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Care and use manual – Waters ACQUITY UPLC M-Class Columns User Manual

Page 6

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6

[ CARE AND USE MANUAL ]

1. Remove the clogged emitter and the column from the union on

the universal sprayer.

2. Remove the PEEK nuts on either end.

3. Loosen the screw on the sliding portion of the sprayer and

remove the union.

Note: Again for demonstration purposes only, these photos show
fittings and tubing being handled with bare fingers, which is
known to introduce contamination in the system. It is therefore
critical that customers ALWAYS wear clean, powder-free gloves
when changing tubing or handling fittings.

4. Hold the union up to a light (above). Light should shine through

an unclogged union. If the union is completely clogged the
obstruction must be removed.

5. Even if the union does not appear to be clogged it should be

cleaned to remove any small particulates.


Cleaning the Union (Method #1)

As the union is 100% stainless steel, 20% nitric acid in water
can be used to clean it. This aggressive procedure helps ensure
that the union becomes free of even the strongest contaminations.
In addition, it provides excellent electric contact for
electrospray ionization.

Wash the outside of the outlet capillary and fitting with
water/acetronitrile (50/50) before reconnecting to union.

Note: Do not mix nitric acid with organic acids, as they will react
and produce high volumes of CO

2

.

To order the Union:

Waters PN 700002843

To order Peek Fitting: Waters PN 700002842

Cleaning the Union (Method #2)

The union can be cleaned by sonication in a solution of IPA/water

for at least 15 minutes.

After sonication, remove any residual solvent by flushing the

union with air or nitrogen.

After cleaning, examine the union with a microscope and ensure

that any particulate matter has been removed. While looking at
the union be sure the internal threads and opening have not been
scored or damaged in any way.

If the obstruction within the union cannot be removed or it

appears damaged please replace the union.

Note: In many cases it is best to simply REPLACE the union
whenever a new emitter is used.

ACQUITY UPLC M-Class Column Care & Use