Interface Overview Video - Agilent Single Quad 5975 5977 GCMS

Agilent Single Quad 5975 GCMS Interface Overview Video

Introduction

In this video we will discuss how the MS interfaces with the GC.  We will disuss the differences between the EI and CI versions of the transferline including common problems.

EI, CI tranferlines and heater

Shown is the E.I. transferline assembly. It contains a heater and guide tube for the G.C. column. The interface mounts on the side of the M.S. with 3 screws.

The C.I. version of the transferline contains an additional tube for addition of CI reagent into the mass spectrometer. The G.C. controls the heater for the interface. Other then that, the interface is identical.

The interface heater is controlled from the auxiliary heater on the G.C. The heater/sensor assembly consists of a 100 watt heater and a PRT sensor. When the G.C. is at a typical set point, the normal wattage is 50 watts. Temperature set points are saved as part of the Chemstation or Mass Hunter acquistion method.

Column Position

The column is usually 1 to 2 millimeters past the end of the guide tube for E I operation and 0 to 1 millimeters past the end of the guide tube for C I operation.

Common Problems

Common leak areas in the interface are where the column attaches to the tranferline and where the o-ring interface seal is positioned on the M. S. manifold. Once the transferline has reached a setpoint, the column nut on the end of the transferline needs to be re-tightened to assure for leak free operation.

Position of the column in the interface is very important. If the column is too far it will extend into the source. If it is too short, the sample can react with the interface prior to entering the source.