Dionex AERS 500 Carbonate Manual

The Dionex AERS 500 Carbonate is an advanced electrolytic reagent suppressor for ion chromatography systems, designed for carbonate/bicarbonate eluents. It features automatic regeneration, low noise operation, high suppression capacity, and compatibility with various Dionex IC systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to IC System 7. Operation Procedures 8. Maintenance Guidelines 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Suppressor module, Regeneration cartridge, Power supply unit, Control interface, Fluid connections, Status indicators.

Feature	Description
Suppression Capacity	High capacity for carbonate/bicarbonate eluents
Regeneration Method	Automatic electrolytic regeneration
Compatibility	Works with Dionex ICS-2000, ICS-2100, ICS-3000 systems
Noise Level	Low electrical noise for improved detection
Flow Rate Range	0.1 to 2.0 mL/min
Pressure Limit	Maximum 200 psi (13.8 bar)
Power Requirements	24V DC power supply
Status Indicators	LED indicators for power, operation, error
Interface	RS-232 communication port
Dimensions	Standard 19-inch rack mountable

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper laboratory environment.

Mount unit: Install in 19-inch rack or stable bench surface.
Connect power: Use provided 24V DC power supply.
Connect to IC system: Attach eluent inlet and outlet tubing.
Connect waste: Attach waste tubing to regeneration waste outlet.
Connect communication: Attach RS-232 cable if computer control required.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding. Use only specified power supply to prevent damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initialization procedure.

Prime system: Flush with deionized water for 10 minutes.
Condition suppressor: Run with carbonate eluent for 30 minutes.
Verify operation: Check pressure and baseline stability.
Configure settings: Set flow rate and suppression current via control panel.
Connect to IC system: Ensure proper integration with chromatography software.

CAUTION! Always use high-purity water and reagents to prevent contamination.

Specifications

Model: AERS 500 Carbonate
Eluent Compatibility: Carbonate/Bicarbonate solutions
Suppression Capacity: >500 μeq/min
Flow Rate Range: 0.1 - 2.0 mL/min
Maximum Pressure: 200 psi (13.8 bar)
Current Range: 0-300 mA
Noise: <5 nS/cm baseline noise
Dimensions: 19" W x 5.25" H x 15" D
Weight: 15 lbs (6.8 kg)
Power Requirements: 24V DC, 2A
Operating Temperature: 15-35°C
Humidity Range: 20-80% non-condensing

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel or software interface.

Front Panel: POWER switch, STATUS indicators, FLOW RATE adjustment, SUPPRESSION CURRENT control.

Software Control: Current setting, Flow monitoring, Pressure monitoring, Error logging, Calibration parameters.

Operation Modes: Continuous operation, Standby mode, Purge mode, Calibration mode.

Connecting to IC System

Compatible with Dionex ICS series chromatography systems.

Turn off all equipment before connecting.
Connect eluent inlet: From IC pump to suppressor inlet.
Connect eluent outlet: From suppressor outlet to detector.
Connect regeneration lines: Water inlet and waste outlet.
Connect power and communication cables.
Verify all connections are secure and leak-free.

Tip: Use Dionex PEEK tubing and fittings for optimal performance.

Operation Procedures

Standard operating protocol for carbonate analysis.

Startup: Power on unit, allow 5-minute initialization.
Set parameters: Adjust flow rate and suppression current as required.
Begin analysis: Start IC system and data collection.
Monitor performance: Watch pressure and baseline stability.
Shutdown: Flush with deionized water for 15 minutes before turning off.
Storage: If not used for extended periods, store with water-filled channels.

WARNING! Never run suppressor dry. Always maintain fluid flow during operation.

Maintenance Guidelines

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check pressure readings, inspect for leaks
Weekly: Perform system performance check
Monthly: Clean fluid paths with recommended cleaning solutions
Quarterly: Replace regeneration cartridge
Annually: Complete system performance verification

Maintenance Log: Keep record of all maintenance activities and performance data.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning procedures for maintenance and contamination removal.

Routine cleaning: Flush with 0.1M HCl for 30 minutes, then deionized water.
Deep cleaning: Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning solutions.
Storage cleaning: Flush thoroughly with deionized water before storage.
Exterior cleaning: Use mild detergent and soft cloth.

CAUTION! Use only approved cleaning solutions. Never use organic solvents.

Regulatory Information

CE Mark: Complies with European Union safety standards. UL Listed: Meets UL 61010-1 safety requirements. RoHS Compliant: Meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive. Copyright © 2024 Thermo Fisher Scientific. For technical support, contact Thermo Fisher Scientific at 1-800-532-4752 or visit www.thermofisher.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
High backpressure	Clogged suppressor	Clean with recommended procedure; check for particulates
Noisy baseline	Contamination	Flush system; replace eluent; check water purity
Low suppression	Exhausted cartridge	Replace regeneration cartridge; verify current settings
No power	Power supply issue	Check power connections; verify power supply output
Communication error	Cable/interface issue	Check RS-232 connection; verify software settings
Leaks	Loose fittings	Tighten all connections; replace damaged tubing

Reset Procedure: Power cycle unit; reinitialize settings.

Technical Support: 1-800-532-4752; www.thermofisher.com