How to Clean the ICP-MS Water Strainer

Answer

This Information Applies To: Agilent 7700, 7800, 7850 and 7900 series ICP-MS systems

Issue

Over time the water inlet strainer can become clogged and reduce water flow. Reduced water flow limits the system cooling and can result in the instrument shutting down during analysis and triggering error or warning messages such as:

• 1400 Error: Cooling water (IF, RF) flow rate is too low.
• 1440 Error: Cooling water (IF) flow rate is too low. Spray chamber temperature control has been turned off.
• 1006 Execution Error: Cooling water (IF) flow rate is too low.
• 2400 Warning: Cooling water (IF) flow rate is low.

Items Required

• 17 mm wrench and 23 mm wrench
• Drip pan
• Sponge or Paper Towel
• Strainer brush

Steps to Follow

1. Turn off the water chiller or heat exchanger.

   
   Figure 1. Stopping recirculating water flow
   
   

2. Locate the water manifold on the back left corner of the ICP-MS.

3. Place a container or absorbent material under the water filter.

   
   Figure 2. Water leak container
   
   

4. Unscrew the water filter drain plug with a 17 mm open ended wrench while holding the brass Y piece with a 23 mm wrench to keep it from spinning.

5. Remove the drain plug.

   
   Figure 3. Removing the drain plug
   
   

6. Remove the strainer from the housing.

   
   Figure 4. Removing the strainer
   
   

7. Clean the strainer with tap water and a soft brush.

   
   Figure 5. Cleaning the strainer
   
   

8. Refit the strainer.

   
   Figure 6. Reinstalling the strainer
   
   

9. Be sure that the gasket is correctly positioned before closing the cap, and reinstall the drain plug.

   
   Figure 7. Reinstalling the drain plug
   
   

10. Turn on the chiller or heat exchanger and check for leaks.

Tips: This maintenance is also detailed in the Help and Learning Center, and the hardware maintenance manuals.

Learn how to effectively operate your Agilent ICP-MS system: Agilent 7800/7850/7900 ICP-MS with MassHunter e-learning path available from Agilent education