................................................................................337
How To Contact Us...............................................................................................................337
Reader Survey........................................................................................................... 338
Glossary..............................................................................................................................................339
Index....................................................................................................................................................345
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Overview
About This Manual
This Operating Manual contains descriptions of the features and components of
the FOCUS GC gas chromatograph. Inside, you will find all of the information
necessary for routine operation of your GC, including operating sequences,
sample injection techniques, and diagrams and descriptions of the major
components.
Chapter 1, FOCUS GC Description, provid es a basi c over view of the f eatur es an d
options of the FOCUS GC gas chromatograph. After each brief description of a
FOCUS GC component, you will find references to chapters in this manual
containing more detailed information.
Chapter 2, The FOCUS GC User Interface, provides basic information about key
functions and menus. This ch apter cont ains als o instruct ions to se t up the softwar e
on your GC either to match the installed hardware or to reflect your preferences.
Chapter 3, Gas Contr ol, contain s informat ion on co ntrolling and pro gramming the
carrier and detector gas flows to the FOCUS GC.
Chapter 4, Column Oven, describes the features of the FOCUS GC column oven.
Chapter 5, Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL), describes the Split/Splitless (S/SL)
injector and cont ains op erati ng sequ ences f or the different split/splitless opera ting
modes.
Chapter 6, Purged Packed Column Injector (PPKD), describes Purged Packed
Column (PPKD) injector.
Chapter 7, Column, describes the analytical columns installed in the FOCUS GC
oven.
Chapter 8, Flame Ionization Detector (FID), describes the Flame Ionization
Detector.
Chapter 9, Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD), describes the operating
principles and sequences for the Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD).
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About This Manual Overview
Chapter 10, Autosamplers, describes how to program and control the AS 2000
autosampler and the AI 3000/AS 3000 by using the FOCUS GC keypad. This
chapter contains also the instruc ti ons t o pr ogr amming a sample sequence wit h the
FOCUS GC keypad when an AS 2000 or an AI 3000/AS3000 is used and how to
set up ranges of samples to run automatically.
Chapter 11, Getting Started, contains instructions to operate with your FOCUS
GC through the instrument keypad. We also included instructions to program a
Run Time Events and the instrument start-up.
Chapter 12, Checkout Using FID with S/SL, contains the operating procedure to
check the Flame Ionization Detector w ith the Split / Splitless Inj ector (S/SL) .
Chapter 13, Checkout Using TCD with S/SL, contains the operating procedure to
check the Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD) with the Split/Splitless Inje ctor
(S/SL).
Chapter 14, Checkout Using TCD with PPKD, contains the operating procedure
to check the Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD) with the Purged Packed
Injector (PPKD).
Chapter 15, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, contains information and
operating sequences to perform the necessary maintenance of the instrument and
also information concerning troubleshooting in case of malfunctioning.
Chapter 16, LAN Option Set-up, contains notes on how to set-up and start using
the FOCUS GC with the LAN (Local Area Network) option.
Appendix A, Customer Communication, contains contact information for Thermo
Fisher Scientific offices worldwide. Use the Reader Survey in this section to give
us feedback on this man ual and h elp us improve the quality of our documentation.
The Glossary c ontai ns def initi ons of terms u sed in thi s manual . This a lso i nclude s
abbreviations, acronyms, metric prefixes, and symbols.
The Index contains an alphabetical list of key terms and topics in this guide,
including cross references and the corresponding page numbers.
xiv Instruction Manual
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Conventions Used in This Manual About This Manual
Conventions Used in This Manual
The following symbols and typographical conventions are used throughout this
manual.
Bold Bold text indicates names of windows, dialog boxes, and
fields.
Italic Italic indic ates cross references, first reference s to important
terms defined in the glossary, and special emphasis.
Monospace
Monospace
Bold
» This symbo l illustrates m enu paths to select, such as
KEY NAME Bold, uppercase sans se rif font indicat es the name o f a key on
CAUTION
NOTE
WARNING!
Monospace, or Courier, indicates filenames and filepaths or
text the use r should enter with the keyboard.
Monospace Bold indicates mess age s, p rompt s, o r men u t it les
displayed on the computer screen or on a digital display.
File»Open….
a keyboard or keypad, such as ENTER.
This symbol alerts you to an action or sequence that, if
performed improperly, could damage the instrument.
This symbol alerts you to important information related to the
text in the previous paragraph.
This symbol alerts you to an action or sequence that, if
improperly performed, could result in damage to the
instrument or possib le physica l harm to the use r . Thi s symbol
may be followed by icons indicating special precautions that
should be taken to avoid injury.
This symbol indicates an electric shock hazard.
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About This Manual Conventions Used in This Manual
This symbol indicates danger from hazard ous chemica ls .
This symbol indicates danger fr om high temperature sur faces
or substances.
This symbol indicates a fire hazard.
This symbol indicates an explosion hazard.
This symbol indicates a toxic hazard.
This symbol indicates the presence of flammabl e mater ial s.
This symbol indicates the presence of radioa ct ive materi al .
This symbol indicates an operation or sequence that must not
be performed by the user. A Thermo Fisher Scientific
authorized Customer Support Engineer must perform this
sequence.
This symbol indicates all metal objects, such as watches and
jewelry, must be taken off .
This symbol indicates an eye hazard. Eye protection must be
worn.
This symbol indicates the user must wear a protective screen
when performing the sequence.
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Conventions Used in This Manual About This Manual
This symbol indicates the user must wear protective shoes
when performing the sequence.
This symbol indicates the user must wear protective clothing
when performing the sequence.
This symbol indicates the user must wear gloves when
performing the sequence.
Instruction Manual xvii
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About This Manual Instrument Markings and Symbols
3
Instrument Markings and Symbols
The following table explains the symbols used on Thermo Fisher Scientific
instruments. Only a few of them are used on the FOCUS GC gas chromatograph.
Symbol Description
Direct Current
Alternating Current
Both direct and alternating current
Three-phase alternating current
Earth (ground) terminal
Protective conductor terminal
Frame or chassis terminal
Equipotentiality
On (Supply)
Off (Supply)
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Instrument Markings and Symbols About This Manual
Symbol Description
Equipment protected throughout by DOUBLE
INSULATION or REINFORCED INSULATION
(Equivalent to Class II of IEC 536)
Indicates that the user must refer to th e manual for
specific Warning or Caution information to avoid
personal injury or damage to the product.
Caution, risk of electric shock
Caution, hot surface
Caution (refer to accompanying documents)
In-position of a bistable push control
Out-position of a bistable push control
Symbol in compliance to the Directive 2002/96/EC on
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipments (WEEE)
placed on the european market after August, 13, 2005.
Instruction Manual xix
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About This Manual Using the FOCUS GC Document Set
Using the FOCUS GC Document Set
The FOCUS GC Document Set (CD-Rom PN 317 095 00) includes al l manuals in
electronic format, and serves as your library for information about the FOCUS
hardware and software.
The FOCUS GC Document Set (PN 317 094 10) as paper copy is also available
Furthermore,Thermo Fisher Scientific part numbers (PN) for the paper copy
manuals are provided for each book title.
Site Preparation and Installation Manual (PN 317 094 11)
This manual and diskett e descr ibes ho w to set up a wo rks pace fo r the FOCUS GC
and how to connect the FOCUS GC to the gas supplies and peripheral devices.
FOCUS GC Instruction Manual (PN 317 094 12)
This manual provides descriptions of the FOCUS GC hardware and software and
instructio ns for their us e.
Spare Parts Catalog (PN 317 094 13)
This catalog contains a list of spare parts for the FOCUS GC.
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Classification of the Instrument About This Manual
Classification of the Instrument
Environmental Conditions
• Internal use.
• Altitude up to 2000 meters.
• Temperature from 15 to 35 °C.
• Maximum relative humidity between 30% and 85%.
• Voltage variations not exceeding% of the nominal value.
• Transients according to installation categories II.
• Degree of pollution according to IEC 664 (3.7.3) 2.
Technical Features
The following table summarizes the major technical features of the FOCUS GC
Features Description
• External Interface
— RS232 Serial Line
— LAN (Optional)
• Power Supply
— 120 Vac; 50/60 Hz; 1600 VA
— 230 Vac; 50/60 Hz; 1600 VA
• Dimensions
— 680 x 640 x 440 mm (h x l x w)
•Mass
—About 30 kg
Instruction Manual xxi
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About This Manual Safety Information
Safety Information
WARNING! The instrument must be used according to the specifications of this guide. Improper
use can adversely affect the instrument protect ion. The analytica l operation requires
the use of chemical substances having different hazard specifications. Before using
chemicals, please read the ha zar d indica tions and information reported in the Safety
Sheet supplied by the manufacturer referring to the relevant CAS (Chemical
Abstract Service) number.
Use of Gases
WARNING! Before using gases, carefully read the hazard indications and information reported
in the Safety Sheet supplied by the manufacturer referring to the CAS (Chemical
Abstract Service) number. It is the user ’s responsibility to see that all local safety
regulations for the use of gases are obeyed.
xxii Instruction Manual
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Using Hydrogen About This Manual
Using Hydrogen
The use of hydrogen as a ca rr ier gas or as fuel for ce rtain flame detectors re qui res
the operator’s strict attention and compliance with special precautions due to the
hazards involved.
Hydrogen is a dangerous gas, particularly in an enclosed area when it reaches a
concentration corresponding to its lower explosion level (4% in volume). When
mixed with air it can create an explosive mixture. An explosion hazard could
develop in the GC oven when hydrogen is used as a carrier gas if oven elements
are not perfectly connected to each other, or if the connection materials are worn
out, broken, or otherwise faulty.
Use the following safety precautions when using hydrogen:
• Ensure that all hydrogen cylinders comply with the safety requirements for
proper use and storage. Hydrogen cylinders and delivery systems must
comply with local regulations.
• Make sure the gas supply is tu rned completely of f wh en connecting hydrogen
lines.
• Perform a bubble test to ensure that the hydrogen lines are leak-tight before
using the
Testing for Leaks paragraph in FOCUS GC Site Preparation and Installa-
tion Guide Manual. Repeat this test to eliminate al l leaks.
• Ensure your GC column oven has a Thermo Fisher Scientific hydrogen sensor . The hydr ogen se nsor con tinuou sly mo nitor s the hyd rogen le vel in the GC
column oven.
If your GC oven does not have a hydrogen sensor already installed, contact your
Thermo Fisher Scientific sales representative. To comply with instrument safety
requirements, a Thermo Fisher Scientific CSE or authorized service technician
should install the sensor.
If you plan to use a sensor other than the recommended Thermo Fisher Scientific
sensor, you must verify its ability to perform the functions listed above before
installing it. It must comply with your local safety regulations, or with the IEC
61010 regulations if local regulations do not exist.
Instruction Manual xxiii
instrument. Perform this test after the pressure test described in the
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About This Manual Cleaning and Decontamination
Using the Hydrogen Sensor
The lower limit of the hydrogen sensor is 0.5% in volume. You should adjust the
detection threshold to 1% in volume, which is 25% of the hydrogen lower limit of
explosion (4% in volume). In cases where the connections begin to leak or the
column breaks, the sensor alerts the operator. Then it automatically cuts off the
gas supply and heating to the active zones, and sweeps the column oven with
forced air ventilation. If the sensor detects anomalies or leaks during GC
operation due to instrument malfunction, the operator must immediately:
• close the hydrogen supply
• switch off the gas chromatograph
• air out the room
The reliability of the sens or dep ends on car eful main tenance. Af ter the sensor is in
use, you must periodically check its operating performance and calibration as
recommended by the manufacturer. Refer to your hydrogen sensor’s instruction
manual for maintenance guidelines.
WARNING! Never use hydrogen in FOCUS GC unless your GC oven has a hydrogen sensor
installed.
Thermo Fisher Scientific CSEs are not authorized to install or repair any instrument
using hydrogen as a carrier gas unless the instrument is equipped with the appropriate sensor.
Cleaning and Decontamination
Normal usage of the FOCUS GC can cause the exterior to get dirty. Clean the
outer surfaces by wiping them with a cloth dampened with water.
In the event that a hazardous material is spilled on or in the inst rument, clean the
spill according to the procedures in the Material Safety Data Sheet for that
substance.
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FOCUS GC Description
This chapter provides a basic overview of the features and options of the FOCUS
GC gas chromatograph. Aft er each brief description of a FOCUS GC component,
you will find references to chapters in this manual containing more detailed
information.
Chapter at a Glance…
Instrument Overvie w............................................................................................26
GC Parts Description............................................................................................31
1
Instruction Manual 25
Page 26
Chapter 1
FOCUS GC Description Instrument Overview
Instrument Overview
The FOCUS GC consists of four major components, as shown in
Figure 1-1.
FOCUS GC Components
1
2
3
1. Pneumatic Compartment 3. Electronic Compartment
2. Analytical Unit 4. Status Panel and Keyboard
Figure 1-1. FOCUS GC Components
34
Pneumatic Compartment
The pneumatic compartment contains the pneumatic gas control circuits. The
carrier gas control circuit is completely electronic (digital pneumatics), while the
detector gas control circuit is conventional (analog pneumatics)
Analytical Unit
The analytical unit consists of two subcompartments:
• the column oven
• the injector and detector compartment
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Chapter 1
Instrument Overview FOCUS GC Description
Electronic Compartment
The electronic compartment consists of two subcompartments:
• the high-voltage compartment
• the low voltage compartment
Status Panel and Keypad
The status panel and the keypad make up the FOCUS GC user interface.
Gas Control
The GC is equipped with digital pneumatics for carrier gas control and
conventional pneumatics for detector gases control.
Carrier Gas Control
Carrier gas is controlled electronically through an electronic pneumatic control
module Digital Pressure Flow Control (DPFC) mounted in the pneumatic
compartment.
DPFC Module
The DPFC module features the following:
• constant pressure or constant flow operating modes
• inlet pressure control (in kPa, psi, or bar) and column flow rate control
(in mL/min)
• split flow contr ol (i n mL/mi n)
• septum purge flow control (in mL/min)
The DPFC module also allows the following operations:
Instruction Manual 27
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Chapter 1
FOCUS GC Description Instrument Overview
— Column Evaluation
To to automatically calculate the column constant.
— Leak Check
To keep the system under control.
— Gas Saver Function
To reduce the split flow after an injection to avoi d th e wast e of expensive
gases.
Detector Gas Control
Detector gases are controlled through a conventional pneumatic control module
(DGFC) mounted in the pneumatic compartment. The pneumatic circuits have
three flow regulators in case of an FID and two flow regulator in case of a TCD.
The adjustment is done in factory prior shipment, and remains always at the set
flow. DGFC gas flow can be automatically switched on and off by using the
FOCUS GC keypad.
Refer to...
Chapter 3, Gas Control.
Column Oven
The FOCUS GC column oven has a high degree of thermal stability and fast
heating and cooli ng. The air circulati on in the oven ensure s the column is kept in a
thermally homogenous and stable zone. This provides more precise analytical
performance and helps prevent chromatogram peak distortion.
Refer To…
Chapter 4. Column Oven.
Injector
FOCUS GC is designed to operate with the following injectors:
Split/Splitless (S/SL) Injector
This injector minimizes heavy component discrimination with optimized sample
transfer to the column. You can use capillary and wide-bore columns with the
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Chapter 1
Instrument Overview FOCUS GC Description
Split/Splitless injector. With the appropriate adapter kit, you can also use packed
columns.
Refer to...
Chapter 5, Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
Purged Packed Column (PPKD) injector
This injector allows sample injection and vaporization into a liner. The sample
then transf ers to an analytical column.
Refer to...
Chapter 6...Purged Packed Column Injector (PPKD)
Columns
The column is where the chromatographic separation of the sample occurs.
Several types of c olumns are available for di fferent chromatographic applications :
• capillary columns
• wide-bore capillary columns
• packed column
Refer to…
Chapter 7, Column
Detector
FOCUS GC is designed to operate with the following detectors:
Flame Ionization Detector (FID)
This is one of the most used detectors in GC because of its high sensitivity, good
stability and wide range of linearity of response. The FID ensures stable,
reproducible, and long-term trouble-free performance.
Refer to…
Chapter 8, Flame Ionization Detector (FID)
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FOCUS GC Description Instrument Overview
Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD).
The TCD is a universal type detecto r. It is used in the analysis of permanent gases
and other compounds for which the FID is non-sensitive.
Refer to…
Chapter 9, Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)
External Detectors
FOCUS GC may also operate with external detectors. An external d etector is a
detector controlled by an external control module. The FOCUS GC only pr ovi des
the heating through the base body, the gas supply and the signal analog to digital
conversion for acquisiti on.
Instrument Automation
FOCUS GC contains several automated features for running the GC,
communicating with ot her analysis equipment, an d i nte racting with a data s yst em.
Autosampler Interface
The TriPlus, AI 3000/AS 3000, AS 2000 or HS 2000 autosampler can be
connected to the GC.
Refer to…
Chapter 10, Autosamplers
Data Systems Interface
Your FOCUS GC generates analog and digital data output when you perform
chromatographic ana lysis. A computer with a Thermo da ta system or a computing
integrator can be used to process the data from the GC.
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Chapter 1
1
2
3
4
GC Parts Description FOCUS GC Description
GC Parts Description
This paragraph gives you a detailed description of the instrument components.
Front Panel
1. Column Oven Door 3. Status Panel and Keypad
2. Column Oven Door Push Button 4. Electronic Compartment
It comprises:
• Column Oven
• Status Panel and keypad
• Electronic Compartment
Instruction Manual 31
Figure 1-2. FOCUS GC Front Panel
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FOCUS GC Description GC Parts Description
Column Oven
The FOCUS GC column oven, shown in Figure 1-3, is accessible opening the
column oven door by pushing the relevant button.
Figure 1-3. Column Oven Internal View
Refer To...Chapter 4, Column Oven
User Interface
User interface, shown in Figure 1-4, has three co mponents; a tw o–line display,
display LEDs showing the instrument’s status and a keypad for data entry.
Figure 1-4. FOCUS GC User Interface
Refer To…Chapter 2, The FOCUS GC User Interface
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Electronic Compartment
It is located on the bottom part of the GC, and it is accessible only by authorized
Thermo Fisher Scientific technical personnel.
WARNING! Before opening the electrical compartment, cut off power supply to the instrument
and disconnect the power cord.
The electronic compartment, shown in Figure 1-5, comprises:
• Low Voltage Section
• Mains Voltage Section
Figure 1-5. Example of Electronic Compartment
Low Voltage Section
It contains the electronic circuits to operate and control the instrument.
WARNING! A Li 3 V ; 22 0 m A/h unrec hargeab le battery is present on the Main Board. The batte ry
replacement must be performed only by specialized technical personnel.
High Voltage Section
It contains the mains power circuits. The configuration of the instrument 120 or
230 Vac power supply is determined by the position of the voltage selector,
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factory set, located on the Main Board. Acco rding t o the i nstrume nt po wer suppl y
configuration, the breaker ON/OFF main switch changes as follows:
Power Supply Breaker
120 Vac 15A
230 Vac 7A
The high voltage section is provided of a series of protection fuses as reported in
the following table:
Fuse Type Protection
F1 F2A; IEC 127/I; (5 x20 mm) Injector heater element
F2 T1.6A; IEC 127/III; (5 x20 mm) 230 Vac Main power (Breaker)
120 Vac Main power (Breaker)
F3 F2A; IEC 127/I; (5 x20 mm) Auxiliary heater element
F4 F0.63A; IEC 127/I; (5 x 20 mm) Oven fan motor
F5 F0.63A; IEC 127/I; (5 x 20 mm) Oven fan motor
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!
!
2
O
I
GC Parts Description FOCUS GC Description
Rear Panel
The FOCUS GC Rear Panel is shown in Figure 1-6.
23
SERVO AIR
max 500 kPa
MAKE UP
H2
AIR
REF.
MAKE-UP
OUT
4
SAMPLE
5
!
WARNING
HIGH TEMPERATURE OVEN EXHAUST AIR
DO NOT PLACE TEMPERATURE SENSITIVE
MATERIAL NEAR OPENINGS.
6
LAN
ON
I
P
O
W
E
R
O
OFF
!
1000 kPa/120 psi
Max for all inputs
IN
SAMPLE
CARRIER
1
H SENSOR
2
EXT DET
GND
10V
1V
0V
TIMED EVENTS
AUTOSAMPLER
COMPUTER
SAMPLER
GENERIC
SIGNAL
HANDSHAKE
SIGNAL
1. Carrier Gas Inlet Port 2. Detector Gas Inlet Ports
3. Servo Air Inlet port for GSV 4. Gas Sampling Valve Sample In/Out Ports
5. Oven Exhaust Vent Area 6. Electrical connections
Figure 1-6. Rear Panel
It comprises
• Carrier Gas inlet port
• Detector Gas inlet ports
• Servo Air inlet port for Gas Sampling Valve (GSV) when present
• Gas Sampling Valve Sample In/Out ports
• Oven Exhaust Vent
• Electrical Connections
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Carrier Gas Inlet Port
It is located on the middle upper part of the instrument rear panel. Gas inlet port
are directly connected to the detector modules .
WARNING! Gas pressure must be controlled on the gauges provided on the gas tank of the
supply gas line. The maximum inlet pressure at 1000 kPa (145 psi) should be set to
allow DPFC module to adjust pressure up to 1000 kPa.
Commonly used gas are helium, hydrogen and nitrogen.
The default pressure uni t is the kilopascal (kPa) . You specify the pressure units in
the
Configuration menu.
The following gives a brief conversion guide for the most commonly used
pressure units.
To Co nvert To Multiply by
kPa bar 0.01
psi 0.145
bar kPa 100
psi 14.51
psi kPa 6.89
bar 0.0689
100 kPa = 1 bar = 14.51 psi
Detector Gases Inlet Ports
They are located on the middle upper part of the instrument rear panel. Detector
gas inlet ports are directly connected to the DGFC module.
WARNING! Pressure of the supply gas lines should be set to a minimum of 400 kPa (60 psi) to
ensure the regulation of detector gases.
Maximum input pressure to FOCUS GC (from supply gas line s) is 1 000 k Pa (145 p si).
Servo Air for Gas Sampling Valve Inlet Port
It is located on the left upper part of the instrument re ar panel. Servo air inlet por t
is directly c onnected to the gas sampling valve when installed i nto the GC.
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O
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GC Parts Description FOCUS GC Description
WARNING! Pressure of the servo air supply line s hould be set to a maximum of 500 kPa (72 psi).
Gas Sampling Valve Sample In/Out Ports
They are located on the middle upper part of the instrument rear panel.
These ports are directly connected to the gas sampling valve, when installed into
the GC, for the automatic sampling of gas.
For further details, refer to Gas Sampling Valve Overview.
Electrical Connections
Electronic connections al located on the rear part of the electronic compartment.
As shown in Figure 1-7.
9
ON
I
P
O
W
E
R
O
OFF
1
LAN
2
53
TIMED EVENTS
GENERIC
HANDSHAKE
6
SAMPLER
SIGNAL
7
AUTOSAMPLER
COMPUTER
SIGNAL
8
4
Figure 1-7. Electrical Connections
1. Breaker marked POWER to switch the instrument On/Off
• Position I = instrument ON
• Position O = instrument OFF
2. 120 or 230 Vac 50/60 Hz Main socket marked
3. 9-pin connector marked AUTOSAMPLER to dialog with an autosampler
(TriPlus, AI 3000/AS 3000, AS 2000 or HS 2000) via RS232 serial line.
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4. 9-pin connector marked COMPUTER to dialog with the computer via
RS232 serial line (only if LAN option not installed).
5. 15-pin connector marked TIMED EVENTS to automatically drive up to
external valves.
6. 8-pin connection marked GENERIC HANDSHAKE to synchronize with
external devices.
7. 6-pin connector marked SAMPLER SIGNALS for the autosampler Start/
Stop signals.
8. 4-pin connection marked SIGNAL 0–1V-10V-GND for the detector analog
signal output.
9. Option marked LAN (Local Area Network) for the networ k connec tion of the
FOCUS GC LAN (only if LAN option installed)
LAN Option
The FOCUS LAN is easily recogniz able by the presence o n the GC re ar panel of a
RJ45 connector, 2 LEDs for LAN activity and a reset button.
The FOCUS LAN sampler is shipped with a default IP address, which may not
match the LA N needs of the sites where the sampler must be installed.
To change the default values, contact your LAN administrator and ask for the IP
address to be assigned, the netmask, and eventually the port. The IP address and
communication port may be reset to default value by pushing the reset button,
accessible from the rear panel of the FOCUS GC, for at least 5 seconds.
CAUTION The reset button is accessible introducing a little screwdriver into the relevant
passing hole.
To set the IP address and the LAN communication port, follow the instructions
reported in Chapter 14 LAN Option Set-up.
Oven Exhaust Vent
Hot air [350°C (660°F)] exits through this vent during GC operation.
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Any material exposed to the oven exhaust must be able to withstand repeated
exposure to temperatures of up to 350°C (660 °F).
WARNING! Oven exhaust can cause severe burns. Avoid working behind the instrument when
the oven vents during cooling-down cycles. Do not expose gas tanks or bottles,
chemicals, regulators, electrical cor ds, or othe r temperature-s ensitive item s to oven
exhaust.
Top Panel
Top panel is shown in Figure 1-8.
Detector Inlet Port
Figure 1-8. Top Panel
It comprises:
• S/SL or PPKD injector port
• Split and Purge lines vent
• FID or TCD detector
For details refer to the following Chapters:
— Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
— Purged Packed Column (PPKD) injector
— Flame Ionization Detector (FID)
— Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)
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Gas Sampling Valve Overview
A valve for the automatic sampling of gas is available with the FOCUS GC.
The valve i s installed behind the injector/detector comp artment of th e GC. The
valve is not heated.
Figure 1-9. Gas Sampling Valve
For the automatic gas sampling, a 6-port valve is used. A wide range of sampling
loops allows the analysis of different sample volumes.
NOTE A sampling loop with 1 mL of volume is provided in the standard outfit.
The sampling loop is installed directly on the valve. The switching between load
sample and inject sample position (and vice-versa) is controlled through the
FOCUS GC keypad or through the GC method created with the data system.
To install/replace the sampling loop, please refer to the chapter Maintenance and
Troubleshooting in this manual.
40 Instruction Manual
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The FOCUS GC User Interface
FOCUS GC user interface, provides basic information about key functions and
menus. This chapter contains also instructions to set up the software on your GC
either to match the installed hardware or to reflect your preferences.
Chapter at a Glance…
Overview..............................................................................................................42
User Interface Main Menu....................................................................................47
Configuration........................................................................................................51
Configuration Menu.............................................................................................52
Run Time Events..................................................................................................62
Run-Log................................................................................................................64
Time......................................................................................................................66
Valves ...................................................................................................................67
Info/Diagnostics ...................................................................................................68
2
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The FOCUS GC User Interface Overview
Overview
The user interface has three compone nts:
• two line display
• display LEDs showing the instrument’s status
• a keypad for data entry.
Figure 2-1 illustrates the complete FOCUS GC user interface.
Figure 2-1. The FOCUS GC User Interface
The Display
The display shows the menus you use to control the GC parameters, settings, and
configuration options. The data entry keys allow you to scroll through, set, and
modify the menu information.
Figure 2-2 shows the components of a typical menu display.
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Chapter 2
Overview The FOCUS GC User Interface
Setpoint Value
Menu Title
Parameter Line
Actual Value
Scroll Indicator
Figure 2-2. Components of the FOCUS GC Menu Display
The following are the menu display components:
Menu Title—This is the first line of each menu. The menu title is always visible
when scrolling through the menu items.
Cursor—The cursor indicates the currently selected menu item. Use the
UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys to move the cursor.
Setpoint Value and Actual Value—Many parameters display two values. The first
value is the actual va lue of the GC parame ter . You enter the second va lue, which is
the setpoint that is edited.
Scroll Indicator—This item is found in the upper right corner of the display. It
indicates that not-currently visible menu items exist. It appears in three ways:
• ↓, indicating that you can scroll downward
• ↑ , indicating that you can scroll upward
• , indicating that you can scroll in either direction
Currently Visible Menu Parameters—The display shows four lines of a menu at a
time. Because the menu title always takes up the first line, three lines show menu
items.
Not Currently Visible Menu Parameters—The display shows three menu items at
a time. If a menu contains more than three lines, you can use the arrow keys to
scroll through the rest of the menu items.
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The Display LEDs
The LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) on the left side of the display screen indicate
the FOCUS GC’s operating status.
The status LEDs indica te the curren t operating mode and special settings act ivated
by the operator. Table 2-1 lists and explains each status LED.
Table 2-1. Status LED Descriptions
LED Description
Not Ready/E rror This LED lights when the GC is not ready to
make a run, for example when the setpoint oven
temperature has no t been reach ed. It rem ains lit i f
any additional equilibration time has been
configured. It blinks when the GC has one or
more error conditions.
Standby/Prep Run Thi s L E D lights when the GC is in Standby,
waiting to be advanced to the Ready status.
It blinks when the GC prepares for a run, for
example, during switching of valves r equired by the
method or waiting for an external device such as a
mass spectrometer .
Ready to Inject This LED li ghts when the prep run has finished,
indicating that you can in je ct a sa mp le or star t an
autosampler.
Run This LED lights when the run is in progress.
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Overview The FOCUS GC User Interface
The FOCUS GC Keypad
The following Table lists and describe the keys on the FOCUS GC Keypad.
T able 2-2. Keypad Descriptions
Key Description
The blue START key is a double function key. When pressed a first
time it starts t he PREP RUN f unction. When pressed a s econd time,
it starts a run with programmed parameters after you manually
inject a sample in to the inlet. When a remote start by another de vice,
such as an autosampler, has been programmed, the system
automatically starts af ter injection.
The red STOP key has the following functions:
- stops a run in progress
- resets the FOCUS GC from READY to NOT READY
The STATUS key displays the instrument status includes the Not
Ready messages.
The HOME key opens Main Menu and comes back to the returns
precedent page menu.
The SCROLL UP and SCROLL DOWN arrow keys are used to scroll
through a list of menus or to move the cursor to an editable field.
The INCrease key allows increasing the parameter value.
The DECrease key allows decreasing the parameter value.
The ENTER key confirms changes to a selected menu item
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Overview
Parameters Entry
The user points to any of the parameter navigating with the keys HOME, SCROLL
UP and SCROLL DOWN.
Only the bottom lin e i s dedicated to parameters editing, first line is only fo r menu
title and doesn’t scroll. Once you have reached the line related to the parameter to
change, increase or decrease the value by pushing the INC and DEC keys. During
editing the value of the parameter is blinking.
.
OVEN
Menu Title Line
Temp 100 100
Parameter Editing Line
When the set value is the desired one, press the ENTER key, to accept the value.
Any key different from ENTER, INC, DEC will escape parameter editing without
changes.
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Chapter 2
User Interface Main Menu The FOCUS GC User Interface
User Interface Main Menu
To open the main menu, press the HOME key. The Main menu contains the
following page menus available sequentially by pressing the SCROLL UP and
SCROLL DOWN arrow keys .
FOCUS GC
OVEN
INLET
CARRIER
DETECTOR
SIGNAL
AUTOSAMPLER
SEQUENCE
OTHERS
1. Line available only i f an autosampler is present
1
To open a page menu move the cursor up to the menu of interest, then press
ENTER key. To come back precedent page menu press the HOME key.
Oven
OVEN
Temp 100 100
Use the Oven page to se t temp erat ures, t imes an d ram p rate s. You can program up
to four temperature ram ps per run. Refer to Chapter 4 Column Oven for more
information about Oven menu options.
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Chapter 2
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Inlet
INLET
Temp 200 200
Use this page to set inlet parameters such as temperature and split flow.
Refer to Chapter 5 Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) or Chapter 6 Purged Packed
Column Injector (PPKD)for more information about Inlet menu options.
Carrier
CARRIER
Pressure 100 100
Use this page to display in the carrier menus vary with the pressure and flow
modes you select.
You have a choice of two flow modes:
• Constant pressure mode, which sets pressure only
• Constant flow mode which maintains a spe cific flow rate through the column.
Refer to Chapter 3 Gas Control for more information about Carrier menu options.
Detector
Use this page to display the detector menu:
DETECTOR (FID) DETECTOR (TCD)
Flame Off Filament power Off
Refer to Chapter 8 Flame Ionization Detector (FID) or Chapte r 9 Thermal
Conductivity Detector (TCD) for more information about Detector menu options.
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No Detector
A TTENTION! If the detector is not present but the detector zone is enabled, the following page
is displayed:
DETECTOR (MS)
MS X-line 200 200
External Detector
In the case of external detector the following page will be displayed:
DETECTOR (FID-X)
Temp 200 200
The name of the external detector in use, e.g. FID-X, is added in the title line.
Signal
Use this page to display the FID or TCD detector signal menu
SIGNAL (FID) SIGNAL (TCD)
Output (1000000) Output (1000000)
The first item displays a uni tl ess digi tal representation of t he det ect or output. The
other items help make that output more measurable and meaningful.
Refer to Chapter 8 Flame Ionization Detector (FID) or Chapter 9 Thermal
Conductivity Detector (TCD) for more information about Signal menu options.
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External Detector
In case of external detector the following page will be displayed:
SIGNAL (FID-X)
Output (1000000)
The name of the external detector in use, e.g. FID-X, is added to the title line.
Autosampler
.
AUTOSAMPLER
Sample Volume 1.0
Use this page to display the AS 2000 or AI/AS 3000 autosampler parameters
Refer to Chapter 10 Autosamplers for more information about autos ampl er menu
options.
NOTE TriPlus and HS 2000 autosamplers are controlled only by all the Thermo Fisher Scientific
Data Systems referring to the instructions reported in the relevant operating manuals.
Sequence
.
SEQUENCE
First sample 1
Use this page to display t he parameters r equired to per form an automati c sequence
of samples. This page is displaye d only if an AS 2000 or AI/AS 3000 autos ampler
is present.
Refer to Chapter 10 Autosamplers for more information about sequen ce menu
options.
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Configuration The FOCUS GC User Interface
Others
.
OTHERS
Configuration
Use this page to entry the following submenu:
• Time
• Valves
• Run Time Events
• Run-Log
• Configuration
• Info/Diagnostics
Configuration
This paragraph describes how to configure your FOCUS GC.
When to Configure
You need to configure the system when:
• using the FOCUS GC for the first time
• changing carrier gas
• changing column types (to set the appropriate maximum oven temperature)
• connecting an external detector
For details refer to Configuration Menu.
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Configuration Menu
In Main Menu press the SCROLL DOWN key until the Others page appears, then
press ENTER.
.
OTHERS
Configuration
Scroll to
items in the
Configuration and press ENTER. The following table describes the
Configuration menu.
Menu Description
CONFIGURATION
Oven
Carrier
Detector
Autosampler
General
Keyboard and
Display
Handshake
Time
Valves
Table 2-3. Configuration Menu
This line is the title bar.
Controls p reliminary actions such as an automatic prep
run, timeout, equilibration time.
Controls the type of carrier gas.
Allow to select an external detector when the signal
coming from an external control module is desired.
This line is available ONLY if the FID board is present.
Controls the autosampler connected.
Visualizes the Main supply frequency.
Controls keypad and display preferences.
Configures the polarity of signals from external device.
Sets the time and data.
Controls the even tual gas sampli ng v alve ( when av ail able) .
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Oven Configuration Menu
The FOCUS GC oven provides great flexibility in controlling and programming
temperatures. In the
parameters.
Parameter Range or Options Comments
CONFIGURE OVEN
Max temp
50–350 °C
in steps of 1 °C
Equil time
Auto prep run
Auto Start
Prep run
timeout
0.00–999.99 min This parameter defines the equilibration time to stabilize
On/Off Set On to turn on automati c Prep Run execu tion with out
On/Off Provides an automatic Start command to GC.
0.00–99.00 min Enter the duration of the Prep Run. The injection must
CONFIGURE OVEN menu you can set various preparatory
CONFIGURE OVEN
Max temperature 300
Equilib. Time 10.00
Auto prep run Off
Auto start Off
Prep-run timeout 10
Table 2-4. Configure Oven Menu
This line is the title bar.
This parameter defines the maximum allowable oven
temperature setpoint to protect the column from
unintentionally high temperatures. This limit must be set
to the manufacturer's maximum recommended operating
temperature for the column.
the oven temperature after the run.
pressing START key. When this it em is set to Off, you
must to press START key activate the Prep Run.
occur within this time or the timeout will set the GC to
Standby condition.
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Carrier Configuration Menu
Commonly used gases are Helium, Hydrogen and Nitrogen. Hydrogen offers the
best chromatography properties (optimum resolution at the highest flow rates).
However, because Hydrogen is flammable, Helium is often used as an alternative
for carrier gas.
You specify the type of carrier gas in the
the INC and DEC key.
CONFIGURE CARRIER
Gas Type Helium
Table 2-5. Configure Carrier Menu
Parameter Range Comments
CONFIGURE CARRIER
Gas type
Helium
Nitrogen
This line is the title bar.
To select the required carrier gas. The default carrier
gas is Helium (He).
Hydrogen
Argon
CONFIGURE CARRIER menu by using
WARNING! Hydrogen items is disabled unless your instrument has a hydrogen sensor. See
Using Hydrogen.
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Detector Configuration Menu
CAUTION This line is available ONLY if the detector board is present and detected at GC power
up.
An external detector is a detector controlled by an external control module. The
FOCUS GC only provides the heating through the base body, the gas supply and
the signal analog to digital conversion for acquisition.
You specify the type of external detector in the
CONFIGURE DETECTOR menu by
using the INC and DEC key.
CONFIG DETECTOR
Use external det? Y
Ext det type FID-x
ECD-x
NPD-x
FPD-x
PID-x
PDD-x
Hall-x
Other-x
The following list determine the type of gas to use with the different external
detectors:
External Detector T ype Gas Available
FID-x H
, Air, Make-up
2
ECD-x Make-up
NPD-x H
FPD-x H
, Air, Make-up
2
, Air, Make-up
2
PID-x Make-up, Sheath gas (instead of air)
PDD-x None
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External Detector T ype Gas Available
Hall-x H2, Make-up
Other-x H
, Air, Make-up
2
Autosampler Configuration Menu
The autosampler method can be controlled from the FOCUS GC or the data
system.
ATTENTION! Only with the AS 2000 the alignment must be programmed with control module.
You specify the information required in the
using the INC and DEC key. Accordi ng to th e type o f autos ampler c onnect ed to t he
GC you may find the following menus:
AS 2000 Autosampler
Parameter Range Description
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER
Status
Use Internal STd
AI 3000/AS 3000
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER menu by
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER ↓
Status Disabled
Use Internal Std Yes
Table 2-6. Configure AS 2000 Autosampler Menu
This line is the title bar.
Not Editable It shows the status of the autosampler
Yes – Not Specify the use of the internal standard option.
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER ↓ CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER ↓
Syringe volume 10
Sample tray 105
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Configuration Menu The FOCUS GC User Interface
Table 2-7. Configure AI 3000/AS 3000 Autosampler Menu
Parameter Range Description
CONFIG
AUTOSAMPLER
Syringe volume
5 – 10 µL Select the parameter according to the volume of the
This line is the title bar.
syringe installed on the autosample r.
Sample tray
Not Editable The system automatically recognizes the type of sample
tray installed on the autosampler:
- 105 positions tray i n t he case of AS 3000 Aut osamp ler
- 8 position tray in the case of AI 3000 Autoinjector.
Messages
When the autosampler is not present the following message is displayed:
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER
Not present
or if the GC is connected to the data system the following message is displayed:
CONFIG AUTOSAMPLER
Locked by Data System
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Configuration Menu
General Configuration Menu
Use this item to visualize the mains supply frequency.
GENERAL CONFIG
AC mains freq. 50
Table 2-8. General Config Menu
Parameter Range Description
GENERAL CONFIG
AC mains freq.
50 - 60 Mains frequency.
This line is the title bar.
Keyboard & Display Configuration Menu
This menu allows you to customize your keyboard and display.
Keyboard beep leads to a submenu where you can specify when you want the GC
to alert you with a keyboard sound. To move to the submenu, select
beep
and press ENTER.
Keyboard
CONFIG KEYB. & DISP.
Keyboard lock Off
Keyb. Beep Enter key
Delimeter type “.”
Pressure unit kPa
Brightness 3
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Chapter 2
Configuration Menu The FOCUS GC User Interface
Table 2-9. Configure Keyboard & Display Menu
Parameter Range Description
CONFIG KEYB. &
DISP:
Keyboard lock
Keyb. beep
Delimeter type
On – Off This parameter locks the keypad from editing.
Refer to Bee p
Table
“.” or “,” Use this option to select a period or comma as a decimal
This line is the title bar.
This parameter causes the GC to beep when you press
the key specified in the submenu.
marker.
Pressure units
Brightness
kPa – psi – bar Use this option to select the pressure unit for display
3 = max
Use this option to adjust the brightness of the display.
0 = min
Beep Table
Table 2-10. Beep Table
Parameter Range Description
KEYBOARD BEEP:
All key
On -Off This parameter causes the GC to beep
This line is the title bar.
when you press any key on keypad.
Enter key press
On -Off This parameter causes the GC to beep
when you press ENTER.
On invalid key
On -Off This parameter causes the GC to beep
when the key you press is not a valid
option.
Never
Instruction Manual 59
On -Off This option turns off keyboard beep.
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Configuration Menu
Handshake Configuration Menu
The FOCUS GC can be coupled to other instruments, su ch a s an autosampler or a
mass spectrometer. To all ow ot her devices to run properl y, you must indicate how
the signal will change. For example, the menu line specifies that another device
will start the GC when the remote start signal changes from high to low.
CONFIG HANDSHAKE
Remote start in H L
Inhibit ready High
End of run out H L
Start of run out H L
GC ready out High
Prep run out High
T able 2-11. Configure Handshake Menu
Parameter Range Description
CONFIG.
HANDSHAKE
Remote Start IN
Pulse High to Low (default)
Pulse Low to High
Inhibit Ready
When Low (default)
When High
End of Run OUT
Pulse High to Low (default)
Pulse Low to High
Start of RUN
OUT
GC Ready OUT
Pulse High to Low (default)
Pulse Low to High
When Low (default)
When High
Prep-Run OUT
Pulse High to Low (default)
Pulse Low to High
60 Instruction Manual
This line is the title bar.
This parameter allows another device to start
the FOCUS GC.
This parameters d elays rea diness unt il t he GC
receives a signal from another device.
This parameter signa ls another device tha t the
run has ended.
This parameter signa ls another device tha t the
run has started.
This parameter signa ls another device tha t the
GC is ready.
This parameter signa ls another device tha t the
GC is preparing for a run.
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Chapter 2
Configuration Menu The FOCUS GC User Interface
Time Configuration Menu
FOCUS GC displays the current date and time. You can set this time from the
CONFIGURE menu. When you open the CONFIGURE TIME menu, the following
items appear:
CONFIGURE TIME
Time: 18:14:11
Date: Mon 11/Mar/2002
NOTE Time is set on a 24-hour clock.
Table 2-12. Configure Time Menu
Parameter Range Description
CONFIGURE TIME
Time:
Date:
hhmm This option has two e diting fields sequenced by pr essing
Day Month Year This option has three editing fields sequenced by
This line is the title bar.
ENTER.
pressing ENTER
Valves Configuration Menu
You can configure two gas sampling valves, when present, and program two
external events to be the default condition for an external device. See also Run
Time Events
CONFIGURE VALVES
Valve#1 Gas sampling
Valve#2 none
EV#1 default Off
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Run Time Events
Table 2-13. Configure Valves Menu
Parameter Range Description
CONFIGURE VALVES
Valve #1
None
Gas Sampling
This line is the title bar.
Select in this box Sampl ing onl y if a ga s sampli ng val ve
is present and connected the GC. Otherwise, select
none.
Valve #2
EV #1 default
The same as Valve # 1
On - Off Selec t the external event device default Co ndition. The
external device will return to the condition specified by
the external event you have programmed to be the
default whenever the GC is in Standby mode.
EV #2 default
The same as EV #1
Run Time Events
This options allows you to program events to happen before to or during a run.
For instance, a valve could open two minute into a run.
You can program:
• An output signal adjustment, such as autozero.
• A valve to open or close.
• An external event from another device.
In Main Menu move the cursor until
Scroll to
Run time event then press ENTER.
Run Time Events
Others page is selected, then press ENTER.
OTHERS
The first time you program a time event (Run Time Events empty) the following
menu appears:
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Chapter 2
Run Time Events The FOCUS GC User Interface
RUN TIME EVENTS
<None>
Add run time event
Option Description
<none>
Add run time
event
No events are programmed
Scroll to th is line end press ENTER to add an event
In RUN TIME EVENTS me nu scroll to Add run time events and press ENTER:
The following menu appears:
EDIT EVENTS
Event EV#1
Run time Pre run
Setpoint 2
Next event
T able 2-14. Edit Time Event Menu
Parameter Range Description
EDIT TIME
EVENTS
Event
Det autozero – Det range –
Det gain
(1)
– Det neg pol
This line is the title bar.
Select the event you want to program.
(1)
– EV#1 – EV#2
GSValve#1 - GSValve#2
Run time
0.00 to 599.99 minutes
Prep run
Select a time if you want to activat e the event du ring
the Run Time.
Select Prep run if you want to activate the event at
the Prep run.
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Run-Log
Table 2-14. Edit Time Event Menu (Continued)
Parameter Range Description
Setpoint
Next event
1. Parameters available only with the TCD detector
From 0 to 3 for Det range
On/Off for EV
--- Add a new event
To program a Run Time Event, refer to Chapter 11 Getting Started.
Select the correct setpoint according to the event
you have set in the previous line. This line doesn’t
appear for Det autozero.
Run-Log
This function displays the run log, which records errors or method changes that
happen in run time. It display the time and describes any deviation that occur.
This information is used to meet good laboratory practice (GLP) standards.
For example, if you interrupt the run for any reason, the run log will record the
time the run stopped and a description of the event. The Run-log is cleared and
reset at the beginning of the next run.
Run log entries are shown pressing the
To see the details Run-Log entries, in Main Menu move the cursor until the
Others page is selected, then press ENTER. Scroll to Run-log then press ENTER
Run-log
An example of Run-log is shown below.
64 Instruction Manual
STATUS key.
OTHERS
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Chapter 2
Run-Log The FOCUS GC User Interface
RUN LOG (XofY) 1 RUN LOG (XofY) 1
Itime 200.00 ’ 220.00
at run time 0.50
ITemp 120
at run time 2.00
Ftime 1.00
at run time 2.50
Ramp2 50.0
at run time 3.10
Flame out
at run time 3.50
Flame retry failed
at run time 3.30
Oven T is 105 (110)
at run time 3.40
’ 100
’ 10.00
’ 120.0
2
3
(continue)
with FID with TCD
Line Description
Itime 200.00 ’ 220.00
at run time 0.50
ITemp 120
at run time 2.00
Ftime 1.00
at run time 2.50
Ramp2 50.0
at run time 3.10
Detector gain 1
at run time 3.50
Detector neg pol Y
at run time 3.30
Oven T is 105 (110)
at run time 3.40
’ 100
’ 10.00
’ 120.0
’ 10
’ N
(continue)
2
3
1 The number of entry X of Y = e.g. 1 of 12, is displayed in the title line
2 The initial time has been changed from 200 to 220
3 The actual oven temperature is 105 instead of 110 as setpoint value
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Time
Time
This option allows you to visualize the following parameter
•Time
•Date
• Last run time
• Next run time
• Elapsed time and time remaining during the current run
• The flow calculator
In Main Menu move the cursor until the
ENTER. Scroll to
Time then press ENTER
Time
Others page is selected, then press
OTHERS
When the GC is not running a menu appears as follows:
TIME
Next runtime 15.00
Last runtime 120.00
We 13 Mar 2002 12:03
V=100 F=100.0 01:00
Flowmeter volume 100
When the GC is running a menu appears as follows:
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Chapter 2
Valves The FOCUS GC User Interface
TIME
Elapsed time 5.00
Time left 110.00
We 13 Mar 2002 12:03
V=100 F=100.0 01:00
Measured volume 100
Valves
Use this feature to speci fy an d control up to four val ves, or t o manuall y chang e the
state of inlet valves. For example you can manually:
• Open or close the S/SL inlet valves before or during a run
• Switch a gas sampling valve from load to inject position
• Activate or deactivate an external event
In the Main Menu move the cursor until the
ENTER. Scroll to
Valves then press ENTER
OTHERS
Valves
Others page is selected, then press
When a gas sampling valve is not present a menu appears as follows:
VALVES
Split valve Off
Sept purge valve On
EV#1 Off
EV#2 Off
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Info/Diagnostics
When a gas sampling valve is present and configured (refer to Valves
Configuration Menu in paragraph Configuration) a menu appea rs it follows:
VALVES
Split valve Off
Sept purge valve On
GSValve#1 Load
EV#1 Off
Table 2-15. Valves
Parameter Range Description
VALVES
Split valve
Sept purge valve
EV#1 - EV#2
GSValve#1
GSValve#2
On - Off Switches On/Off the SSL split valve
On - Off Switches On/Off the SSL septum purge valve
On - Off Switches On/Off the external valves
Load - Inject Switches Load/Inject t he gas sampling valve
This line is the title bar.
To manually control valves, refer to Ch apter 11 Getting Started
Info/Diagnostics
Use this feature to bring up hardware, software and diagnostic information
In Main Menu move the cursor until the
ENTER. Scroll to
Info/Diagnostics then press ENTER
Info/Diagnostics
A menu appears as follows:
68 Instruction Manual
Others page is selected, then press
OTHERS
Page 69
Chapter 2
Info/Diagnostics The FOCUS GC User Interface
INFO/DIAGNOSTICS
Serial #: 12345678
FW ver: 2.00.31
DPFC ver: 0.27
BOOT ver: 1 B.0
Manufact.: 1/Jan/02
Total runs 1234567
Ambient press 103.0
Table 2-16. Info/Diagnostics
Parameter Description
INFO/DIAGNOSTICS
Serial # T
FM ver:
DPFC ver:
BOOT ver:
Manufact.:
Total runs
Ambient press
This line is the title bar.
The number (eight figures) indicates the product code.
Indicates t he version of the firmware.
Indicates the version of the DPFC module.
Data for Thermo Fisher S cientific authorized tec hnical perso nnel only.
Indicates the manufacturing date of your GC.
The number (seven figures) Indicates the performed analyses.
Indicates the ambient pressure expressed in kPa.
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Chapter 2
The FOCUS GC User Interface Info/Diagnostics
70 Instruction Manual
Page 71
Gas Control
This chapter contains in format ion on control ling and pro gramming the car rier and
detector gas flows to the FOCUS GC.
Chapter at a Glance…
Gas Supplies.........................................................................................................72
Carrier Gas Regulation.........................................................................................75
Detector Gas Regulation.......................................................................................75
Measuring Gas Flow.............................................................................................78
Carrier Gas P arameters.........................................................................................80
Operating Sequences
Configuring the Carrier Gas.................................................................................73
Configuring The Pre ssure Unit.............................................................................74
Measuring the Detector Gas Flows with a Bubble Meter....................................78
3
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Gas Supplies
Gas Supplies
The commonly used gases are helium, hydrogen, nitrogen and air. Hydrogen
offers the bes t chromatography propertie s (optimu m resolution at the highest flow
rates). However, because hydrogen is flammable, helium is often used as an
alternative for carrier gas. You can specify the type of gas and pressure units the
FOCUS GC displays.
The TCD detector require s the same ga s whether for the measure channel (carrier
and make-up gas, when necessary) and the reference channel (reference gas).
Helium is the recommended carrier gas due to its high thermal conductivity and
chemical inertness.
• The default carrier gas is Helium (He)
• The default pressure unit is the kilo pascal (kPa).
WARNING! Hydrogen is a dangerous gas that, when mixed with air, may create an explosive
mixture. The use of hydrogen as a carrier gas requires the operator’s extreme
caution. Special precautions must be taken because of the risk of explosion. The
gas chromatograph must be equipped with a hydrogen sensor if you use hydrogen
as a carrier gas. Refer to Using Hydrogen for more information. All Thermo Fisher
Scientific gas chromatographs a re des igned to use an inert gas as the ca rrie r gas. If
you wish to use hydrogen as a carrier gas, you must install a hydrogen sensor.
Contact a Thermo Fisher Scientific sales representative if you plan to use hydrogen
as the carrier gas in FOCUS GC. If you don’t have the hydrogen sensor, you must
use an inert carrier gas.
You specify the pressure units and the type of carrier gas in
menu operating as described in the following Operating Sequences
72 Instruction Manual
Configuration
Page 73
Chapter 3
Gas Supplies Gas Control
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Configuring the Carrier Gas
Carrier gas is alread y con figured t o Heli um. To change the configuration, pro ceed
as follows:
1. In the Main Menu move the cursor until
ENTER.
2. Scroll to
3. Scroll to
4. Select the required type of carrier gas by using INC and DEC keys.
5. Press HOME to exit.
Configuration then press ENTER.
Carrier, then press ENTER.
CONFIGURE CARRIER
Gas type Helium
Others is selected, then press
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Gas Supplies
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Configuring The Pressure Unit
The pressure Unit is already configured to kPa (kilo pascal). To change the
configuration proceed as follows:
1. In the Main Menu move the cursor until
ENTER.
2. Scroll to
3. Scroll to
4. Scroll to
5. Select the required type of carrier gas by using INC and DEC keys.
6. Press HOME to exit.
Configuration then press ENTER.
Keyboard & Display, then press ENTER.
Keyboard & Display, then press ENTER.
CONFIG KEYB. & DISP.
Pressure unit kPa
Others is selected, then press
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Chapter 3
Carrier Gas Regulation Gas Control
Carrier Gas Regulation
This paragraph describes the automatic Digital Pressure and Flow Control
(DPFC) of the FOCUS GC. You control the gas flow by progra mming paramet ers
in the carrier gas menu.
The DPFC module, provides:
• Flow and pressure control
• Gas saver function
You enter the gas control setpoints in the
Parameters.
WARNING! Input pressure to DPFC should ensure a minimum pressure 50 kPa higher than the
maximum carrier pressure required by the application.
The maximum input pressure to DPFC is 1000 kPa.
Detector Gas Regulation
The detector gases control module has conventional pneumatic regulators which
and providescontrol for the detector gases.
WARNING! Pressure of the supply gas lines should be set to a minimum of 400 kPa (60 psi) to
ensure the regulation of detector gases.
Maximum input pressure to FOCUS GC (from supply gas line s) is 10 00 k Pa (145 p si).
The pressure regulation is access ib le from out side the instru ment . The adjust ment
of the detector gases is done in factory prior shipment.
According to the detector in use refer to:
• FID Gases
Carrier menu. Refer to Carri er Gas
• TCD Gases
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Detector Gas Regulation
FID Gases
The FID requires hydrogen and air as fuel gas and nitrogen as make-up gas.
The adjustment of the detector gases flow is done in factory prior shipment.
Gas Flow
Hydrogen (fuel gas) 35 mL/min
Air (fuel gas) 350 mL/min
Nitrogen (make-up gas) 30 mL/min
Verify that the corresponding gases flows are correct. If not, adju st the value
turning the relevant regulation screw as shown in Figure 3-1.
Make-up
OPEN
OPEN
1 turn clockwise of the regulation screw increases the flow of about 2.5 mL/min
1 turn counterclockwise of the regulation screw decreases the flow of about 2.5 mL/min
Figure 3-1. FID-External Detector Gases Flow Regulation.
The flow is measured at the exit of the detector base body. Enter the FID detector
control menu to turn the flow on/off.
TCD Gases
The TCD detector require s the same ga s whether for the measure channel (carrier
and make-up gas, when necessary) and the reference channel (reference gas)
Helium is the recommended carrier gas due to its high thermal conductivity and
chemical inertness.
The adjustment of the detector gases flow is done in factory prior shipment.
H
2
FID - External Detector
Air
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Chapter 3
Detector Gas Regulation Gas Control
Gas Flow
Helium (make-up gas) 27 mL/min
Helium (reference gas) 30 mL/min
Verify that the corresponding gases flows are correct. If not adjust the value
turning the relevant regulation screw as shown in Figure 3-2.
Make-up
OPEN
Ref.
TCD Detector
1 turn clockwise of the regulation screw increases the flow of about 2.5 mL/min
1 turn counterclockwise of the regulation screw decreases the flow of about 2.5 mL/min
Figure 3-2. TCD Detector Gases Flow Regulation
The flow is measured at the exit of the detector. Enter the TCD detector control
menu to turn the flow on/off.
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Measuring Gas Flow
Measuring Gas Flow
The septum pur ge a nd spl it f lows c an be measur ed at the re levan t vent s lo cated on
the top of the instrument . Det ect or gas f lows can be measured at the det ec tor vent .
Use a bubble flow meter or a calibrated electronic flow meter to check flows. A
built-in flow calcula tor, accessible by the GC keypad, helps you measure the flow
when you use a bubble flow meter.
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Measuring the Detector Gas Flows with a Bubble Meter
Materials required:
• Graduated bubble flowmeter (the bulb must be half-filled with a soap
solution)
• Detector base body adapter (for FID only)
WARNING! Do not measure hydrogen together with air or oxygen. This can create an explosive
mixture. Always measure the gases separately.
1. Attach the inlet line of the flowmeter to the exit of the detector base bo dy
using the adapter.
2. While holding the bubble flowmeter vertically, squeeze and release the bulb
to produce a meniscus in the bubble meter.
3. In Main Menu, move the cursor until
4. Scroll to
5. Scroll to
78 Instruction Manual
Time then press ENTER.
V=100 F=100.0 01:00
Flowmeter volume 100
Measured vol. and set the volume that you wish to measure.
Others is selected, then press ENTER.
TIME
Page 79
Chapter 3
Measuring Gas Flow Gas Control
6. Scroll to the stopwatch line (F= 000 00:00).
7. When the meniscus passes the flo wmete r start line, mar ked
0, press ENTER to
start the stopwatch.
8. When the meniscus pas ses the fl owmeter li ne corre sponding t o the vol ume set
in
Measured vol, press ENTER to stop the stopwatch. The flow rate in
mL/min is automatically calculated and the value is displayed.
Instruction Manual 79
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Carrier Gas Parameters
Carrier Gas Parameters
This paragraph expla ins t he ele ctroni c pro gra mming and c ontrol o f the GC carri er
gases. The Digital Pressure Flow Control (DPFC) module regulates carrier gas
electronically. You control the gas flow by programming parameters in the carrier
gas menu.
The
CARRIER menu includes the control param eter s for th e carri er gas , reg ard less
of the carrier gas type. Parameters change according to the selected flow mode:
constant flow or constant pressure.
Flow Mode
In Main Menu, move the cursor until
the
CARRIER menu.
Flow mode Const flow
Carrier is selected. Press ENTER to open
CARRIER
Two flow modes are available.
Constant Flow
In constant flow mode, the column flow is kept constant throughout the analysis.
The pressure at the column head will change with the column temperature to
maintain the set flow.
Constant Pressure
In constant pressure mode, the pressure at the column head is kept constant
throughout the analysis. Flow rate will decrease as oven temperature increases.
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Chapter 3
Carrier Gas Parameters Gas Control
CARRIER (He) CARRIER (He)
Pressure (100)
Col.Flow 12.0 12.0
Flow mode Const flow
Gas saver flow 100
Saver time 1.00
Vacuum comp. Off
Leak check
Column evaluation
Carrier Menu in
Constant Flow Mode
Pressure 100 100
Col.Flow (10.0)
Flow mode Const Pres
Gas saver flow 100
Saver time 1.00
Vacuum comp. Off
Leak check
Column Evaluation
Constant Pressure Mode
Table 3-1. Carrier Gas Parameters Menu
Parameter Range Description
CARRIER (He)
Col.Flow
Pressure
From 0.1 to 50.0 ml/min
in steps of 0 .1 ml/min;
Off
From 10 to 1000 kPa
(from 2.5 to 250 kPa)
in step of 1 kPa;
This line is the title bar.
It is displayed when Constant Flow is selected in
Flow Mode. Enter a column flow for the analytical
column.
It is displayed when Constant Pressure is selected
in Flow Mode. Enter inlet pressure for the
analytical run.
Off
Flow Mode
Constant Flow;
Constant Pressure
Set the operating mode required.
Selecting Constant Flow, the column flow is kept
constant throughout the anal ysis. The pres sure at the
column head will change with the column
temperature to maintain a consistent flow.
Selecting Constant Pressure, the pressure at the
column head is kept constant throughout the
analysis. During a temperatur e program, the colu mn
flow decrease due to the increase of the carrier gas
viscosity.
Carrier Menu in
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Chapter 3
Gas Control Carrier Gas Parameters
Table 3-1. Carrier Gas Parameters Menu
Parameter Range Description
Gas Saver
Flow
Gas Saver
Time
Vacuum
Compensation
From 10 to 500 ml/min
in step of 1 ml/min;
Off
From 0 to 9.99 minutes
in steps of 0.01 min
Activates gas saver control to reduces carrier gas
consumption after the injection or in Standby
(suggested at high split mode).
Enter the time after the injection when g as saver
flow will be activated.
On - Off Use this option to compensate for a vacuum at the
end of the analytical column. When the box is not
checked calculation are made considering the
detector outlet at atmospheric pressure.
Leak check
It allows performing an automatic leak check. The GC starts to measure the
column flow with a t rue mass flow se nso r and c ompares i t to the ca lcu lated flow
from the original column constant to see if the numbers match. The instrument
assumes a gas leak exists if there is a significant difference.
To perform a leak check refers to Chapter 6 Performing an Automatic Leak
Check.
Column
evaluation
The column evaluation is an automatic measurement of the column resistance
that determines the column constant. To perform the column evaluation, the
system uses the correlation between the applied pressure to the flow and th e
column temperatures. This operation must be carried out every time a new
column is installed. Before performing the col umn evaluation, a manual leak
test of the system must be carried out.
To perform a column evaluation refer to Chapter 6 Performing a Column
Evaluation.
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Page 83
Column Oven
This chapter describes the features of the FOCUS GC column oven.
Chapter at a Glance…
Column Oven Overview.......................................................................................84
Column Oven Configuration................................................................................86
Oven Parameters...................................................................................................87
Operating Procedures
Configuring the Column Oven.............................................................................86
Setting Up a Single Ramp Temperature Program ................................................89
Setting Up Multiple Ramp Temperature Program................................................90
4
Instruction Manual 83
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Column Oven Overview
Column Oven Overview
The FOCUS GC column oven, shown in Figure 4-1, provides a stable heating
environment for the analytical column. The oven heats and cools quickly.
Efficient air circulation ensures a high degree of thermal stability.
Figure 4-1. The FOCUS GC Column Oven
Opening the oven door activates a safety microswitch, which automatically turns
off the oven heating and the fan motor.
The column oven has the following capabilities:
• maximum temperature of 350 °C
• maximum temperature increase rate of 120 °C/min
• seven linear temperature ramps and eight levels
• minimum operating temperature of a few degrees above ambient, which is
obtained by two modulated cooling flaps controlled by the GC.
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Overview Column Oven
Oven Safety
Opening the oven door cuts off the power to the oven heater and fan. The
setpoints are kept in memory. The display shows the following safety message:
OVEN
Temp 100 door open
To return to normal operation, close the oven door.
WARNING! The oven vents at the rear of the GC discharge hot air during cooling.
WARNING! Hydrogen is a potentially dangerous gas. When hydrogen is used as a carrier gas,
the column oven must have a hydrogen sensor. Refer to Using Hydrogen for
hydrogen safety information.
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Column Oven Configuration
Column Oven Configuration
The CONFIGURE OVEN menu contains the control parameters for the column
oven.
Refer to Oven Configuration Menu in Chapter 2 for more informa tion about the
CONFIGURE OVEN menu.
CONFIGURE OVEN
Max temperature 300
Equilib. Time 10.00
Auto prep run Off
Auto start Off
Prep-run timeout 10
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Configuring the Column Oven
Use this sequence to configure the column oven. Use INC and DEC keys to
increase or decrease the parameter values and confirm pressing ENTER.
1. In Main Menu, move the cursor until
Configuration then press ENTER.
2. Scroll to
3. Scroll to
temperature
4. Scroll to
time.
5. Scroll to
you want the prep run to be activated by pressing the START key.
6. Scroll to
86 Instruction Manual
Oven, then press ENTER.
Max temperature and set the maximum allowable oven
Equilibrium time and set the oven temperature equilibration
Auto prep run. Set On to enable automatic prep run. Set Off if
Prep Run timeout and set the duration of the prep run timeout.
Others is selected. Scroll to
Page 87
Chapter 4
Oven Parameters Column Oven
Oven Parameters
The OVEN menu conta ins the par amet er s f or p rog rammi ng the oven temperature,
from an initial temperature to a final temperature, using up to three ramps during
the analytical run. It is possible to set a single (isothermal) or multiple ramp
program.
In Main Menu move the cursor unt il
OVEN menu.
Temp 100 100
Initial time 90.00
Ramp 1 120.0
Final temp 1 100
Final time 1 60.00
Ramp 2 Off
Oven is selected. Press ENTER to display the
OVEN
Table 4-1. Oven Parameters Menu
Parameter Range Description
OVEN
Temperature
On - Off
From 20 °C to 350 °C
in step of 1°C
This line is the title bar
Set On to display the actual and set point values. Set
the initial temperature in °C at which the oven is set
and conditioned before the GC enters the sampling
phase.
Initial Time
INF
From 0 to 99.99 minutes
Set the time in minutes. The oven remains at the
starting temperature after a programmed run has
begun. Setting INF, will cause the following menu
lines to disappear.
Ramp 1
On – Off – INF
From 0.1 to 120 °C/min
in step of 0.1 °C/min
Rate for the temperature ramp from Initial Temp to
Final temp 1. Set the rate increment to reach the
temperature set in Final tem p 1. Set On to enable a
temperature ramp. Setting INF, the GC performs a
ballistic heating and the ramp duration is zero.
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Oven Parameters
Table 4-1. Oven Parameters Menu (Continued)
Parameter Range Description
Final temp 1
Final time 1
From 30 to 350 °C In
step of 1 °C
This parame ter defines th e temperatu re the column
oven will reach at the end of the heating or cooling
ramp. This line only appears if Ramp 1 is On
.
From 0 to 99.99 minutes This parameter defines how long (in minutes) the
oven will maintain the final temperature of the
ramp.
Ramp 3-7
On - Off
From 0.1 to 120 °C/min
in step of 0.1 °C/min
After you progra m the f irst ramp, the menu ad ds the
Ramp 2 parameter lines. If you do not want an
additional ramp, leave this parameter s et to Off.
To program the ramp, set On. The Final temp and
Final time lines for the ramp will be added to the
menu. You can repeat this process to program up to
seven temperature ramps.
Final temp
2-7
Final Time
2-7
From 20 to 350 °C
in step of 1 °C
This parame ter defines th e temperatu re the column
oven will reach at the end of the relevant ramp.
From 0 to 99.99 minutes This parameter defines how long (in minutes) the
oven will maintain the final temperature of the
ramp.
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Chapter 4
Oven Parameters Column Oven
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Setting Up a Single Ramp Temperature Program
This program raises the ini tial oven temperatur e to a specifi ed final t emperature at
a specified rate and maintains the final temperatu re for a specified time.
Use INC and DEC keys to increase or decrease the parameter values and co nfirm
pressing ENTER.
°C
300
200
100
0
0
Initial
time
(14 min)
Temp
(40 °C)
10
10 20 30 40 min.0
20 30 40
Figure 4-2. Example of Single Ramp Temperature Program
1. In Main Menu move the cursor until
OVEN menu.
the
2. Scroll to
3. Scroll to
Temp and enter the initial the initial temperature.
Initial Time and enter the time you want the oven to maintain
the initial t emperature.
Final
temp 1
(300 °C)
Final
time 1
(10 min)
Ramp 1
(10 °C/min)
min.0
Oven is selected. Pres s ENTER to dis play
4. Scroll to
Ramp 1 and set it On. Enter the ramp rate in °C/min for the oven to
reach the ram p’s Final Temp.
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Oven Parameters
5. Scroll to Final Temp 1 and enter the final temperature for the r amp.
6. Scroll to
Final Time 1 and enter the time the oven will maintain the Final
temp.
7. To end the single ramp program,
Ramp 2 must be Off.
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Setting Up Multiple Ramp Temperature Program
This program raises the initial oven t emperature to a specified final temper ature
through up to three ramps, each having a specified ramp rate, time, and
temperature.
Use INC and DEC keys to increase or decrease the p arameter values. and confirm
pressing ENTER.
°C
300
200
100
Initial
time
(9 min)
Temp
(40 °C)
Final
temp 1
(150 °C)
Ramp 1
(10 °C/min)
Ramp 2
(15 °C/min)
Final
temp 2
(300 °C)
Final
time 2
(10 min)
0
10 20 30 40 min.0
Figure 4-3. Example of Multiple Ramp Temperature Program
1. In Main Menu move the cursor until
the
OVEN menu.
2. Scroll to
90 Instruction Manual
Temp and enter the initial the initial temperature.
Oven is selecte d. Pres s ENTER to dis play
Page 91
Chapter 4
Oven Parameters Column Oven
3. Scroll to Initial Time and enter the time you want the oven to maintain
the initial t emperature.
4. Scroll to
Ramp 1 and set it On. Enter the ramp rate in °C/min for the oven to
reach the ram p’s Final Temp.
5. Scroll to
6. Scroll to
Final Temp 1 and enter the final temperature for the ramp.
Final Time 1 and enter the time the oven will maintain the Final
temp.
7. Scroll to
Ramp 2 and set it On. Enter the ramp rate in °C/min for the secon d
temperature program.
8. Scroll to
9. Scroll to
Final Temp 2 and enter the final temperature for the second ramp.
Final Time 2 and enter the time the oven will maintain the Final
temp.
10. To end the multiple ramp temperature program, leave
To add additional oven ramp, repeat the step 7 through 9.
Ramp 3 set to Off.
Instruction Manual 91
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Chapter 4
Column Oven Oven Parameters
92 Instruction Manual
Page 93
Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
This chapter describes the Split/Splitless (S/SL) injector and contains operating
sequences for the different split/splitless operating modes.
Chapter at a Glance…
S/SL Overview.....................................................................................................94
S/SL Injection Techniques..................................................................................101
S/SL Inlet Parameters.........................................................................................107
Operating Sequences
Installing a Liner and a Septum............................................................................99
Programming the Split Mode.............................................................................110
Programming the Splitless Mode .......................................................................111
Programming the Surge Splitless Mode.............................................................112
5
Instruction Manual 93
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Chapter 5
Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) S/SL Overview
S/SL Overview
The S/SL injector, shown in Figure 5-1, is optimized for either split or splitless
applications to ensure effective sample transfer into the column, minimizing
heavy component discrimination.
1. Septum Cap 7. Graphite Column Ferrule
2. Septum 8. Capillary Column
3. Liner Seal A. Carrier Gas Inlet
4. Glass Liner B. Split Line
5. Fixing Nut C. Septum Purge Line
6. M4 Retaining Nut
Figure 5-1. Split/Splitless Injector
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Chapter 5
S/SL Overview Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
For both split and splitless applications, the sample is injecte d through a septum
into a glass liner in the vaporization chamber.
The technique used, either split or splitless, determines the choice of the glass
liner and the length of the syringe needle. You can control the injector
temperature from ambient t o 375 °C, alt hough the a ctual inject or temperat ure you
use depends on the solvent choice and thermal stability of the samples.
The Digital Pressure Flow Control (DPFC) controls the split flow, while the
septum purge flow is kept constant by a calibrated flow regulator.
The S/SL injector is also equipped with electronically actuated On/Off valves for
split and septum purge lines.
Volatile components given off by the hot septum can produce ghost peaks in a
chromatogram. The septum pu r ge s ystem c an contin ual ly pur g e the s eptum with a
flow of gas. This prevents the volatile components given off by the septum from
entering the column. Figure 5-2 shows the septum purge system.
1. Spring 6. Graphite Liner Seal
2. Septum 7. Glass Liner
3. Septum Holder A. Carrier Gas Inlet
4. Septum Support B. Septum Purge Line
5. Liner Cap C. Split Line
Figure 5-2. Septum Purge System
Figure 5-3 shows the S/SL injector components.
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Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) S/SL Overview
1
2
3
4
5
9
12
6
7
8
10
11
13
14
15
16
1. Septum Cap 9. Injector Body
2. Spring 10. Metal Ring
3. Septum Holder 11. Fixing Nut
4. Septum 12. Silver Seal
5. Septum Support 13. Terminal Fitting
6. Liner Cap 14. Fixing Nut
7. Liner 15. Graphite Column Ferrule
8. Graphite Liner Seal 16. M4 Retaining Nut
Figure 5-3. Split/Splitless Injector Components
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Chapter 5
S/SL Overview Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
Septum
Standard Septum
You should always use good quality septa, such as the BTO septa supplied with
the FOCUS GC. Such septa resist deformation, have longer life expectancy, and
have a low bleed level, even at high temperatures.
Microseal™ Valve
S/SL injector is compatible to use Merlin Microseal™ High Pressure Valve
instead of the standard septa.
NOTE To install the Microseal™ Valve, the relevant installation kit is required.
High pressure capability allows opera ti on fr om 15 to 700 kPa (2-100 psi) . Longer
life reduces the changes of septum leaks occurring during extended automated
runs. Microseal™ valve requires a 0.63 mm diameter (0.025-inch) blunt tip
syringe.
Liners
You may choose amomg different types of glass lin er s depe ndi ng on t he injection
mode used. Table 5-1 shows the liner options.
Table 5-1. Liner Sizes and Applications
ID mm OD mm Application
5 8 split injection
3 8 split injection
3 8 splitless injection
5 8 splitless injection
5 8 direct injection into a wide-bore column
5 8 split injection at high flow rates or for very polar solvents
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Chapter 5
Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) S/SL Overview
Packed Columns
With a special adapting kit, you can install packed columns in the S/SL injector,
as shown in Figure 5-4.
1. Carrier Gas Inlet 3. Septum Purge Line
2. Split Line
Figure 5-4. S/SL with a Packed Column
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Chapter 5
S/SL Overview Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL)
OPERATING SEQUENCE
Installing a Liner and a Septum
Materials required:
•liner
•septum
• tweezers
• graphite seal
• liner cap wrench (included with the GC)
NOTE
CAUTION Be careful not to break the graphite or to allow graphite to enter the liner.
The injector fittings may be hot.
This sequence must be performed with the injector at working temperature.
1. Choose the correct liner for your application (see Table 5-1). Slide a graphite
seal onto the liner from the bottom (the bevelled end) and push it to
approximately 8–10 mm from top (the flat end).
2. Hold the top of the liner with tweezers. Lower it, bevelled end first, into the
injector. The liner should rest on the terminal fitting at the bottom of the
injector.
3. Hold the top of the liner with tweezers. Lower it, bevelled end first, into the
injector. The liner should rest on the terminal fitting at the bottom of the
injector.
4. Insert the liner cap and secu re it wit h the li ner cap wrench. The li ner ca p must
be screwed down tight eno ugh to ens ure a good seal bet ween the liner and the
injector body.
5. Place the septum support in the injector. The septum support must lie flush
with the top of the injector. If not, the liner cap may not be tight enough.
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Chapter 5
Split/Splitless Injector (S/SL) S/SL Overview
6. Use tweezers to pick up the septum. Place the septum into the septum holder,
then place t he holder on top of the complete injecto r assembly.
CAUTION To avoid contamination, do not touch the septum with your hands.
7. Gently screw the septum cap onto the injector assembly until finger-tight to
hold the septum in place.
WARNING! If the injector is hot, use the liner cap wrench to turn the septum cap.
Do not overtighten the septum cap. The septum will deform and may be difficult to
penetrate with the syringe needle.
100 Instruction Manual
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