Instrument Optimization; Instrumental Method Optimization - Thermo Scientific iCAP 7000 Series Manual

iCAP Customer Familiarisation Manual

7 Instrument Optimization

The iCAP 7000 will require optimization that is dependent on the sample being analyzed and the
method requirements.
It is important that the method development verifies the data produced by the method.
It is also important that a suitable quality control regime is established that verifies the continuing
validity of data.
Training courses are available through a local Thermo Scientific Sales Office; contact details are
available at www.Thermoscientific.com.

7.1 Instrumental method optimization

The following parameters can all affect the data obtained and should be optimized. Usually a
default setting will give data that is satisfactory, (Apart from a Duo iCAP where radial / axial views
have to be selected manually) may not be optimal for the analysis requirements:
7.1.1 Nebulizer Gas flow
Changes the nebulisation performance and Viewing Height on a radial instrument.
7.1.2 Radial instrument Plasma viewing height
Used to select optimum height view height.
7.1.3 Radial Axial View
On a Duo instrument you have a choice of Axial and Radial views you will have to select the view
you want to use manually. General rule all low Wavelengths Axial View, all High Wavelengths
Radial view.
7.1.4 RF Power
1150 works with most samples you may want to select higher power for organics, High TDS
samples
7.1.5 Pump speed
45-50 RPM for most samples as low as 20 RPM for organics to reduce the plasma loading.
7.1.6 Auxiliary gas flow
0.5l/min works on most samples 1l/min may be required for high TDS and 1.5- 2l/min for organic
samples.
7.1.7 Coolant gas
12l/min works with most samples 14L/min for organics if (7600 only)
7.1.8 Additional gas supply
For organics samples to burn off the excess Carbon normally set to about 25ml/min
7.1.9 Organics Check box
To enable Autopeak to be performed with organic standards.
7.1.10 Sample chemistry
All instrument parameters are separate to the development of the chemical requirements of the
method, for example variation in sample ionization solvent volatility and viscosity effects.
This document is part numbered 849940090071 Version 1.02
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