SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

SPS-5
Sample Preparation
System and Diluter

Operation manual

Installation category II
Pollution degree 2
Safety class 1 (EN 61010-1)

NOTICE: Varian, Inc. was acquired by Agilent

Technologies in May 2010. This document is provided
as a courtesy but is no longer kept current and thus
will contain historical references to Varian. For more
information, go to www.agilent.com/chem.

85 101015 00
February 2000

Publication date: 02/00 29

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Varian offices
Varian has offices in most countries. The major offices for optical
spectroscopy products are listed below:
Varian Australia Pty Ltd (Manufacturing site)
679 Springvale Road
Mulgrave, Victoria 3170
Australia
International telephone: + 61 3 9560 7133
International fax: + 61 3 9560 7950

Varian Instruments
505 Julie Rivers Road, suite 150
Sugar Land Texas 77478
Telephone: 1 800 926 3000
International telephone: + 1 713 240 7330
International fax: + 1 713 240 6752

Varian International A.G.

Kollerstrasse 38
CH-6300 Zug
Switzerland
International telephone: + 41 41 749 88 44
International fax: +41 41 740 33 40
Internet
The Varian Internet home page can be found at:
http://www.varian.com
Varian Australia Pty Ltd is the owner of copyright on this document
and any associated software. Under law, the written permission of
Varian Australia Pty Ltd must be obtained before either the
documentation or the software is copied, reproduced, translated or
converted to electronic or other machine-readable form, in whole,
or in part.
First published 1991 in Australia. Updated 1992, 1995, 1996,
1997. Comments about this manual should be directed to the
Marketing Communications Manager, Varian Australia at the
address above.
Varian Australia is ISO9001 certified.
© 1991 Varian Australia Pty Ltd (A.C.N. 004 559 540)
All rights reserved

(ii)
30 Publication date: 02/00
 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Declaration of Conformity
We hereby Declare that the equipment
listed below complies with the requirements of :-
The Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC (93/68/EEC)
The EMC Directive 89/336/EEC (92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC)
Applicable Standards

LVD BS EN 61010-1:1993
EMC BS EN55011:1991 BS EN 50081-1:1992 BS EN 50082-1:1992
IEC 801-2:1991 IEC 801-3:1984 IEC 801-4:1988
Equipment Model Number SPS-5 Autosampler

Authorized Representative in the EU

Print Name: David Hemsley Company Name Varian Ltd
Address 28 Manor Road
Signed: ................................................................. Walton-on-Thames
Position: Managing Director Surrey KT12 2QF UK
Date: 1 April 1999 Telephone +44 (0) 1932 898 000
Facsimile +44 (0) 1932 228 769

Manufacturer
Print Name: Gregory Davis Company Name Varian Australia Pty Ltd
Address 679 Springvale Road
Signed: ................................................................. Mulgrave VIC 3170
Position: Managing Director AUSTRALIA
Date: 1 April 1999 Telephone +61 (0) 3 9560 7133
Facsimile +61 (0) 3 9560 7950

Publication number 85 101422 00 06/99

Publication date: 02/00 (iii)

31
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Declaration of Conformity
We hereby Declare that the equipment
listed below complies with the requirements of :-
The Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC (93/68/EEC)
The EMC Directive 89/336/EEC (92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC)
Applicable Standards

LVD BS EN 61010-1:1993
EMC BS EN55011:1991 BS EN 50081-1:1992 BS EN 50082-1:1992
IEC 801-2:1991 IEC 801-3:1984 IEC 801-4:1988
Equipment Model Number SPS-5 Diluter

Authorized Representative in the EU

Print Name: David Hemsley Company Name Varian Ltd
Address 28 Manor Road
Signed: ................................................................. Walton-on-Thames
Position: Managing Director Surrey KT12 2QF UK
Date: 1 April 1999 Telephone +44 (0) 1932 898 000
Facsimile +44 (0) 1932 228 769

Manufacturer
Print Name: Gregory Davis Company Name Varian Australia Pty Ltd
Address 679 Springvale Road
Signed: ................................................................. Mulgrave VIC 3170
Position: Managing Director AUSTRALIA
Date: 1 April 1999 Telephone +61 (0) 3 9560 7133
Facsimile +61 (0) 3 9560 7950

Publication number 85 101423 00 06/99

(iv)
32 Publication date: 02/00
 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Contents

Safety Practices and Hazards (vii)

1 Introduction 1
1.1 Specifications 2
1.1.1 Environmental 2
1.1.2 Power 2
1.1.3 Weights and dimensions 3
2 Installation 5
2.1 Unpacking 5
2.2 Installation 6
2.2.1 Installation checklist 6
2.2.2 Power supply requirements 7
2.2.3 Cabling 8
2.2.4 Power connection 8
3 Assembling the SPS-5 11
3.1 Assembling the probe 11
3.2 Fitting a fibre-optic probe 14
3.3 Fitting a low volume probe 17
3.4 Aligning the probe 18
3.5 Fitting the rinse vessel 20
3.6 Sample racks 20
3.6.1 Rack positioning 21
4 Options 23
4.1 Fitting the extension platform 23
4.2 Fitting the SPS-5 cover 23
4.3 Fitting the Diluter option 24

Publication date: 02/00 (v)

33
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

5 Maintenance and spare parts 27

5.1 Cleaning 27
5.2 Checking the fuses 27
5.3 Spare parts 28

34
(vi) Publication date: 02/00

Safety Practices and Hazards
Electrical hazards
1. The SPS-5 contains electrical circuits,
devices, and components operating at
dangerous voltages. Contact with these
circuits, devices and components can cause
death, serious injury, or painful electrical
shock.
Panels or covers which are retained by
screws may be opened ONLY by Varian-
trained, Varian-qualified, or
Varian-approved service engineers.
2. Good grounding is essential to avoid a
potentially serious electric shock hazard.
Ensure that there is an integral ground
connection between the metal base of the
SPS-5 and the 3 pin earth-grounded
receptacle.
Note that the safety classification is given as
Class 1 (EN 61010-1).
3. Application of the wrong supply voltage can
create a fire hazard and a potentially
serious shock hazard, and could seriously
damage the SPS-5.
Do not connect the SPS-5 or accessories to
the mains power supply until you have
made sure that the slide switches at the
rear are correctly set for the mains power
supply in the specific outlet in your
laboratory to which the equipment will be
connected.
4. Replace blown fuses with fuses of the size
and rating as stipulated in the text adjacent
to the fuse holder or in the manuals where
listed.
5. Replace or repair faulty or frayed insulation
on power cords.
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
Other precautions
1. Use of the SPS-5 in any manner other than
that specified by Varian may impair the
protection provided by the equipment.
2. Use of the SPS-5 may involve materials,
solvents and solutions which are flammable,
corrosive, toxic or otherwise hazardous.
Careless, improper, or unskilled use of such
materials, solvents and solutions can create
explosion hazards, fire hazards, toxicity and
other hazards which can result in death,
serious personal injury, and damage to
equipment and property.
ALWAYS ensure that laboratory safety
practices governing the use, handling and
disposal of such materials are strictly
observed. These safety practices should
include the wearing of appropriate safety
clothing and safety glasses.
‘Warning’ and ‘Caution’ messages
A ‘Warning’ message is used in the text when
failure to observe instructions or precautions
could result in injury or death to humans.
A ‘Caution’ message is used when failure to
observe instructions could result in damage to
equipment (Varian supplied and/or other
associated equipment).
A ‘Note’ is used to give advice or additional
information.
(vii)
35
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Warning symbols Information symbols

A triangular symbol indicates a warning. I Mains power off
The following is a list of symbols that appear in 0 Mains power off
conjunction with warnings in the text, or on the Fuse
equipment:
Single phase alternating current
Caution (refer to accompanying When attached to the rear of the
documents) instrument, indicates that the
product complies with the
requirements of one or more EU
Directives.
Electrical shock
Color coding
The various indicator lights appearing on the
Ozone instrument and any associated accessories
have been color coded to represent the status
of the instrument or accessory:
Chemical ❑ A green light indicates the instrument is in
normal standby condition.
❑ An orange light indicates that a potential
hazard is present.
Moving parts
❑ A blue light indicates that operator
intervention is required.
❑ A red light warns of danger or an
Fire
emergency.

Heavy object

Heavy object

(vii)
36 Publication date: 02/00

General
US Federal Communications Commission
advisory statement
This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy, and if not
installed and operated in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause interference to
radio communications. It has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a Class A
computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part
15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such
interference when operated in a commercial
environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area may cause interference in
which case the user at his or her own expense
will be required to take whatever measures
may be required to correct the interference.
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
CE Compliance
Your SPS-5 has been designed to comply with
the requirements of the Electro-magnetic
Compatibility (EMC) Directive and the Low
Voltage (electrical safety) Directive (commonly
referred to as the LVD) of the European Union.
Varian has confirmed that each product
complies with the relevant Directives by testing
a prototype against the prescribed EN
(European Norm) standards.
Proof that a product complies with the
Directives is indicated by:-
❑ the CE Marking appearing on the rear of the
product
❑ the documentation package that
accompanies the product containing a copy
of the Declaration of Conformity. This
Declaration is the legal declaration by Varian
that the product complies with the
Directives, and also shows the EN
standards to which the product was tested to
demonstrate compliance. It is also signed by
Varian’s Authorized Representative in the
EU, and by the representative of the
manufacturing plant.
(ix)
37
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

This page is intentionally left blank.

(x)
38 Publication date: 02/00

1 Introduction
✒ Note
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
The SPS-5 Autosampler is designed for use with several of
Varian’s instruments:
❑ Liberty ICP-AES spectrometers
❑ Cary UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometers
❑ SpectrAA spectrometers
This manual describes how to unpack and install the sampler. For
details on the software interface to the sampler you should consult
the relevant instrument manual.
The SPS-5 can fit up to 500 samples, with the extension platform
fitted and five type 10 racks. Several different rack types are
available. Three racks may be fitted on the standard unit. The
extension platform must be fitted to allow five racks to be used.
The SPS-5 features the automatic Varian Magnetic Rack
Recognition system. This means that the SPS-5 knows which rack
type is in each rack position. This is done with a magnetic
identification system.
A cover is available for use with corrosive or dangerous samples.
Moving the SPS-5 arm or probe arm of the SPS-5 during operation
will cause a loss of alignment. To realign, reset the SPS-5 as
described in section 3.4.
1
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

1.1 Specifications

1.1.1 Environmental
Your accessory is designed for indoor use only. It is suitable for
the categories stated on the front of this manual.
The site should be selected to avoid dusty or corrosive
atmospheres.
✒ Note Extra maintenance may be required on the SPS-5 if it is operated
in excessively dusty or corrosive conditions.
Condition Altitude Temp Humidity (%RH)
t (°C) non-condensing
Non-operating 0-2133 m 5-45 20-80
(transport) (0-7000’)
Non-operating & sea level 40 90-95
meeting dielectric
strength tests
Operating but not 0-2000 m 5-31 ≤ 80
necessarily meeting (0-6562’) 31-40 ≤{80-3.33(t-31)}
performance spec’s
Operating within 0-853 m 10-35 8-80
performance (0-2800’)
specifications 853-2133 m 10-25
(2800-7000’)

1.1.2 Power
Voltage 100, 120, 220 or 240 volts AC ± 10%
230 +14% -6% volts AC
230 +6% -14% volts AC
Frequency 50-60 Hz ± 1 Hz
Consumption ~ 80 VA
Electrical connections
Mains inlet coupler: 6A 250VAC IEC type
IEEE 488
Accessory, diluter: 15 way D-range type.

2 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Mains power cord connector:

✒ Note
Australia 10A 250VAC Complies with AS3112
USA 10A 125VAC Complies with NEMA 5-15P
Europe 6A 250VAC Complies with CEE7 sheet vii or
NFC61.303VA
Fuses
T2AH250V IEC 127 sheet 5, 5 x 20 mm (220-240 VAC)
T2.5AH250V IEC 127 sheet 5, 5 x 20 mm (100-120 VAC)
For safety reasons, any other internal fuse or circuit breaker is not
operator accessible, and should be replaced only by Varian
authorized personnel.
Fuse information on the rear of the instrument is the most up to
date.

1.1.3 Weights and dimensions

Weights
Packed Unpacked
kg (lb) kg (lb)
SPS-5 35 (77) 19 (42)
Diluter 5 (11) 3 (7)

Dimensions (W x D x H)
Packed Unpacked
mm (in) mm (in)
SPS-5 only 580 x 670 x 660 530 x 450 x 600
(23 x 26 x 26) (21 x 18 x 24)
diluter only 300 x 180 x 570 160 x 80 x 410
(21 x 7 x 22) (6 x 3 x 16)
SPS-5 with diluter 530 x 510 x 600
(arm raised) (21 x 20 x 24)
SIPS-5 with rear 530 x 600 x 600
rack extension (21 x 24 x 24)
(arm raised)

Publication date: 02/00 3

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

This page is intentionally left blank.

4 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

2 Installation

2.1 Unpacking
A trolley is available for the SPS-5 (refer to chapter 5 for ordering
information). Should you wish to fit the SPS-5 on a bench next to
the spectrometer, the bench must be capable of supporting the
weight of the SPS-5 as well as the spectrometer, PC, monitor,
printer/plotter, and any accessories you propose to use. A drain
vessel must also be accommodated.
For the dimensions and weight of the SPS, refer to the
‘Specifications’ section in chapter 1.
1. Place the box containing the SPS-5 on the floor.

Warning
The SPS-5 weighs 19 kg. To avoid injury to personnel,
damage to the sampler, or damage to other equipment,
ALWAYS use at least two people to lift it into position.

Caution To avoid damage to the SPS-5, DO NOT lift the SPS-5 by

holding the sample platform. ALWAYS lift the sampler
from underneath the whole assembly.

✘ ✓

Publication date: 02/00 5

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Cover
Diluter

SPS-5

Trolley

2. You will have already removed the upper cardboard sheet.

With a second person, lift the SPS-5 onto a bench.
3. Cut the tape holding the SPS-5. Remove the tape, plastic bag
and packing boxes. Place the boxes to one side.
4. With a second person, lift the SPS-5 off the pallet and place it
on the bench or trolley.

2.2 Installation

2.2.1 Installation checklist

To make the installation process easier, you may wish to follow
the checklist below.
Check that you have: Refer to
section:
1. Provided the correct environment and site
conditions for the SPS-5 1.2
2. Unpacked the SPS-5 according to the instructions 2.1
3. Set the correct voltage on the SPS-5 2.2.2
4. Connected the SPS-5 to the instrument
with an IEEE-488 cable 2.2.3
5. Installed the correct fuses 5.2

6 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

6. Connected the correct power 2.2.4

7. Fitted the probe to the SPS-5 3.1, 3.2, 3.3
8. Fitted the rinse vessel 3.5
9. Fitted the sample racks 3.6
10. Aligned the probe 3.4
Options
11. Fitted the Diluter 4.3
12. Fitted the extension platform 4.1
13. Fitted the cover 4.2

Caution Inspect all parts for damage. Any damage should be

reported to Varian immediately. Please refer to the
sampler by part number (P/N 00 100413 00) and serial
number.

2.2.2 Power supply requirements

Before connecting any part of the SPS-5 system to the mains
power supply, check you have the correct power supply. The
power requirements are given in the 'Specifications' section in
chapter 1.

Warning
Application of the wrong supply voltage can create a fire
hazard, or a potentially serious shock hazard, and could
seriously damage the instrument and any attached
ancillary equipment.
Do not connect the instrument to the mains power until
you have made sure that the instrument voltage is
correctly set for the mains power supply in the specific
outlet in your laboratory to which the equipment will be
connected.

Publication date: 02/00 7

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Selecting the voltage

When looking at the back of the SPS, the voltage selector
switches are located on the lower right side of the back panel.

The voltage selector on the SPS-5

Refer to the table immediately below the selector switches or

consult the following table and set the switches as required. For
example, if the accessory is connected to 240 volts, the table tells
you that the switch setting should be ‘AD’. This means the left
switch should be up (position ‘A’) and the right switch should be
down (position ‘D’).
Voltage Switch Switch positions
setting left right

240 ± 10% AD Up Down

230 +14% -6% AD Up Down
230 + 6% -14% BD Down Down
220 ± 10% BD Down Down
120 ± 10% AC Up Up
100 ± 10% BC Down Up

2.2.3 Cabling
When you are looking at the back of the SPS-5, you will see two
sockets along the left side of the back panel.
The top socket is a 15-pin socket for connecting the optional
diluter module, and the lower socket is an IEEE socket for
connection to a PC or instrument.

2.2.4 Power connection

Before connecting the mains power for the first time, check each
fuse as described in chapter 5.
The power socket is at the top right of the back of the accessory.

8 Publication date: 02/00


✒ Note
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
Electrical power for the SPS-5 must be provided through a 3-wire
outlet with ground connection. The outlet must be rated for at least
80 VA.
Warning
Good grounding is essential to avoid a potentially serious
shock hazard. Make certain that power receptacles are
earth-grounded at grounding pin.
Three power cables are supplied with the SPS-5. Select the
correct one for your location. Ensure that the accessory power
switch is turned OFF, and then plug one end of the power cable
into the accessory, and the other into the mains power outlet.
When the SPS-5 is turned on, it will go through its initialization
tests. The probe will be driven to the alignment peg, then the rinse
vessel where the probe will perform the mixing action.
9
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

This page is intentionally left blank.

10 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

3 Assembling the SPS-5

3.1 Assembling the probe

The probe for the accessory must be assembled and fitted to the
arm of the sampler.

1. The probe assembly consists of two parts: the probe arm and
the probe.
2. Remove the probe arm, probe and tubing from their boxes.
3. Use a 2 mm hexagonal ball driver (one was supplied in the
instrument tool kit) to loosen the screw on top of the conical
probe arm holder.

Publication date: 02/00 11

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

4. Rotate the conical probe arm holder until its hole aligns with
the hole inside.

5. Fit the probe arm through the hole in the conical probe arm
holder. Push the probe arm in until it protrudes approximately
15 mm on the other side. Tighten the screw in the conical
probe arm holder until the probe arm is not able to be pulled
out of the hole.

4. Fit the probe through the probe arm. Push the probe through
the holder until the silicon rubber sleeve stops it from going
any further.

Push probe down until silicon rubber sleeve

rests on probe holder

12 Publication date: 02/00


✒ Note
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
The silicon rubber sleeve controls the height of the probe. If the
probe is hitting the bottom of the test tubes, push the sleeve
further down the probe.
5. Thread the teflon tube and bung, attached to the probe,
through the two tubing holders on top of the primary arm.
6. To join the probe's teflon tubing to that of the spectrometer's
sample delivery system, you can either:
Cary/Liberty
(a) Replace the teflon tubing on the spectrometer with the other
length supplied with the probe. This will have a bung attached
to the end. You can then join the two bungs by cutting a
length of the PVC tubing supplied with the probe and fitting
the two bungs into it.
OR
(b) Cut the bung off the end of the teflon tubing attached to the
probe. Use a suitable piece of silicon rubber tubing to join the
teflon tubing attached to the probe to that attached to the
spectrometer.
13
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Teflon tubing

Silicon rubber tubing

Silicon rubber tubing

Teflon tubing

SpectrAA
(a) Push the 0.63 mm I.D. high solids tubing inside the teflon
tubing.
OR
(b) Push the 0.37 mm I.D. Hi-vac capillary inside the teflon
tubing. The small piece of silicon rubber tubing supplied is
then fitted over the join as a sleeve.

Silicon rubber tubing

SPS-5 Teflon tubing Hi-solids tubing SPS-5 Teflon tubing Hi-vac tubing

(a) (b)
✒ Note Ensure that the shortest possible length of SPS-5 tubing is used
to connect the SPS-5 to the SpectrAA. If you are using the Hi-vac
capillary with the flared end, DO NOT shorten this capillary.

3.2 Fitting a fibre-optic probe

A fibre-optic probe is available for use with the Cary series of
spectrophotometers. It is sold as a separate option and requires a
special probe arm (supplied in kit 99 100895 00). Refer to chapter
5 for further ordering information. The optional cover for the SPS-
5 must be fitted when using the fibre-optic probe with the Cary
100/300/400/500. Refer to chapter 5 for ordering details.

14 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

1. The probe assembly consists of two parts: the probe arm and
the probe.
2. Remove the probe arm and fibre-optic probe from their
boxes.
3. Use a 2 mm hexagonal ball driver to loosen the screw on top
of the conical probe arm holder.

4. Rotate the conical probe arm holder until its hole aligns with
the hole inside.

Publication date: 02/00 15

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

5. Fit the probe arm through the hole in the conical probe arm
holder. Push the probe arm in until it protrudes approximately
15 mm on the other side. Tighten the screw in the conical
probe arm holder, until the probe arm is not able to be pulled
out of the hole.

6. Press the fibre optic probe into the probe arm.

7. Hold the fibre optic probe in position and insert the T-piece
into the top of the probe arm. Push the T-piece all the way
down.

16 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

8. Fit the optional cover to the SPS-5 (refer to section 4.2).

✒ Note
✒ Note
✰✰✰ Hot Tip
When fitting the rear section of the cover, thread the end of
the fibre optic probe through the hole in the rear of the cover.
If you are using the Cary 50 without the cover you can ignore the
previous step.
9. Attach the fibre optic probe to the Fibre optic coupler
accessory (refer to the Fibre optic coupler accessory
manual).
The SPS-5 should be directly in front of the Cary with the rear of
the SPS-5 facing the front of the Cary so the fibre optic probe can
reach the Fibre optic coupler.
To prevent the probe from getting caught as the arm moves
around you will need to set the following parameters in the Cary
software (refer to the on-line help for details):
Probe height 5 mm (minimum)
Shake height 95 mm

3.3 Fitting a low volume probe

Included in the probe kit is an attachment to allow the fitting of low
volume probes. These probes are available from Varian in
stainless steel or a corrosion resistant version.
To fit either of these probes, slide the sleeve insert supplied in the
probe kit into the probe arm. Then slide the low volume probe
through this sleeve (refer to the following figure). Align the probe
as described in the next section.

low volume probe

sleeve insert

Publication date: 02/00 17

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

3.4 Aligning the probe

With the probe in place, align it in the correct position as follows:
1. Turn the SPS-5 on.
2. Drive the probe to the alignment peg by using the appropriate
command in the software for your system:
Cary FITF DOS software
Press the ‘Go to page’ (F3) function key and enter ‘10’.
Highlight the Align command and press the Enter key.
Cary OS/2 software
From the Concentration or Simple Absorbance applications,
select the Setup menu and then the Instrument.. menu item.
Press the “User Collect” button. Press the “Setup
Autosampler” button. Make sure that the Autosampler on
checkbox is selected. Press the “Align” button.
Cary WinUV software
In the appropriate application, press the “Setup” button and
select the Accessories/Auto Accessories tab. Enable the Auto
sampler checkbox and press the “Align” button.
SpectrAA FITF DOS software
Press the ‘Index’(F10) function key and then select page 8.
Press the “Align probe” (F3) function key.
SpectrAA OS/2 software
In the Instrument window, select the Setup menu. Select the
Facilities menu item. Press the “Align sampler” button.
SpectrAA Windows software
On the Worksheet Window, select the Instrument menu.
Select the Flame facilities menu item. Press the “Align”
button.
Liberty FITF DOS software
Press the ‘Index’(F10) function key. Select the System Setup
page (page 20) and select the Sampler command. On the
Sampler/Diluter configuration page, select the Align
command.
Liberty Plasma 96 Windows software
Press Shift+F7.
3. Using a 2 mm hexagonal ball driver, undo the screw in the
conical probe arm holder.

18 Publication date: 02/00


✒ Note
Publication date: 02/00
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
4. Manually move the probe until the centre of the probe is over
the centre of the alignment peg.
Undo screw to move probe to position
Adjust screw to set probe position
Visually line up centre of probe
with the centre of the alignment peg
5. Tighten the screw in the conical probe arm holder. Check that
the probe is still in position.
If you are using the Fibre-optic probe then you do not need to do
step 6.
6. Using a flat blade screw driver, adjust the screw on the probe
arm (see the previous figure) until the probe tip is centered
over the alignment peg.
7. The probe is now aligned and ready for use.
19
SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

✒ Note
✒ Note
If the SPS-5 arm or probe arm is moved during SPS-5 operation,
alignment accuracy will be lost. The unit can be realigned by
either turning the SPS-5 off and on again or by using the software
Align command, described above.
A vial of silicon grease is supplied with the probe. A very light
coating of this can be applied to the length of the probe to reduce
carry-over, if desired.

3.5 Fitting the rinse vessel

The rectangular plastic vessel supplied with the SPS-5 is the rinse
vessel.
The rinse vessel goes on the front right hand corner of the SPS-5.
To fit the rinse vessel, follow these steps:
1. Place the rinse vessel in the hollow in the front right hand
corner of the sample platform, over the two plastic pegs on
the platform.
2. Fill the rinse vessel with water or an appropriate rinse
solution.

3.6 Sample racks

A type 25 sample rack is included with the SPS-5. The rack is
made of polypropylene so it will resist most chemical spills.
Up to five racks of any configuration may be placed on the SPS-5.
Note that the optional extension platform is required if more than
three racks are to be used. The following rack types are available
as options:
Type 10 (10 mL x 100 positions)
Type 25 (25 mL x 60 positions)
Type 50 (50 mL x 35 positions)
Type A (100 mL x 12 positions)
Type B (250 mL x 6 positions)
The rack positions on the SPS-5 are numbered as shown above.
The rack type is automatically recognized by the SPS-5’s
Magnetic Recognition System (MRS).

20 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

3.6.1 Rack positioning

To place the racks on the SPS-5 sample platform, fit the notches
in the rack over the pegs on the platform. Each rack can only go
on one way.

Extension
platform

Rack 4 Rack 5
Track for
dust cover

Sample
platform

Rack 1 Rack 3

Rack 2

4 5
1
2 3

Rack position
identifier
Alignment peg Rinse vessel

Publication date: 02/00 21

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

This page is intentionally left blank.

22 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

4 Options

4.1 Fitting the extension platform

You may have purchased the optional extension platform. This
allows you to fit up to five sample racks on the SPS-5. To install
the extension platform, follow these steps:
1. Stand behind the SPS-5. You will notice four positioning pegs
on the rear of the unit.
2. The extension platform has four ‘key-holes’ which fit onto the
positioning pegs. Holding the extension platform with the
platform upwards and the key holes towards the back of the
SPS-5, fit the key holes over the positioning pegs.
3. Push the platform downwards so that the pegs slot into
position.

4.2 Fitting the SPS-5 cover

✒ Note
The tinted acrylic cover is available as two separate halves–a
front half and a rear half. The front half by itself can be used to
prevent debris falling into the test tubes. When used in
conjunction with the rear half, the cover can be used to contain
hazardous fumes.
You MUST have the extension platform fitted in order to fit the
rear half of the cover and use it for fume extraction. The front half
of the cover can be used without the extension rack.
It is recommended that you fit the rear half of the cover before you
set up the SPS-5 for an unattended run. The front half of the cover
can be fitted at any time. All sample racks are accessible by
removing the front half of the cover.
To fit the cover:
1. Pick up the half of the cover which has the chimney. This
piece covers the back half of the SPS-5.

Publication date: 02/00 23

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter
4.3 Fitting the Diluter option
✒ Note
✒ Note
24
2. Standing behind the SPS-5, fit the cover, slotting the wheels
on the cover into the tracks in the edge of the sample
platform.
3. Fit the teflon tubing attached to the probe through the hole at
the back of the rear half of the cover.
4. If necessary, attach an extraction hose to the chimney of the
cover. The hose should be connected to your laboratory
exhaust system.
5. Load the SPS-5 with your samples.
6. Fit the other half of the cover onto the front of the SPS-5. The
front cover fits over the rear cover.
The Diluter is available as a optional accessory for the SPS-5. It
allows you to perform dilutions of over-range samples during the
run and also perform pre-run preparation of standards and
samples.
Do not use concentrated acids as diluent or rinse.
To fit the Diluter option:
1. Remove the Diluter from its packaging.
2. Remove the extension platform if it is fitted to the SPS-5.
3. Holding the Diluter with the electrical plug at the bottom, fit
the Diluter to the SPS-5. The screw holes for the Diluter are in
the center of the rear of the SPS-5.
4. Use the four screws provided to fasten the Diluter.
5. Connect the tubing from the probe to the outer hole in the
teflon block on the top of the Diluter (see the following figure).
6. Connect the tubing from the instrument to the other hole in
the teflon block.
7. Place the two teflon tubes attached to the bottom of the
Diluter in a suitable diluent container. Check that you have
filled this container with diluent.
There are two teflon tubes attached to the Diluter. One supplies
the syringe with diluent and the other supplies rinse solution to the
instrument. For AA operation, both should be placed in the vessel
containing diluent.
Publication date: 02/00
 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

To instrument

The tubing from the probe and the instrument are fitted to the teflon block
on the Diluter

8. Connect the tube attached to the Diluter into the socket at the
top left hand side of the rear of the SPS-5. It is marked
‘Diluter Connector’.
9. Remove the rectangular rinse vessel from the sample
platform. Attach the cylindrical rinse vessel with the two
screws. Attach the waste tubing to the underneath of the
vessel.

Plan view rinse vessel

Horizontal view rinse vessel

waste tubing

Publication date: 02/00 25

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

This page is intentionally left blank.

26 Publication date: 02/00

 SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

5 Maintenance and
spare parts

5.1 Cleaning
The SPS-5 can be wiped down with a soft cloth, dampened with
distilled water.
Any corrosive liquids should be wiped off immediately.
The SPS-5 probe can be removed from the SPS-5 and placed in
an ultrasonic bath for cleaning if necessary. The Fibre-optic probe
should NOT be placed in an ultrasonic bath. It can be rinsed in
distilled water.
A rinse solution should always be pumped through the SPS-5 and
diluter at the end of a run.

5.2 Checking the fuses

✒ Note
Fuses have a code marked on the cap (e.g. T 2A H250V). This
refers to the fuse characteristic (‘T’ - time lag, ‘F’ - fast acting), the
current rating (‘x’ amperes), the breaking capacity (‘H’ - heavy, ‘L’
- low), and the voltage rating (‘y’ volts).
Replace a blown fuse with one of the type and rating as indicated
in the Specifications section.
Always check the information printed on the back of the accessory
for the correct fuse type, since this is the most up to date.

Warning
To prevent reduced safety protection or unwanted fusing,
always ensure that the marking on the fuse matches the
screening shown adjacent to either the fuseholder or the
voltage selector switches.

Publication date: 02/00 27

SPS-5 Autosampler and Diluter

Check the fuses as follows:

1. Disconnect the unit from the mains power supply.
2. Undo the fuse cap by pressing the cap and turning it counter-
clockwise.
3. Pull the cap out carefully, the fuse should be held in the fuse-
holder in the fuse cap.
4. Check that the fuses are the correct type and are not
damaged. If necessary, replace the fuse in the holder. (Refer
to section 1.1 for fuse specifications).
5. Place the fuse into the cap, push the cap in, then turn the cap
clockwise.
6. Reconnect the unit to the mains power supply.

5.3 Spare parts

✒ Note Use only Varian-supplied parts unless otherwise indicated.
Part number
Probe kit 02 101282 00
Stainless steel probe 99 100301 00
Corrosion resistant probe 01 102766 00
Sample racks
Type 10 ( 10 mL x 100 positions) 02 101273 00
Type 25 ( 25 mL x 60 positions) 02 101272 00
Type 50 ( 50 mL x 35 positions) 02 101271 00
Type A (100 mL x 12 positions) 02 101268 00
Type B (250 mL x 6 positions) 02 101269 00
Extension platform 01 104271 00
Cover (front section) 09 100719 00
Cover (rear section) 09 100718 00
Trolley 99 100563 00
Fuse - T2AH250V IEC 127 sheet 5, 5 x 20 mm 19 100094 00
Fuse - T2.5A250V IEC 127 sheet 5, 5 x 20 mm 19 100095 00
2 mm hexagonal ball driver 72 100202 00

28 Publication date: 02/00