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Release history
Revision 1.1, released in March 2015, original operating manual
Revision 2.0, released in July 2015, original operating manual
The hardware descriptions in this manual revision refer to the detectors VH-D20 and VF-D20.
Printed manual version only
Printed in Germany on 100% chlorine-free bleached, high-white paper that is produced in an
environmentally friendly process, leading to a paper profile of zero CO2 emissions.
Contacting Us
Ordering Information
Technical Assistance
Contacting Us
There are several ways to contact us:
For ordering information or sales support for HPLC products, contact
your local Thermo Fisher Scientific sales organization. For contact
information, go to Contact Us on http://www.thermoscientific.com.
For technical support for HPLC products, contact your local Thermo
Fisher Scientific support organization. For contact information, go to
Contact Us on http://www.thermoscientific.com.
This manual describes the functional features and operating principle of
your Vanquish™ detector and provides instructions for installation, set
up, start up, shut down, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting.
The layout of this manual is designed to provide quick reference to the
sections of interest to the user. To obtain a full understanding of your
detector, read this manual thoroughly.
This manual also contains safety messages, precautionary statements,
and special notices that can prevent personal injury, damage to the
detector, or loss of data when followed properly.
Note the following:
• The detector configuration may vary; therefore, not all descriptions
necessarily apply to your particular detector.
• If some detail applies to only one model or variant, the model or
variant is identified by name.
• Illustrations in this manual are provided for basic understanding.
They can vary from the actual model of the detector or component.
However, this does not influence the descriptions. No claims can be
derived from the illustrations in this manual.
• The detector is referred to as detector or charged aerosol detector in
this manual. If other detector types are referenced, they are
identified by name.
The descriptions in this manual assume that the detector is installed in
the Vanquish system stack. If this is not the case, additional hardware is
required and must be ordered separately. The information in this
manual applies correspondingly.
This section describes the conventions that are used throughout this
manual.
1.2.1 Safety Messages
The safety messages and precautionary statements in this manual
appear as follows:
• Safety messages or precautionary statements that apply to the
• Safety messages or precautionary statements that apply to an entire
1 • Using this Manual
entire manual and all procedures in this manual are grouped in the
Safety chapter.
section or to multiple procedures in a section appear at the
beginning of the section to which they apply.
• Safety messages that apply to only a particular section or procedure
appear in the section or procedure to which they apply. They appear
different from the main flow of text.
Safety messages are often preceded by an alert symbol and/or alert
word. The alert word appears in uppercase letters and in bold type.
Make sure that you understand and follow all safety messages
presented in this manual.
1.2.2 Special Notices and Informational Notes
Special notices and informational notes in this manual appear different
from the main flow of text. They appear in boxes and a note label
identifies them. The label text appears in uppercase letters and in bold
type.
NOTICE Highlights information necessary to prevent damage to the
detector or invalid test results.
TIP Highlights information of general interest or helpful information that
can make a task easier or optimize the performance of the detector.
These typographical conventions apply to the descriptions in this
manual:
Data Input and Output
• The following appears in bold type:
♦ Input that you enter by the keyboard or that you select with the
mouse
♦ Buttons that you click on the screen
♦ Commands that you enter by the keyboard
♦ Names of, for example, dialog boxes, properties, and parameters
• For brevity, long expressions and paths appear in the condensed
form, for example: Click Start > All Programs > Thermo
Chromeleon 7 > Services Manager > Start Instrument Controller.
References and Messages
• References to additional documentation appear italicized.
• Messages that appear on the screen are identified by quotation
marks.
Viewpoint
If not otherwise stated, the expressions left and right in this manual
always refer to the viewpoint of a person that is facing the detector from
the front.
Particularly Important Words
Particularly important words in the main flow of text appear italicized.
Electronic Manual Version (PDF)
The electronic version (PDF) of the manual contains numerous links that
you can click to go to other locations within the manual. These include:
• Table of contents entries
• Index entries
• Cross-references (in blue text), for example, to sections and figures
TIP Electronic versions of these manuals are available as PDF (Portable
Document Format) files. To open and read the PDF files, Adobe®
Reader® or Adobe® Acrobat® is required.
Software Documentation
Additional software documentation includes the following:
• Chromeleon™ 7 Help and documents
The Chromeleon 7 Help provides extensive information and
comprehensive reference material for all aspects of the software.
For basic information about device installation and configuration,
refer to the Installation Guide; for specific information about a
certain device, refer to the Instrument Configuration Manager Help.
In Chromeleon 7, devices are called modules.
For information about the main elements of the user interface and
step-by-step guidance through the most important workflows, refer
to the Quick Start Guide.
For a concise overview of the most important workflows, refer to
the Reference Card.
2.1.1 Safety Symbols and Signal Words in This Manual
This manual contains safety messages to prevent injury of the persons
using the detector. The safety symbols and signal words in this manual
include the following:
Always be aware of the safety information. Do not proceed until you
have fully understood the information and consider the consequences of
what you are doing.
CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could
result in serious injury.
• Before installing or operating the detector, read this manual
carefully to be familiar with the detector and this manual. The
manual contains important information with regard to user safety as
well as use and care of the detector.
• Always keep the manual near the detector for quick reference.
• Save this manual and pass it on to any subsequent user.
Read, understand, and comply with all safety messages and
precautionary statements presented in this manual.
2 • Safety
2.1.3 Safety Symbols on the Detector
The table lists the safety symbols that appear on the detector or on
labels affixed to the detector. Follow the safety notices in this manual to
prevent the risk of operator injury or damage to the detector.
Symbol Description
Indicates a potential hazard. Refer to this manual to avoid the risk of
personal injury and/or to prevent damage to the device.
—
Ο
Power supply is on
Power supply is off
Indicates alternating current.
2.1.4 Rating Plate
The rating plate is present on the detector near the electrical
connections. The rating plate indicates the serial number, part number,
module name, line and fuse rating, and the manufacturer's address.
TIP An additional type label on the leak tray of the detector indicates the
serial number, part number, and module name. To facilitate device
identification have the information from this label available when
communicating with Thermo Fisher Scientific.
The detector is intended to be part of the Vanquish system. The
intended use of the Vanquish system is to analyze a mixture of
compounds in sample solutions. The detector is for use by qualified
personnel and in laboratory environment only.
The detector and Vanquish system are intended for laboratory research
use only. They are not intended for use in diagnostic procedures.
Laboratory Practice
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that the laboratory in which the
Vanquish system is used follow best practices for LC analyses. This
includes among others:
• Using appropriate standards
• Regularly running calibration prior to reporting results
• Establishing shelf life limits and following them for all consumables
used with the system
• Running the system according to the laboratory's verified and
All users must observe the general safety information presented in this
section and all specific safety messages and precautionary statements
elsewhere in this manual during all phases of installation, operation,
troubleshooting, maintenance, shutdown, and transport of the detector.
If the detector is used in a manner not specified by Thermo Fisher
Scientific, the protection provided by the detector could be impaired.
Observe the following:
• Operate the detector only within its technical specifications.
• Use only the replacement parts and additional components, options,
and peripherals specifically authorized and qualified for the detector
by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
2 • Safety
Safety Standard
• Perform only the procedures that are described in this operating
manual and in supporting documents for the detector.
Follow all instructions step by step and use the tools recommended
for the procedure.
• Open the enclosure of the detector and other components only if
specifically instructed to do so in this manual.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific cannot be held liable for any damage,
material or otherwise, resulting from inappropriate or improper use
of the detector. If there is any question regarding appropriate usage,
contact Thermo Fisher Scientific before proceeding.
This device is a Safety Class I instrument (provided with terminal for
protective grounding). The device has been manufactured and tested
according to international safety standards.
Observe the information below on the proper qualification of the
personnel installing and/or operating the detector.
Installation
Only skilled personnel are permitted to install the detector and to
establish the electrical connections according to the appropriate
regulations. Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends always having service
personnel certified by Thermo Fisher Scientific perform the installation
(for brevity, referred to as Thermo Fisher Scientific service engineer).
If a person other than a Thermo Fisher Scientific service engineer installs
and sets up the module, the installer is responsible for ensuring the
safety of the module and system.
General Operation
The detector is designed to be operated only by trained and qualified
personnel in a laboratory environment.
All users must know the hazards presented by the detector and the
substances they are using. All users should observe the related Safety
Data Sheets (SDSs).
2.3.3 Personal Protective Equipment
Wear personal protective equipment and follow good laboratory
practice to protect you from hazardous substances. The appropriate
equipment depends on the hazard. For advice on the hazards and the
equipment required for the substances you are using, refer to the
material handling and safety data sheet provided by the vendor.
An eyewash facility and a sink should be available nearby. If any
substance contacts your skin or eyes, wash the affected area and seek
medical attention.
Protective Clothing
To protect you from chemical splashes, harmful liquids, or other
contamination, put on appropriate protective clothing, such as a lab
coat.
To prevent liquids from striking your eyes, put on appropriate protective
eyewear, such as safety glasses with side shields. If there is a risk of
splashing liquids, put on goggles.
Gloves
To protect you from harmful liquids and avoid personal injury during
maintenance or service, put on appropriate protective gloves.
2.3.4 Electrical Safety Precautions
WARNING— Electric Shock or Damage to the Device
High voltages are present inside the device that could cause an electric
shock or damage to the device.
2 • Safety
• Do not make any changes to the electrical or grounding connections.
• If you suspect any kind of electrical damage, disconnect the power
cord and contact Thermo Fisher Scientific Technical Support for
assistance.
• Do not open the housing or remove protective panels unless
specifically instructed to do so in this manual.
• Do not place liquid reservoirs directly upon the device. Liquid might
leak into the device and get into contact with electronic components
causing a short circuit. Instead, place liquid reservoirs in the solvent
rack that is available for the Vanquish system.
Pay attention to the following general residual hazards when working
with the detector:
WARNING—Hazardous Substances
Solvents, mobile phases, samples, and reagents might contain toxic,
carcinogenic, mutagenic, infectious, or otherwise harmful substances.
The handling of these substances can pose health and safety risks.
• Be sure that you know the properties of all substances that you are
using. Avoid exposure to harmful substances. If you have any doubt
about a substance, handle the substance as if it is potentially
harmful.
• Wear personal protective equipment as required by the hazard and
follow good laboratory practice.
• Reduce the volume of substances to the minimum volume required
for sample analysis.
• Do not operate the detector in a potentially flammable environment.
• Avoid accumulation of harmful substances. Make sure that the
installation site is well ventilated.
• Dispose of hazardous waste in an environmentally safe manner that
is consistent with local regulations. Follow a regulated, approved
waste disposal program.
WARNING—Biohazard
Biohazardous material, for example microorganisms, cell cultures,
tissues, body fluids, and other biological agents can transmit infectious
diseases. To avoid infections with these agents:
• Assume that all biological substances are at least potentially
infectious.
• Wear personal protective equipment as required by the hazard and
follow good laboratory practice.
• Dispose of biohazardous waste in an environmentally safe manner
that is consistent with local regulations. Follow a regulated,
approved waste disposal program.
Solvents with a self-ignition temperature below 150 °C might ignite
when in contact with a hot surface (for example, due to leakage in the
chromatography system). Avoid the use of these solvents.
WARNING—Hazardous Gases
Mobile phases and samples might contain volatile or flammable
solvents. The handling of these substances can pose health and safety
risks.
• Avoid accumulation of these substances. Make sure that the
installation site is well ventilated.
• Avoid open flames and sparks. Do not operate the detector in the
presence of flammable gases or fumes.
CAUTION—Escape of Hazardous Substances from PEEK™ Capillaries
In the Vanquish system, capillaries made of PEEK may be used. Swelling
or attack by acids can cause PEEK capillaries to start leaking or to burst.
• Certain chemicals, for example, trichlormethane (CHCl3), dimethyl
sulfoxide (DMSO), or tetrahydrofuran (THF) can cause PEEK to swell.
• Concentrated acids, such as sulfuric acid and nitric acid, or a mixture
of hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol, can attack PEEK.
• Swelling or attack is not a problem with brief flushing procedures.
• For more information, refer to the technical literature on the
chemical resistance of PEEK.
CAUTION—Allergic Reaction
Some capillaries in the Vanquish system are made of MP35N®, a nickelcobalt based alloy. Individuals with sensitivity to nickel/cobalt may show
an allergic reaction from skin contact.
Liquid flowing through capillaries can generate static electricity. This
effect is particularly present with insulating capillaries and nonconductive solvents (for example, pure acetonitrile). Discharge of
electrostatic energy might lead to sparking, which could constitute a fire
hazard. Prevent the generation of static electricity near the
chromatography system.
2.3.6 In Case of Emergency
WARNING—Safety Hazard
In case of emergency, disconnect the detector from the power line.
To protect optimal functionality of the Vanquish system, observe these
recommendations on the use of solvents and additives:
• The system must be used with reversed-phase (RP) compatible
solvents and additives only.
TIP The Vanquish charged aerosol detector can also be used with
normal-phase (NP) compatible solvents and additives if the other
modules in the Vanquish system are compatible for normal-phase
applications.
Before you use normal-phase solvents and additives, make sure that
all modules and components in the system are compatible for
normal-phase applications. Refer to the Operating Manuals for the
other modules in the system.
2 • Safety
• Use only solvents and additives that are compatible with all parts in
the flow path.
For details about the materials that are used in the flow path of the
detector, see the Specifications chapter. For information about the
materials that are used in the flow path of the other modules in the
Vanquish system, refer to the Specifications chapter in the
Operating Manual for the module.
♦ For the charged aerosol detector
Observe the Mobile Phase Guidelines for the Detector in
section 6.5.1, page 95.
♦ For other modules in the Vanquish system
Observe the general guidelines and recommendations in the
Vanquish System Operating Manual on the use of solvents and
additives in the chromatography system.
• Allowed ranges and concentrations for the charged aerosol detector:
♦ pH range: 2-9.5
♦ Volatile buffer concentration: less than or equal to 0.1 mol/L
♦ Chloride concentration: Not recommended
• Observe the following for pH values higher than 9.5:
Avoid using mobile phases with a pH value higher than 9.5. They can
impair the functionality and performance of the nebulizer.
Thermo Fisher Scientific performs complete testing and evaluation of its
products to ensure full compliance with applicable domestic and
international regulations. When the device is delivered to you, it meets
all pertinent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and safety standards
as described in this manual. For details, see section 11, page 173.
Changes that you make to the device may void compliance with one or
more of these EMC and safety standards. Changes to the device include
replacing a part or adding components, options, or peripherals not
specifically authorized and qualified for the product by Thermo Fisher
Scientific. To ensure continued compliance with EMC and safety
standards, replacement parts and additional components, options, and
peripherals must be ordered from Thermo Fisher Scientific or one of its
authorized representatives.
2 • Safety
The device has been shipped from the manufacturing site in a safe
condition.
The detector comprises the following main features:
• Charged aerosol detection method for liquid chromatography for
detection of all non-volatile and many semi-volatile analytes
• Detection based on measuring charge that is proportional to the
amount of analyte, and, for non-volatile analytes, independent of
the chemical structure of the analyte
In comparison to UV detection, a chromophore is not required for
detection, and in comparison to mass spectrometry, ionization of
the analyte is not necessary.
• Detection with great sub-nanogram sensitivity and a wide dynamic
range
• FocusJet™ nebulizer with concentric design for extended low pump
flow rate range
• Adjustable evaporation temperature for optimization of analyte
response and use with a wider range of eluents
♦ VH-detector: Adjustable range for the evaporation temperature