Dionex IC 2100 Manual

The Dionex IC 2100 is a compact, high-performance ion chromatography system designed for routine analysis of anions and cations. It features a dual-piston pump with pulse dampener, conductivity detector, temperature-controlled column compartment, and Chromeleon chromatography data system compatibility. The system supports isocratic and gradient elution, automated sample injection, and various detection methods. 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 Components 7. Operating Procedures 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-piston pump, conductivity detector, column compartment, autosampler, Chromeleon software interface.

FeatureDescription
Dual-piston pumpPulse-free flow delivery with 0.001-5.0 mL/min range
Conductivity detectorTemperature-controlled with auto-zero and range selection
Column compartmentTemperature control from 5°C to 80°C
AutosamplerSupports up to 120 vials with tray cooling option
Chromeleon compatibilityFull system control and data processing
Eluent degasserIntegrated vacuum degassing for mobile phase
Power switchMain system power control
Emergency stopImmediate system shutdown
Status indicatorsLED displays for system status
Data interfaceUSB and Ethernet connectivity

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface in laboratory environment.

  1. System placement: Ensure adequate clearance for ventilation and service access.
  2. Connect eluent reservoirs: Use appropriate tubing to pump inlet.
  3. Connect waste line: Route to appropriate waste container.
  4. Install columns: Follow manufacturer guidelines for column installation.
  5. Connect to power: Use provided power cable to appropriate outlet.
  6. Connect to computer: Use USB or Ethernet cable for Chromeleon interface.

WARNING! System contains high pressure components; ensure all connections are secure before operation.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; initialize Chromeleon software.

  1. System priming: Prime pump with eluent to remove air bubbles.
  2. Column conditioning: Condition new columns according to manufacturer specifications.
  3. Detector calibration: Perform initial detector calibration.
  4. Method development: Create or load analysis methods in Chromeleon.
  5. System verification: Run system suitability test with standard solutions.

CAUTION! Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling chemicals.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access system controls via Chromeleon software or front panel interface.

Front Panel: POWER, EMERGENCY STOP, STATUS INDICATORS, FUNCTION KEYS.

Pump Settings: Flow rate, pressure limits, composition (isocratic/gradient). Detector Settings: Temperature, range, auto-zero, output signal. Column Oven: Temperature setpoint, stability criteria. Autosampler: Injection volume, wash cycles, sequence programming. System: Communication settings, user access levels, method storage.

Connecting Components

Eluent lines: Pump to reservoirs. Column: Pump to detector. Waste: Detector to container. Data: System to computer.

  1. Turn off system before making connections.
  2. Use appropriate tubing and fittings for each connection.
  3. Ensure all high-pressure connections are finger-tight plus 1/4 turn.
  4. Verify no leaks at operating pressure.
  5. Configure communication settings in Chromeleon.

Tip: Label all connections for easy identification during maintenance.

Operating Procedures

Supports routine ion analysis for anions and cations.

  1. Method selection: Load appropriate analysis method in Chromeleon.
  2. Sample preparation: Prepare samples according to method requirements.
  3. Autosampler loading: Place samples in designated vials in tray.
  4. Sequence setup: Define sample sequence with appropriate standards and blanks.
  5. System start: Initiate sequence from Chromeleon interface.
  6. Monitoring: Observe system pressure, baseline, and peak shapes.
  7. Data analysis: Review chromatograms and calculate results.
  8. System shutdown: Flush system with storage solution if required.

WARNING! Always use system within specified pressure limits. Monitor for leaks during operation.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends system life.

  1. Daily: Check pressures, inspect for leaks, verify baseline stability
  2. Weekly: Replace inlet filters, clean autosampler needle
  3. Monthly: Perform detector calibration, replace seals as needed
  4. As needed: Clean injection valve, replace columns

CAUTION! Power off system before performing maintenance. Use appropriate cleaning solutions.

Regulatory Information

CE marked: Complies with European Union safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class A digital device. RoHS compliant: Meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive. For technical support, contact Thermo Fisher Scientific at 1-800-532-4752 or visit www.thermofisher.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
High pressureClogged column/filterReplace inlet filter; backflush column; check for obstructions
Low pressureLeaks/air in systemCheck all connections; prime pump; purge air from lines
Noisy baselineAir bubbles/contaminationDegas eluent; flush system; replace eluent
Peak tailingColumn degradationReplace column; check mobile phase composition
Retention time shiftTemperature/flow variationsVerify column temperature; check pump flow rate
No communicationCable/software issuesCheck USB/Ethernet connection; restart Chromeleon

Reset: Power cycle system; reinitialize Chromeleon if communication lost.

Service: 1-800-532-4752; www.thermofisher.com

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