Compressed Gas - Endress+Hauser Analytik Jena PlasmaQuant MS Series Installation Manual

PlasmaQuant MS Series
1.4.3

Compressed Gas

Hydrogen Safety
 All compressed gases (other than air) can create a hazard if they leak into the
atmosphere. Even small leaks in gas supply systems can be dangerous. Any leak
(except that of air) can result in an oxygen deficient atmosphere which can cause
asphyxiation. The area in which cylinders are stored and the area surrounding the
instrument must be adequately ventilated to prevent such gas accumulations.
 Gas cylinders must be stored and handled strictly in accordance with local safety
codes and regulations. Cylinders must be used and stored only in a vertical position
and secured to an immovable structure or a properly constructed cylinder stand.
Move cylinders only by securing them to a properly constructed cart.
 Use only approved regulator and hose connectors (refer to the gas supplier's
instructions). Keep gas cylinders cool and properly labeled. All cylinders are fitted
with a pressure relief device that will rupture and empty the cylinder if the internal
pressure is raised above the safe limit by excessive temperatures. Ensure that you
have the correct cylinder before connecting it to the instrument.
 The principal gas used by the ICP-MS instrument is argon. The ONLY integrated
collision reaction cell (iCRC) gases to be used by the ICP-MS instrument are
hydrogen and helium. Some models (Elite) may be fitted for N
depending on options selected. Do NOT connect any other gases than those
specified to the correct inlet fittings. Use only instrument-grade gases with your
spectrometer.
 If using cryogenic gases (for example, liquid argon), prevent severe burns by
wearing suitable protective clothing and gloves.
 Never locate gas cylinders near an ignition source or in a position subjected to
direct heat.
The ICP-MS instruments may be used with hydrogen gas in the iCRC system for certain
applications. Hydrogen gas has several unique safety considerations which all
operators of this instrument should be aware of if this gas is being used.
 It is combustible over a wide range of concentrations. At atmospheric pressure,
hydrogen is combustible at concentrations from 4% to 74.2% by volume.
 Hydrogen has very low ignition energy, and burns with no luminous flame. A
hydrogen fire may be invisible under bright ambient light.
 The temperature increases with gas expansion, and if it is allowed to expand
rapidly from high pressure, hydrogen gas can self-ignite.
There are numerous safety features designed into the ICP-MS instrument to prevent a
serious leak or accumulation of hydrogen gas, but appropriate safety precautions must
always be taken when working with any flammable pressurized gas. Your local
workplace safety authority may have additional requirements and regulations for the
use of combustible gases.
 Always test for leaks after any changes to or maintenance of the hydrogen supply
system (e.g., changing the gas cylinder or reconnecting the supply line to the back
of the ICP-MS).
Safety Practices and Hazards
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