Using Hydrogen - Thermo Scientific FOCUS GC Instruction Manual

Using Hydrogen

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:
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If your GC oven does not have a hydrogen sensor already installed, contact your
Thermo Fisher Scientific sales representative. To comply with instrument safety
requirements, a Thermo Fisher Scientific CSE or authorized service technician
should install the sensor.
If you plan to use a sensor other than the recommended Thermo Fisher Scientific
sensor, you must verify its ability to perform the functions listed above before
installing it. It must comply with your local safety regulations, or with the IEC
61010 regulations if local regulations do not exist.
Instruction Manual
Ensure that all hydrogen cylinders comply with the safety requirements for
proper use and storage. Hydrogen cylinders and delivery systems must
comply 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 Perform this test after the pressure test described in the
instrument.
Testing for Leaks paragraph in FOCUS GC Site Preparation and Installa-
tion Guide Manual. Repeat this test to eliminate all leaks.
Ensure your GC column oven has a Thermo Fisher Scientific hydrogen sen-
sor. The hydrogen sensor continuously monitors the hydrogen level in the GC
column oven.
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