Previously we talked about Maintenance Tips for TG-IR (known also as TL 8000 interface), the standard configuration between TGA and IR spectrometer.
This article masters the way to conduct a proper Preventive Maintenance (PM) to TG-GCMS balanced flow interface (known also as TL 8500 interface).
Steps are almost similar and do not require special accessories in addition to the material that must be with the technical engineer (in case a refurbish of a part is needed).
We suggest running a routine maintenance once a year, but if the instrument is used intensively, check it more frequently (twice per year).
1. Check inner tube TGA side
Transfer line inner tube, on TGA-side could get dirty around the entrance, especially in case of analysis with the presence of huge volatile residues. It is good practice to raise the TGA furnace temperature after each run and to introduce ambient air to burn off any possible residue from the concluded analysis before running a new one.
Deposits are visible to the naked eye… Clean it with a little piece of sandpaper or a small drill bit and a cloth soaked with a solvent. Remember always to run a blank run to eliminates any old and solvent traces.
2. Check filters
Inside the electronical controller there are filters which clean the flow path before expelling it. Examine them by following the instructions given in the user manual and if they are very dirty, replace them.
3. GSV injection block and seals inspection
Inspect Valves Injection Block (GSV) and tubes seals, this prevent you from leaks and ambient air introduction in the MS.
4. Check and replace exhaust tube
The exhaust tube goes from the Valves Block to the controller/pump. Check if it for any dirty traces or slightly black spots along the path. In case, proceed with the replacement.
5. Control the entire path flow
We recommend checking flows at the end of every PM. First of all, set TGA flows and verify that are consistent with the value set in the TGA software. Then set the TG-GCMS flow and check it if coherent. For more information about the correct procedure for each TGA model ask us!
Please Note: before starting with any PM procedure, be sure to have all the maintenance kit with you, in case you need to change some parts. Moreover, we have a maintenance kit for TL8500 available with all parts needed for a complete refurbish and check.
There is also more in-depth maintenance that can be done approximately every two years: Transfer line inner tube replacement, GSV cleaning, a complete capillary tubing replacement and finally a complete leak check.