5. Analytic Splitter
FlowStar2 LB 514
48
5.3 Inspection and Trouble Shooting
If the
AS-xx
does not work with the splitting ratio indicated, check the
AS-
xx
using the illustration above (Figure 13). Let the pump run for some time,
then read off both measuring cylinders. If the liquid is not distributed in both
cylinders in the splitting ratio indicated, this may be due to contamination
of the capillaries or clogging of the splitter.
Caution:
Carry out this check only with an absolutely pulsation-free
pump, since any possible pulsation or ripples on the liquid flow
may lead to false results of the measurement!
Remedy:
Using a complete HPLC system (pump, pulsation reducer,
column), check if the pulsation on the high pressure side has
already been reduced.
Blocking or clogging in a capillary (FC or C)
With eluates having a high buffer concentration it may happen that the thin
capillaries (ID
0.1 mm) may be blocked by crystallization.
Remedy: Flush the blocked capillary (FC or C) from the rear end with water
and collect the water at outlet E (Figure 14).
Blocking the separator
It may happen that the column clogging is leaky and that some particles in
the separator may cause a blockage. In most cases, the particles are 3 - 5
µ large and pass through the
AS-xx
without any problems. If irregularities
occur, proceed as follows:
Alternating flushing of the capillaries FC and C of the
AS-xx
with solvent
from the rear end (see Figure 14).
Figure 14:
Cleaning capillary or separator
IN
85% 15%
FC
Cell
E
FC
C
Pump
Solvent
Bowl
