Mass Spectrometry

A GUIDE TO MAINTAINING YOUR MASS SPECTROMETRY

MS instruments today form a vital tool in the analytical arsenal of many laboratories. Keeping these complex and sensitive instruments running optimally is best achieved through regular preventative maintenance servicing.

Understanding the typical sources of problems facilitates fast diagnosis and effective remedies to be implemented. Contamination is usually identified by excessive background. In a GC/MS instrument there are sources of contamination within the GC (bleeding septum’s, dirty Injection port liners air leaks etc..) and the MS (ion source leaks, fluid/oil, manifold dirt). Unfortunately not all contamination can be removed through running clean carrier gas overnight – the instrument may need extensive cleaning. Cleaning the MS Ion source to remove contamination is critical to restoring the electrostatic properties of the ion source lens. Another common source of MS contamination is from inadequate venting and maintenance of the diffusion pump. LC Services preventative maintenance ensures that diffusion pump oil/fluids are topped up to the correct levels or in the case of identifying ‘rough’ oil / fluids full replacement to avoid pump failure and ensure optimum performance of the vacuum system.

Air leaks can occur if a seal becomes damaged or is not correctly fastened are another common problem for any instruments that use a vacuum. Identifying this as a problem with your GC/MS can often be diagnosed through symptoms including higher than normal vacuum manifold pressure, low relative ion abundances and poor sensitivity

Employing our own engineers we are able to allocate sufficient time (at an affordable price) not only to diagnose problems and service your MS but also to perform tasks following pumping down to ensure optimal performance. This typically will involve dipping the quads, tuning and peak shape investigation… during which time an expert eye is able to view and ensure ion abundances are to the required levels.

Key preventative maintenance procedures: request full details here

• Check tune report and print, check RFPA and note on Engineers Report
• Clean/Check circuit boards/switches/connectors/main top board
• Check and replenish diffusion pump or turbo pump oil
• Check and clean ion source and filaments
• Check and clean quads/contacts
• Check multiplier condition and voltage
• Perform a tune
• Check for contamination