SSI America 90-2581 REV B manual Maintenance, Inlet Filters, 5.2.1Removing a Pump Head

5.MAINTENANCE

Cleaning and minor repairs of the Binary pump can be performed as outlined below.

NOTE: Lower than normal pressure, pressure variations, or leaks in the pumping system can all indicate possible problems with the piston seal, piston, or check valves. Piston seal replacement could be necessary after 1,000 hours of running time. See Section 5.2.3.

5.1Filter Replacement

5.1.1 Inlet Filters

Inlet filters should be checked periodically to ensure that they are clean and not restricting flow. A restriction could cause cavitation and flow loss in the pump. Two problems that can plug an inlet filter are microbial growth and impure solvents. To prevent microbial growth, use at least 10-20% organic solvent in the mobile phase or add a growth-inhibiting compound. If you pump 100% water or an aqueous solution without any inhibitors, microbes will grow in the inlet filter over time, even if you make fresh solution every day. Always use well filtered, HPLC grade solvents for your mobile phase.

5.2Changing Pump Heads

5.2.1Removing a Pump Head

CAUTION: The sapphire piston is fragile. Twisting the pump head during removal can cause the piston to break. Closely follow instructions during head removal and replacement to avoid breakage.

As a guide to pump head assembly, the standard pump heads are shown in Figures 5-1 through 5-4. All of the Binary pump heads have a similar arrangement.

1.Turn OFF the power to the Binary pump.

2.Remove the inlet line and filter from the mobile phase reservoir. Be careful not to damage the inlet filter or crimp the Teflon™ tubing.

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