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Thermo Scientific ARL iSpark

Optical Emission Spectrometer

Pre-Installation Manual
AA83735 • 05 • August 2022
Revision Table
Revision Date ECO number Description of Changes

alpha1/RTh Mar-2010 Draft creation, based on previous ARL OES PIM.

Updated draft, based on alpha version. Released "as is" for China
beta1/RTh Aug-2012
pattern approval.

beta2/RTh Sep-2012 Corrected draft, according to R&D inputs. Released for CPA.

beta3/RTh Oct-2012 Preliminary version.

00/RTh May-2013 Official release.

01/KAh Dec-2013 Appendix B added (Certificates of Conformity)

Validated for ARL iSpark AutoStand option.


02/RTh Oct-2015 OM 4372
Revised Unloading in chapter Transport.

Major update based on product evolution


03 July-2020 SDR 17627 New template
Argon Evacuation section added

Safety Instruction Manual introduced, redundant information


SDR 26291
04 January-2021 removed.
SDR 28716
Section Second Redundant Protective Earth Connection updated

Up-to-date certificates added.


SDR 36014
05 August-2022 iSpark V2 related illustrations updated and new features
SDR 37399
description added. CCD detector information modified.

Note This document is the original manual.

The information in this document is subject to change without notice.


We assume no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document.
Contents
1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1 Summary of the Pre-Installation Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 Pre-Installation Questionnaire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
1.3 Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Disposal / Recycling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2 Environment and Dimensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8


2.1 Summary Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2 Dimensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3 Environmental Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 .
2.3.1 Ambient Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
2.3.2 Noise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
.
2.4 Instrument Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 .
2.4.1 Floor Load Capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
2.4.2 Floor Coating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 .
2.4.3 Vibrations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 .
2.4.4 Instrument Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 .

3 Electrical Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14


3.1 Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
3.2 Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
3.3 Instrument Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
3.4 Second Redundant Protective Earth Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 .
3.5 Network Connection Examples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 .
3.5.1 Standard European Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 .
3.5.2 Unstable 230VAC Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
3.5.3 Standard American Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 .
3.5.4 Unstable American Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
3.6 Voltage Stabiliser. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
3.7 Computer Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 .
3.7.1 Networking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
3.7.2 Remote Diagnostics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

4 Gas Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
.
4.1 Argon Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
4.1.1 Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 .
4.1.2 Supply and Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 .
4.1.3 Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
4.1.4 Special Specifications for VUV Line and CNO Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
4.2 Installation and Material Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 .
4.2.1 Material Supplied with the Instrument. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 .
4.2.2 Optional Installation Material. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 .
4.3 Compressed Air Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

5 Evacuation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
5.1 Air Exhaust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
.
5.2 Argon Exhaust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

6 Transport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
6.1 General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
6.1.1 Packaging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
6.1.2 Detectors Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
6.1.3 Detector Location and Other Information Examples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 .
6.1.4 Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
6.2 Unloading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
6.2.1 Unloading from the Truck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
6.2.2 From the Truck to the Laboratory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
6.2.3 Unloading the Transport Pallet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
6.3 Moving from one Laboratory to Another. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 .
6.4 Return of the Instrument. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 .

7 Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
7.1 Installation Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
7.2 End of Installation and Guarantee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

A Sample Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54


.
A.1 Sample Taking - Moulds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 .
A.1.1 Non Ferrous Metals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
A.1.2 Fe, Ni, Co Bases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 .
A.1.3 Cast Irons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
A.1.4 Pure Metals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55.
A.1.5 SPEMIS Probe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
A.2 Surface Preparation - Sample Preparation Machines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
A.2.1 Disk Sander. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
A.2.2 Surface Grinder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 .
A.2.3 Milling Machine or Lathe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 .
A.2.4 Press Machine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
A.2.5 Fusion Furnace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 .

B Certificates of conformity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
.
B.1 IEC Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
.
B.2 ISO 9001 Certification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
.
Chapter| Introduction

1 Introduction
We congratulate you on the purchase of your ARL iSpark. This accurate measurement instrument
based on optical emission spectroscopy has been manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific to satis-
fy your analytical needs.
The purpose of this manual is to assist you in the preparation of the instrument room.
A certain amount of preparation is required before your instrument can be installed. You are respon-
sible for the preparation of the instrument room environment, which includes temperature, humidity,
electrical supply, gas supplies and exhaust system. You are also responsible for unloading the instru-
ment from the truck and for its transport to the instrument room.
Our service engineers are responsible of the unpacking and installation of the instrument and they
can answer your questions before and during installation.
In order that the service engineer can start with the installation, all the accessory installations (for ex-
ample sample preparation machines) must be completed; and the consumable for those machines
(for example grinding disks) as well as for the instrument (electrodes, argon gas, samples, etc.) must
be available and in sufficient quantity for the installation.
Should you need any further information or assistance, please contact our After Sales Service or lo-
cal representative.

Note This manual is valid for all the instruments of the ARL iSpark Series. When a data or a parameter is not
explicitly mentioned for one model or the other one, this data or parameter is valid for all the models.
This manual is also valid for any of the above models equipped with an ARL iSpark AutoStand option
(automated Stand).

Before the first use, please read the Safety Instruction Manual delivered with the system.

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Chapter| Introduction

1.1 Summary of the Pre-Installation Manual

Chapter Description

Introduction on page 5 This chapter informs you about the pre-installation questionnaire
and a possible storage before the installation starts.

Environment and Dimensions on page 8 This chapter gives a summary of all environmental conditions,
describes the instrument room layout and shows different views
of the instrument with its dimensions and connections.

Electrical Supply on page 14 This chapter describes technical data and connections for main
power supply, with or without insulation transformer, voltage
stabiliser or UPS.

Gas Supply on page 25 This chapter describes technical specifications and connections
for gas.

Evacuation on page 33 This chapter informs you about heat and gas evacuation.

Transport on page 35 This chapter describes shipment conditions and dimensions and
unloading recommendations for the instrument.

Installation on page 52 This chapter describes the tasks of the service engineer during
installation.

Sample Preparation on page 54 This appendix gives you information tips about sample
preparation and surfacing.

1.2 Pre-Installation Questionnaire


You should have received a pre-installation questionnaire with our order confirmation. If this is not the
case, please contact our local representative or us immediately in order to obtain one.
The questionnaire should be carefully filled in during or after the instrument room preparation. Please
return the questionnaire to us, as soon as you are sure of the date when work on the laboratory prep-
aration will be finished and when all the questions have been answered.

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Chapter| Introduction

1.3 Storage
If your instrument room is not ready when the instrument arrives, it must be stored in an adequate
room. Prior to storage, kindly follow the instructions in Chapter Transport on page 35.
Our recommendations are as follows:

Parameter Range

Temperature Min. +2 °C, max 45 °C

Humidity Max. 80 %, without condensation

General room condition Closed, dry, having at least a cemented floor.


Free from dust and corrosive vapours.

The instrument must stay on its transportation pallet. This makes subsequent moves easier and lim-
its any vibrations.
It is very important to have good air circulation around the instrument during storage. Dust can be
cleaned, but humidity is harmful.

1.4 Disposal / Recycling

RoHS - WEEE Directives

Thermo Fisher Scientific has contracted with one or more recycling/disposal compa-
nies in each EU Member State, and this product should be disposed of or recycled
through them. Please contact your local representative for further information on
Thermo Fisher Scientific’s compliance with these Directives and the recyclers in your
country.

Information on Thermo Fisher Scientific products which may assist the detection of
substances subject to the RoHS Directive are available on the thermofisher.com web-
site.

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

2 Environment and Dimensions


The room that will contain your ARL iSpark must be completely finished before the arrival of the in-
strument. Once the instrument is inside the room, no further work, which will cause dust, humidity or
corrosive vapours, should be carried out.
The instrument must be set-up in such a way that it is protected from heavy vibrations, direct sun-
light, dust and corrosive vapour or gases. In general, the requirements for the room are those nor-
mally applied for industrial control rooms.

2.1 Summary Table


Below is a summary of the environmental and working conditions, dimensions and weight, as well as
power and gas requirements. More details and recommendations are given in the corresponding sec-
tion or chapter of this manual. For further information, please refer also to the Safety Instructions
Manual.

Subject Specification

Electricity 230 VAC±10%; 50/60 Hz±2%


Fuse 16 A,
Earth < 1 W
ARL iSpark: 1kVA
ARL iSpark with AutoStand: 1kVA
See Chapter Electrical Supply on page 14.

Argon Quality: See Chapter Gas Supply on page 25.


Input pressure 2 Bars (2 x 105 Pa)

Compressed Air Input pressure: min 6 Bar


(AutoStand only) Air supply: 0.1 m3
See Chapter Compressed Air Supply on page 31.

Dimensions ARL iSpark 175 x 86 x 119 cm


AutoStand option 175 x 86 x 119 cm
On pallet: 188 x 118 x 129 cm
See Chapter Dimensions on page 9

Weight ~500 kg (packaged ~570kg)


Floor load:~460 kg/m2
See Chapter Floor Load Capacity on page 12

Room size 400 x 300 cm recommended.


See Chapter Instrument Room on page 13.

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

2.2 Dimensions
The left image below shows a non automated ARL iSpark, whereas that of right-hand side shows an
automated ARL iSpark, that is with the ARL iSpark AutoStand option.
However, the overall dimensions are the same for both instrument types.

860 mm

1750 mm

1190 mm

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

1970 mm

740 mm

Note If either silentblocks or casters (wheels) are installed, the height of the instrument may slightly differ.

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

2.3 Environmental Conditions


The limits below are those required by the instrument for the correct operation and to be able to guar-
antee the instrument's performance.
Refer to the Safety Instructions manual for more information concerning the pollution degree of the
instrument, ambient temperature and other environmental factors.

2.3.1 Ambient Temperature


Minimum 16°C
Maximum 30°C
Short term variations within these limits must not exceed 5 °C/h.
Note If the above limits cannot be guaranteed, it is necessary to install an air conditioning into your instru-
ment room. When calculating the dimensions of the air conditioning system, do not forget to take the
other accessories or laboratory instruments into consideration, as they can also give off heat.

Note The instrument dissipates heat, on average of about 1 kW depending on the sample throughput. De-
pending on local conditions and the laboratory size, this could cause the ambient temperature to in-
crease. It is necessary to exhaust the air outside the laboratory (see chapter Evacuation on page 33).

2.3.2 Noise
The level of the acoustic noise is lower than 70 dB(A) (during analysis), which is lower than current
international standards concerning laboratory equipment.

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

2.4 Instrument Layout


2.4.1 Floor Load Capacity
The instrument's weight is about 500 kg. This weight is distributed on a surface of about 1.1 m2 that
is about 460 kg/m2. The load is distributed on 4 blocks of 27 cm2 each. If required, the instrument
can be mounted on wheels.
The weight and therefore the floor load can vary from one instrument to another one even for the
same model, depending on the options and the installed analytical program. The values given are
therefore average values.

2.4.2 Floor Coating


Water or oil leakage is possible during installation or service. This does not damage the PVC coat-
ings that are normally used. However if the coating is not waterproof or does not resist oil, then stains
or damages can occur.

2.4.3 Vibrations
The spectrometer body has internal silent-blocks that absorb the vibrations from a normal industrial
environment.
If excessive vibrations produced by nearby machines, as for example overhead cranes, hydraulic or
pneumatic presses, blast furnace or crushers, are probable, extra shock absorbers should be fitted
under the instrument (see Summary Table on page 8 chapter).
The following accessories are particularly adapted to the ARL iSpark, you can order them from our
local representative:

Number Article

S704321 Kit shock absorbers

S704320 Kit of wheels

S705199 Kit of wheels with brakes

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Chapter| Environment and Dimensions

2.4.4 Instrument Room


We recommend a room of at least 400 cm by 350 cm for your instrument and some furniture (see
example below). For the installation, maintenance and repairs, as well as for routine use, a free ac-
cess of at least 80 cm should be allowed around the front side (stand side) and the left side of instru-
ment. The right and back side can be close to a wall, but a minimum of 20 cm should be kept for
ventilation and heat dissipation.
It is possible to install the complete computer system on the instrument's roof; or if you prefer so,
only the keyboard and the screen (the central unit and the printer being put on a separated table). If
so, do not forget that it must be removed for service work.
The figure below shows an example we propose for the placing of the instrument and its peripherals
in a laboratory.
If you have ordered any additional accessories (voltage stabiliser, etc.), adequate spacing must be
provided for them. Please refer to the documentation belonging to these accessories in order to eval-
uate the space they need.

400 cm min.

2 3
350 cm min.

1
6
5
1. ARL iSpark
2. Table for computer and peripherals
3. Office desk
4. Chair
5. Cupboard for sample material and documentation
6. Washbasin

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3 Electrical Supply

3.1 Technical Data

Parameter Value

Power requirement 1.0 kVA (instrument only)


1.3 kVA (PC included)

Stand-by consumption Approx. 0.8 kVA

Voltage (1 Line) 230 VAC –10% +10 %

Neutral 0 V to ground

Earth impedance <1Ω

Frequency 50 Hz ±2% or 60 Hz ±2%

The values above take into account the consumption of the instrument and its computer system (the
central unit, the screen and one printer); but on the other hand these figures do not take into account
possible external instrument's accessories that normally must be connected to another supply (e.g.
the external argon purifier).
We recommend the installation of a delayed 16 A High Rupturing Capacity fuse (HRC) on the supply
line.

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3.2 Specifications
You should prepare the laboratory’s electrical installation according to local safety rules and stand-
ards.
It is absolutely necessary to have one 230 V line and one 0V neutral referring to earth. If this specifi-
cation cannot be met, you will need to install an insulation transformer, a voltage stabiliser or an Un-
interruptible Power Supply (UPS).
The following chart helps you to define if and which of these devices you should install. For the instal-
lation of an insulation transformer, a voltage stabiliser or an UPS, please refer to the following sub-
sections.

DU[%]

+15%
+10%

230 V

-10%

-25%

t [ms]
0V
10 100

No special device needed

Voltage stabiliser recommended

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) recommended

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3.3 Instrument Connections

Mains power connector

Outlet 230V

TCP/IP - RJ45

Argon inlet

Main switch

The 230 V outlet is used for supplying accessories such as PC, monitor and printer. The outlet can
supply up to 6 A of current.The TCP/IP RJ-45 outlet is used to connect the instrument with a PC. The
voltage in the RJ-45 outlet is ± 2.5 V.
The instrument is delivered with a 5 meters power supply cord including 3 wires of 1.5 mm2 section.
The connection of the instrument to the mains must be done with the supplied power cable with a
local removable plug. A fixed connection to the mains does not conform to regulations. The location
of the connection to the mains must remain easily accessible all the time.
Furthermore, the instrument is fitted with a 10 A main circuit breaker. An external socket, which is
protected by a 6 A circuit breaker, is available for connecting external devices (PC and peripherals).
The user has to supply and/or install the following devices:
● A plug according to his local network.
● A 16 A fuse on the supply line.
Our service engineer will connect the instrument during installation.
Refer to the picture above to locate electrical connections.

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Additional wall sockets make both the installation and the laboratory work more convenient. Howev-
er, these wall sockets must be supplied by the same network that supplies the instrument (same
earth!).
Power supply Distribution
cable, 5 m unit

Power supply
cable, 2 m

Redundant Protective
PE wire, 10m
Grounding terminal

The argon gas tubbing must be connected to the inlet using an elbow shape fitting (A043311).
Straight fitting protrudes from the system too much and may cause gas circuit tightness related prob-
lems as well as pose a safety risk.
Make sure the power and communications cables are bend behind the panel as indicated in the illus-
tration below. This will prevent accidental tripping over the cables.

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3.4 Second Redundant Protective Earth Connection


During the installation, your ARL iSpark will be connected to additional earth using a 4.0mm2 redun-
dant Protective Earth (PE) wire. For this purpose, it is necessary to have available an additional free
Grounding terminal, where the 4.0mm2 redundant PE wire will be connected.
For the earth connections the user must comply with the local regulations. Furthermore, we recom-
mend you to respect the following points:
● Get a resistance as low as possible.
● Make the connection as short as possible, avoid loops.
● The earth should not be used by any other equipment producing high frequencies.
For safety reason, the instrument must be grounded to the earth with a fixed earth wire
The Service Engineer will connect the PE wire on the instrument’s side. It is then responsibility of the
customer to have the other end of the redundant PE wire connected to the grounding terminal by a
local electrician.
Based on the specific situation at your site, the Grounding terminal can have different form. Below
are examples of a possible grounding terminal and the connection to the instrument:
Note All figures below are only examples and might not reflect real situation at the customer’s site.

a. Building Grounding bar

redundant 10 m PE wire
to be connected
to your ARL instrument

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

b. Grounding bar as a part of the Distribution board

redundant 10 m PE wire
to be connected
to your ARL instrument

c. Grounding terminal as a part of the Distribution board

redundant 10 m PE wire
to be connected
to your ARL instrument

d. Any other here not specified form. For details, consult with your facility manager. Also in
this case, the redundant 10 m PE wire will be connected to the instrument as in the pictures
above.

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

IMPORTANT
If you use wall sockets for connecting the computer, make sure that they are supplied
by the same network that is supplying the instrument (same earth!).

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3.5 Network Connection Examples


3.5.1 Standard European Network
Most of the European networks provide with mains within the requirements given at the beginning of
this chapter. In such case the connection diagram becomes:

Line I max = 15 A L

V 230 V +10 %/-10 %


Instrument
Neutral N
Line
Input
Filter
V 0V
Earth E

3.5.2 Unstable 230VAC Network


In the case of an unstable network (out of the requirement given at the beginning of this chapter), a
voltage stabiliser must be inserted. In such a case the connection becomes as follows:

Line I max = 15 A L
Input Output

Stabiliser
V 230 V ± x% V 230 V +10%/-10%
Instrument
Neutral P ³ 2 kVA Line N
Input
Filter
V 0V
Earth E

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3.5.3 Standard American Network


If the network has no Neutral (typically USA) or if the Neutral is floating, we recommend the use of an
insulation transformer. Such a transformer is required for personnel safety reasons and for respecting
EMC standards, as well as for correct operation. Such a connection is illustrated by the following fig-
ure:

Line 1 T1 I max = 15 A L

230 V +10%/-10%
V 208 V +10%/-10%
V 230 V +10%/-10%
Instrument
Line 2 N
Line
Input
115 V 115 V Filter
V 104 V
V 104 V
E
General earth of the plant
V 0V
Earth

3.5.4 Unstable American Network


If a network similar to the above described is moreover unstable, a voltage stabiliser must be added.
If so, the connection diagram becomes:

Line 1 I max = 15 A L
Input Output
230 V ± x%
V Stabiliser V 230 V +10%/-10%
208 V ± x%
P ³ 2 kVA Instrument
Line 2 N
2* 2* Line
Input
115 V Filter
V
104 V
E
General earth of the plant
V 0V
Earth

Note Stabiliser without link or connection between Input 2 and Output 2. Depending on the design, such a
stabiliser may be used as an insulation transformer as well.

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3.6 Voltage Stabiliser


If your network is unstable, a voltage stabiliser is required.
If in addition the network is subject to micro power cuts, or even bigger interruptions, a voltage stabil-
iser is not sufficient, and a UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) with batteries is required.
For ARL iSpark, the recommended power for the UPS is at least 2.2 kVA. You can order them from
your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.

The UPS must be connected as shown on figure in section Unstable 230VAC Network on page 21
for a network with Neutral at 0 volt, or on figure in section Unstable American Network on page 22 for
network without Neutral or Neutral at a different potential than Earth (USA).

3.7 Computer Connections


The computer, screen and printer must be connected directly to the 4 sockets IEC distribution termi-
nal provided with the instrument.
Note The printer is optional.

Each device is provided with its own IEC power supply cable.

Ethernet cable

It is highly advised to power the computer through a UPS.


The computer linked to the instrument is a working tool with a defined configuration dedicated to con-
trol the system and to handle the analytical results coming from the spectrometer. This computer
should not be used for other purposes, in particular like office computer! It is not recommended to
change its configuration.

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Chapter| Electrical Supply

3.7.1 Networking
If the network on which the instrument computer is connected is using an automatic Windows and
components update policy (Software Deployment through initialisation logon scripts), the instrument
computer must be removed from the list of computers to be automatically updated. If not, the com-
puter may be updated by Windows service packs and other components and be rebooted without no-
tice resulting in an unstable system for OXSAS operation.
However we recommend the Security Windows Updates, but with a manual reboot/restart after the
update. This will allow you to correctly close OXSAS before the reboot.

3.7.2 Remote Diagnostics


Optionally the instrument may be supplied with a remote diagnostics system. This feature can be
used to test the instrument or to diagnose instrument faults. Down time can be minimised. It is also a
good way to help the user from a remote location with specific analytical or software questions.
In order to have access to the instrument, it is necessary to have a broad band connection to the
Internet.
The IT department can contact Thermo Fisher Scientific to install a software tool for enabling the re-
mote diagnostic features.

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Chapter| Gas Supply

4 Gas Supply
All ARL iSpark instrument models require argon, but only the ARL iSpark with the AutoStand option
requires compressed air.

4.1 Argon Supply


The sample sparking chamber requires argon gas.
IMPORTANT
The purity of argon is a key factor for a good OES analysis.

The analytical results are directly influenced by the quantity of impurities remaining in the argon gas
and argon gas circuit.

4.1.1 Technical Data

Parameter Value

Argon gas quality Argon 48 > 99.998 %: recommended quality for most applications.
Argon 57 > 99.9997 % for low carbon and nitrogen analysis.
Published analytical specifications have been obtained with Argon 48.
If specifications cannot be met, an argon gas purifier is mandatory.

Input pressure 2 ± 0.2 bar (2 ± 0.2 x 105 Pa)

Average consumption During analysis: 3.00 l/min


Nitrogen analysis: 5.00 l/min
In stand-by mode: 0.20 l/min
Stand-by mode CNO: 0.40 l/min

Argon saving modes are user definable with the software tool SAM (Smart Argon Management) that
allows significant savings when the instrument is idle:
● With ECOmode the stand-by flow in the stand can be reduced or stopped.
● Super ECOmode may be used to turn argon off during extended idle periods (0 l/min).

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4.1.2 Supply and Connection

Mains power connector

Outlet 230V

TCP/IP - RJ45

Argon inlet

Main switch

It is possible to use argon gas cylinder installed inside or outside the laboratory. However we recom-
mend the installation of an argon battery system with automatic switching. This will avoid losing the
argon supply when the cylinder is empty and prevent air entering in the system when cylinders are
exchanged. Argon distributors usually sell and install such systems; if necessary you can also con-
tact our local representative. In most countries the argon is also available by liquid argon bottles,
which is often the most economic solution.
Please contact your local gas supplier for precautions to be taken to prevent any danger when using
a gas.
The argon gas tubbing must be connected to the inlet using an elbow shape fitting (A043311).
Straight fitting protrudes from the system too much and may cause gas circuit tightness related prob-
lems as well as pose a safety risk.
Make sure the power and communications cables are bend behind the panel as indicated in the illus-
tration below. This will prevent accidental tripping over the cables.

Argon pipes must be in copper, or better in stainless steel and must have been cleaned before they
are used (neither oil nor grease). Stainless steel pipes between the instrument and the argon purifier
(Sircal) are necessary for the CNO option (with Sircal).

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The required inlet pressure is about 2 bars (2 x 105 Pa). A two-stage pressure regulator (with manual
pressure adjustment from 0 to 3 bars of the second stage) must be installed. Pipes (external diame-
ter 6 mm, internal diameter 4 mm) and fittings are supplied with the instrument. The pressure regula-
tor can be ordered from Thermo Fisher Scientific. Please refer to the section Material Supplied with
the Instrument on page 29 for more information.
IMPORTANT
In order to check the VUV lines* stability during the installation and avoid Argon cir-
cuit contamination, the customer should provide the Service Engineer in charge of
the installation with an Argon 57 bottle, isolated from the argon distribution supply.
*Instrument configuration might not include VUV lines, however, all instruments in-
clude Argon distribution circuit.

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4.1.3 Specifications
According to your analysis needs, different specifications are required for argon gas.

Impurity Argon Purity 99.998%

O2 < 2 ppm

H2O < 3 ppm

N2 < 20 ppm

CO2 + CH4 < 5 ppm

For analysing cast iron with Si > 1%, for aluminium and magnesium alloy, the specifications of the
used argon should meet the specifications for purity of 99.998. Argon 48 usually meets the required
specification.

4.1.4 Special Specifications for VUV Line and CNO Option


For the VUV line analysis, in particular with the CNO option the maximum admissible impurities are
those indicated above, with the exception for N2 and O2 impurities:
For low carbon (less than 300 ppm), low nitrogen (less than 100 ppm) and oxygen analysis, the
specifications are as follows:

Impurity Argon purity 99.9997%

O2 < 0.3 ppm

N2 < 0.6 ppm

Argon 57 usually meets these requirements.


If the available argon is not within the above limits, the working of the instrument and its performan-
ces cannot be guaranteed and you will need to install an argon purifier. Thermo Fisher Scientific can
provide such an argon purifier, please refer to the section Installation and Material Summary on page
29.
Note The liquid argon 48 is frequently of a purity that is superior to the official classification as shown in the
table. If a typical quality with < 2 ppm N2 is verified and constant, it is possible to use it, which simpli-
fies distribution and reduces running costs.

The Sircal purifier consumes 1 kVA and is usually connected to a separated supply than the instru-
ment. If it must be connected on the same supply as the instrument, take its power consumption into
account when sizing the electrical power supply.
Note The argon purifier must not be connected to the auxiliary output power plug of the ARL iSpark.

For Nitrogen analysis, the average argon consumption is about 5 l/min during the analysis and this
requires that the input argon pressure is increased a little above 2 bar (2 x 105 Pa).
Note For the analysis of oxygen (CNO option), milling of the sample is mandatory to limit surface contamina-
tion.

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4.2 Installation and Material Summary


The installation of the argon gas battery or supply must be carried out by yourself with material
bought locally.
You have to provide the following material:

Material needed Characteristics

Pressure regulator ● Two-stage


● Manual pressure adjustment: 0.5 to 3 bar on the
second stage
● Corresponding fitting

Alternately the two-stage pressure regulator can be provided by Thermo Fisher Scientific, see Op-
tional Installation Material on page 30.
The connection of the argon gas from the supply to the instrument must be carried out by yourself
using the material delivered with the instrument, see Material Supplied with the Instrument below.
This should be done at the beginning of the installation with the help of the Service Engineer in
charge of the installation..
The average consumption of the ARL iSpark is about 3 l/min (5 l/min for Nitrogen analysis) during a
sample analysis and 0.2 l/min (0.4 l/min for CNO, VUV) the rest of the time (stand-by). If you use
cylinders, 2 cylinders should be sufficient for the installation time.
The evacuation of argon gas is highly recommended and possibly obligatory in some countries, see
Section Argon Exhaust on page 33 for more information.
Refer to Section Power and Gas Connections to locate argon gas and electrical connections.

4.2.1 Material Supplied with the Instrument


The S703174 Universal argon installation kit is supplied with every instrument. You should use this
material for the connection between the argon supply and the instrument.
The S703174 kit includes:
● 7 meters of cleaned copper pipe D6/4
● 2 Swagelok nuts D6
● 2 pairs of conical rings D6
● 1 Swagelok union fitting D6-D1/8"
● 1 SERTO Compression Ferrule
● 1 SERTO nut
● 1 Elbow shape fitting
In addition to the above kit, the S500736 Sircal argon tubes kit is also supplied in the case a Sircal
argon purifier device has been ordered with the instrument. This is normally the case with the CNO
option.
The kit S500736 includes stainless steel pipes, 6 mm external diameter, with fittings for both ends
(instrument and Sircal), as shown in the next figure.

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Sircal

Sircal

In the above case, the S703174 Universal argon installation kit is used for the connection between
the argon supply and the Sircal.

4.2.2 Optional Installation Material


The following material can be supplied to you by Thermo Fisher Scientific, upon request. You can
order the following articles from your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative:

Number Article

A032009 Two-stage pressure regulator

A041485 Fitting adapter pressure reducer He

A038747 Sircal argon purifier MP-2000, 230 V 50/60 Hz


(consumption: 1 kVA)

A038748 Sircal argon purifier MP-2000, 115 V 60 Hz


(consumption: 1 kVA)

Note The Sircal argon purifier requires regular consumables exchange. The exchange rate depends on the
number of sample analysed and the impurities in the argon.

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4.3 Compressed Air Supply


Note This section is valid only for ARL iSpark instruments with the ARL iSpark AutoStand (automated
stand).

The ARL iSpark AutoStand requires compressed air for its electrode and table cleaning device, as
well as for the sample clamp.
The compressed air is connected to the instrument through a quick device, being a tube that is con-
nected to the pneumatic system. This tube must have an external diameter of 8 mm and an internal
diameter of 6 mm.
The requirements for the compressed air are:
Air pressure min. 6 Bar
Air supply max. 0.1 m3/h
The air service unit of the ARL iSpark AutoStand is located inside the left cabinet of the instrument,
as shown below.
Note If the instrument is connected to a SMS system (fully automated system), the compressed air for the
ARL iSpark AutoStand is supplied directly from the SMS system, and there is no air service unit inside
the instrument.

Compressed Air
Service Unit

Air Inlet Air Outlet

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Pressure
Regulator
Inlet
Manual Valve

Pressure
Gauge

Air Inlet Air Outlet

Filter

The inlet for the compressed air is located below the stand, as shown on the next figure.

Air Inlet

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Chapter| Evacuation

5 Evacuation

5.1 Air Exhaust


The ambient air warmed by the instruments and other room accessories can usually be evacuated
using a fan.
In order to avoid return of harmful dust (mainly when the exhaust fan is off), we recommend to install
a clapper directly on the outside.
Please also consult the section Ambient Temperature on page 11.

5.2 Argon Exhaust


The evacuation of the argon outside of the instrument room is highly recommended. In some coun-
tries it is even obligatory.
The argon evacuation is essential in the case the instrument is installed inside a hermetically closed
room, or if the air renewal rate is low. Indeed, in such a room, the argon replaces little by little the air
and can lead to an asphyxia risk inside the room.
If necessary, the plastic pipe connected to the outlet of the argon output filter can be used to evacu-
ate the argon from the instrument room. This pipe has a fixed length of 7.50 meters and should be
neither shortened nor be lengthened. The pipe is partially rolled over itself inside the oven and ends
on the side of the argon inlet below the source in the source cabinet.
The volume of argon that is consumed during 24 hours and needs to be evacuated can be estimated
using the formula below:
V = (S * dS) + (n * A * dR) + n *PF * dPF + SB * (1440 – n * (dR + dPF))
Where:
[S] = Start-up flow,
[dS] = duration of Start-up,
[SB] = Standby flow,
[A] = Analysis flow;
[n] = number of runs,
[dR] = duration of one run;
[PF] = Post flush flow,
[dPF] = duration of the Post flush flow,
[V] = Volume of argon to evacuate per day (24 hours = 1440 minutes).
For ARL iSpark, the values are as follows:

Volume (l/min) Duration (s)

Analysis 3.00 30

Post flush 15.00 2-3

Stand-by 0.40 N/A

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The average volume of argon to be evacuated per 24 hours (in case the instrument is still running in
stand-by mode) in a case of 50 samples analyzed (each sample is usually analyzed in two runs,
hence 100 runs per day) is then
V = 0 + (100 * 3 * 30/60) + 100 * 15 * 3/60 + 0.40 * (1440 – 100 * (30/60 + 3/60)) = 779 l
In a case of a room as mentioned in Environment and Dimensions on page 8 with the dimensions of
4 x 3 metres, the argon would create a layer of approx. 6.5 cm from the floor.
Furthermore, in a case of either ECOmode or SuperECOmode, the consumption of argon is even
lower. However, in this case, there is a certain volume of argon that is needed for the instrument to
be operational again. For further information, see the Analytical Software contextual help.
In case of a leak from the argon supply line (e.g. argon bottle, argon gas tank etc.) the amount of
argon that should be evacuated from the instrument room may raise up to the volume in the argon
bottle/tank. Thermo Fisher Scientific is not responsible for safety checks on gas appliances owned by
the customer. Gas safety check of such appliances is to be carried out by the customer. A risk as-
sessment should be conducted and documented by the customer before installation of instrument.

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Chapter| Transport

6 Transport
Our instruments are delivered according to Incoterms 2010. For further information on these terms,
please consult the Incoterms 2010 of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) or visit the web-
site http://www.incoterms.com.
The instrument has been packed with care, in packaging which is suitable for air and road transport.
Thermo Fisher Scientific cannot be held responsible for damage occurring during transport. Any
damage is usually covered by an insurance policy taken out by Thermo Fisher Scientific or your-
selves according to the contract's terms.
Before unloading from the truck, please inspect the packages and the instrument on its transport pal-
let for any visible damage. Check the shock and tilt detectors on the outside of the wooden case if
the instrument has been dispatched in such a box (see Packaging on page 37 and Detectors Infor-
mation on page 38).
If any damage has occurred, please contact your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative imme-
diately. The usual reservations must be made to the carrier and if applicable, to the local insurance
company which covered the transport risks. At this stage and prior starting the installation, please re-
fer to the Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision on page 44.

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Chapter| Transport

6.1 General Information


The figure below shows how the ARL iSpark instrument has been packed and loaded on its transport
pallet.
Other packages or pallets are probably delivered (accessories, spare parts, documentation, etc.) with
your instrument. Unloading these does not usually cause any problems, however packages should
be kept the right way up according to the marking. Care must be taken not to drop the packages and
excessive or unnecessary shocks or vibrations should be avoided.

1180 mm

1880 mm

1290 mm

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.1 Packaging
If the instrument is transported exclusively by truck, a simple packaging with a resistant plasticised
covering like the one shown on the next figure is normally used.

If the instrument is transported by air or sea, in addition to the above, a wooden case like the one
shown on the next figure is normally used.

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.2 Detectors Information


Shock and tilt detectors are placed on the instrument, inside the packaging, these can be checked
only after removal of the covering material.
If applicable, in addition other shock and tilt detectors are fixed on external side of the wooden case.
The main goals of the detectors are:
● To make sure that the final customer is getting his instruments and goods in perfect conditions
● To prevent from starting the instrument or system installation in case of damages or risk of dam-
ages.
Two kinds of detectors are used:
● Shock detector
● Tilt detector (or fall over)

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.2.1 Shock Detectors

Note The background color of the detector depends on the volume, the weight and the maximum falling
height (green, orange, red, purple and yellow).

Indicator

If the indicator turns red, the instrument or system has received a shock and may be damaged.

CAUTION! Refer to the Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision on page 44 if the indicator has
turned red.

6.1.2.2 Tilt Detectors

Note The background color as well as the indicator color of the detector depends on the manufacturer.

Indicator

If the indicator turns red or blue (partially or completely), the instrument or system has received a
shock or has been tipped or tilted in such a way that it may be damaged.
CAUTION! Refer to the Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision on page 44 if the indicator has
turned to red or blue, even if only partially.

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.3 Detector Location and Other Information Examples


Some detectors are placed inside the instrument faces and are not visible once the instrument is cov-
ered.
No additional detectors are applied on the plastic coverage, but the centre of gravity is indicated.
In case of a wooden case packaging additional detectors are fixed outside and inside the wood pan-
els. Also other information about weight, position, forklift access, etc are indicated on the wood pan-
els.

6.1.3.1 Detectors on Instrument

They are located inside the instrument, as shown on the next figure.

Shock

Tilt

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.3.2 Simple Cover Packaging

Normally, when the transport is only by truck, only a simple packaging with a plasticised covering is
used. In this case only the gravity centre is mentioned on the covering.

Gravity
centre

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.3.3 Wooden Case Packaging

In the case of a wooden case tilt and shock detectors are fixed outside the box on the wood panels,
and further transport information is printed on the wood panel. Additionally one tilt detector is fixed on
the inside of the box. See the examples below.

Tilt

Tilt Shock
Fragile Keep dry

Instrument type
& serial number Weight

Gravity
centre

Forklift entry
position

Box position
for transport

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Chapter| Transport

Weight

Gravity
centre

Forklift entry
prohibited

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Chapter| Transport

6.1.4 Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision


The following control procedure should be applied in order to decide whether to start the installation:

START

Are all the No


shock and tilt
detectors intact?

Yes

Are there
Yes
any damages on
the various
packages?

No

Do the various No
packages conform to
the packing list?

Yes
The installation
cannot start!

Are there any Yes


damages to the
equipment? No

No
Yes Decision taken
and all issues
Advise the local Service office
solved?
and/or Thermo Fisher Scientific
immediately in order to take
the necessary action.

The installation can start according


to the installation procedure

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Chapter| Transport

6.2 Unloading
Check that all the packages indicated on the packing list are received. If this is not the case, contact
our local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative immediately.
Note Do not open the packages! The content of each package will be checked by our service engineer in
your presence at the beginning of installation.

If it is necessary to open the packages immediately upon delivery, because of transport insurance
contractual time reasons, please contact your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.
Thermo Fisher Scientific responsibility can only be admitted (damage, missing material) if a Thermo
Fisher Scientific representative authorizes you to open the packages or if he delegates someone to
attend.
You as a customer are responsible for the unloading and transport of the instrument from the truck to
the instrument’s room.

6.2.1 Unloading from the Truck


You must use an hydraulic pallet transporter with long forks in order to unload the packages from the
truck.

The packages must immediately be sheltered from rain and bad weather.
Possibly proceed now according to the Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision on page 44 and then
bring the instrument on its transport pallet as near as possible to the laboratory. Avoid shocks and
vibrations.
If the instrument must be stored for a while see the Storage on page 7.
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Chapter| Transport

6.2.2 From the Truck to the Laboratory


The figure below shows a way of transporting the instrument on its pallet with a fork lift truck.

IMPORTANT
The pallet used does not make it possible to take the instrument transversely. If not
handled carefully the instrument can tilt over. The fork lift should therefore only be
used for lifting and lowering the instrument, i.e. for unloading and for short transport
on its pallet. Avoid sudden movements and always keep the instrument as close as
possible to the floor.
On a flat and level ground, as well as inside a building, you should use a normal pal-
let transporter. Be careful when passing over joints between tiles and doorsteps.

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Chapter| Transport

6.2.3 Unloading the Transport Pallet


If the instrument must be stored for a period of time (see section Storage on page 7), it should be left
on its pallet.
After the arrival of our service engineer, the instrument will be unloaded from its pallet onto the
ground. To do this operation, follow the directions given here below.
Unscrew completely the eight big screws fixing the four flanges to the top wooden plate. Remove the
flanges.

Unscrew Unscrew

Remove
Remove

Unscrew completely the screw of the central wooden plank and pull out the wooden plank.

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Chapter| Transport

Unscrew

Remove

Unscrew completely the eight big screws fixing the three wooden transversal planks. Pull out and re-
move the planks.

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Chapter| Transport

Unscrew Unscrew

Remove

Remove

Insert a pallet transporter under the instrument and lift the instrument up slightly over the pallet.

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Chapter| Transport

Finally pull out the instrument from the pallet and put the instrument down slowly to ground
Note Shock absorbers or rollers option are not mounted before shipment. If supplied, they should be instal-
led at this step.

Use a pallet transporter for moving the instrument to its final position in the laboratory (see figure be-
low).

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Chapter| Transport

6.3 Moving from one Laboratory to Another


After the installation you may wish to move your instrument from one laboratory to another. It is es-
sential to contact your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative so that a service engineer is sent
to carry out the job.
Note Any damage that could occur if you move your instrument is not covered by our guarantee.

You should know that your instrument contains a very accurate but fragile optical dispersion system
(spectrometer). During the installation, transport blocking devices must be removed in order to allow
the mechanical and optical parts to work correctly. Transport of an instrument with those blocking de-
vices removed is an operation that should only be performed by qualified personnel.

6.4 Return of the Instrument


If it becomes necessary to return the instrument for repairs or exchange, it should be put back on its
transport pallet and repackaged.
This operation, as well as the transport order, cannot be carried out without your consent and that of
a Thermo Fisher Scientific representative; if the return is the consequence of transport damage, an
expert's report will be made by the transport insurance or by a neutral insurance expert, under the
defined responsibility of the contractual delivery conditions (as Incoterms 2010).

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Chapter| Installation

7 Installation
The actual installation is carried out by the Thermo Fisher Scientific service engineer or by local
Thermo Fisher Scientific representative's service engineer.

7.1 Installation Service


Based on the latest installation check list, the service engineer will:
● check that the delivery conforms to the contract and the delivery packing slip.
● check the shock and tilt detectors, then unload the instrument from its transport pallet.
● remove the transport locks and stoppers and then connect the vacuum pipe to the vacuum pump
(oil vacuum pump only).
● remove the transport locks and stoppers and then connect the vacuum pipe to the vacuum pump
(oil vacuum pump only).
● open the instrument before power up, so as to determine if the transport has caused any internal
damage that is not visible from outside.
● check that the laboratory instrument room environment and the connections provided for the in-
strument that you have prepared meet the requirements in chapters 2 to 5.
● connect the argon pipes
● ground the instrument to the earth and connect the instrument
● install and connect the peripherals (computer, printer, etc.) to the instrument.
● start up the instrument.
● carry out the electrical and electronic operation checks.
● carry out some typical operations which prove that the instrument is operating correctly .
● check out (if applicable) the factory calibrated programs with certified standard samples (to be
provided by the end user); and instruct you how to use those programs.
● give you basic training on the start up and routine maintenance of the instrument (checks, pre-
cautions, changing consumable). You will also be given an introduction to the normal use of the
software. This basic teaching should not exceed one day.

Note Sample preparation, analytical assistance, analytical calibrations, special (or your own) analytical tests,
extended software teaching, teaching the maintenance personnel (troubleshooting), as well as other
services, unless specified in the contract, are considered as additional jobs which are not part of the
installation. On request, we can send you an offer for special on site training.
Furthermore, we offer a wide range of training courses at the training school in Ecublens/Switzerland.
Normally, these courses are not included in the contract. For further information on our training pro-
gramme, please contact our local representative or visit our website http://www.thermoscientific.com/
education.

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Chapter| Installation

7.2 End of Installation and Guarantee


If not otherwise specified, the warranty of the instrument and supplied goods starts at the date of de-
livery.
If the installation is carried out by Thermo Fisher Scientific or a local agreed Thermo Fisher Scientific
representative, At the end of installation the service engineer in charge will write an end of installation
protocol, as well as a technical report on the installation.
The guarantee covers your instrument according to the terms of the contract.
Please do not hesitate to call your Thermo Fisher Scientific representative if you require any assis-
tance.
IMPORTANT
Your instrument has a model code (name of the instrument), as well as a serial num-
ber. These indications are on a label behind the instrument. They are also written at
the end of installation protocol when applicable. Kindly quote these as well as your
company's name, in all correspondence. This will help us to give you an efficient
service.

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Chapter| Sample Preparation

A Sample Preparation
A suitable sample taking and a careful surface preparation are absolutely essential. Indeed, it is nec-
essary to have the sample as homogeneous as possible without inclusions on one hand, and on the
other hand a clean and flat surface is needed in order to ensure reliable and reproducible measure-
ments.
For the sample taking, several kinds of moulds can be bought or machined. As well for sample sur-
face preparation, several kinds of machines that are suitable exist on the market.
Your local representative will gladly advise you about the type and model that will fit at best for your
own application(s). We remember hereunder only general aspects of the various sample preparation
machine types and their main applications.
The section Sample Taking - Moulds on page 54 points out a few mould types for the sample taking.
The section Surface Preparation - Sample Preparation Machines on page 56 points out a few ma-
chine types for the sample's analysis surface preparation.

A.1 Sample Taking - Moulds


The sample taking for spectroscopy analysis is a fundamental step. Several spectroscopy books ex-
plain that stage and advise suitably about the mould's choice for a given application. ISO and ASTM
standards also provide specifications and information about that subject.
Usually:
● The sample cooling must be quick so that a fine grain metallic structure is kept.
● The mould will be in copper and maintained clean.
● The mould in stand-by of use must be turned upside down (or covered) in order to avoid dirties
or other material to be introduced into it.
Here are some examples of moulds that are suitable for casting good quality samples and adapted
for optical emission spectroscopy analysis. A probe for direct sample taking is also shown.

A.1.1 Non Ferrous Metals


The mushroom form sample taking is the most used for non ferrous metals. There are however seg-
regation risks, and the mould diameter must be adapted.

cut
here
useful surface
for analysis

A.1.2 Fe, Ni, Co Bases


Here is a very simple mould, frequently used for alloys of Fe, Ni and Co bases. (More specifically for
cast irons and traces, see hereunder sections Cast Irons on page 55 and Pure Metals on page
55).

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Chapter| Sample Preparation

useful surface
for analysis

A.1.3 Cast Irons


The kind of mould hereunder is specifically adapted for casting cast irons in general, and pig iron in
particular. The cooling speed is very high.

cut
here
useful surface
for analysis

A.1.4 Pure Metals


The ring mould type, as shown hereunder, is advisable for casting pure metals (traces' analysis), or
metals that will have low tendency to segregation. The ring is of stainless steel or ceramic, so that
the sample will be mostly cooled by the bottom copper plate. The sample is homogeneous on its
surface, but only on a few millimetres depth!

useful surface
for analysis

A.1.5 SPEMIS Probe


For steels, the sample taking can be greatly simplified with a SPEMIS probe that can take liquid met-
al directly from the casting. The sample obtained has the following form:

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Chapter| Sample Preparation

cut
here

useful surface
for analysis

A.2 Surface Preparation - Sample Preparation Machines


It is essential to use an appropriate machine in order to obtain a clean and flat surface. We recom-
mend the use of one of the following sample preparation machine types:

A.2.1 Disk Sander


This is a sander with a rotary abrasive disk.
Some machines have two disks; that is convenient if a coarse grain is used for preliminary surface
preparation, and a fine grain for final preparation.

abrasive
disk

This surface preparation method is the quickest way to prepare iron, nickel and cobalt samples (as
well as some copper samples). The sample must be thick enough so that it can be hold with the fin-
gers without the risk of injury.
The abrasive paper may always distort the result of some analyses, especially for elements in low
concentration in the sample. The choice of the paper depends on which elements must be deter-
mined or not. The abrasive paper disk based with aluminium and silicon oxide mixed with resin (Al/Si
= 1.47) is usually suitable. A grain of "80" or "60" is recommended. If this paper seems to distort the
result on some elements, try another one that does not content the distorted elements. In case of
doubt consult our local service for advice.
Note The metals like copper, aluminium, lead, zinc, magnesium, etc., pure or even very low alloyed, and gen-
erally any soft material, cannot be properly prepared on abrasive paper disks.

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Chapter| Sample Preparation

A.2.2 Surface Grinder


Rotating surface grinders with multiple grindstones fixed on a rotating arm are recommended, as on
the example shown hereunder:

magnetic table grindstone

This method is suitable for all sample kinds of steel and cast iron, as well as for nickel and cobalt
alloys.
No cooling liquid must be used.
The magnetic samples will be kept still by the magnetic table. The non-magnetic samples must be
fixed on a magnetic vice.
The grindstones must be regularly sharpened, otherwise the risk of surface overheating and deterio-
ration of the sample is high. This can be the cause of bad sparking spots.

A.2.3 Milling Machine or Lathe


Such a machine should be equipped with a milling cutter or chisel of tungsten carbide.
The milling machine is the ideal machine for preparing all aluminium alloys, as well as pure cop-
pers and other soft metals. The milling is also the recommended method for the sample preparation
of steel analysis with nitrogen and carbon at lower than the 10 ppm level, or for inclusions analysis
(on the ARL 4460 and ARL iSpark series only).
For the analysis of oxygen, milling is mandatory to limit surface contamination (CNO option).
The milling machine is more suitable than a lathe for sample with complex shapes, for example mel-
ted or machined pieces. Moreover, the cutting speed is constant with the milling machine, that en-
sures a regular machined surface.
The surface preparation is normally done without coolant (i.e. dry). However – for aluminium samples
– a little of isopropyl alcohol can be used. Oil or any other coolant must be prohibited. The head and
the table of the milling machine, the milling cutter, the vice for holding the sample, must be cleaned
before the use for sample surface preparation if the machine is used for other means that requires
oil, water, or another coolant.
As for example, some steel springs can be analysed if prepared like the following picture represents
it (surface preparation by milling or polishing):

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Chapter| Sample Preparation

screw and nut for


squeezing the spring

useful flat
surface for analysis

A.2.4 Press Machine


For soft wire sample, one can flatten them with a press by applying a pressure among 20 to 40 tons.

If the useful surface to be analysed is smaller than the 15 mm standard hole of the carbide tungsten
disk, one should use another disk, that is equipped with a smaller hole.

A.2.5 Fusion Furnace


Metallic chips can be re-melted in a fusion furnace, that can be inductive or with electrical heaters.
This furnace provides solid samples that can be used for spectroscopy analysis.

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Chapter| Certificates of conformity

B Certificates of conformity

B.1 IEC Certification

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Chapter| Certificates of conformity

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Chapter| Certificates of conformity

B.2 ISO 9001 Certification

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Chapter| Certificates of conformity

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Chapter| Certificates of conformity

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Chapter| Index

Index
Installation Service 52
A
Installation and Material Summary 29
Air Exhaust 33
Instrument Connections 16
Ambient Temperature 11
Instrument Layout 12
Argon Exhaust 33
Instrument Room 13
Argon Supply 25
Introduction 5
C
M
Cast Irons 55
Material Supplied with the Instrument 29
Certificates of conformity 59
Milling Machine or Lathe 57
Compressed Air Supply 31
Moving from one Laboratory to Another 51
Computer Connections 23

N
D
Network Connection Examples 21
Detector Location and Other Information Examples
40 Networking 24
Detectors Information 38 Noise 11
Detectors on Instrument 40 Non Ferrous Metals 54
Dimensions 9
O
Disk Sander 56
Optional Installation Material 30
Disposal / Recycling 7

P
E
Packaging 37
Electrical Supply 14
Pre-Installation Questionnaire 6
End of Installation and Guarantee 53
Press Machine 58
Environment and Dimensions 8
Pure Metals 55
Environmental Conditions 11
Evacuation 33
R
Remote Diagnostics 24
F
Return of the Instrument 51
Fe, Ni, Co Bases 54
Floor Coating 12
S
Floor Load Capacity 12
SPEMIS Probe 55
Flow Chart for Installation Start Decision 44
Sample Preparation 54
From the Truck to the Laboratory 46
Sample Taking - Moulds 54
Fusion Furnace 58
Second Redundant Protective Earth Connection
18
G
Shock Detectors 39
Gas Supply 25
Simple Cover Packaging 41
General Information 36
Special Specifications for VUV Line and CNO Option
28
I
Specifications 15, 28
IEC Certification 59
Standard American Network 22
ISO 9001 Certification 62
Standard European Network 21
Installation 52
Storage 7
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Chapter| Index

Summary Table 8
Summary of the Pre-Installation Manual 6
Supply and Connection 26
Surface Grinder 57
Surface Preparation - Sample Preparation Machines
56

T
Technical Data 14, 25
Tilt Detectors 39
Transport 35

U
Unloading 45
Unloading from the Truck 45
Unloading the Transport Pallet 47
Unstable 230VAC Network 21
Unstable American Network 22

V
Vibrations 12
Voltage Stabiliser 23

W
Wooden Case Packaging 42

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