Routine Maintenance 700 Series ICP-OES Systems

This Information Applies To: Agilent 700 Series ICP-OES Systems

Issue 

The 700 Series ICP-OES requires regular maintenance, and routine maintenance tasks are able to be performed by the instrument operator. 

Any maintenance procedures not specifically mentioned in this article should only be performed by Agilent-trained, Agilent-qualified, or Agilent-authorized Field Service Engineers.

Warning: Eye Hazard Danger to eyes. The plasma is an intense light source. Direct viewing of the light source will cause eye damage. Operators and other unauthorized personnel must NEVER remove the main covers or disable the safety interlock system.

Warning: Shock Hazard. This instrument contains electrical circuits, devices, and components operating at dangerous voltages. Contact with these circuits, devices, and components can result in death, cause serious injury, or painful electric shock.

Warning: RF Hazard and Hot surfaces. The plasma radiates dangerous levels of radio frequency (RF) energy. Exposure to this RF energy can cause severe skin damage and cataracts of the eyes. Close contact with the operating plasma can result in severe heat burns to the skin, and an electrical discharge that can jump a considerable distance and may cause death, severe electric shock, or subsurface skin burns.

The following parts of the ICP-OES require routine maintenance. Detailed maintenance instructions are included in the Help menu of the ICP Expert II software.

Daily

• Inspect nebulizer and torch
• Check the water level in the Argon Saturator Accessory (ASA) before every use (if applicable).
• Empty drain vessel
• Inspect the pump tubing and replace if it has lost its elasticity. Unclip the pump tubes when the pump is not in use.

Weekly

• Clean the torch.
• Clean the cone (axial) or snout (radial)
• Inspect the bonnet (radial).
• Clean the spray chamber.
• Clean the nebulizer.

Monthly

• Clean the cooling air intake filter (behind chimney).
• Inspect the induction coil. Contact your local Agilent office or representative if maintenance is required.  
• Remove and clean the water filter on the back of the instrument.
• Check the water level in the water cooler (see the manual supplied with your water cooler for details).
• Check/clean the heat exchanger (radiator) on the cooling system to remove any build-up of dust and dirt.
• Periodically, drain the coolant from the cooling system and then refill/ treat with an appropriate algaecide (as recommended by the manufacturer).
• Perform a wavelength calibration.
• Inspect the external gas supply system for leaks including the tubing connected to the instrument. Replace any damaged, leaking, or worn components.

Learn how to effectively maintain and troubleshoot your Agilent 700 Series ICP-OES System: Agilent 700 Series ICP-OES Maintenance Tips