The hardware descriptions in this manual revision refer to devices VC-D40-A, VF-D40-A.
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Ordering Information
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Contacting Us
There are several ways to contact us:
For ordering information or sales support for HPLC products, contact
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information, go to Contact Us on http://www.thermofisher.com.
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This chapter provides information about this manual, the conventions
used throughout the manual, and the reference documentation that is
available in addition to this manual.
This manual describes the functional features and operating principle of
your Vanquish™ device 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
device, read this manual thoroughly.
This manual also contains safety messages, precautionary statements,
and special notices that can prevent personal injury, damage to the
device, or loss of data when followed properly.
Note the following:
•The device configuration may vary; therefore, not all descriptions
necessarily apply to your particular device.
•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 device or component.
However, this does not influence the descriptions. No claims can be
derived from the illustrations in this manual.
The descriptions in this manual assume that the device 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.
1.2.1Safety 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.
1.2.2Special 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 device 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 device.
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 >ThermoChromeleon7 > 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 device 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.
1 • Using this Manual
Software Documentation
Additional software documentation includes the following:
•Chromeleon™ Help and documents
In addition, the following documentation is available (availability
depends on the software version):
•Installation Guide
•Instrument Configuration Manager Help
•Quick Start Guide
The Chromeleon 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 Chromeleon7, 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.
•Reference Card
For a concise overview of the most important workflows, refer to
the Reference Card.
2.1.1Safety Symbols and Signal Words in This Manual
This manual contains safety messages to prevent injury of the persons
using the device.
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.
2.1.2Observing this Manual
Observe the following:
•Before installing or operating the device, read this manual carefully
to be familiar with the device and this manual. The manual contains
important information with regard to user safety as well as use and
care of the device.
•Always keep the manual near the device 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.
The table lists the safety symbols that appear on the device or on labels
affixed to the device. Follow the safety notices in this manual to prevent
the risk of operator injury or damage to the device.
SymbolDescription
Indicates a potential hazard. Refer to this manual to avoid the risk of
personal injury and/or to prevent damage to the device.
2 • Safety
2.1.4Rating Plate
—
Ο
Power supply is on
Power supply is off
Indicates alternating current.
Indicates that the surface becomes hot during operation. Do not
touch these surfaces while they are heated up.
Indicates that the UV radiation produced by the deuterium lamp in
the device may be harmful to eyes and skin. Do not look directly into
the light produced by the deuterium lamp. Never operate the lamp
outside the device.
The rating plate is present on the device near the electrical connections.
The rating plate indicates the serial number, part number, module
name, revision number (if any), line and fuse rating, and the
manufacturer's address.
TIP An additional type label on the leak tray of the device indicates the
module name, serial number, part number, and revision number (if any).
To facilitate device identification, have the information from this label
available when communicating with Thermo Fisher Scientific.
The device is intended to be part of the Vanquish system.
The intended use of the Vanquish system is to analyze mixtures of
compounds in sample solutions.
The device is for use by qualified personnel and in laboratory
environment only.
The device and Vanquish system are intended to be used as General
Laboratory Equipment (GLE).
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
•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 device.
If the device is used in a manner not specified by Thermo Fisher
Scientific, the protection provided by the device could be impaired.
Observe the following:
•Operate the device only within its technical specifications.
•Use only the replacement parts and additional components, options,
and peripherals specifically authorized and qualified for the device
by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
2 • Safety
•Perform only the procedures that are described in this operating
manual and in supporting documents for the device. Follow all
instructions step by step and use the tools recommended for the
procedure.
•Open the enclosure of the device 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 device. If there is any question regarding appropriate usage,
contact Thermo Fisher Scientific before proceeding.
Safety Standard
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.
2.3.2Qualification of the Personnel
Observe the information below on the proper qualification of the
personnel installing and/or operating the device.
Only skilled personnel are permitted to install the device 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 device is designed to be operated only by trained and qualified
personnel in a laboratory environment.
All users must know the hazards presented by the device and the
substances they are using. All users should observe the related Safety
Data Sheets (SDSs).
2.3.3Personal 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.
Protective Eyewear
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.
To protect you from harmful liquids and avoid personal injury during
maintenance or service, put on appropriate protective gloves.
2.3.4Electrical 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.
•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.
2 • Safety
•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.
2.3.5General Residual Hazards
Pay attention to the following general residual hazards when working
with the device:
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 device 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.
WARNING—Self-Ignition of Solvents
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).
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 device 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 nickel/
cobalt-based alloy. Individuals with sensitivity to nickel/cobalt may show
an allergic reaction from skin contact.
CAUTION—Sparking due to Electrostatic Discharge
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.
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.
•Use only solvents and additives that are compatible with all parts in
the flow path.
TIP In a Vanquish Core system, normal-phase (NP) compatible solvents
and additives may be used if the VC-pumps and the VC-autosamplers are
modified with the components from the Normal-Phase (NP) kit. Refer to
the Operating Manuals for the pumps and autosamplers.
2 • Safety
NOTICE
If the system flow path includes a Vanquish charged aerosol detector,
observe the specific solvent and additive information for this detector.
Refer to the Operating Manual for the Vanquish charged aerosol
detector.
Allowed pH ranges (standard system configuration):
System
(Standard
Configuration)
Vanquish Core1-13• pH values of 2 or less: The application time should
Vanquish
Horizon
Vanquish Flex
2.4.3Allowed Concentrations
Allowed
pH ranges
2-12
Remarks
be as short as possible. Flush the system
thoroughly after these applications.
• pH values higher than 9.5 with optical detectors:
Avoid using mobile phases with a pH value higher
than 9.5 together with optical detectors. This can
impair the functionality and optical performance
of the detector flow cell.
• pH values higher than 12: May affect
electrochemical detection. Before using highly
alkaline solvents for flushing the system,
disconnect the detector from the system.
• Mobile phases containing ammonium hydroxide: In
rare cases, a shortened lifetime of reversed-phase
(UHMW-PE) piston seals has been observed with
high pH, ammonium hydroxide containing mobile
phases and prolonged exposure.
Allowed concentrations (standard system configuration):
System
(Standard
Configuration)
Vanquish Core0.1 mol/L
Vanquish Horizon
Vanquish Flex
ChlorideBufferRemarks
or less
1 mol/L or
less
1 mol/L or
less
-
• High chloride concentration:
The application time should be
as short as possible. Flush the
system thoroughly after these
applications.
• Mobile phases containing
ammonium hydroxide: In rare
cases, a shortened lifetime of
reversed-phase (UHMW-PE)
piston seals has been observed
with high pH, ammonium
hydroxide containing mobile
phases and prolonged
exposure.
•For details about the materials that are used in the analytical flow
•Follow any specific recommendations presented in other sections of
•Observe the general guidelines and recommendations on the use of
2 • Safety
path of the device, see the Specifications chapter in this manual. 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 modules.
this manual. Refer also to the operating manuals for all modules in
the Vanquish system. They may provide additional guidelines and
information.
solvents and additives in the chromatography system. Refer to Use
of Solvents and Additives in the Vanquish System Operating Manual.
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.
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.
The device has been shipped from the manufacturing site in a safe
condition.