Markes International Unity 2 User manual

Markes International Ltd
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QUI-1057
Version 2.0 – February 2014
User manual
UNITY 2™

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Markes International Ltd
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Contents
1. Preface ................................................................................................. 5
1.1 Notices ............................................................................................ 5
1.2 Warranty .......................................................................................... 5
1.3 Regulatory compliance .................................................................. 5
1.4 Important safety warnings ............................................................. 5
1.4.1 Labels/symbols ................................................................. 6
1.4.2 Mains voltages .................................................................. 6
1.4.3 High temperatures ............................................................ 6
1.4.4 Hydrogen gas safety ......................................................... 7
1.4.5 Cleaning and decontamination ........................................ 7
1.5 Environment operating conditions ................................................ 7
1.5.1 Temperature ...................................................................... 7
1.5.2 Humidity ............................................................................ 7
1.5.3 Altitude .............................................................................. 8
1.6 Technical Specifications ................................................................ 8
1.6.1 Physical properties ........................................................... 8
1.6.2 Electrical properties .......................................................... 8
1.7 Technical support contact details ................................................. 8
2. Instrument familiarisation .................................................................. 9
2.1 Hardware ........................................................................................ 10
2.1.1 Sample tubes .................................................................... 10
2.1.2 Tube desorption oven ....................................................... 10
2.1.3 Tube filters and seals ....................................................... 10
2.1.4 The cold trap ..................................................................... 10
2.1.5 Cold trap cooling and heating .......................................... 10
2.1.6 Trap filters and seals ........................................................ 11
2.1.7 Split filters ......................................................................... 11
2.2 Sequence of operation ................................................................... 12
2.2.1 Standby .............................................................................. 12
2.2.2 Leak test ............................................................................ 13
2.2.3 Prepurge ............................................................................ 14
2.2.4 Primary (tube) desorption ................................................ 15
2.2.5 Pre trap fire purge ............................................................. 16
2.2.6 Secondary (trap) desorption ............................................ 17
2.3 Insertion and removal of a sample tube in UNITY 2 .................... 18
2.3.1 Insertion............................................................................. 18
2.3.2 Removal ............................................................................. 18
2.4 Desorb and split flows .................................................................... 18
2.4.1 Gas flow through the cold trap ........................................ 18

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2.4.2 When should desorb/split flows be measured? ............. 18
2.4.3 The Set Gas Flow function................................................ 19
2.4.4 Measuring and adjusting flows during Set Gas Flow ..... 19
2.4.5 To exit the Set Gas Flows Function .................................. 20
2.4.6 Gas flow constraints - minimum & maximum settings .. 20
2.4.7 Sample splitting ................................................................ 20
2.4.8 Analytical column capacity ............................................... 20
2.4.9 GC system detection limits ............................................... 20
2.4.10 Calculating analyte masses in the sample tube ............. 21
2.4.11 Calculating splits/split modes ......................................... 21
2.4.12 UNITY 2 systems with Electronic Carrier Control (ECC) .. 22
2.4.13 UNITY 2 systems configured with Electronic Mass
Flow Control....................................................................... 22
3. Software ............................................................................................... 23
3.1 Running the software ..................................................................... 23
3.2 Status bar ....................................................................................... 23
3.2.1 External ready signal ........................................................ 24
3.3 Toolbar functions ............................................................................ 25
3.3.1 Method Linking ................................................................. 27
3.3.2 The Trap Heat Method ...................................................... 29
3.3.3 Schematic display of UNITY 2 status ............................... 30
3.3.4 Controlling method ........................................................... 30
3.4 UNITY 2 Options.............................................................................. 30
3.4.1 Configuration ..................................................................... 31
3.4.2 GC Interface ...................................................................... 32
3.4.3 Gas & Flow ........................................................................ 32
3.4.4 Methods ............................................................................. 33
3.4.5 Reporting ........................................................................... 35
3.5 UNITY 2 method options ................................................................ 36
3.5.1 Split on or off in standby .................................................. 36
3.5.2 The Leak Test .................................................................... 36
3.5.3 Determining the prepurge time ....................................... 36
3.6 Desorption modes .......................................................................... 37
3.6.1 Tube conditioning mode ................................................... 37
3.6.2 Standard 2(3) stage desorption ...................................... 38
3.6.3 Sample tube prepurge ...................................................... 42
3.6.4 Sample tube prepurge at elevated temperature ............ 43
3.6.5 SecureTD-Q™ - Re-collection for repeat analysis ........... 43
3.6.6 Cold Trap conditioning ...................................................... 44
3.6.7 UNITY 2 parameter specifications ................................... 45
3.7 Uninstalling UNITY 2 software ....................................................... 46

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3.7.1 Windows 7 ......................................................................... 46
3.7.2 Windows Vista ................................................................... 47
3.7.3 Windows XP ....................................................................... 47
4. Accessing product and support information ...................................... 48
4.1 Markes International Limited - Home Page and facilities............ 48
4.2 Consumables and Spares .............................................................. 48
4.3 Applications library ......................................................................... 48
4.4 Technical support ........................................................................... 48
5. Technical Support ................................................................................ 49
5.1 Routine maintenance schedule .................................................... 49
5.2 Sorbent Tubes ................................................................................ 49
5.2.1 Packing tubes .................................................................... 49
5.2.2 Lifespan of tubes .............................................................. 50
5.2.3 Conditioning tubes ............................................................ 51
5.2.4 Long term storage of clean and sampled tubes ............. 52
5.2.5 Changing tube seals and filters ....................................... 52
5.2.6 Changing the charcoal split tube filters .......................... 53
5.2.7 Changing DiffLok cap o-rings (UltrA) ............................... 53
5.3 Cold Trap ......................................................................................... 55
5.3.1 Packing / conditioning a cold trap................................... 55
5.3.2 Removing / replacing a cold trap .................................... 56
5.3.3 Removing / replacing a broken cold trap ....................... 61
6. Trademarks .......................................................................................... 67

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Markes International Ltd
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1. Preface
This manual provides detailed instructions on the use of the UNITY 2. It is suitable for users with little or
no prior experience of the system and details the software/hardware interface and procedure for first
sample runs.
1.1 Notices
No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and
retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Markes
International.
Please note that the material contained in this document is subject to being changed, without notice, in
future editions. Markes International shall not be liable for errors or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the supply, use or performance of this document or of any information
contained herein, unless a separate agreement between Markes International and the user should take
precedence.
1.2 Warranty
UNITY 2 is designed for laboratory use only. It is not intended for use in domestic establishments or
establishments directly connected to a low-voltage power supply network that supplies buildings used for
domestic purposes. Where equipment is used in a field placement environment, care must be taken to
ensure that the instrument is not exposed to detrimental conditions, i.e. rain, wind, or sun. Exposure may
diminish the performance, cause damage to the instrument and/or cause the equipment to become
unsafe to the user.
If the equipment is not used in a way specified by Markes International, the safety protection provided by
the equipment may be reduced. Furthermore, system failures arising from such use may not be covered in
standard warranty and/or service contract agreements.
1.3 Regulatory compliance
The instrument is designed and manufactured under a quality system registered to ISO 9001.
The instrument conforms to the following standards:
 International Electrochemical Commision (IEC):
o 61010-1:2001.
o 61010-2-010:2003.
o 61010-2-081:2001.
 CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1 and UL 61010-1.
 The instrument conforms to the following regulation on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC):
o IEC/EN 61326-1:2006.
1.4 Important safety warnings
There are several important safety notices to keep in mind when installing and using this instrument.

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1.4.1 Labels/symbols
Throughout this manual symbols will appear where carrying out an operation may involve hazards.
Symbols and warnings also appear on the instrument, and these should be adhered to
Markes International can accept no liability for failure to do so.
BURN HAZARD
A hot surface may result in a burn injury.
INSTRUMENT/PART DAMAGE
Damage to the instrument or module may occur. This damage may not be covered under
the
standard warranties.
LIFTING HAZARD
Injury may occur if proper lifting procedures are not followed.
WARNING
General warning
symbol to alert the user that personal injury or instrument damage may
occur if the instrument is improperly used or if instru
DISPOSAL
This label indicates the instrument must not be disposed in regular waste but in
accordance with the WEEE scheme
1.4.2 Mains voltages

Ensure at all times that the plug (electrical isolator) can be easily and
accessed during equipment use.

The instrument must be suitably earthed via the power cord.
NOTE
: Voltages within the instrument will be a maximum of 24 V. Although there is
decreased risk of serious injury, these internal voltages should still be
as dangerous. Contact with any live parts may cause personal injury and/or
instrument damage.
1.4.3 High temperatures

Several parts of the UNITY 2
these zones whilst the system is in operation
zones are:
o Heated valve.
o Tube oven.
See Section 2 for the location of these zones. Both these zones are labelled with
‘Burn hazard’ labels similar to that shown above.

ALWAYS operate the instrument with the covers in pl
with these zones.
enqu[email protected]
Throughout this manual symbols will appear where carrying out an operation may involve hazards.
Symbols and warnings also appear on the instrument, and these should be adhered to
Markes International can accept no liability for failure to do so.
A hot surface may result in a burn injury.
INSTRUMENT/PART DAMAGE
Damage to the instrument or module may occur. This damage may not be covered under
standard warranties.
Injury may occur if proper lifting procedures are not followed.
symbol to alert the user that personal injury or instrument damage may
occur if the instrument is improperly used or if instructions are not followed correctly.
This label indicates the instrument must not be disposed in regular waste but in
accordance with the WEEE scheme
.
Ensure at all times that the plug (electrical isolator) can be easily and
accessed during equipment use.
The instrument must be suitably earthed via the power cord.
: Voltages within the instrument will be a maximum of 24 V. Although there is
decreased risk of serious injury, these internal voltages should still be
as dangerous. Contact with any live parts may cause personal injury and/or
instrument damage.
Several parts of the UNITY 2
can be operated at
high temperatures
these zones whilst the system is in operation can cause serious burn injury. These
See Section 2 for the location of these zones. Both these zones are labelled with
‘Burn hazard’ labels similar to that shown above.
ALWAYS operate the instrument with the covers in place to avoid accidental contact
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Throughout this manual symbols will appear where carrying out an operation may involve hazards.
Symbols and warnings also appear on the instrument, and these should be adhered to
at all times.
Damage to the instrument or module may occur. This damage may not be covered under
symbol to alert the user that personal injury or instrument damage may
ctions are not followed correctly.
This label indicates the instrument must not be disposed in regular waste but in
Ensure at all times that the plug (electrical isolator) can be easily and
quickly
: Voltages within the instrument will be a maximum of 24 V. Although there is
decreased risk of serious injury, these internal voltages should still be
treated
as dangerous. Contact with any live parts may cause personal injury and/or
high temperatures
. Contact with
can cause serious burn injury. These
See Section 2 for the location of these zones. Both these zones are labelled with
ace to avoid accidental contact

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 Due to the high temperatures involved in the flow path, other zones of the instrument
will be at higher temperatures during operation. These may not on visual inspection
be obvious to the user. These zones are:
o The insulation of the GC transfer line.
o Top and side covers (especially directly above the heated valve).
See Section 2 for the location of these zones.
1.4.4 Hydrogen gas safety
 Hydrogen is a colourless, odourless, highly flammable gas. Hydrogen presents a
hazard as it is combustible over a variety of concentrations at ambient temperature
and pressure. It has a low ignition temperature and is very fast-burning.
 If the user does use hydrogen as their carrier gas, then they do so at their own risk.
The user must ensure that all adequate safety precautions are taken and that the
installation of the hydrogen system is carried out in accordance with all applicable
codes and standards.
 Markes International will assume no liability for any damage or injury caused by the
use of hydrogen.
 For further advice on the use of hydrogen as a carrier gas, please contact Markes
International Technical Support.
1.4.5 Cleaning and decontamination
Please consult Markes International or your local agent for information on decontamination or the use of
cleaning agents
NOTE: Incorrect cleaning/decontamination could result in damage to the instrument.
1.5 Environment operating conditions
The instrument should be protected from conditions that could cause exposure to frost, dew, percolating
water, rain, excessive direct sunlight, etc.
Performance can be affected by sources of heat and cold from heating, air conditioning systems, or drafts.
It is advisable to operate the system in a clean laboratory environment, with minimal atmospheric
concentrations of organic vapours.
1.5.1 Temperature
Recommended operating ambient temperature range is 15 to 30°C.
1.5.2 Humidity
Recommended operating humidity range is 5 to 95% non-condensing.

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1.5.3 Altitude
The product has been evaluated for operation up to a maximum of 6500 ft (2000 m), in accordance with
safety standards. Higher altitudes pose no safety risk, but instrument performance may be reduced.
NOTE: For storage or shipping the allowable temperature range is -40 to 70°C and the allowable humidity
range is 5-95% non-condensing. After instrument exposure to extremes of temperature or
humidity, allow 2 hours for return to the recommended ranges before switching on.
1.6 Technical Specifications
1.6.1 Physical properties
Height: 40 cm (15.75”)
Width: 16 cm (6.3”)
Length: 51 cm (20”)
Mass: 16 kg (35.2 lbs)
1.6.2 Electrical properties
Maximum Power: 650 W
Line voltage: 100-240 V (automatically selected)
Frequency: 50/60 Hz
Input inrush current (A): <40 A (cold start)
1.7 Technical support contact details
In the first instance please contact your distributor. If they are unable to resolve your query, please contact
Markes International (details below).
Address: Gwaun Elai Medi-Science Campus, Llantrisant, RCT, UK, CF72 8XL
Website: www.markes.com
E-Mail: [email protected]
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

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2. Instrument familiarisation

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2.1 Hardware
2.1.1 Sample tubes
UNITY 2 is compatible with industry standard sample tubes - 3.5 inches (89 mm) long by ¼-inch (6.4 mm)
O.D with 5 mm (stainless steel and coated steel) or 4 mm (glass) I.D. Sorbent is retained in stainless steel
(or coated steel) tubes using stainless steel (or coated steel) gauzes and a gauze retaining spring. Quartz
or glass wool is recommended for retaining the sorbent in glass tubes.
2.1.2 Tube desorption oven
The UNITY 2 tube desorption oven heats up rapidly (~150°C/min) at the start of elevated temperature
purge (see Section 3.6.4) or tube desorption. It begins to cool at the end of primary (tube) desorption and
reaches 50°C from 300°C within 10 minutes.
2.1.3 Tube filters and seals
When ready for analysis, sample tubes are placed into the ambient temperature desorption oven with the
sampling (grooved) end pointing to the rear of the instrument. Operation of the lever mechanism seals
the sample tube into the UNITY 2 flow path. Temperature resistant Viton O-rings seal onto the outer wall
of the sample tube, ~2 mm from either end. Each O-ring should last for >1000 tube-sealing operations. In
the event of failure, O-rings at both ends of the sample tube are readily replaced by the user (see
Technical Support Manual). A porous PTFE filter sits just behind the O-ring in both sample tube seals.
These prevent UNITY 2 flow path contamination in the event that sorbent particles or high boiling sample
materials migrate out of the tube. The filters are readily accessed for user replacement (See Technical
Support Manual).
2.1.4 The cold trap
The quartz cold trap contains a 2 mm diameter x 60 mm long bed of sorbent (30 to 100 mg depending on
sorbent density) supported by quartz or glass wool. Note that the length of the first plug of glass wool is
included in the total 60 mm sorbent bed.
2.1.5 Cold trap cooling and heating
UNITY 2 contains a 2-stage Peltier cell, which uniformly cools the entire 60 mm sorbent bed to a minimum
of -30°C in ambient temperatures as high as +25°C (see UNITY 2 Installation Manual Section 1). No
liquid cryogen is required. Dry air or nitrogen flows into the cold trap box creating a slight positive pressure
and minimising ingress of water from the laboratory atmosphere. If the cold trap box was not purged, ice
would quickly build up around the Peltier cell which is maintained at sub zero temperatures throughout
UNITY 2 operation.
NOTE: C2 hydrocarbons (ethyne, ethene, ethane) and the most volatile freons cannot normally be
sampled using sorbent tubes at ambient temperatures - breakthrough volumes are too small for practical
use, even with the strongest tube sorbents. These compounds must be collected in bags or canisters or
sampled on line. These whole air/gas samples are then introduced to the UNITY 2 cold trap using an Air
Server Accessory.
Once all the target analytes have been collected and focused in the cold trap, the trap oven heats rapidly
reaching rates in excess of 60°C/sec for the first critical stages of trap desorption. Uncompromised