Chromatography Forum

I have a TSQ Lc-MS/MS. the turbopump is not kicking on what the instrument starts, for one time the turbopump starts running and dies off before reaching the top speed, the Technician from Thermo Scientific think it is the pump control card or the power supply, does anyone have similar problem and what was the solution also any help will be appreciated

Reasons for Turbo pump not coming up to speed and basically be three things.. Apart from "stupid" reasons like someone forgot to plug in a power supply or so.. But than in should not spin up at all.

1. Faulty Turbo controller.. You should see a red Led on the controller if this is the case.. On a TSQ unfortunately it is difficult to get access to see the Leds..

2. Fault Turbo. Either bearings ate shot or the electronics on the pump itself.. Again.. Red led should come on the controller..

1 and 2 can be hard to diagnose without swapping parts to see which works..

3. Leak in rough vacuum. If the turbo draws too much power and has too much resistance during its spin up it shuts down.. Try plugging the entrance capillary.. Sometimes this is just enough to get TMP spinning and more thorough troubleshooting cam be done.. Depending on your type of TSQ make sure both rough pumps are running.. Make sure the vacuum hose isn't kinked of broken..

Good luck!