Agilent Technologies 700 Series User manual

Agilent 700 Series
ICP Optical Emission
Spectrometers
User’s Guide

2 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
Notices
© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2006,
2009–2012
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Manual Part Number
8510230100
Edition
Sixth edition, July 2012
Printed in Australia
Agilent Technologies, Inc.
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Safety Notices
A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard.
It calls attention to an operating
procedure, practice, or the like that, if
not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage to the product
or loss of important data. Do not
proceed beyond a CAUTION notice
until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
A WARNING notice denotes a
hazard. It calls attention to an
operating procedure, practice, or the
like that, if not correctly performed or
adhered to, could result in personal
injury or death. Do not proceed
beyond a WARNING notice until the
indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
WARNING
CAUTION

Contents
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 3
Contents
1. Safety Practices and Hazards 7
General 7
Plasma 8
Heat, Vapors and Fumes 9
Compressed Gas Hazards 9
Electrical Hazards 10
Other Precautions 10
Warning Symbols 12
Color Coding 14
CE Compliance 14
Electromagnetic Compatibility 15
EN55011/CISPR11 15
ICES/NMB-001 16
2. Introduction 17
Site Preparation Requirements 17
User Documentation 18
Conventions 18
Notes and Tips 18
Environmental Conditions 19
Temperature Control 19
Electrical Power Supplies 19
Fuses 19

Contents
4 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
Other Connections 20
Gas Supplies 20
Water Cooling System 22
Drain Vessel 23
3. Installation 25
Personal Computer Requirements 25
ICP Expert II Software 26
PCI-GPIB Communications Card 27
Performing a Dark Current Scan, Wavelength Calibration and Torch
Scan 31
Hardware 32
4. Operation 33
Analysis Checklist 34
Turning On the Instrument and Software 34
Turning On the Instrument for the First Time (or From
Shutdown Mode) 34
Turning On the Instrument from Standby Mode 35
Preparing for Analysis 36
Calibrating the Detector 37
Aligning the Torch 37
Setting Operating Conditions 37
Creating/Opening a Worksheet 38
Developing a Method 38

Contents
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 5
Running Samples 38
Printing a Report 38
Turning Off the Instrument 39
Using Standby Mode 39
Using Shutdown Mode 41
5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting 43
Routine 44
Induction Coil Maintenance 46
Radial Induction Coil 47
Axial Induction Coil 48
Cleaning 49
Consumables 49
Troubleshooting 50
Spare Parts 50

Contents
6 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
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Safety Practices and Hazards
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 7
1. Safety Practices and Hazards
General 7
Plasma 8
Heat, Vapors and Fumes 9
Compressed Gas Hazards 9
Electrical Hazards 10
Other Precautions 10
Warning Symbols 12
Color Coding 14
CE Compliance 14
Electromagnetic Compatibility 15
General
Operation of an Agilent 710/715/720/725 Series ICP Optical
Emission Spectrometer involves the use of compressed gases, high
voltage radio frequency energy and hazardous materials including
corrosive fluids and flammable liquids. Careless, improper or
unskilled use of this spectrometer can cause death or serious injury
to personnel, and/or severe damage to equipment and property.
The spectrometer incorporates interlocks and covers that are
designed to prevent inadvertent contact with any potential hazards.
If the instrument is used in any manner not specified by Agilent, this
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. It is good
practice to develop safe working habits that do not depend upon the
correct operation of the interlocks for safe operation. It is essential
that no interlock or cover is bypassed, damaged or removed.

Safety Practices and Hazards
8 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
The safety practices described below are provided to help the user
operate the instrument safely. Read each safety topic thoroughly
before attempting to operate the instrument and always operate the
spectrometer in accordance with these safety practices.
Plasma
The plasma is extremely hot (about 10,000 K) and radiates dangerous
levels of radio frequency (RF) and ultraviolet (UV) energy. The work
coil operates at 1,500 V RMS and about 40 MHz. Exposure to the RF
and UV energy can cause severe skin damage and cataracts of the
eyes, while close contact with the operating plasma can result in
severe heat burns to the skin, and an electrical discharge that can
jump a considerable distance and may cause death, severe electric
shock or sub-surface skin burns.
The plasma must never be operated unless:
the torch compartment door is closed, with the locking lever fully
latched; and
the space above the chimney is clear of objects.
The shielding around the torch compartment is designed to reduce
UV, visible and RF radiation to safe levels while still permitting easy
access to, as well as installation and viewing of, the torch. The
spectrometer has an interlock system that is designed to extinguish
the plasma if either the mains supply fails or the handle on the torch
compartment door is opened. Do not attempt to bypass the interlock
system.
Before opening the torch compartment door, always extinguish the
plasma by pressing F4 on the keyboard or by clicking the ‘Plasma Off’
icon on the ICP Expert II software toolbar.
The torch and its surroundings remain hot for up to five minutes
after the plasma is extinguished. Touching this area before it has
cooled sufficiently may result in burns. Allow the torch and torch
compartment to cool before carrying out any work in this area, or
wear heat-resistant gloves.

Safety Practices and Hazards
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 9
The plasma system has been carefully designed to operate safely and
effectively when using torches and related components that conform
to Agilent’s design criteria. Use of non-approved components in the
plasma compartment may render the system inoperative and/or
hazardous. It may also invalidate the warranty on the instrument.
Use only torches and related components supplied or authorized by
Agilent.
Heat, Vapors and Fumes
Heat, ozone, vapors and fumes generated by the plasma can be
hazardous, and must be extracted from the instrument by means of
an exhaust system. Ensure that an exhaust system of the appropriate
type is fitted (as specified in the Site Preparation Guide). The system
must be vented to the outside air in accordance with local regulations
and never within the building. Regularly check the exhaust system by
smoke test to ensure that the exhaust system is functioning correctly.
The exhaust fan must always be switched on before igniting the
plasma.
Compressed Gas Hazards
All compressed gases (other than air) can create a hazard if they leak
into the atmosphere. Even small leaks in gas supply systems can be
dangerous. Any leak (except that of air) can result in an oxygen-
deficient atmosphere, which can cause asphyxiation. The area in
which cylinders are stored and the area surrounding the instrument
must be adequately ventilated to prevent such gas accumulations.
Gas cylinders must be stored and handled strictly in accordance with
local safety codes and regulations. Cylinders must be used and stored
only in a vertical position and secured to an immovable structure or
a properly constructed cylinder stand. Move cylinders only by
securing them to a properly constructed trolley.
Use only approved regulator and hose connectors (refer to the gas
supplier’s instructions). Keep gas cylinders cool and properly
labeled. (All cylinders are fitted with a pressure relief device that will
rupture and empty the cylinder if the internal pressure is raised
above the safe limit by excessive temperatures.) Ensure that you have
the correct cylinder before connecting it to the instrument.

Safety Practices and Hazards
10 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
The primary gas to be used with the spectrometer is argon, which is
the conductive gas for the plasma. Argon or nitrogen can be used as
the polychromator purge gas. Other gases may be required for future
options and accessories. Use only ‘instrument grade’ gases with your
spectrometer.
If using cryogenic gases (for example, liquid argon), prevent severe
burns by wearing suitable protective clothing and gloves.
Electrical Hazards
The spectrometer system and some accessories contain electrical
circuits, devices and components operating at dangerous voltages.
Contact with these circuits, devices and components can cause death,
serious injury or painful electric shock. Panels or covers which are
retained by screws on the spectrometer and accessories may be
opened only by Agilenttrained, Agilent-qualified or Agilentapproved
field service engineers (unless specified otherwise). Consult the
manuals or product labels supplied with your personal computer
(PC), monitor, printer and water-cooling system to determine which
parts are operator-accessible.
Replace blown fuses with ones of the size and rating shown in the
text near to the fuse holder.
Other Precautions
Use of the spectrometer system and accessories may involve
materials, solvents and solutions which are flammable, corrosive,
toxic or otherwise hazardous. Careless, improper or unskilled use of
such materials, solvents and solutions can create explosion hazards,
fire hazards, toxicity and other hazards that can result in death,
serious personal injury or damage to equipment.
Operation of an ICP-OES involves analysis of solutions that have
been prepared in or digested with acids, or in some cases, samples
that have been prepared in organic solvents.

Safety Practices and Hazards
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 11
The acid concentrations in the sample that is measured is variable,
depending upon the digestion steps and acid types used. Instrument
users should be aware of the hazards associated with use of the acids
used for sample preparation and apply all necessary precautions
including use of lab coats, safety goggles and other appropriate forms
of personal protection. The acid wastes should be disposed of in
accordance with local regulatory requirements.
The type, volatility and concentration of the organic solvents used in
the sample that is measured is variable, depending upon the selected
solvent and the sample preparation involved. Instrument users
should be aware of the hazards associated with use of the organic
solvents used for sample preparation, and apply all necessary
precautions including ensuring adequate ventilation during use, and
use of lab coats, safety goggles, gloves and other appropriate forms of
personal protection. The organic wastes should be disposed of in
accordance with local regulatory requirements.
Air flow to the cooling fans of the spectrometer and accessories must
be unobstructed. Do not block the ventilation grills on the
spectrometer and accessories. Consult the manuals supplied with
your PC, monitor, printer and water-cooling system for their specific
ventilation requirements.
Great care should be taken when working with glass or quartz parts
to prevent breakage and cuts. This is especially important when
attaching plastic tubing to glass barbs, or removing and replacing
pieces of broken torch or bonnet.
The spectrometer weighs approximately 203 kg (448 lb). To avoid
injury to personnel or damage to the instrument or property, always
use a forklift or other suitable mechanical lifting device to move the
instrument.
Use only Agilent-supplied or approved spares with your instrument.

Safety Practices and Hazards
12 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
Warning Symbols
The following is a list of symbols that appear in conjunction with
warnings in this manual and on the spectrometer. The hazard they
describe is also shown. The beginning of the warning text is noted by
a warning icon:
WARNING
A triangular symbol indicates a warning. The meanings of the
symbols that may appear alongside warnings in the documentation
or on the instrument itself are as follows:
Broken glass Corrosive liquids Electrical shock
Extreme cold hazard
Eye hazard
Fire hazard
Heavy weight
(danger to feet)
Heavy weight
(danger to hands)
Hot surface
Noxious gases
RF radiation
The following symbol may be used on warning labels attached to the
instrument. When you see this symbol, refer to the relevant operation
or service manual for the correct procedure referred to by that
warning label.

Safety Practices and Hazards
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 13
The following symbols appear on the instrument for your
information.
I
Mains power on
0
Mains power off
Fuse
Single phase alternating current
Direct current
When attached to the rear of the instrument, indicates that the
product complies with the requirements of one or more EU
directives.
‘Out’ position of a bi-stable push switch.
‘In’ position of a bi-stable push switch.
Plasma on
Plasma off
‘On’ for part of equipment.
‘Off’ for part of equipment.
When attached to the rear of the product, indicates that the product
has been certified (evaluated) to CSA 61010.1 and UL 61010-1.

Safety Practices and Hazards
14 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
Color Coding
The various indicator lights appearing on Agilent instruments and
associated accessories are color coded to represent the status of the
instrument or accessory.
A green light indicates the instrument is in normal/standby
mode.
An orange light indicates that a potential hazard is present.
A blue light indicates that operator intervention is required.
A red light warns of danger or an emergency.
CE Compliance
Your Agilent 700 Series ICP-OES instrument has been designed to
comply with the requirements of the Electromagnetic Compatibility
(EMC) Directive and the Low Voltage (electrical safety) Directive
(commonly referred to as the LVD) of the European Union. Agilent
has confirmed that each product complies with the relevant
Directives by testing a prototype against the prescribed EN
(European Norm) standards.
Proof that a product complies with these directives is indicated by:
the CE Marking appearing on the rear of the product, and
the documentation package that accompanies the product
containing a copy of the Declaration of Conformity. The
Declaration of Conformity is the legal declaration by Agilent that
the product complies with the directives listed above, and shows
the EN standards to which the product was tested to
demonstrate compliance.

Safety Practices and Hazards
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 15
Electromagnetic Compatibility
EN55011/CISPR11
Group 1 ISM equipment: group 1 contains all ISM equipment in
which there is intentionally generated and/or used conductively
coupled radio- frequency energy which is necessary for the internal
functioning of the equipment itself.
Class A equipment is equipment suitable for use in all
establishments other than domestic and those directly connected to a
low voltage power supply network which supplies buildings used for
domestic purposes.
This device complies with the requirements of CISPR11, Group 1,
Class A as radiation professional equipment. Therefore, there may be
potential difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in
other environments, due to conducted as well as radiated
disturbances.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1This device may not cause harmful interference.
2This device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try one or more of
the following measures:
1Relocate the radio or antenna.
2Move the device away from the radio or television.
3Plug the device into a different electrical outlet, so that the device
and the radio or television are on separate electrical circuits.
4Make sure that all peripheral devices are also certified.

Safety Practices and Hazards
16 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
5Make sure that appropriate cables are used to connect the device
to peripheral equipment.
6Consult your equipment dealer, Agilent Technologies, or an
experienced technician for assistance.
7Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Agilent
Technologies could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
ICES/NMB-001
This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES- 001.
Cet appareil ISM est conforme à la norme NMB-001 du Canada.

Introduction
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 17
2. Introduction
Site Preparation Requirements 17
User Documentation 18
Environmental Conditions 19
Electrical Power Supplies 19
Other Connections 20
Gas Supplies 20
Water Cooling System 22
Drain Vessel 23
Site Preparation Requirements
Prior to receiving your instrument you will have been provided with
an Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometer Site
Preparation Guide, which describes the environmental and operating
requirements of the ICP-OES system. You must prepare your
laboratory according to these instructions before the ICP-OES can be
installed. You should keep the Site Preparation Guide for future
reference for example, if you plan to move your instrument. If you
have misplaced your copy, you can obtain a free replacement from
your local Agilent office.
Position the equipment for easy access to the disconnecting switch
on the rear of the instrument.

Introduction
18 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
User Documentation
You have been provided with the following documentation to help
you set up and operate your Agilent ICP-OES system:
This operation manual, with safety practices and hazards
information, instructions for finding information about installing
and maintaining the components of the ICP-OES and a brief
operation overview.
An extensive Help system containing context-sensitive Help, step-
by-step instructions for frequently performed operations and
instructions for using any accessories you ordered.
Conventions
The following conventions have been used throughout the
documentation:
Menu items, menu options and field names (for example, click
Copy from the Edit menu) have been typed in bold. Bold is also
used to signify the pushbuttons appearing throughout the
software (e.g., click OK).
ALL CAPITALS indicate keyboard and mouse commands (e.g.,
press the F2 key) and text you must type in from the keyboard
(e.g., type SETUP at the prompt).
References to the ICP-OES instrument are applicable to all
models (Agilent 710/715/720/725 Series ICP-OES) unless
otherwise stated.
Notes and Tips
A Note is used to give advice or information.
A Tip is used to give practical hints to help you achieve the best
possible performance from your ICP-OES.

Introduction
Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide 19
Environmental Conditions
The instrument is suitable for indoor use only and is classified
suitable under the following categories (EN 61010-1):
Installation category II
Pollution degree 2
Equipment class I
Temperature Control
For optimum analytical performance, it is recommended that the
ambient temperature of the laboratory be between 20 and 25 °C (68
and 77 °F).and be held constant to within ±2 °C (±3.6 °F) throughout
the entire working day.
Electrical Power Supplies
For electrical requirements, refer to your Agilent 700 Series ICP
Optical Emission Spectrometers Site Preparation Guide.
Fuses
1FS1 and 1FS2 T6.3 AH 250 V, IEC 127 sheet 5, 5 x 20 mm
1CB1 Circuit breaker 30 A Fast trip
NOTE For safety reasons, any other internal fuse or circuit breaker is not operator
accessible, and should only be replaced by Agilent-authorized personnel.
Fuse information on the rear of the instrument is the most up to
date.

Introduction
20 Agilent 700 Series ICP Optical Emission Spectrometers User’s Guide
Other Connections
IEEE 488
NOTE Basic insulation is provided for single fault protection on the IEEE connector.
Gas Supplies
The installation of compressed or liquid gas supplies must comply
with the rules and/or regulations imposed by the local authorities
responsible for such use in the workplace.
Liquid or gaseous argon and nitrogen may be used with Agilent
ICP-OES spectrometer systems. Agilent recommends the use of liquid
gases, which are more pure, more convenient and cheaper per unit
volume.
The main gas supply requirement is argon for supply to the plasma,
nebulizer and optics interface purge. Gas is also required to purge
the polychromator assembly, and this may be either argon or
nitrogen. A separate gas line connects internally to the argon supply
unless the optional nitrogen purge kit is fitted (either factory or field
fitted).
Table 1. Gas requirements
Argon Nitrogen
Purity 99.996% 99.996%
Oxygen <5 ppm <5 ppm
Nitrogen (argon only) <20 ppm -
Water vapor <4 ppm <4 ppm
Permissible pressure range 400–600 kPa (57 to 88 psi)
Recommended pressure 550 kPa (80 psi) regulated