Hardware manual

Precautions 2
Agilent 7500 Series ICP-MS Hardware Manual 2-7
Checking the Drain Vessel
CAUTION
The drain vessel contains the spray chamber effluent, which can be toxic. Improper
handling of the vessel can result in a serious explosion or fire if incompatible
substances are accumulated. Corrosion of the vessel and connecting tube can result in
leaks that may damage the instrument or cause bodily harm. If the effluent collected in
the drain vessel contains toxic materials or solvents, follow approved laboratory
procedures to safely dispose of this hazardous waste.
Ensure that the drain bottle is adequately ventilated (by the lab ventilation system, the
same as for the ICP-MS mainframe) to deal with vapors from the bottle.
Clean the drain vessel every time you empty it by thoroughly flushing it with water. If it
has contained organic solvents, wash the drain vessel in acetone and allow it to dry.
Follow the procedures below to avoid exposure to the contents of the drain vessel:
• When using organic solvent, please use a suitably sized waste container of
appropriately resistant material for the collection of organic solvent.
• Use the capped plastic drain vessel provided with the instrument. Never use glass.
• Place the drain vessel on the instrument table, where it is easy to check the liquid
level.
• Tightly connect the drainage tubing from the spray chamber around the peristaltic
pump to the drain vessel. Do not crimp the tubing.
• Check the drain vessel frequently. Empty it before you ignite the plasma.
• Be aware of the nature of the vessel contents. If the contents are toxic, dispose of
them as hazardous waste. Also, always empty the vessel when switching from
aqueous to organic sample solutions.
• Check the tubing and vessel for deterioration. If the tubing becomes brittle or
cracked, replace it. Organic solvents generally cause more rapid deterioration than
aqueous solutions.