Would I be able to keep a Thermo-Finnigan GCQ running?

[PaulDDodson]

Hi everyone,
I have a chance to take a free Thermo-Finninigan GCQ. He has one extra for parts, but the catch was that he couldn't get it to pump down to 10-6 torr or so to get the filimants to turn on. Do you think I could get the thing fixed by some ex Thermo expert? (Thermo has stopped supporting it in Jan 2006). Any advice? Thank you-Paul

[Ultimate Science 101]

It's definitely a great opportunity! A "free" GC-MS doesn't come along everyday. If the only problem is insufficient vacuum, then the problem may be as simple as a leak in the system. Of course the problem could also be more significant, without knowing more information it's difficult to speculate.

Feel free to consider using our services should you decide to go ahead with acquisition of the system. Maybe you will even be able to solve the problem by yourself.

Good luck!

[PaulDDodson]

Thank you Ultimate Science 101,
Apparently this system has been sitting idle for about 4 years. My buddy who has this Thermo-Finnigan GCQ said that whenever he had a power outage that the diffusion pump would blow back some oil into the Ion-trap and cost thousands to clean out. Do you know if it's possible to retrofit it with a turbo pump or do you know of a way to prevent this from happening? -Paul

[Ultimate Science 101]

Paul,

The system can be retrofitted with a new or refurbished turbo pump. Do you know if the system has a vacuum interlock valve? You are welcome to email us photos or more detailed serial number information if available.

Since the system has been sitting idle for 4 years, we think a good place to begin is simply by powering the system up and seeing how it performs. Depending upon your budget, replacing the diff pump with a turbo might be a good idea if the electronics are ok and the investment seems worthwhile. Since the system is already having vacuum issues, the source of the insufficient vacuum should first be determined. There could be a leak in the mass analyzer, or insufficiency with either the diffusion or foreline pump. Maybe the GC was also leaking, and the MS system is fine.

Feel free to drop us an email with any photos or additional information regarding the system. Setting up a refurbished GC-MS system is generally a lot of "fun", and can be quite rewarding if you're inherited a real gem. Let us know if we can help.

[PaulDDodson]

Thank you Ultimate,
I will have to get over to CT and see if that's really the problem, but if it's a real bearcat I may need to come and see you. Thanks again.-Paul