How to perform a leak test on a 2525/2545 Binary Gradient Module - WKB93389

OBJECTIVE or GOAL

Perform a leak test on a 2525/2545 Binary Gradient Module.

The leak test performs a pressure ramp-up and then monitors pressure decay in the binary gradient module to determine if the inlet check valves, tubes, fittings, or plunger seals are faulty.

Perform the leak test whenever you:

• Suspect leakage in the inlet check valves or plunger seals
• Perform maintenance on the binary gradient module
• Replace fittings

ENVIRONMENT

• MassLynx
• 2525/2545 Binary Gradient Module

PROCEDURE

To perform the leak test:

1. Ensure that all fittings on the binary gradient module are tight.
2. Perform a wet prime on lines A and B.
3. In the MassLynx inlet status page, select the Additional Status tab, and then select the Chroma hyperlink.
4. In the Diagnostics Chromatographic Pump dialog box, select Diagnostics > Leak Test.

Starting the leak test:

5. In the Test Configuration area, select a pump from the Select Pump list.
6. From the Select Head list, select a pump head.
7. In the Test Pressure text box, specify the pressure limit for which you will test the pump. Default is 5000 psi.
8. Click Start Leak Test. The status of the leak test appears in the Test Progress area. When the leak test finishes, the Test Results area displays the results.

Typical leak test results:

Results: The test pass criteria is a decay rate of 300 psi/min for each head. This is a fairly stringent criterion based on the analytical flow rate capability of the binary gradient module. The other data displayed is for information only. If the leak test fails the test criteria, messages in the Diagnosis area of the Test Results section can help diagnose a leak.

To resolve leak problems:

1. Inspect all fittings, tubing, and the vent valve rotor.
2. If leaks cannot be resolved by checking fittings and tubing, inspect the check valves and pump seals.
3. If both the right and left heads of either pump A or B fail with about the same decay rate, the leak is likely in the areas that are common to both

pump heads, such as:

• Tubing between the outlet check valve and vent valve
• Fittings between the outlet check valve and vent valve
• Vent valve rotor

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For further information, consult the 2525/2545 Binary Gradient Module Operator's Guide.