Operating Environment
Oven Exhaust
The GC oven exhaust vents are in the rear of the instrument. Hot air
(350 °C [660 °F]) exits through these vents during GC operation. As stated under
Space and Load Requirements
in.) free space behind the instrument to allow the exhaust to dissipate. Any
material exposed to the oven exhaust must be able to withstand repeated exposure
to temperatures of up to 350 °C (660 °F).
WARNING! Oven exhaust can cause severe burns. Avoid working behind the instrument when
the oven vents during cooling-down cycles. Do not expose gas tanks or bottles,
chemicals, regulators, electrical cords, or other temperature-sensitive items to oven
exhaust.
Altitude
The maximum operating altitude for the FOCUS GC is 2,000 meters above sea
level.
Humidity
The relative humidity of the operating environment must be between 5 and 95%
with no condensation.
Operating your FOCUS GC system in low humidity will cause the accumulation
and discharge of static electricity, which shortens the life of electronic
components. Operating your GC system in high humidity causes condensation,
which can lead to short circuits. High humidity also blocks traps on cooling fans.
We recommended you equip your laboratory with temperature and humidity
monitors to ensure your laboratory is always within the required temperature and
humidity specifications.
Particulate Matter
The air in your laboratory must not have excessive dust, smoke, or other
particulate matter. The air should contain fewer than 1,000,000 particles per cubic
meter (100,000 particles per cubic foot) larger than 5 µm.
Site Preparation and Installation Manual
in this chapter, there should be at least 30 cm (12
Chapter 1
Laboratory Preparation
29