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Section 7
7.1
General
This section is a step-by step guide that should allow an operator to take appropriate actions to
clear simple faults. Any action not defined in this trouble shooting guide should only be
undertaken by qualified personnel.
7.2
Unstable results
Check the instrument stability is within the limits of the instrument specifications by checking
against the reproducibility, linearity, specificity and stability parameters defined in Section 1.3,
Specification.
Possible cause
Condensation in the air supply.
Nebuliser blocked.
Flame temperature not correctly set.
Fuel cylinder nearly empty.
Instrument in strong draught.
Instrument in very bright sunlight.
Instrument not draining correctly.
Atmosphere contaminated.
Mixing chamber/burner contaminated.
7.3
Unable to set standard reading
Possible cause
Calibration standard at incorrect
concentration or incorrectly diluted.
Blank calibration standard
contaminated or incorrectly set.
Nebuliser blocked.
Trouble shooting
Solution
Drain the tubing. If the problem persists a moisture-
free air supply should be arranged by using a water
separator.
Check the nebuliser performance as defined in
Section 6.2, Weekly maintenance.
Ensure that the fuel valve is correctly set for the
element being determined; refer to Section 4.2,
Operation.
Replace cylinder with a fully charged one.
Relocate the instrument.
Relocate the instrument.
Ensure the "U" tube is clear of blockages and that
the drain trap is at the correct level i.e. pushed down
fully so the rim at the top is resting on the clip.
Remove source of contamination or improve
ventilation.
Carry out the six-monthly maintenance procedures.
Ensure the instrument is always flushed with
deionised water before shutdown.
Solution
Make new standards to check the calibration
procedure.
Re-make standard and re-set blank.
Check the nebuliser performance as defined in
Section 6.2, Weekly maintenance.
25
PFP7/REV C/01-08
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