Using Hydrogen - Thermo Scientific FOCUS GC Site Preparation And Installation Manual

Gas chromatograph

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Chapter 4

Plumbing the Gas Supply to the GC

WARNING! Hydrogen is a dangerous gas that, when mixed with air, may create an explosive

mixture. The use of hydrogen as a carrier gas requires the operator's extreme

caution. Special precautions must be taken because of the risk of explosion. The

gas chromatograph must be equipped with a hydrogen sensor if you use hydrogen

as a carrier gas. Refer to

Using Hydrogen

The use of hydrogen as a carrier gas or as fuel for certain flame detectors requires

the operator's strict attention and compliance with special precautions due to the

hazards involved.

Hydrogen is a dangerous gas, particularly in an enclosed area when it reaches a

concentration corresponding to its lower explosion level (4% in volume). When

mixed with air it can create an explosive mixture. An explosion hazard could

develop in the GC oven when hydrogen is used as a carrier gas if oven elements

are not perfectly connected to each other, or if the connection materials are worn

out, broken, or otherwise faulty.

Use the following safety precautions when using hydrogen:

•

Using Hydrogen

Ensure that all hydrogen cylinders comply with the safety requirements for

proper use and storage. Hydrogen cylinders and delivery systems must couply

with local regulations.

Make sure the gas supply is turned completely off when connecting hydrogen

lines.

Perform a bubble test to ensure that the hydrogen lines are leak-tight before

using the instrument. Perform this test after the pressure test described in the

Testing for Leaks

portion of this chapter. Repeat this test to eliminate all leaks.

Ensure your GC column oven has a Thermo Fisher Scientific hydrogen

sensor. A hydrogen sensor continuously monitors the hydrogen level in the

GC column oven.

If your GC oven does not have a hydrogen sensor already installed, contact

your Thermo Fisher Scientific sales representative. To comply with

on page 54 for more information.

Site Preparation and Installation Manual

Using Hydrogen

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