Bio-Rad BioLogic Signal Import Module (SIM) - Manual (Page 210)

TROUBLESHOOTING MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
12-3
12.2 TROUBLESHOOTING THE DUOFLOW WORKSTATION PUMP
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Pump is not The pumps may not be
delivering the calibrated.
correct flow rate.
The incorrect pumpheads may
be mounted, or the BioLogic
Configuration software utility
may not have been run after
the pumpheads were changed.
There may be problems with
the fittings or tubing sizes. It is
important to use the wide bore
1/8” OD tubing for the pump
inlets and from all pre-pump
buffer selection valves
to the buffer containers.
The pump may not be
receiving buffer.
There may be air bubbles
trapped in the pumpheads,
causing erratic liquid delivery.
Note: Always degas buffers
before use.
1. Recalibrate the pumps. Select Gradient Pump
Calibration from the Utilities dropdown menu.
2. Make sure the correct pumpheads (labeled F10
or F40 on the lower-right corner of the center
block) are mounted. Then run the BioLogic
Configuration software utility and select the
correct pumphead.
3. Check pumps A & B and pre-pump valves.
a. Make sure the inlet lines into pumps A and
B are tight.
b. If pre-pump valves are used, e.g., for buffer
selection, make sure all tubing connections
are secure and any unused ports are
plugged.
4. Check that there is buffer flowing to the pump.
a. Ensure that the pump inlet lines are
immersed in buffer.
b. Ensure that the buffer bottles are positioned
at or above the level of the Workstation.
c. Ensure all inlet fittings are secure.
d. Ensure that any inlet filters are clean.
Remove temporarily to test for plugged
filters.
5. Re-prime the pumps and purge the lines.
a. Re-prime the pumps and ensure that the
priming port is shut tight.
b. Make sure the Inject Valve is set to Purge
position and purge all lines.
Refer to the Maintenance section on how to
prime the pump and remove trapped air
bubbles. To minimize the problem of air
bubbles, degas buffers by stirring vigorously
under vacuum for approximately 20 minutes.
Use a heavy-wall side-arm Erlenmeyer flask, as
standard flasks may implode under vacuum.