Troubleshooting
The analyzer has been designed to provide efficient and continuous service; however, certain maintenance procedures should be followed to obtain the best results over the longest period of time. When unexpected results occur, some common operational problems not indicated on the window and their respective causes and solutions are provided.
The following can be found on the Micromeritics web page (www.Micromeritics.com).
- Error Messages document (PDF)
- Parts and Accessories
- Smart VacPrep Operator Manual (PDF)
- Vacuum Pump Guide (PDF)
Most operational problems are caused by:
- Leaks (commonly found at the sample tube O-ring at the analysis port)
- Sample weighing errors
- Use of too much analysis bath fluid in the Dewar at the start of an analysis
- Entry of incorrect system volume for analysis
- Impure gas supply
When unexpected analysis results occur, check the above first. Some common operational problems not indicated on the window and their respective causes and solutions are provided below:
Elevator is noisy.
Cause: |
The elevator screw may need greasing. |
Action: |
Contact your Micromeritics Service Representative. |
Specified pressure not reached.
Cause A: |
Sample or balance tube not properly attached. |
Action A: |
Reattach sample and balance
tubes. Ensure both are securely
attached to ports. Replace O-rings
if defective. See Sample Tube O-ring Replacement. |
Cause B: |
Leak in gas line. |
Action B: |
Perform the Adsorptive and
Helium Line tests to determine if
a leak exists. See Diagnostics. |
Unable to reach a satisfactory vacuum.
Cause A: |
Vacuum pump oil level is low or
needs to be changed. |
Action A: |
Inspect the oil to see if it is low
or needs changing. |
Cause B: |
Vacuum pump is leaking. |
Action B: |
Locate and repair the source of
the leak or replace pump. |
Cause C: |
Centering ring has become too
flat and unable to hold a vacuum. |
Action C: |
Check the centering ring at the
pump intake port. Also check the centering ring at the top of the oil vapor trap. Replace if
necessary. |
Unit does not work when powered ON.
Cause A: |
Power cord not fully inserted at one end. |
Action A: |
Insert power plug firmly into power source and analyzer power connecter. |
Cause B: |
No power at outlet. |
Action B: |
Plug in another electrical device to test the outlet. If there is no power, contact an electrician. |
Cause C: |
Plug prongs bent so that contact
not made at outlet. |
Action C: |
Gently move power plug at outlet
while watching power indicator
light. If the indicator light comes on,
have electrician replace outlet or
plug. |
Cause D: |
Power cord damaged. |
Action D: |
Have electrician check cord
using a test meter. Replace the
cord if defective. |
Cause E: |
Loose internal connection or
broken wire. |
Action E: |
Call a Micromeritics Service
Representative for repair or
replacement information. |
Vacuum pump is noisy.
Cause A: |
Sample tube connector is loose. |
Action A: |
Tighten fitting. Replace O-ring. |
Cause B: |
Sample tube O-ring is worn or cracked. |
Action B: |
Replace O-ring. See Sample Tube O-ring Replacement. |
Cause C: |
Sample tube is cracked. |
Action C: |
Replace with new sample tube. |
Cause D: |
No sample tube loaded on a selected port. |
Action D: |
Install plug or empty sample tube. |
Cause E: |
Gas inlet valve open while vacuum valve open. |
Action E: |
With manual control enabled, use the instrument schematic to close gas inlet valve. |