CETAC M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Operator's Manual

CETAC M-7600 Mercury Analyzer 

Operator’s Manual 

Manual Part Number 480195 Rev 2

COPYRIGHT 

© 2008, 2012 CETAC Technologies 

480195 Rev 2 , October, 2012 

CETAC Technologies authorizes its customers 

to reproduce, transmit, or store this document 

in its entirety, including this page, for the 

express purpose of installing, operating, or 

maintaining the product described herein. 

CETAC Technologies 

Customer Service & Support 

14306 Industrial Road 

Omaha, Nebraska 68144, USA 

Phone (800) 369-2822 (USA only) 

Phone (402) 733-2829 

Fax (402) 733-1932 

E-mail custserv@cetac.com 

REVISIONS 

CETAC Technologies strives to provide the 

scientific community with an unparalleled 

combination of effective technology and 

continuing value. Modular upgrades for 

existing instruments will continue to be a 

prime consideration as designs progress. 

CETAC Technologies reserves the right to 

revise this document and/or improve 

products described herein at any time without 

notice or obligation. Warranty registration 

entitles the named owner exclusively to 

manual change pages/new editions as they 

are published. 

TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

Windows is a registered trademark of 

Microsoft Corporation in the United States and 

other countries. 

Nafion ® is a registered trademark of DuPont 

(E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company). 

Perma Pure is a registered trademark of 

Perma Pure LLC. 

DuPont, Kapton®, Teflon®, Tefzel® and 

Viton® are trademarks or registered 

trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and 

Company. 

PharMed and Tygon are registered 

trademarks of Saint-Gobain Performance 

Plastics. 

Santoprene is a trademark of Exxon Mobil. 

KIMWIPES is a registered trademark and 

KIMTECH SCIENCE is a trademark of 

Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc 

All other marks are the property of their 

respective owners.

Contents 

1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 7 

Overview.................................................................................................................................... 7 

About This Book ..................................................................................................................... 7 

Who Should Use This Product ................................................................................... 7 

Where to Go for More Information ................................................................................ 8 

System Features ..................................................................................................................... 9 

System Performance Characteristics .......................................................................... 10 

Overview of the Mercury Analyzer .............................................................................. 11 

Supplied Equipment ........................................................................................................... 13 

Equipment and Supplies ................................................................................................... 14 

Required Equipment and Supplies ........................................................................ 14 

Recommended Supplies ............................................................................................. 15 

2 Preparing for Installation ................................................................................. 17 

Establishing Optimal Operating Conditions ............................................................ 17 

Creating the Lab Environment ............................................................................... 17 

Choosing a Location ............................................................................................................ 18 

Space Requirements .................................................................................................... 18 

Work Surface Requirements .................................................................................... 20 

Ventilation Requirements ................................................................................................ 20 

Power Requirements ......................................................................................................... 20 

Unpacking the Mercury Analyzer ................................................................................. 21 

3 Installing the Analyzer ....................................................................................... 25 

Installation Overview......................................................................................................... 25 

Step 1: Position the Mercury Analyzer and Autosampler.................................. 26 

Step 2: Connect the Autosampler Peristaltic Pump to the Rinse Station .... 26 

Step 3: Set Up the Autosampler ..................................................................................... 30 

Step 4: Connect Power and Data Cables to the Back of the Mercury 

Analyzer .......................................................................................................................... 39 

Step 5: Connect the Carrier Gas Tubing ..................................................................... 40 

Step 6: Install the Mercury Trap (KMnO 4) ................................................................ 42 

Step 7: Connect the Back of the Autosampler ......................................................... 44 

Step 8: Connect to the Host Computer ....................................................................... 45 

Summary ......................................................................................................................... 45 

Installing a Secondary NIC in Your Own PC ...................................................... 45 

Connecting the Communication Cables............................................................... 46 

Configuring the Network Metrics .......................................................................... 46 

Setting the IP Address for the Secondary NIC ................................................... 50 

Changing the Subnet of the Mercury Analyzer................................................. 51 

Connecting a Laptop Computer to the M-7600 ................................................ 52 

Step 9: Install the Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS) ....................................................... 53

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual 

Contents 

Step 10: Connect the Peristaltic Pump on the Mercury Analyzer .................. 57 

Installing the Peristaltic Pump Tubing ............................................................... 57 

Installing the Mixing Tee and Drain Tees .......................................................... 59 

Step 11: Power On and Verify Communication ...................................................... 63 

To Configure the Network Connection ................................................................ 63 

To Power On the System for the First Time (PC Configured by CETAC) 64 

To Power On the System for the First Time (Customer-Supplied PC) ..... 64 

To Test the Autosampler ........................................................................................... 68 

Step 12: Fill the Rinse Solution Bottle ........................................................................ 68 

Step 13: Fill the Reagent Bottle ..................................................................................... 69 

Preserving the SnCl 2 ................................................................................................... 69 

Step 14: Adjust the Peristaltic Pump Tubing Clamp Tension (Optional) ... 70 

Step 15: Check the Reagent Flow ................................................................................. 73 

Step 16: Check the Sample Probe Flow ..................................................................... 73 

4 Using the Analyzer ............................................................................................... 75 

Theory of Operation ........................................................................................................... 75 

Autosampler .................................................................................................................. 75 

QuickTrace M-7600 Automated Mercury Analyzer .................................... 76 

Software................................................................................................................................... 78 

Preparing Reagents and Calibration Standards ..................................................... 79 

Gas Parameters .................................................................................................................... 81 

Starting the System............................................................................................................. 81 

Mercury Vapor Lamp Warmup .............................................................................. 82 

Turning Off the Mercury Vapor Lamp for System Warm-Up ..................... 82 

System Warm-Up for Trace or Ultra-Trace Analysis ..................................... 82 

System Warm-Up for ppb or Non-Ultra-Trace Analysis ............................... 83 

Wetting the GLS .................................................................................................................... 84 

Running the Interactive Demo ...................................................................................... 87 

Overview of the CETAC QuickTrace Software ..................................................... 87 

Learning More .............................................................................................................. 88 

QuickTrace M-7600 Startup Summary ................................................................... 89 

Setting Baseline Correction ............................................................................................ 91 

Keeping an Instrument Log Book .......................................................................... 91 

Viewing the Graphs ..................................................................................................... 92 

Setting a One-Point Baseline ................................................................................... 92 

Setting a Two-Point Baseline .................................................................................. 94 

Summary of Gas and Liquid Flows for Analytical Ranges of the 

QuickTrace M-7600 ................................................................................................ 98 

Placing the QuickTrace M-7600 in Standby Mode ......................................... 100 

Cold Shutdown .................................................................................................................. 101 

Summary of QuickTrace M-7600 Shut Down .............................................. 101 

5 Maintaining the Mercury Analyzer ............................................................. 103 

Maintenance Schedule ................................................................................................... 103 

Daily Maintenance (Always Check Before Analysis) .................................... 103 

Weekly Maintenance ................................................................................................ 104 

Monthly Maintenance .............................................................................................. 104 

Yearly Maintenance .................................................................................................. 104 

Autosampler Yearly Maintenance....................................................................... 105 

Removal or Inspection of the Sample Cell ............................................................. 105 

Opening the Optics Access Panel ......................................................................... 105 

Removing the Sample Cell ...................................................................................... 107 

4

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Operator's Manual 

Contents 

Cleaning the Cell Windows ........................................................................................... 107 

Quick Exposed Surface Cleaning ......................................................................... 107 

Dismantling for Total Cleaning ........................................................................... 109 

Cell Assembly...................................................................................................................... 109 

Cleaning the Gas-Liquid Separator ........................................................................... 112 

Changing the Cell Gas Tubing ...................................................................................... 113 

Retubing the Gas-Liquid Separator .......................................................................... 115 

GLS Inlet........................................................................................................................ 115 

GLS Drain ..................................................................................................................... 116 

Replacing the Perma Pure ® Dryer Cartridge ........................................................ 117 

GLS Overflow Recovery .................................................................................................. 119 

Replacing the Hg Lamp Bulb ........................................................................................ 124 

When to Replace or Service the Lamp .............................................................. 124 

Cleaning the EOFM ................................................................................................... 124 

Getting a Replacement Lamp ............................................................................... 125 

Caring for the Lamp ................................................................................................. 126 

Replacing the Lamp ................................................................................................. 126 

Adjusting the Lamp Current ................................................................................. 129 

Replacing the Fuse ........................................................................................................... 131 

6 Troubleshooting the Mercury Analyzer .................................................... 133 

Troubleshooting Communication Issues ............................................................... 133 

Step 1: Check the Cable ........................................................................................... 133 

Step 2: Use the IPSetup Tool to Check the Configuration .......................... 133 

Step 3: Check the Subnet Configuration Using the Define QuickTrace 

Hardware Tool .................................................................................................. 134 

Step 4: Check for an IP address conflict ........................................................... 137 

If the IPSetup Tool Does Not Find the M-7600 .............................................. 138 

"Subnet of this PC and the M-7600 are Not Compatible" Error ............. 139 

Cannot Zero Instrument ................................................................................................ 140 

"Integration Adjustment Reached" Messages ...................................................... 140 

Drifting Baseline ................................................................................................................ 140 

Low Absorbance or No Mercury Response ........................................................... 141 

No Liquid or Gas Flow .................................................................................................... 141 

No Sample or Rinse Flow ....................................................................................... 141 

No SnCl 2 Flow ............................................................................................................. 142 

No Drain Flow ............................................................................................................ 142 

No Gas Flow or Low Gas Flow .............................................................................. 142 

Double Peak with Low Absorbance .......................................................................... 142 

Poor Reproducibility ....................................................................................................... 143 

Noisy Baseline .................................................................................................................... 144 

Bad DL .................................................................................................................................... 144 

Sudden Standard Absorbance Rise During Run .................................................. 144 

Poor Accuracy .................................................................................................................... 145 

Returning the Product to CETAC for Service ........................................................ 146 

Shipping the Product ............................................................................................... 146 

Product Warranty Statement .............................................................................. 146 

Returned Product Procedures .............................................................................. 147 

Returned Product Warranty Determination ................................................. 147 

7 Safety and Regulatory Information ............................................................. 149 

Characteristics ................................................................................................................... 149 

Environmental Characteristics ............................................................................ 149 

5

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Operator’s Manual 

Contents 

Electrical Characteristics ....................................................................................... 150 

Safety Notices ..................................................................................................................... 151 

Replacement Parts .................................................................................................... 151 

Chemical Hazards ...................................................................................................... 151 

Power Cord Set Requirements .............................................................................. 151 

Power Cord Safety Maintenance ......................................................................... 151 

Grounding ..................................................................................................................... 152 

Mains Disconnect ....................................................................................................... 152 

Mechanical Hazards ................................................................................................. 152 

Cleaning Instructions ............................................................................................... 153 

Operating Environment .......................................................................................... 153 

Explanation of Caution and Warning Notices ............................................... 154 

Avertissements en Français ......................................................................................... 155 

Electromagnetic Interference ..................................................................................... 156 

Explanation of Regulatory Marks .............................................................................. 156 

8 Glossary ................................................................................................................. 157 

6

1 Introduction 

Overview 

The CETAC QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer measures trace levels of 

mercury in aqueous solution by Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 

(CVAAS). CVAAS does not require heating the sample with a flame, plasma, or 

furnace. The mercury analyzer’s modular design permits remarkably easy 

maintenance access and a reduced countertop footprint. Sturdy construction, 

drift-stabilized double beam optics, thermal and electro-optical lamp 

stabilization, and an unusually stable “non-foaming” Gas-Liquid Separator (U.S. 

Patent #5,792,663) collectively afford exceptional structural integrity and 

signal stability. The QuickTrace M-7600 exhibits a high signal-to-noise ratio 

and ultra-trace detection limits for an absorbance system that is fully 

compliant with EPA CVAA methods such as 245.7, 245.1, 245.5, SW846 7470 

and 7471. 

About This Book 

This document describes the procedures for installing, using, and maintaining 

the analyzer. 

This manual covers the following products: 

‣ CETAC QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer 

Who Should Use This Product 

The primary audience for this manual consists of mercury detection and 

mercury measurement laboratory managers, chemists, technicians, fieldservice 

engineers and owners of the QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer. 

To use this product effectively, you should have a basic knowledge of mercury 

analysis, at least a beginning level of computer experience, and a basic 

knowledge of chemical handling procedures including the handling of 

organomercurials. 

Before operating the QuickTrace M-7600 analyzer, autosampler, or optional 

ADX-500 autodilutor, it is important to read this manual, the QuickTrace 

Software Manual, the Autosampler Operator’s Manual, and (if applicable) the 

ADX-500 Autodilutor Accessory Operator’s Manual.


Chapter 1: Introduction 

Where to Go for More Information 

In addition to this manual, you can refer to the following resources: 

‣ The QuickTrace Software Manual and built-in help 

‣ The M-7600 Mercury Analyzer PC Setup Guide 

‣ The CETAC Autosampler Operator’s Manual 

‣ The ADX-500 Autodilutor Manual (optional) 

‣ U.S. EPA Method 245.1; method for Hg determination in drinking water 

‣ U.S. EPA Method 245.7; Mercury in Water by Atomic Fluorescence 

Spectrometry 

‣ U.S. EPA, Office of Solid Wastes. SW846 Method 7470A; Mercury in Liquid 

Waste (Cold-Vapor Technique) 

‣ U.S. EPA, Office of Solid Wastes, SW846 Method 7471B; Mercury in Solid or 

Semisolid Waste (Cold-Vapor Technique) 

‣ American Society for Testing and Methods. ASTM D3223-91; Standard Test 

Method for Total Mercury in Water 

‣ The CETAC Technologies Web site: www.cetac.com 

‣ CETAC Technologies Customer Service and Support: 

1 (800) 369-2822 (USA only) 

1 (402) 733-2829 

1 (402) 733-1932 (Fax) 

E-mail: custserv@cetac.com 

8

CETAC QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer 


System Features 

The QuickTrace M-7600 incorporates the following features to form an 

automated, integrated mercury analysis system. 

‣ Computer-controlled four-channel high-performance peristaltic pump 

(12-roller pump head). 

‣ Ozone-free Hg Lamp. No lamp ventilation is needed. 

‣ Thermally controlled Hg lamp housing (for a stabilized Hg vapor lamp). 

‣ Stable high performance Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS). (U.S. Patent 

#5,792,663). Non-foaming/non-bubbling “thin liquid film” GLS design, 

which allows trouble-free direct analysis of blood, urine, and fish tissue 

digests as well as standard water and waste analysis. 

‣ Rigid, shock and vibration-isolated optical rail (mounting the Hg lamp, 

collimator lens, absorption tubes, camera, CCD detector, and A/D 

converter). 

‣ Precise, self-aligning optical mounts, no optical alignment required, 

maximizing the convenience of instrument baseline zeroing. This design 

extends maintenance intervals without loss of performance. 

‣ Long path (220 mm) absorbance cells. 

‣ Hg lamp electro-optical feedback beam utilizing a high-performance solidstate 

detector for ultra-fine lamp stabilization. 

‣ Fixed optical interference filters, three each (254 ± 2 nm wavelength, 20% 

T, 12.7 mm dia.). No moving parts. 

‣ Standard Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge eliminates the need for Mg(ClO 4) 2 

drying agent. 

‣ Stabilized double beam optics - traditional double-beam (sample and 

reference) with a CCD detector. 

‣ Internal ADC (Analog-to-Digital Conversion). 

‣ High-rate data sampling. 

‣ Computer controlled system shutdown/standby routines. 

‣ Integrated optional autosamplers for accommodation of calibration 

standards and up to 720 samples. 

‣ Ethernet communications. 

‣ Gas exhaust Hg vapor safety trap (solid crystalline KMnO 4). 

9



System Performance Characteristics 

‣ Ultra-trace detection limits: < 0.5 ppt at 40 mL / min. carrier gas flow 1 . 

(Direct steady state absorbance mode, without pre-concentration by gold 

amalgamation). 

‣ Wide dynamic linear working range, ≅ 4 orders of magnitude. 

‣ Short term precision (%RSD @ 95% Confidence) < 6.0% @ 5 ppt, n=5 

‣ Short term precision (%RSD @ 95% Confidence) < 1.2% @ 20 ppt, n=5 

‣ Long term precision (%RSD @ 95% Confidence) < 2.7%/h @ 200.0 ppt 

‣ 99% Confidence Accuracy @ 5 ppt; ±3.1% 

‣ 99% Confidence Accuracy @ 20 ppt; ±4.3% 

‣ Sample Throughput < 3.5 min/sample at IDL 

‣ Ultra-low drift rates ≤ 300 µAbs/hr (after warm-up) raw uncorrected 

analog baseline on-screen drifts. 

‣ Ultra-low short-term absorbance noise ≤ 200 µAbs (10 -5 Abs). 

‣ 0.1% “raw” Hg lamp stability (single beam output). 

‣ Unusually fast washout ≈ 240 sec. from 1ppm Hg, at 1000 mL/min gas 

flow. 

‣ Mercury Response: ≥ 14,000 µAbs / ppb 2 at 100 mL/min carrier gas flow. 

1 One hour minimum warm-up using the standard Nafion ® dryer and a gas flow equal 

to 40 mL/min along with prescribed tubing and reagents. Using pump speed, uptake 

and rinse times specified for standard Nafion ® dryer in Table 4-1 (p. 72), and ≥12 s 

integration cycle selected on the "flattest" portion of the peak time profile. 

2 Using prescribed tubing, reagents, and pump speed. 

10



Overview of the Mercury Analyzer 

Power and Status Lights 

Perma Pure ® Dryer Cartridge 

Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS) 

Peristaltic Pump 

Figure 1-1 

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer—Front View. 

Sample Probe 

Rinse Bottle 

Autosampler 

(ASX-520 is shown) 

Reagent Bottle 

Figure 1-2 

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer—Front View with Autosampler. 

11



Autosampler 

Peristaltic Pump 

Mercury Trap 

Autosampler 

Power Switch 

Electrical 

Connectors 

M-7600 

Power Switch 

Figure 1–2 

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer —Back View of Complete System. 

Auxiliary I/O Ports 

Ethernet Port 

Auxiliary Input Port 

Auxiliary Power 

Ports 


Power Switch 


Power Cord 

Figure 1-3 

M-7600 Mercury Analyzer —Electrical Connectors. 

The following components are located on the front of the mercury analyzer 

(see Figure 1-2). 

‣ POWER Indicator. The top blue LED indicates that the analyzer is 

connected to a power source and turned on. 

‣ LAMP ON Indicator. Indicates when the internal mercury vapor lamp is 

turned on. 

‣ OVER RANGE Indicator. Indicates that the internal mercury vapor lamp is 

drawing more than the recommended amount of current. This LED will 

glow for a few seconds while the mercury lamp warms up when the 

mercury analyzer is first turned on and the QuickTrace software is 

started or any time the lamp is off and then powered on via software 

controls. 

‣ Perma Pure ® Dryer Cartridge. Uses a DuPont Nafion ® membrane to 

remove humidity from the sample gas. 

‣ Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS). 

‣ Front Cover. Protects the GLS and dryer cartridge. An LED lamp 

illuminates the area behind the cover whenever the mercury analyzer is 

turned on. 

12



‣ Peristaltic Pump. A four-channel peristaltic pump is built into the front of 

the mercury analyzer. 

The following components are located on the back of the analyzer: 

‣ POWER Switch. Turns power to the M-7600 mercury analyzer on and off. 

This switch also controls power to the autosampler, when powered 

through the mercury analyzer. 

‣ Gas Ports. Gas inlet and exhaust ports. 

‣ Mercury Trap. The trap scrubs mercury from the exhaust gas. 

The following electrical connectors are located on the back of the analyzer: 

‣ Ethernet Port. The Ethernet port is used to interface the mercury 

analyzer with the host computer. 

‣ Auxiliary Communication Ports. The two AUX I/O ports and one AUX 

INPUT port are reserved for use with other CETAC instruments. 

‣ Power Output Connectors. Provides power for the autosampler and for 

an optional auxiliary device. 

Supplied Equipment 

The following standard components are supplied with the mercury analyzer: 

‣ M-7600 Mercury Analyzer. 

‣ CD. The CD contains: 

• QuickTrace software 

• This manual 

• Other application-specific information 

‣ Gas-Liquid Separator. 

‣ Perma Pure ® Dryer Cartridge. Uses a DuPont Nafion ® membrane to 

remove humidity from the sample gas. The cartridge is pre-installed in the 

mercury analyzer. 

‣ KMnO 4 Absorbent Trap. This scrubs mercury from the exhaust gas. The 

KMnO 4 is not included. 

‣ Bottles. One reagent bottle and one rinse bottle are provided. 

‣ PCI Ethernet Adapter Board. 

‣ Power Cord and Cables. An Ethernet cable, a power cord for the mercury 

analyzer, and a power cord for the autosampler are supplied. 

Depending on how the system was ordered, the following optional equipment 

may be supplied: 

‣ Computer. The mercury analyzer may be ordered with a computer which 

is pre-configured with the QuickTrace software. 

‣ CETAC ASX-520/260/130 Autosampler. 

‣ CETAC ADX-500 Autodilutor. 

‣ ENC-500 Enclosure. 

13



WARNING 

The computer, autosampler, and optional accessories have their own 

manuals (printed or on CD-ROM). Before using the equipment, read those 

manuals to understand the precautions you must take to avoid possible 

hazards. 

Equipment and Supplies 

Required Equipment and Supplies 

‣ Inert Gas Regulator. 

Two-stage, 10-200 psig (70-1380 kPa) secondary pressure gauge, with 

plumbing couple for either a cylinder or Dewar capable of delivering 150 

psig (1040 kPa). 

‣ AC Power Strip. 

Surge protected with six outlets, 15-20 A. 

‣ Cylinder or Dewar, UHP Nitrogen or Argon Gas. 

Ultra-high purity, dry, research grade N 2 or 99.999% purity Ar. The 

QuickTrace M-7600 has a user replaceable 2-micron filter, which 

prevents damage from particulates to the internal gas control components. 

‣ Mercury Standard Solution. 

1000 ppm (minimum order quantity). 

‣ Hydrochloric Acid Trace Metal Grade (37%). 

Trace metal HCl will be used in the preparation of Hg standards, SnCl 2 

reagent and in some method applications. If an application is more 

demanding, a better grade of acid may be needed (for example, double 

distilled). 

‣ Nitric Acid Trace Metal Grade (68-70%). 

Trace metal HNO 3 will be used in sample preparation, cleaning glassware 

(lab glassware and the QuickTrace Gas-Liquid Separator) and added to 

the QuickTrace rinse solution to help maintain the cleanliness of the 

system during operation. 

‣ Stannous Chloride (Crystals, Di-Hydrate). 

Two 500g containers minimum order, “suitable for Hg determination.” The 

stock SnCl 2 is introduced into the QuickTrace at a steady flow rate and 

therefore any mercury contamination will be negated during the 

instrument zero. 

‣ Potassium Permanganate. Solid, Crystalline. 

The least expensive available grade at a minimum quantity is sufficient 

unless it is also to be used for oxidative sample preparation. This lowgrade 

reagent stock is sufficient to fill a safety trap for retention of Hg 

vapor exhaust from the instrument. 

‣ 2-propanol. High Purity, “Spectrophotometric” Grade. 

2-propanol will be used for cleaning the optical cells and cell windows. 

14



‣ KIMTECH SCIENCE KIMWIPES® Delicate Task Wipers. 

‣ Additional Chemical Compounds. 

The sample preparation procedures of the intended analytical method may 

require additional chemical compounds. Refer to published method 

specifications. 

Recommended Supplies 

‣ Volumetric flasks 100 mL class A (TC) six each. 

‣ Volumetric flasks 1000 mL class A (TC) two each. 

‣ Precision air displacement micropipettes, 10 to 10,000 µL (TD). 

‣ Replacement tips for micropipettes. 

‣ Disposable plastic dropping pipettes. 

‣ Graduated cylinders, 10 and 100 mL. 

‣ Polypropylene or polyethylene bottle with Cap, 1 L. 

‣ Weighing balance, top loading, 0.1 g readability (or better), any available 

capacity will work (1.1 kg capacity is good). 

‣ Laboratory scoopula and large spatula. 

‣ Stopwatch (for measuring liquid uptake rates). 

‣ Stirring rod. 

‣ Powder funnel, wide bore stem, small overall size. 

‣ Wrenches, adjustable 12" and 6". 

‣ Screw drivers: 

• 1 small Phillips 

• 1 medium Phillips 

• 1 long-shank medium flat-blade 

• 1 small thin flat-blade 

‣ Deionized water. 

‣ Flow meter 0 – 1,500 mL/min. with 1 mL/min. readability, calibrated to 

user’s choice of carrier gas (Ar or N 2). 

15



This page is intentionally blank. 

16

2 Preparing for 

Installation 

Installing the analyzer requires preparation. Before you install the analyzer, 

you should evaluate the physical arrangement of the laboratory to choose a 

suitable location. Once you choose a location, you must carefully unpack the 

analyzer prior to beginning the installation. 

This chapter discusses what requirements must be met when you choose a 

location. It also describes how to unpack the equipment before installation. 

Establishing Optimal Operating Conditions 

The mercury analyzer operates reliably even under less than ideal conditions. 

It is not, however, indestructible. Malfunction or damage can occur if specific 

operating conditions are not met. Meeting these conditions requires that you 

create the proper lab environment, replace analyzer components that wear out 

under normal use, and purchase the appropriate supplies for use with the 

analyzer. 

NOTE 

Damage or malfunction that results from unsatisfactory operating conditions 

may constitute misuse and abuse and be excluded from warranty coverage. 

Creating the Lab Environment 

To create satisfactory operating conditions in your lab environment, follow 

these guidelines: 

‣ Operate the analyzer in a conventional lab environment where the 

temperature is 60–90 °F (15–32 °C), the humidity is 20–70% 

non-condensing, and the unit is not exposed to excessive flammable or 

corrosive materials. 

‣ Avoid rough handling of the analyzer. If possible, do not expose the 

analyzer to vibration or shock. 

17


Chapter 2: Preparing for Installation 

‣ Protect the analyzer from long-term exposure to condensation, corrosive 

materials, solvent vapor, continual standing liquids. 

‣ Observe the same general electrostatic discharge precautions as with any 

other integrated circuit electronic devices. Low humidity environments, 

especially when combined with static-generating materials, require 

maximum care. 

CAUTION 

Discharge static buildup and ground to the analyzer base or cabinet before 

performing any maintenance. Do not touch or short-circuit bare contacts or 

connectors. 

‣ Avoid using the analyzer if strong electromagnetic interference or radio 

frequency interference is present. Interference fields can cause erratic 

operation of the analyzer. 

Choosing a Location 

Space Requirements 

The QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer System includes the base unit, PC 

with monitor, reagent and rinse bottles, and an optional autosampler. 

A typical system requires a minimum footprint for countertop installation of 

183cm (6’) X 31cm (2’) X 91cm (3’) (W x D x H). A floor space of 1’ (30cm) X 1’ 

(30cm) is required for the liquid waste receptacle. The space for the waste can 

be directly below the analyzer, or directly in front of the lab bench and in line 

with the peristaltic pump. 

86 cm (34 inches) 

183 cm (6 feet) 

Figure 2-1 Footprint of QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer 

with ASX-520 Autosampler. 

18











46 cm 

(18.1 in) 

20 cm 

(7.9 inches) 

56 cm 

(22.0 inches) 

Figure 2-4 Dimensions of the QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer. 

The work surface should be at least 61 cm (24 inches) deep if it is accessible 

from both front and back. If the work surface is against a wall, it should be at 

least 76 cm (30 inches, if possible) deep. If possible, allow at least 15 cm (6 

inches) behind the system for cable egress, ventilation, and access to the 

power switches. 

19



Always position the equipment so that it is easy to disconnect the power cord. 

Work Surface Requirements 

The analyzer must be placed on a sturdy countertop or table. It is not 

recommended to place the analyzer on a wheeled cart or folding table. 

If the analyzer is to be used in an earthquake zone, choose a location or secure 

it so that it will not fall and cause injury or damage during an earthquake. 

Ventilation Requirements 

During operation, the QuickTrace M-7600 internally contains trace amounts 

of mercury vapor. To prevent inhalation of the vapor, the QuickTrace M-7600 

uses a solid KMnO 4 absorbent trap located on the back of the instrument. This 

trap absorbs the mercury vapor prior to final exhaust; therefore no extra 

ventilation is required beyond that of a standard laboratory environment. 

WARNING 

INHALATION HAZARD 

Gases exhausting from the QuickTrace M-7600 cabinet prior to the 

external Hg vapor trap (affixed to the rear cabinet panel) contain traces of 

mercury vapor and will cause injury if inhaled. Do not run the QuickTrace 

M-7600 unless exhausted gas is properly “scrubbed” or removed. Fill, 

maintain, and use the provided KMnO 4 absorbent trap or run a transfer line 

to a fume hood. 

The ambient temperature should be kept as stable as possible. Locating the 

QuickTrace M-7600 directly in the path of an air conditioner or heater vent 

may cause baseline drift, and is not recommended. 

NOTE 

Due to the likelihood of accelerated damage from corrosion and dust, locating 

the QuickTrace M-7600 in a fume hood with stagnant air automatically voids 

the warranty. 

Power Requirements 

The QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer includes a built-in switching 

power supply which supports line voltages in the range 100-240 VAC at 

frequencies of 50-60 Hz. See “Electrical Characteristics” on page 150 for 

detailed power requirements. 

The autosampler is powered by the M-7600's AUX POWER output. See the 

autosampler manual for more details. 

The power requirements for the computer can be found on the label affixed to 

the bottom of the computer, or in the computer manual which can be found on 

the computer CD. 

Place the QuickTrace M-7600 within 1.2 meters of a standard power outlet. 

Ensure that you position the analyzer so that the location where the power 

supply cord plugs into it is easily accessible (is not blocked) and it can be 

20



quickly disconnected if needed. In case of hazard, the analyzer should be 

disconnected from the power source. 

Three power outlets may be required, one each for the QuickTrace M-7600 

mercury analyzer, computer, and monitor. (An AC surge protected power strip 

with six or more outlets will suffice). 

The supplied power cord meets the requirements of the country where the 

instrument was purchased. If the instrument is to be used in a country other 

than the one specified at the time of ordering, obtain a new power cord set that 

meets the requirements of that country. 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

This equipment is designed for connection to a grounded (earthed) outlet. 

The grounding type plug is an important safety feature. For continued 

protection against electrical shock or damage to the instrument, do not 

disable this feature. 

Do not apply power to the power supply until ready to operate the analyzer. 

Unpacking the Mercury Analyzer 

Inspect external packaging upon receipt for signs of shipping damage. Inspect 

all items during unpacking and notify the carrier immediately of any concealed 

damage. 

If the system is shipped or removed from storage during cold weather, allow 

the packaged equipment to equilibrate to room temperature before opening 

and exposing to warm, humid air. It is usually sufficient to provide four to eight 

hours for this purpose. 

CAUTION 

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE FROM CONDENSATION 

If condensation forms on or inside the analyzer, allow it to dry thoroughly before 

connecting it to a power source and operating it. Failure to do so may cause 

equipment damage. 

1 Remove the packing checklist from the shipping container, and check off items 

against it. Leave accessories in the packing until you are ready to install them. 

NOTE 

Keep the factory packaging for use in case the product ever needs to be 

returned or shipped to another location. 

2 Open the box which contains the M-7600. 

21



3 Remove the upper piece of foam. 

Figure 2-5 

Opening the Box and Removing the Packaging. 

4 Ask an assistant to help you lift the M-7600 from the box. 

WARNING 

LIFTING HAZARD 

Two people are required to lift the M-7600 when it is in an awkward 

position such as in its box. Lifting should be done with a person situated on 

either end of the instrument. 

Figure 2-6 

Lifting the M-7600 Mercury Analyzer. 

22



5 Remove the piece of foam from inside the door of the M-7600. 

Figure 2-7 

Removing Foam from the Door. 

6 Store the packaging in case you need to ship the mercury analyzer in the 

future. 

23



This page is intentionally blank. 

24

3 Installing the Analyzer 

Installation Overview 

Figure 3-1 

Front View of QuickTrace M-7600 with Autosampler. 

Figure 3-2 

Rear View of QuickTrace M-7600 with Autosampler. 

25


Chapter 3: Installing the Analyzer 

Step 1: Position the Mercury Analyzer and 

Autosampler 

1 Position the mercury analyzer. 

Keep in mind the factors listed in “Choosing a Location” on page 18. You will 

need easy access to the back of the analyzer as you make the connections. 

2 Place the autosampler next to the QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer. 

Leave a 1-centimeter gap so that vibration from the autosampler will not be 

transmitted directly to the mercury analyzer, and to facilitate passage of 

tubing. 

Step 2: Connect the Autosampler Peristaltic Pump to 

the Rinse Station 

It is easiest to connect the rinse station tubing to the autosampler's built-in 

peristaltic pump before other cables and tubing get in the way. 

In most cases, rinse solution will be “recycled” by returning it to the rinse 

solution bottle. If necessary, rinse solution can be pulled from a fresh bottle 

and used solution returned to a waste container. 

Note that rinse solution flows up through the rinse station. 

Rinse Drain Port 

Rinse Intake Port 

Figure 3-3 

Autosampler Rinse Station. 

26



1 The tubing from the output of the pump to the rinse station intake port is preconnected 

at the factory. 

Figure 3-4 

Pump Output to Rinse Intake Port. 

2 Locate in the completion kit the 6 mm (¼") OD Tygon ® tubing. The tubing will 

need to be cut to the appropriate lengths. 

3 Cut a 38 cm (15") length of tubing. This will run between the drain port of the 

rinse station and the rinse input of the peristaltic pump. 

4 Connect one end to the input of the outer pump channel. 

The pump rotates counterclockwise, so the inputs are on the top and the 

outputs are on the bottom. 

Figure 3-5 

Pump Input Connection from Rinse Drain. 

27



5 Connect the other end to the drain of the rinse station. 

Remove the rinse station and press the tubing very firmly so that it completely 

covers the barb of the fitting. It helps to use your other hand to apply counterpressure. 

Figure 3-6 

Rinse Station Drain Connection. 

Figure 3-7 

Replacing the Rinse Station. 

28



Figure 3-8 

Rinse Station in Place. 

6 Cut an approximately 102 cm (40 inch) length of tubing to connect the input of 

the pump to the bottle of rinse solution. The tubing should be long enough to 

reach the bottom of the rinse bottle. This tube will draw rinse solution from 

the bottle. 

7 Connect one end of this tube to the remaining input channel of the pump. 

Figure 3-9 

Pump Input Connection. 

29



8 Cut an approximately 86 cm (34 inch) length of tubing to extend from the 

remaining pump output to the bottle of rinse solution. The tubing should 

extend a few inches inside the rinse bottle, but should remain above the liquid 

surface. This is the rinse solution drain tube. 

Figure 3-10 

Pump Output Connection and Liquid Flow Direction. 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

In the steps which follow, pay attention to keep the tubing below all of the 

wires. Move the tubing, if necessary, so that any leaking liquid will not be 

directed onto electrical cables or connectors. 

Step 3: Set Up the Autosampler 

WARNING 

Ensure the power cord is not connected before proceeding with 

installation. 

See the Autosampler Operator’s Manual, included on the CD, for additional 

instructions and safety information. You may also refer to the printed Z-Drive 

Assembly Quick Installation Guide which comes with the autosampler for more 

information on installing the Z-drive assembly. 

30



The Z-drive is driven by a length of cable (line) which is made of solid Nylon 

101 (or in some cases, PEEK.) 

CAUTION 

Do not allow the cable to bend sharply. Avoid pushing up on the slider or pushing 

on the Z-drive cable. 

CAUTION 

Do not tighten the thumbscrews with anything other than your fingers. 

1 Locate the Z-drive assembly. 

Sleeve (Protects 

Z-Drive Cable) 

Sample Tube 

Z-Axis Slider 

Guide Block 

Y-Axis Slider 

Z-Drive Cable 

Sample Probe 

Home flag 

Figure 3-11 Z-Drive Assembly (Appearance May Vary Slightly Depending on 

Autosampler Model). 

2 Slide the Z-drive assembly onto the autosampler arm. 

Figure 3-12 Sliding the Z-Drive Onto the Arm of the Autosampler. 

31



3 Slide the Z-drive assembly onto the Y-axis leadscrew nut (the black block 

which moves back and forth along the arm). Lift the bushings with your 

fingernails to get them over the edge of the leadscrew nut. 

Figure 3-13 Lifting the Bushings Over the Edge of the Leadscrew Nut. 

4 Secure the Z-drive assembly to the Y-axis leadscrew nut by tightening the 

thumbscrews with your fingers. Never use tools to tighten the thumbscrews. 

Figure 3-14 

Tightening the Thumbscrews. 

32



5 Slide the cable onto the rotor on the back of the autosampler (Figure 6). 

Figure 3-15 Sliding Z-Drive Cable into Rotor Groove. 

6 Secure the guide block to the back of the autosampler with 2 black-capped 

thumbscrews (Figure 7). Note that it is important to install the guide block in 

the correct orientation. 

Figure 3-16 Securing Block to Back of Autosampler. 

33



7 Turn the rotor clockwise as far as it will go. This will raise the Z-drive to its 

highest position. (To avoid damaging the drive cable, always raise or lower the 

Z-drive by moving the rotor, rather than by pushing or pulling on the Z-drive 

itself.) 

Rotor Pin 

Stator Stop 

Figure 3-17 

View of Rotor with Z-Drive at Highest Position. 

8 Gently move the Z-axis slider until the gap between the slider and cap is 

approximately 2 mm (3/32"). 

With the Z-drive in its highest position, there should be a gap between the Z- 

axis slider and the top cap of the Z-drive of approximately 2 mm (~ 3/32 inch). 

If this is not the case, see the Autosampler Operator's Manual for instructions 

on how to adjust the Z-drive travel. 

2 mm (3/32”) 

Figure 3-18 

View of Gap Between Probe Bracket and Cap. 

34



9 Hold the cable flat against the rotor and secure the cable by tightening 

thumbscrew on the rotor. Maintain the 2 mm (~ 3/32 inch) gap while the rotor 

pin is making contact with the stator stop (full clockwise rotation of rotor). 

The thumbscrew should be as tight as possible using just your fingers. 

Figure 3-19 

Securing Cable to Rotor. 

10 Rotate the rotor back and forth to ensure that it moves freely. Ensure that the 

full width of the cable is under the clamp. 

Clamp 

Figure 3-20 

Verifying Cable Movement and Cable Clamp. 

35



11 Insert the clamp into the slot in the Z-drive. Slide the probe into the Z-drive, 

through the hole in the clamp, and tighten the clamp with your fingers. 

Figure 3-21 

Tightening the Clamp Which Holds the Probe to the Z-Drive. 

If the clamp doesn't tighten enough to hold the probe in place, reverse the 

orientation of the knurled nut: 

Threads Visible 

Lip Without Threads 

Hole for Sample Probe 

Figure 3-22 

Clamp Oriented Correctly. 

12 Loosen the clamp and adjust the position of the probe so that it is about 2 mm 

(3/32 inch) above the top of the rinse station when the Z-drive is in its highest 

position. 

You can use a large coin, such as a U.S. quarter, to help measure this gap. The 

exact distance is not critical, but the probe needs to be high enough that it will 

not hit anything when it moves from place to place. 

36



2 mm 

Figure 3-23 

Probe Position with Z-Drive in Highest Position. 

13 Center the probe over the rinse station and rotate the rotor counterclockwise 

to lower the probe into the rinse station. 

14 Use the provided spiral wrap to secure the sample tube to the Z-drive cable 

about 5 cm (2 inches) above the top of the Z-drive. There should be just a little 

curve to the free sample tube when the probe is lowered, and a loop when the 

probe is raised. 

The sample tube should naturally curve away from the probe so that it won't 

rub or get caught. If necessary, loosen the probe and rotate it so that the 

sample tube looks like the pictures below: 

Spiral Wrap 

Slight Curve 

Away from 

Probe 

Loop 

Figure 3-24 

Securing the Sample Tube. 

37



15 Use the other spiral wrap to secure the sample tube to the cable at its highest 

point. 

Figure 3-25 

Securing the Sample Tube. 

16 Moisten a Kimwipes ® wiper with 10% HNO 3 and wipe the probe to remove any 

oil. This is needed so that aqueous samples do not adhere to the probe causing 

sample-to-sample contamination or rinse contamination. 

17 The Z-drive assembly and sample probe are now properly installed on the 

autosampler. 

38



Step 4: Connect Power and Data Cables to the Back 

of the Mercury Analyzer 

1 Locate the plastic shipping bag labeled “Completion Kit – QuickTrace M- 

7600.” It contains various power and data cables, small parts, tubing, fittings, 

computer CD-ROM, etc. 

You will be locating supplies from in kit for throughout the installation process. 

It is recommended to leave the parts in this bag, in their original packaging, 

until you need them. 

2 Place the autosampler power switch in the OFF position. 

3 Place the mercury analyzer power switch in the OFF position. 


Power Switch 

Figure 3-26 

Power Switch 

4 Connect the line cord to the connector on the back of the mercury analyzer. 

If the cord is not of the correct type for your country, contact CETAC 

Technologies. See “Power Cord Set Requirements” on page 151. 

Figure 3-27 

Power Cord Connected to Mercury Analyzer 

5 Connect the power cord into a grounded surge protected power strip. 

6 Plug the surge protected power strip into the AC outlet receptacle. 

Do not turn on the power switches yet. 

39



7 Connect the 5-pin end of the autosampler power cable to the back of the 

mercury analyzer. 

Figure 3-28 

Autosampler Power Cable Connected to Mercury Analyzer. 

8 Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the mercury analyzer. 

Figure 3-29 

Ethernet Cable Connected to Mercury Analyzer. 

Step 5: Connect the Carrier Gas Tubing 

1 In the completion kit bag, find the brass 2-micron gas filter, with associated 

brass Swagelok fittings, and a short section of ETFE tubing (attached to the 

filter). 

2 Determine how far the QuickTrace M-7600 is located from the gas supply 

(UHP nitrogen or argon). Allow a generous service loop of 1/8" nylon tubing 

from the roll provided the likely event of system placement changes or 

maintenance. This will allow the system to be slid forward for cell maintenance 

without disconnecting the gas tubes. 

40



3 Connect one end of this tube to the gas inlet side of the 2-micron brass filter 

and tighten the Swagelok fitting securely. 

Figure 3-30 

Completed Assembly of Gas Inlet Tubing with Filter. 

NOTE: 

A 2-micron in-line filter must always be used. The 2-micron filter has been 

selected for minimal pressure drop and minimal flow fluctuation. Do not 

substitute other filters. 

4 Connect the ETFE tube into the bulkhead fitting labeled “GAS INLET.” Make 

sure that the flow arrow on the gas filter is pointing in the direction to the gas 

in fitting. 

Tighten the fitting as tight as you can get it using your fingers. (This fitting 

needs to be very secure, but do not use pliers to tighten it.) 

Figure 3-31 

Carrier Gas Inlet Tubing Connected to Mercury Analyzer. 

41



5 Connect the other end of the nylon tube to the gas supply regulator, using ¼" 

NPT 1/8" Swagelok fitting provided. 

CAUTION 

Exceeding 825 kPa (120 psig) gas supply pressure to the QuickTrace M-7600 may 

rupture the bulkhead fittings, causing the unit to malfunction. 

CAUTION 

Use only “research-grade”, “dry” UHP Nitrogen or Argon. Do not use “welding” 

grade gases - these may permanently damage the QuickTrace M-7600. 

Step 6: Install the Mercury Trap (KMnO4) 

A tube filled with crystalline potassium permanganate will serve as the 

mercury vapor trap. The vapor trap will clean the QuickTrace M-7600 

exhaust vapors, to prevent the release of mercury vapor into the lab 

atmosphere. 

WARNING 


Do not operate the mercury analyzer unless the mercury trap is in place 

and functioning correctly. 

1 In the plastic bag labeled “Completion Kit - QuickTrace M-7600,” find the 

polyethylene tube with a seven inch (17.8 cm) length of dark Viton ® tubing 

attached to one end. 

2 Remove one end cap from the polyethylene tubular body. Do NOT remove the 

heatshrink wrapped Luer fitting from the end cap. 

3 Inspect both end cap interiors to ensure that the ends are lightly plugged with 

fine glass wool. If not, lightly pack a small, loose wad of fine glass wool into the 

small i.d. section of each cap. Pack enough glass wool to stop the potassium 

permanganate from filtering through, but not restrict the gas flow. 

4 Put on protective eyewear and gloves. 

5 With the glass wool in place, use a powder funnel to fill this tube with dry 

crystalline solid potassium permanganate (KMnO 4). While filling, have one end 

fully capped, hold the other end straight upward, and use the powder funnel to 

guide the KMnO 4 crystals into the tube. Fill to the top, tapping a finger lightly 

on the tube to settle the KMnO 4, and finally place the end cap on securely. 

WARNING 

CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD 

Be sure to wear protective eyewear and safety gloves when handling 

chemicals. 

6 Snap the filled mercury trap into the black holders. 

42



7 Attach the black Viton ® tube with fitting to the connection labeled “GAS 

EXHAUST.” 

Figure 3-32 

KMnO 4 Absorbent Trap Connected to Mercury Analyzer. 

The mercury vapor trap needs to be cleaned and refilled when the brown color 

approaches the open end. This is the formation the MnO 2 as the KMnO 4 is 

reduced. The potassium permanganate may last at least one year depending on 

frequency of use, except in the unlikely event of a major overflow accident in 

the QuickTrace M-7600. 

NOTE 

So long as the KMnO 4 is dry, free flowing (not caked), dark purple crystals, it is 

perfectly OK. 

WARNING 

POISON HAZARD 

The mercury vapor trap contains potassium permanganate (KMnO 4 ) and 

may contain mercury. Handle and dispose of the used KMnO 4 according to 

your laboratory’s procedures and your country’s hazardous waste 

regulations. 

43



Step 7: Connect the Back of the Autosampler 

1 Connect one end of the USB cable to the autosampler. 

Figure 3-33 

USB Cable Connected to Autosampler. 

2 Connect the power cable to the autosampler. 

This is the cable which was connected in step 7 on page 40. The autosampler 

will be powered by the automatic switching power supply within the M-7600. 

Figure 3-34 

Power Cable Connected to Autosampler. 

44



Step 8: Connect to the Host Computer 

The CETAC M-7600 mercury analyzer is controlled by a PC through an 

Ethernet connection. 

CETAC recommends that this PC be equipped with two network cards. One 

card is used for communication with your laboratory network, and the other 

card is used exclusively for communication with the M-7600 mercury analyzer. 

In most cases, a PC is supplied with the mercury analyzer, and this PC has two 

network cards. 

NOTE 

In most cases, CETAC will pre-configure the network cards for your laboratory. 

If you were not able to supply the necessary network information to CETAC, or 

if you will be supplying your own PC, then set up the network cards yourself as 

described below. If the PC is already set up, skip to “Step 9: Install the Gas- 

Liquid Separator (GLS)” on page 53. 

If you wish to use a laptop computer or if you cannot install a secondary 

network card, see “Connecting a Laptop Computer to the M-7600” on page 52. 

The information in this section is also supplied in the CETAC M-7600 Mercury 

Analyzer PC Setup Guide which is included with the mercury analyzer. 

Summary 

Primary NIC 

Secondary NIC 

Connects to Laboratory network 192.168.0.149 (address of the M-7600) 

Interface Metric 100 2 

Default IP Address Obtain automatically 192.168.0.100 (address of the PC) 

Installing a Secondary NIC in Your Own PC 

Most PC’s come with a single network interface, but a secondary network 

interface card (NIC) can easily be installed in most desktop and tower PCs. To 

install the second NIC: 

1 Power off the PC. 

2 Install secondary network interface card (NIC), following the manufacturer's 

instructions. 

You will need to set a static IP address for this card, as shown on page 50. 

3 Install all of the PC peripherals such as the keyboard, mouse, and monitor. 

45



Connecting the Communication Cables 

Power Cord 

Keyboard and 

Mouse 

Monitor (Cable 

Not Shown) 

Figure 3-35 

PC Before Connection to the M-7600. 

1 Connect the USB cable from the autosampler to the computer. 

2 Connect the Ethernet cable from the mercury analyzer to the computer. 

USB to Autosampler 

Ethernet to M-7600 

Figure 3-36 

PC After Connection to the M-7600. 

Configuring the Network Metrics 

The network metrics for each NIC on the PC must be configured for optimal 

communications with the M-7600 mercury analyzer. 

These instructions apply to the Microsoft Windows 7 and Windows XP 

operating systems. 

46



1 Power on the PC. 

2 Open the network connection dialog. 

WINDOWS 7: 

a) Open the Control Panel. 

b) Click Network and Internet | View network status and tasks. 

Figure 3-37 Network and Internet Settings (Windows 7). 

WINDOWS XP: 

a) Click Start > Control Panel. 

b) Click Network Connections. 

You should see two active networks (one for each card.). 

3 For each card, click the connection link (circled in red below). 

(WINDOWS XP: double-click the connection link.) 

Note: The network card connected to the M-7600 will show No Internet 

Access, and probably show up as either an M-7600 (if preconfigured by 

CETAC) or otherwise as an unidentified network, as seen in Figure 3-38. 

Figure 3-38 Network Connection Dialog for Windows 7. 

47



4 Click Properties. 

Figure 3-39 

Network Connection Properties Button. 

5 Select ‘Internet Protocol Version 4’ and click ‘Properties’. 

Figure 3-40 

IPv4 Properties Button. 

48



6 Click ‘Advanced’ 

Figure 3-41 

IPv4 Advanced Button. 

49



7 Deselect ‘Automatic metric’ (see circled area in the image below), and specify a 

metric number. Specify ‘2’ for the card connected to the M-7600 and ‘100’ for 

the card connected to the local area network. 

Figure 3-42 

Interface Metric for the M-7600. 

Setting the IP Address for the Secondary NIC 

If the PC was purchased from CETAC, it will be preconfigured to use an IP 

address of 192.168.0.149 for the M-7600 mercury analyzer. In most cases, this 

address will work. If this address causes a conflict (for example, if the 

laboratory subnet is 192.168.0.*), or if you are configuring a secondary NIC in 

a PC not supplied by CETAC, set the address as follows: 

1 Choose an IP address for the secondary NIC. 

Choose an address that does not conflict with anything in use on the 

laboratory/company Local Area Network (LAN). 

Use a standard Ethernet cable to connect the secondary NIC directly to the M- 

7600. If there is any doubt about IP number conflict consult your network 

administrator. 

50



PC’s purchased from CETAC will come preconfigured in such a way that a 

conflict is unlikely, but reconfiguration may be required (the default IP address 

of the M-7600 analyzer is 192.168.0.149.) If for example the subnet used in the 

lab consists of 192.168.0.*, then the secondary NIC could be configured to 

192.168.10.x allowing it to communicate with an analyzer configured to 

192.168.10.y, without conflicting with another device on the LAN. 

Ideally the secondary NIC can be configured to be on a subnet compatible with 

the M-7600 default (i.e.192.168.0.*) and used. If this configuration is not 

acceptable for laboratory operation, see the next section. 

2 In the Internet Protocol version 4 properties dialog (pictured below) select 

‘Use the following IP address’, and specify a number on a subnet different than 

that used in your laboratory. Unless your network administrator indicates 

otherwise, the subnet mask should be 255.255.255.0, and the gateway, and 

DNS server can be left blank because they will not be used. 

Figure 3-43 

Setting the IP Address 

Changing the Subnet of the Mercury Analyzer 

Ideally the secondary NIC can be configured to be on a subnet compatible with 

the M-7600 default (192.168.0.*). If this configuration is not acceptable for 

laboratory operation, then the IP address used by theM-7600 will need to be 

configured as described in the CETAC M-7600 Mercury Analyzer PC Setup Guide 

which is included with the mercury analyzer. 

51



Connecting a Laptop Computer to the M-7600 

Since a secondary network interface card cannot be installed in most laptop 

computers, an alternate configuration must be used. 

Option 1: Use a USB to TCP/IP Converter 

The easiest solution is to use a USB-to-TCP/IP converter (also called a USB 

LAN adapter). This converter will behave just like a secondary network 

interface card. 

Option 2: Use an Isolated Network 

If you don't need to connect the laptop to another network (including the 

laboratory network or the Internet), you can set up the network to 

communicate only with the M-7600. Set up the M-7600 using the instructions 

for the secondary network card. Use an alternate means of communication, 

such as a flash drive or a USB connection, to transfer files and print results. 

Option 3: Use an Unallocated IP Address on the Network 

If your network uses static IP addresses, allocate a new address for the M- 

7600. If your network is managed by a network administrator or information 

technology professional, it is strongly recommended to ask that person to 

assign the address. 

If your network uses dynamic IP addresses (DHCP), it is usually possible to 

assign a static address to the M-7600 while the other devices on the network 

continue to use DHCP. In this case, you must find a static address for the 

M-7600 which will not conflict with other devices on the network. On many 

network routers, the DHCP IP addresses are restricted to a certain range. Note 

that this address range can be changed, so it is important to go into the 

router's configuration interface to verify the range. Choose an IP address above 

the address used by the router but below the DHCP range. 

For example, if the router is configured like this: 

Local IP Address: 192.168.1.1 

Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 

DHCP Starting IP Address: 192.168.1.100 

and if there are no other devices on the network with static IP addresses, then 

you can configure the M-7600 to use: 

M-7600 IP Address: 192.168.1.2 

M-7600 Net Mask: 255.255.255.0 

M-7600 Gateway: 192.168.1.1 

52



Step 9: Install the Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS) 

WARNING 

HANDLE WITH CARE 

Use care when handling the GLS. If the GLS breaks, there is a risk of cut 

from broken glass. 

Use only your fingers to tighten the fittings. 

1 Locate the gas-liquid separator (GLS). 

Liquid Mix (In) 

Gas Supply (In) 

Hg Vapor (Out, not 

connected until just 

before use) 

Drain (Out) 

Figure 3-44 

Gas-Liquid Separator (GLS). 

2 Locate the gas-liquid separator (GLS) and gently slide it into the holder with 

the drain and Hg vapor ports facing you. Raise it as far as it will go. 

Figure 3-45 

Placing the GLS. 

53



3 Rotate the GLS so that the ports face to the right and gently tighten the 

thumbscrew to temporarily hold it in position. 

Figure 3-46 

Tightening the GLS Thumbscrew. 

4 Locate the drip block in the completion kit and lower the drip block into place. 

The drip block slides over the pegs below the GLS. 

Figure 3-47 

Positioning the GLS drip block. 

54



5 Loosen the thumbscrew and lower the GLS into its final position, then gently 

tighten the thumbscrew. There should be space for the drain tube from the GLS 

to pass through the notch in the side of the drip tray. 

Figure 3-48 

Bottom of GLS. 

6 Route the liquid mix tube to the top of the GLS through the guides on the front 

of the mercury analyzer. 

Figure 3-49 Routing the Liquid Mix Tube to the GLS (view 1). 

Figure 3-50 Routing the Liquid Mix Tube to the GLS (view 2). 

55



7 Connect the tube from the bottom of the GLS to the GLS SUPPLY fitting. 

Figure 3-51 

Ready to Connect the Gas Supply to the GLS. 

Figure 3-52 

Completed GLS Installation. 

56



Step 10: Connect the Peristaltic Pump on the 

Mercury Analyzer 

Figure 3-53 

Connected. 

Peristaltic Pump on the Mercury Analyzer After Tubing is 

Installing the Peristaltic Pump Tubing 

1 Release all four peristaltic pump channel clamps. 

2 Locate the peristaltic pump tubing in the completion kit. There are two sets of 

pump tubing. 

‣ The tubes with the yellow stops are for the sample and drain channels. 

‣ The tubes with the black stops are for the reagent channel. 

57



3 Using both hands, stretch a tube with yellow stops across channel 1, closest to 

the body of the M-7600. Keep the tension even between the two sides and 

insert the stops into the slots. 

Pressure Shoe 

Adjustable Clamp 

Roller Head 

Stop 

4 Install two more tubes with yellow stops, one in channel 2 and the second in 

channel 3, then one tube with black stops in channel 4. 

Note that the roller head moves clockwise. 

Inlet Side 

Figure 3-54 

Outlet Side 

Peristaltic Pump Tubing (Viewed from Front). 

58



Channel 1 2 3 4 

Yellow 

Black 

Inlet Side 

Figure 3-55 

Outlet Side 

Peristaltic Pump Tubing (Viewed from Left and Right Sides). 

Installing the Mixing Tee and Drain Tees 

1 Locate the larger (3/32" dia.) polypropylene tee fittings provided in the 

completion kit. Install these tees on either side of the back two channels 

(channel 1 and channel 2) of the pump. 

Large Tee 

Large Tee 

Figure 3-56 

Large Tee Fittings (Tubing removed from Ch 3-4 for clarity). 

2 In the completion kit, locate the 91 cm (three-foot) waste tube. Connect the tee 

on the right (outlet) side to the waste tube (1/8" o.d. Tygon ® tubing). 

59



3 Connect the tee on the left (inlet) side to the drain tube coming from the GLS. 

Drain Tube 

Figure 3-57 

GLS Drain Tube. 

From Drain 

To Waste 

Figure 3-58 

Waste and Drain Connections. 

4 Find a Luer male barbed fitting (look for this in the 10 liter waste container). 

Replace one of the Luer caps on the waste container lid with the barbed fitting. 

Attach the other end of the waste tube to this fitting. 

To prevent pressure buildup in the 10-liter waste container, be sure that at 

least one of the two vents on the 10-liter waste container are open (uncapped) 

during operation. 

60



5 Route the 1/16" Teflon ® sample tube from the autosampler through the guide 

at the top of the mercury analyzer, then through the guide at the bottom. 

Trim the sample tube if necessary. This may be necessary with an ASX-260 or 

ASX-130 autosampler. Be careful to leave enough slack in the tube so that the 

sample probe is able to freely move to the most distant position without 

stretching or kinking the tube. On the other hand, if the sample tube is too long 

it can tangle, and a longer tube will require more time to transport the sample 

and more time to thoroughly rinse between samples. 

Figure 3-59 

Attaching the Sample Tube to the Side of the M-7600. 

6 Connect the sample tube to the inlet side of channel 3. 

From 

Sample 

Probe 

Figure 3-60 

Sample Probe Connection. 

7 Find the 23 inch (58 cm) length of 1/16" Teflon ® tubing inside the reagent 

bottle. This is the reagent uptake tube. 

61



8 Connect the reagent uptake tube to the inlet side of channel number four. 

When in use, to ensure that no precipitated solids are pumped through the 

system, the reagent tube should not touch the bottom of the reagent bottle. 

Reagent Uptake Tube 

(From Reagent Bottle) 

From Sample Probe 

Figure 3-61 

Reagent Connection. 

9 Locate the smallest (1/16" dia.) polypropylene tee provided in the completion 

kit. Install this tee on the output side of the pump. It connects the top two 

channels (channels 3 and 4). 

Liquid Mix 

Tube 

Figure 3-62 

Small Tee Fitting on Ch 3/4 Outputs. 

62



10 Connect the Liquid Mix tube to the small tee which you just installed. 

The Liquid Mix tube is a black tube which connects to the GLS, as shown in 

Figure 3-50 on page 55. 

Liquid Mix 

Tube 

Figure 3-63 

Liquid Mix Connection. 

Step 11: Power On and Verify Communication 

Once installation of the QuickTrace M-7600 system is complete, it is 

important to verify that the system is installed correctly. 

CAUTION 

Attempting to use the QuickTrace M-7600 before ensuring that all components 

are installed correctly may result in damage to the system. 

To Configure the Network Connection 

The CETAC M-7600 mercury analyzer is controlled by a PC. CETAC 

recommends that this PC be equipped with two network cards. One card is 

used for communication with your laboratory network, and the other card is 

used exclusively for communication with the M-7600 mercury analyzer. 

In most cases, a PC is supplied with the mercury analyzer, and this PC has two 

network cards. 

63



NOTE 

In most cases, CETAC will pre-configure the network cards for your laboratory. 

If you were not able to supply the necessary network information to CETAC, or 

if you will be supplying your own PC, then you will need to set up the network 

cards yourself as described in this document. 

Refer to the M-7600 Mercury Analyzer PC Setup Guide and the QuickTrace 

Software Manual for instructions on how to configure the network settings on 

the PC and on the M-7600. 

To Power On the System for the First Time (PC Configured by 

CETAC) 

CAUTION 

When you turn off the QuickTrace M-7600, wait at least 15 seconds before 

turning it back on. Rapidly cycling power can cause the optical monitoring 

feedback system electronics to temporarily malfunction, potentially resulting in an 

optical performance error. 

1 Power on the PC, QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer, and the autosampler. 

2 Check to ensure that the communication cables are properly connected. 

3 Start the QuickTrace software. 

4 When the software is initializing, it will test the connections to the 

QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer and the autosampler. 

The QuickTrace M-7600 software runs a test routine at startup to test the 

various interfaces throughout the system. The software will give a report on 

the status of the interface if there is a failure. 

To Power On the System for the First Time (Customer- 

Supplied PC) 

If you are supplying your own PC, you will need to set up drivers to 

communicate with the M-7600 and the autosampler. 

CAUTION 

When you turn off the QuickTrace M-7600, wait at least 15 seconds before 

turning it back on. Rapidly cycling power can cause the optical monitoring 

feedback system electronics to temporarily malfunction, potentially resulting in an 

optical performance error. 

1 Power on the PC, QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer, and the autosampler. 

2 Check to ensure that the communication cables are properly connected. 

3 Run the USB device driver installation program. Navigate to 

C:\Program Files\QuickTrace\USB Drivers 

then double-click CDM2.02.04. 

64



4 Select All Programs | CETAC QuickTrace | Specify Installed Hardware. 

Figure 3-64 

Starting the Specify Installed Hardware Program. 

5 Select the M-7600 analyzer. 

Figure 3-65 

Selecting the Analyzer. 

Once the M-7600 is chosen the software will search the network for analyzers. 

65



Figure 3-66 

Searching for the Analyzers. 

6 When the search is complete, select the analyzer. The IP address and other 

communication parameters will be filled in automatically. 

Figure 3-67 

Selecting the Analyzer. 

7 Select the model of the autosampler you are using. 

66



Figure 3-68 

Selecting the Autosampler Model. 

8 Select the autosampler COM port. 

The autosampler is connected via USB, but the USB driver emulates a serial 

(COM) port. The driver automatically assigns a COM port number of COM3 or 

greater. 

Figure 3-69 

Selecting the Autosampler COM port. 


10 When the software is initializing, it will test the connections to the 

QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer and the autosampler. 

The QuickTrace M-7600 software runs a test routine at startup to test the 

various interfaces throughout the system. The software will give a report on 

the status of the interface if there is a failure. 

67



To Test the Autosampler 

1 In the QuickTrace software, click the Instrument Control button. 

Figure 3-70 

Instrument Control Button. 

2 Click the Autosampler button. 

Figure 3-71 

Autosampler Button. 

3 Click the buttons to turn the autosampler's peristaltic rinse pump on and off, 

move the probe (“sipper”) up and down, and move the probe to a sample vial 

and back. 

Refer to the QuickTrace software online help for more information on how to 

control the autosampler. 

Step 12: Fill the Rinse Solution Bottle 

1 Fill the rinse bottle with trace metal grade 1% HCl / 2% HNO 3 v/v. 

NOTE: 

When analyzing samples and standards of high concentration such as 20 ppb 

or greater use a stronger concentration of acid; such as 5% HCl / 2% HNO 3 or a 

similar mix but do not exceed 10% HNO 3 . 

2 Insert the rinse solution drain tube (from the autosampler rinse station drain 

port, via the peristaltic pump) about ¼ of the height of the rinse bottle. 

3 Insert the rinse solution supply tube (to the autosampler rinse station intake 

port, via the peristaltic pump) so that it is just above the bottom of the rinse 

bottle. 

The end of the drain tube must remain above the end of the supply tube. 

For help identifying the rinse solution drain and supply tubes, see Figure 3-10 

on page 30. 

68



Step 13: Fill the Reagent Bottle 

The reducing agent will be used with the QuickTrace M-7600 system during 

operation of the system. 

The reducing agent is 10% SnCl 2 w/v (in 7% HCl v/v). To mix the reducing 

agent, perform the following steps under a hood: 

1 Add 100 g of SnCl 2 to the reagent bottle. 

2 Add 70 mL of trace metal HCl. 

3 Swirl and wait ~ 2 min or until SnCl 2 begins to dissolve. 

4 Add ~ 100 mL of DI water, swirl and wait ~ 2 min. 

5 Add ~ 100 mL of DI water, swirl and wait ~ 2 min. 

6 Fill with DI water to the shoulder of the rinse bottle. 

7 Cap until ready for use. 

Preserving the SnCl2 

‣ Cap the Luer fitting when not in use. 

‣ Refrigerate unused portions. 

NOTE 

All solutions must be room temperature prior to use. 

69



Step 14: Adjust the Peristaltic Pump Tubing Clamp 

Tension (Optional) 

The tension of the tubing in the mercury analyzer's built-in peristaltic pump 

affects how smoothly liquid will flow through the system. 

NOTE 

The clamps are preset at the factory to optimal tension. Perform the following 

steps only if you believe the clamps may need adjustment. 

1 Verify that the “11HG VAPOR12” tube is disconnected from the GLS vapor 

outlet. 

Figure 3-72 

Disconnecting the Hg Vapor Tube. 

2 Open the QuickTrace software. 

3 Open the QuickTrace hardware Controls (see the QuickTrace software manual) 

by clicking the Instrument button, or select Window|Instrument. 

Figure 3-73 


4 With zero clamp tension on the tubing (screws nearly unscrewed), snap all 

four clamps into place and start the peristaltic pump. 

5 Set the gas pressure to 120 psi (825 kPa). 

70



6 Set the analyzer gas flow to 100 mL/min. 

Figure 3-74 

Gas Flow Controls (Shown Before Setting to 100 mL/min.). 

CAUTION 

Read through steps 7-11 before proceeding. It is extremely important to set the 

peristaltic pump drain clamps in a timely fashion after the GLS begins to fill with 

liquid. Failing to do so can cause an overflow and spillage. 

WARNING 

CHEMICAL SPILL HAZARD 

Do not start liquid flow without the carrier gas being on and set to 100 

mL/min with and pressure set to 120 psi. Otherwise, fluid backfill can 

occur. 

Refer to the QuickTrace help or software manual for more information on 

instrument control. 

7 Place the autosampler sample probe into rinse station. Click the Up button, 

then the Park button. Visually verify the probe's movement. 

Figure 3-75 

Autosampler Button. 

8 Place a Kimwipes ® wiper at the GLS gas exit port to prevent any liquid from 

spilling onto the GLS mount. 

9 Manually increase the clamp tension on the Santoprene ® sample tubing 

(Channel three) until liquid uptake begins to flow with a jerky motion in the 

sample tube from the autosampler. Now rotate the tension screw ¼ turn past 

this point and verify that the flow is steady. 

71



10 Watch the liquid flow as it makes its way from the autosampler rinse station, to 

the pump, through the mixing tee, and to the Gas-Liquid Separator. 

The GLS will begin to fill with rinse solution. 

11 Increase the clamp tension on both of the drain tubing clamps (Channels one & 

two) until flow begins from the drain port of the GLS and the liquid level 

begins to drop. 

Do this quickly before the GLS fills to the point where fluid overflows the GLS. 

The GLS should slowly drain to empty, even though sample continues to be 

delivered to the top of the frosted center post. The GLS is intended to operate 

“empty” with only a thin film of liquid continuously wetting the frosted center 

post and exiting the drain. 

NOTE 

If GLS overflow occurs, the pump will stop. To restart the pump, simply click 

the Pump On button. 

12 Tighten both drain tube clamps equally to ensure even flow to each. 

Check this by observing the segmented flow at both drain tees. The rate of flow 

in and out should be balanced through both Santoprene drain tubes. Adjust the 

clamp tension to keep the GLS empty and to achieve a smooth, balanced, 

segmented flow. Unstable drain flow can cause baseline noise in the system. 

The drain tube tension should exactly match the sample flow tension. 

13 Start the SnCl 2 flow. 

‣ Place the SnCl 2 uptake tube in the reagent bottle 

‣ Close the Channel 4 clamp. 

‣ Increase the reagent clamp tension until reagent uptake begins in the tube. 

‣ Adjust the clamp so that the flow from the SnCl 2 bottle is smooth, with no 

jerks in the flow. 

14 Once liquid is running through the QuickTrace M-7600, note that the drain 

tubing clamp tension is properly adjusted by watching the flow through the 

Gas-Liquid Separator. 

The GLS should remain empty and liquid exiting the GLS should appear nearly 

motionless, with no flutter or instability. 

72



15 The flow into the GLS should be as smooth and pulse free as possible. 

View this closely at the top of the GLS frosted center post. The liquid should 

stream continuously from the capillary tip to the top of the post, and the liquid 

column spanning the gap between the capillary tip and post should be nearly 

“motionless,” with minimal fluctuation and no jerkiness or discontinuity. If this 

is not the case check that the “gap” between the bottom of the GLS capillary 

insert tube and the top of the GLS frosted center post is ~0.5 mm (range of 0.3- 

0.6 mm). If not, very carefully slide this insert up or down, as needed. Refine 

the clamp tension of the sample and reagent channels as needed to stabilize 

the liquid flow to the GLS. 

A flow check with a 10 mL graduated cylinder (less than 100 mm tall) and 

stopwatch should yield a sample uptake rate of ~15 mL/min, and a reagent 

uptake rate of ~5.7 mL/min. Check liquid flow stability at the drain exit of the 

GLS after final adjustments of clamp tension to sample and reagent pump 

tubing. The pump tension will not need further adjustments; do not adjust 

pump tension to compensate for worn pump tubing. 

NOTE: 

When properly adjusted the tension on the bottom three peristaltic pump 

tubes (channels 1-3) should be the same and the tension screw for the top 

pump tube (reagent tube, channel 1) should be screwed in 1 to 2 mm farther 

than the other channels. 

Step 15: Check the Reagent Flow 

1 Fill the 10 mL graduated cylinder with 10 mL DI water. 

2 Simultaneously place the reagent uptake tube in the graduated cylinder and 

start the stopwatch. 

3 After 30 seconds, remove the uptake tube from the cylinder. 

4 Measure the water remaining in the cylinder, and calculate the reagent flow 

rate. 

Step 16: Check the Sample Probe Flow 

1 Fill the 10 mL graduated cylinder with 10 mL DI water. 

2 Move the sample probe to the middle of the sample rack. (1:35 if set for a 60 

position rack). 

3 Position the graduated cylinder beneath the sample probe. 

4 Simultaneously click the Down button and start the stopwatch. 

73



5 After 30 seconds press the Up button. 

6 Measure the water remaining in the cylinder, and calculate the flow rate. 

7 Park the sample probe. 

NOTE: 

When properly adjusted the tension on the bottom three peristaltic pump 

tubes (channels 1-3) should be the same and the tension screw for the top 

pump tube (reagent tube, channel 1) should be screwed in 1 to 2 mm farther 

than the other channels. 

Once the clamp tension on the pump tubing is established, relieve their 

stretch: 

8 Unclamp reagent and sample clamps. 

9 Park the sample probe. 

10 Press the Up button to remove the sample probe from the rinse station. 

11 Remove the reagent uptake tube from the SnCl 2. 

12 Allow the waste tube to empty. 

13 Unclamp waste tube clamps. 

14 Turn the pump off using the software controls. 

Do not leave tubes clamped in place when the system is not being used. The 

next time the system is used, hook the tubes and close the quick-release 

mechanisms. No screw adjustments will be needed. Previous clamp tension is 

“remembered” as the quick release is engaged and disengaged. 

74

4 Using the Analyzer 

Operation of the M-7600 is mostly through the QuickTrace software 

interface. 

For a detailed description of the software see the QuickTrace help file and the 

QuickTrace mercury analyzer software manual. 

Theory of Operation 

Autosampler 

The autosampler is prepared for operation by loading sample vials of digested 

samples, into selected positions of the sample racks. Vials of calibration 

standards are placed in user-selected positions of the standards rack. Rinse 

solution, for sample-to-sample probe decontamination, fills the rinse station 

and re-circulates to the rinse bottle. 

After a method worksheet is prepared/loaded, the system is ready for 

unattended operation to begin. The autosampler operates under computer 

control to move the sample uptake probe to any sample position; the rinse 

station, reference standard, blank, etc., in a user-programmed sequence. The 

sample probe supplies the multi-channel peristaltic pump's sample inlet. 

For further information, see the Autosampler Operator's Manual. 

75


Chapter 4: Using the Analyzer 

QuickTrace M-7600 Automated Mercury Analyzer 

Figure 4-1 

QuickTrace M-7600 Block Diagram. 

Sample Introduction & Stannous Chloride Reactor 

Refer to Figure 4-1 to trace the path of liquids through the M-7600 System. An 

acidified digested aqueous sample from the autosampler is introduced, via 

peristaltic pump as Hg 2+ dissolved in solution. A reducing agent (10% stannous 

chloride in 7% HCl), is introduced via a parallel pump channel. The sample and 

reagent (SnCl 2) streams join at the mixing tee (1), and immediately enter the 

QuickTrace M-7600 tubing reactor (“Liquid Mix”). Sn 2+ reduces Hg 2+ in 

solution to Hg 0 while the mixture is en route to the Gas-Liquid separator (GLS). 

At this stage and prior to the GLS, the analyte is present as a finely dispersed 

emulsion of liquid (metallic) Hg 0 micro-droplets, in excess SnCl 2 solution. 

76



NOTE 

The CETAC QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer measures inorganic mercury 

(free Hg 2+ or HgCl 2 , which is subject to efficient stannous chloride reduction in 

the QuickTrace M-7600 tubing reactor); using inorganic mercury standard 

solutions for instrument calibration. If insoluble mercury, bound mercury, or 

organomercurials are present in samples, an appropriate sample 

dissolution/digestion procedure will have to be employed to convert these 

other forms to free inorganic Hg 2+ or HgCl 2, prior to analysis with the 

QuickTrace M-7600. 

Gas-Liquid Separation 

The finely dispersed Hg 0 /SnCl 2 emulsion is introduced into the top of the GLS 

(Gas-Liquid Separator (2)). The Hg 0 /SnCl 2 emulsion flows over the frosted GLS 

center post in a relatively thin film, covering the entire post from top to 

bottom. A carrier gas simultaneously enters the bottom of the GLS tangentially 

(10). The carrier gas (Ar or N 2) swirls around the wetted center post and 

upwards toward the GLS gas exhaust port (11). 

Hg 0 droplets in the thin emulsion film quickly evaporate into the gas vortex 

surrounding the post. The carrier gas stream efficiently sweeps this Hg 0 vapor 

(along with some evaporated water) upward and out of the GLS gas exhaust 

(11), and on to the drying (12, 13) and optical section (14, 15) of the 

QuickTrace M-7600 for an absorbency measurement. 

The liquid water, containing excess reducing agent, acid, any non-participating 

“spectator ions,” and reaction by-products, finally drains out the bottom of the 

GLS (3) and is pumped to waste (4), (channels one & two). 

NOTE 

The GLS operates “empty” with no liquid level. The liquid spreads out as a film 

that wets the center post. At the bottom of the post, the film collects at a 

single point and is then continuously pumped to waste, so the “liquid level” 

should not rise in the GLS. 

Carrier Gas 

Refer again to Figure 4-1 on page 76 to trace the path of the carrier gas. A 

clean, dry carrier gas, such as UHP N 2 or Argon, must be supplied to the back of 

the instrument. The gas passes through fixed restrictors to produce primary 

flow rates in the range of 30-1000 mL/min at 825 kPa (120 psig). The carrier 

gas first enters the reference cell (6) to facilitate measurement of the incident 

radiant power (P 0) at 253.7nm. It exits (7) and passes through the GLS (10) to 

pick up Hg 0 vapor from the reduced sample. The carrier gas and Hg 0 vapor exit 

the GLS (11) and enter (12) a Perma Pure ® drying cartridge where water 

vapor is removed by a Nafion ® membrane (13). For the Perma Pure ® dryer, an 

auxiliary sweep gas from a restrictor (5A) enters an auxiliary port (17) and 

selectively removes water vapor from the dryer cartridge at 18. 

Finally, the dry Hg 0 /carrier gas mixture exits the dryer (13) and enters the 

sample cell (14B) for measurement of transmitted radiant power (P) at 253.7 

nm. 

77



Ultimately, the gas stream (carrier gas and Hg 0 ) exits the sample cell (15) and 

is exhausted to a solid KMnO 4 trap (16) where Hg 0 is absorbed, and clean 

carrier gas passes to the lab atmosphere. 

Dryer Cartridge 

The mercury analyzer uses a Perma Pure ® DuPont Nafion ® -based dryer 

cartridge. Dryer cartridges typically last three to six months. 

The dryer cartridge contains Perma Pure ® dryer tubing which is made with a 

tubular DuPont Nafion ® membrane. The Nafion ® tubing is housed within an 

outer tube and coiled inside the cartridge. The argon or nitrogen carrier gas 

containing mercury and water vapor is swept along the inner Nafion ® 

membrane, allowing water vapor to permeate the membrane selectively, 

whereas the membrane is not permeable to mercury vapor. On the “waste” side 

of the membrane, a counter gas flow, split from the carrier gas supply, 

selectively sweeps the water vapor out of the system, whereas non-permeating 

mercury vapor proceeds to the sample cell. 

The Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge and associated plumbing is already preinstalled 

in your new QuickTrace M-7600 factory shipment. No further 

installation is required. 

Optics and Cold Vapor AAS 

Refer again to Figure 4-1 on page 76 to trace the optical path of the 

QuickTrace M-7600. The Cold Vapor AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrometry) 

process within the sample cell begins with a low pressure, high frequency, 

thermally stabilized, electro-optically regulated Hg vapor lamp, which 

produces the Hg emission spectrum. Emitted light is collimated (L 1) and 

projected in two parallel, isolated beams one each through the reference and 

sample cells. Absorbance of 253.7nm radiation by Hg 0 vapor (derived from the 

chemically reduced sample and GLS) occurs only in the sample cell. P is 

thereby decreased, relative to P 0. 

Light from the cells enter the binocular camera, where both collimated beams 

are independently focused (L 2) and filtered (F) before reaching the Charged 

Coupled Device (CCD) detector. Narrow band 254 +/- 2nm interference filters 

(F) remove all radiation but the strong 253.7 nm Hg 0 “resonance line” from 

both the sample (P) and reference (P 0) beams. By a photovoltaic effect, the CCD 

converts the light beams into electrical signals, proportional to radiant power 

(P and P 0). These outputs are processed to yield an electrical signal 

proportional to optical absorbance (Abs = -log (P/P 0)). 

Software 

In the host computer, the sample absorbance value is drift corrected, blank 

subtracted, if through blank is desired. The absorbance value is then measured 

against a calibration curve derived from previously obtained absorbance 

values of calibration standards. 

The QuickTrace software operates under a Windows environment. The 

QuickTrace software provides complete instrument, autosampler control. 

The QuickTrace software also provides a variety of EPA compliant quality 

control functions, display features, report generation and diagnostic routines. 

78



The user interface is sufficiently powerful that it will satisfy the requirements 

of experienced technically advanced analysts and scientists. 

The reader is referred to the separate QuickTrace Help file and QuickTrace 

Mercury Analyzer Software Manual for a detailed description of the software 

features, functions, and operation instructions. 

Preparing Reagents and Calibration Standards 

Always use high purity gas, chemicals, acids, water, standards, and clean 

glassware for analysis. It may be necessary to acid wash and rinse all glassware 

more than once to eliminate contamination for the most sensitive mode of 

operation (



NOTE 

The CETAC QuickTrace M-7600 mercury analyzer measures inorganic mercury 

(free Hg 2+ or HgCl 2 , which is subject to efficient stannous chloride reduction in 

the QuickTrace M-7600 tubing reactor). Inorganic mercury standard solutions 

are used for instrument calibration. If insoluble mercury, bound mercury, or 

organomercurials are present in samples, an appropriate sample 

dissolution/digestion procedure will have to be employed to convert these 

forms to free inorganic Hg 2+ or HgCl 2, prior to analysis with the QuickTrace M- 

7600. If it is desired to confirm the oxidative digestion procedure accuracy 

(recovery) regarding organomercurials, then organomercurial standards or 

appropriate standard reference materials would have to be carried through the 

digestion as “process standards”. 

WARNING 

ORGANOMERCURIAL EXPOSURE HAZARD 

The handling of organomercurial concentrates, which may be used in the 

preparation of process standards, presents a substantial (potentially lethal) 

safety hazard. Only an experienced, professionally trained organo-metallic 

chemist, knowledgeable and skilled specifically in the safe handling of 

organomercurials (using approved apparatus and approved protection 

measures in an approved facility) should attempt to prepare diluted 

organomercurial process standards from concentrates. Always be sure to 

obtain and carefully read the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) before 

handling organomercurials! 

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when operating 

the mercury analyzer or handling organomercurials. At a minimum, you 

should wear eye protection, acid-resistant gloves, and a lab coat. 

NOTE: 

CETAC Technologies assumes no liability for the handling of organomercurial 

concentrates or the preparation, handling, or use of diluted organomercurial 

process standards. 

In most cases, CETAC Technologies recommends that samples be oxidized 

following standard, safe, well known, approved sample dissolution or digestion 

procedures, and that the QuickTrace M-7600 instrument calibration 

standards be prepared only from inorganic mercury concentrates or diluted 

from commercially available inorganic mercury standard solution 

concentrates. Where possible, the recommended means of overall process 

(dissolution/digestion + QuickTrace M-7600 analysis) validation should be 

through use of commercially available standard reference materials (SRM’s) of 

composition matching (or similar to) the samples and containing certified, 

known mercury levels in a concentration range similar to the samples. (Being 

by far the safest alternative, this SRM approach to overall process validation 

should be used whenever possible, and is nearly always preferred to preparing 

diluted process standards from hazardous organomercurial concentrates!) 

80



Gas Parameters 

The QuickTrace M-7600 has controls gas flow based on settings in the 

QuickTrace software. The user needs to adjust the method flow rate to 

achieve increased or decreased signal responses which are in part derived 

from gas flow rate. 

Carrier Gas 

Gas Pressure 

Gas Flow Rate 

N 2 UHP, high purity grade cylinder (dry, 

research grade) or Argon, high purity 

grade (supplied, for example, from a 

liquid Dewar boil-off or cylinder). 

120 psig (825 kPa) 

30-1000 mL/min 

For exact response versus gas flow parameters for your instrument, please 

consult the final test documentation, which accompanied the instrument. 

See Table 4-1 and Table 4-2 for a more complete listing of optimal instrument 

setups. 

Starting the System 

1 Power on the QuickTrace M-7600. 

2 Power on the autosampler. 

3 Open the QuickTrace software. 

The mercury vapor lamp automatically turns on when the QuickTrace 

software starts. 

4 Once the QuickTrace M-7600 has powered up, and while the lamp is warming 

up, perform the following checks: 

‣ If this is the first time the instrument is started, check that the pump 

tubing is installed and tension is adjusted as described beginning on page 

70. 

‣ Check that supply gas is connected and 120 psig (825 kPa) pressure is 

applied to the unit. 

‣ If this is the first time the instrument is started, check that the KMnO 4 trap 

is filled as described on page 42. 

81



NOTE: 

The mercury vapor trap will exhibit a noticeable brown color migrating toward 

the vapor exit port as the KMnO 4 is consumed. It may take a considerable 

amount of time to consume the entire amount of KMnO 4 . The reaction is the 

oxidation of Hg 0 to mercuric oxide with the KMnO 4 being reduced to 

manganese dioxide. 

Mercury Vapor Lamp Warmup 

The mercury vapor lamp automatically turns on when the QuickTrace 

software starts. 

The lamp will require 30-60 minutes to stabilize, as described in the following 

sections. Other instrument preparation may be performed during this time. 

Turning Off the Mercury Vapor Lamp for System Warm-Up 

If your intent is to only warm up the system and you are not going to analyze 

samples within the next hour it is recommended to navigate to instrument 

controls and turn off the mercury lamp. 

1 In the QuickTrace software, click the Instrument Control button. 

Figure 4-2 


2 Click the Hg Analyzer button then click Lamp Off. 

Figure 4-3 

Turning Off the Lamp. 

System Warm-Up for Trace or Ultra-Trace Analysis 

For analysis in the trace to ultra-trace range (ppt), it is recommended to allow 

extra stabilization time as follows: 

1 Turn on the instrument and open the QuickTrace software. 

2 Navigate to instrument controls and turn off the mercury lamp. 

82



3 Allow 2 hours for the instrument to stabilize. 

5 Turn on the lamp. 

4 Disengage the pressure shoe of the mercury analyzer's peristaltic pump. 

Disengaging the pressure shoe reduces wear on the peristaltic pump tubing 

while the pump stabilizes. Do not adjust the clamp tension. 

5 Run the peristaltic pump at the desired method rate. 

6 Allow 1 hour for the lamp and pump to stabilize. 

7 Proceed with liquid introduction to the system. 

System Warm-Up for ppb or Non-Ultra-Trace Analysis 

If the desired range is ppb or non-ultra-trace analysis the warm-up time from a 

warm start is just the lamp stabilization time. For a cold start in a non-trace 

range the system would need 30-60 minutes with the lamp and pump on at the 

desired rate to stabilize all parts of the system. For a warm start, allow 15-30 

minutes to stabilize the lamp. 

83



Wetting the GLS 

At the beginning of each day or after any period of pump inactivity and prior to 

analysis ensure that the GLS center post is fully wetted. 

Refer to Figure 4-8 while reading the procedure below. 

1 Disconnect “11HG Vapor12” tube from the GLS vapor outlet. 

NOTE 

Always disconnect the Hg Vapor tube from the GLS when the system is not in 

use. 

Figure 4-4 


2 Set the gas to maximum flow. There are two ways to do this: 

‣ Click the Instrument Control button and set the flow rate to 1000 mL/min, 

or 

Figure 4-5 

Gas Flow Setting. 

84



‣ Click the “Wet The Gas Liquid Separator Post” button. This will result in a 

gas flow of about 1000 mL/min with a pump rate of 100%. 

Figure 4-6 

Wet GLS Button. 

3 Check that the bottle supplying the autosampler rinse station is filled with 

clean trace metal grade acidified rinse solution. 

4 Place the reagent uptake tube in a beaker of DI water. 

5 If the peristaltic pump is not already on, turn it on. 

Figure 4-7 

Turning On the Pump. 

6 Engage the pressure shoe (quick release mechanism) on the peristaltic pump. 

7 Pinch the drain tube as shown in Figure 4-8. The drain tube runs from the GLS 

to the inlet side of the peristaltic pump. 

Pinch the Drain tube here 

Figure 4-8 

Pinching the Drain Tube. 

85



8 With the drain tube pinched, the GLS should begin to fill with liquid. Once the 

liquid level rises, gas will bubble through it. 

9 Allow the GLS to fill until a gas bubble propels a “meniscus” upward to wet the 

post all along its length, including its top. (THE POST IS NOW WETTED.) 

10 When this happens, release (un-pinch) the drain tube. With the drain tube 

tension properly set and the drain tube un-pinched, the liquid will begin 

draining. 

11 Once the GLS has “emptied,” leave the pump running (keep liquid flowing) and 

reconnect “11HG Vapor12” tube to the GLS vapor outlet. 

12 Place reagent uptake tube in the SnCl 2. 

13 The post is now wetted and the QuickTrace M-7600 is ready to run samples. 

The analyst may now operate the QuickTrace M-7600 to perform analysis of 

samples. The help system built into the QuickTrace software has been 

developed specifically to assist the analyst in this task. Refer to the software 

manual, the online help, or the QuickTrace interactive demo to perform the 

desired analytical tasks. 

14 Once the analysis is finished, place the QuickTrace M-7600 instrument in 

either Standby or Cold Shutdown condition (page 101). 

NOTE 

Concentration ranges greater than 20 ppb may require a higher percent acid in 

the rinse solution. A 5% HCl / 2% HNO 3 v/v should be sufficient for the highest 

concentration mode. 

NOTE 

If you don't want to consume stannous chloride reagent during a “standby” 

condition, you may alternatively keep the GLS center post wetted by 

immersing the reagent uptake tube in a beaker of deionized water (with the 

autosampler's sample probe also immersed in the autosampler rinse station). 

86



Running the Interactive Demo 

The QuickTrace software comes with an interactive demonstration which will 

help you quickly understand the basic operation of the software. 

1 From the Start menu, select All Programs | CETAC QuickTrace | Interactive 

Demo. 

Figure 4-9 

Starting the Interactive Demo. 

Figure 4-10 

Interactive Demo Interface. 

Overview of the CETAC QuickTrace Software 

The QuickTrace software lets you create a method tailored to your analytical 

needs. You can specify a calibration, quality control limits with error actions 

and specific end-of-run routines such as automated standby, print or export 

routines. 

There are three basic parameters that affect the M-7600’s method ranges: 

‣ Gas flow rate 

‣ Sample peristaltic pump rate 

‣ Sample uptake rate 

By changing these basic parameters, you can set the QuickTrace M-7600 

mercury analyzer to function in method ranges of ultra-trace to high µg/L 

87



methods such as a high calibration standard of ~ 500 µg/L. These method 

ranges are guaranteed to exhibit at a minimum three orders of magnitude. 

The M-7600 QuickTrace software comes with two basic templates or starter 

methods as described in “QuickTrace M-7600 Startup Summary” on page 89. 

Follow these basic steps to create a new method based on one of the supplied 

templates: 

1 Open one of the supplied templates. 

The M-7600 QuickTrace software comes with two basic templates or starter 

methods as described in “Summary of Gas and Liquid Flows for Analytical 

Ranges of the QuickTrace M-7600” on page 98. 

Click the File icon or the File menu and select New From… You will be asked to 

supply a name for the new method. 

Figure 4-11 

Creating a New Method Using the File Icon. 

Figure 4-12 

Creating a New Method Using the File Menu. 

2 Adjust the template to create a laboratory-specific method 

3 Perform the peak profile described in “Setting Baseline Correction” on page 91. 

4 After a successful peak profile, start the analytical sequence by selecting the 

green GO button, navigating to Analyze | Start Run, or typing Shift+Ctrl+F8. 

Learning More 

It is strongly recommended to navigate through the interactive demo, then 

view the help file or read the QuickTrace software manual to find out about 

more software features. In most cases, there are multiple ways to accomplish a 

given task. 

88



QuickTrace M-7600 Startup Summary 


If the software was left open and in standby, open the instrument controls and 

start the autosampler rinse pump by clicking Pump On or Move Sipper to Park 

(either method will start the autosampler rinse pump). 

Figure 4-13 

Turning On the Pump. 

2 Turn on the lamp and initiate the carrier gas flow. A minimum of a 15-minute 

warm-up time is required. 

NOTE 

The lamp will automatically turn on when you start the QuickTrace software. 

Figure 4-14 

Turning On the Lamp and Carrier Gas. 

3 Clean and rinse the 2 L rinse bottle with DI water and refill with the desired 

trace metal grade HCl / HNO 3 solution. 

4 Place the autosampler rinse tubing into the rinse bottle. 

5 Prepare a fresh 10% SnCl 2. H 2O w/v 7% HCl v/v solution if old solution is 

yellow (oxidized) or precipitated. Prepare only what you need to complete the 

calibration and sample run including all QC checks and spikes. The reagent 

flow is ≈ 3.8 mL/min at 50% pump rate. 

89



6 Verify that the sample capillary (inlet insert) is 0.5mm above the Gas-Liquid 

Separator (GLS) center post. 

7 Open the vents on the waste container. 

8 Inspect the peristaltic pump tubing for wear and flat spots (replace if 

necessary). If you remove any of the peristaltic pump tubes, do so one channel 

at a time, and be careful to return the tube to the appropriate pump channel. 

Do not lock the pressure shoes at this time. 

9 Place the reagent capillary in a beaker of DI water. 

10 Lock down the peristaltic pump pressure shoes. 

11 Inspect liquid flows. The GLS drain should be flowing smoothly with no build up 

or pulsing of liquid. The waste tube from the peristaltic pump to the waste 

container should be liquid/gas etc… with no vibration. If this is not the case 

upon inspection, stop immediately and change GLS drain tube and or waste tube. 

12 Wet the GLS center post as described on page 84. 

13 Inspect the rinse station for a convex liquid bubble adhering to the sample 

probe. If this is not the case, change the rinse pump peristaltic tubing. 

14 Open the appropriate worksheet (see the online help in the QuickTrace 

software) and set the gas pressure to match the method. 

You can also set the gas pressure by clicking on the Set Gas & Pump Speed icon. 

Figure 4-15 

Setting the Gas Pressure. 

15 Zero the QuickTrace M-7600 using the auto zero. 

Figure 4-16 

Auto-Zero. 

90



16 Peak profile the high standard and verify the baseline and sample integration 

times. Record µAbs and concentration of the peak profile standard in a daily 

instrument logbook. This operation should be performed on the highest 

standard. 

Figure 4-17 

Profiling the Highest Standard. 

17 Calibrate instrument and analyze samples. 

Setting Baseline Correction 

To guarantee a high quality result it is essential to always use the correct 

baseline correction. 

‣ For trace to ultra-trace levels (ng/L), use a two-point base line correction. 

‣ For µg/L levels, use a single point base line correction. 

Keeping an Instrument Log Book 

At a minimum, it is recommended that you record the following information in 

an instrument log book every day: 

‣ Date 

‣ Lamp current 

‣ Method 

‣ Response of highest calibration standard 

This will assist in troubleshooting any change in peak response. 

91



Viewing the Graphs 

To scroll an absorbance/time graph, place the mouse pointer over the graph 

and hold the right mouse button. 

To zoom in on a graph, hold the left mouse button to draw a box from the 

upper-left to the lower-right corner of the region you wish to view. 

Setting a One-Point Baseline 

1 Examine the absorbance curve. 

The absorbance curve is displayed in the Method Editor after the peak profile 

has been performed. 

NOTE 

If you leave the method editor, the peak graph will not be retained. Make all 

your inspections and adjustments then save prior to exiting method editor. To 

save the adjustments, select File | Save, which will save the entire worksheet. 

2 Check “Baseline drift correction” to enable setting Baseline Point #1. 

Figure 4-18 

Typical Results from µg/L Settings. 

3 To set Baseline Point #1, place the end of the read about 4 seconds before the 

inflection point on the left side of the peak. 

92



Figure 4-19 

Setting Baseline Correction Point #1 (µg/L). 

4 Zoom in on the graph to see the top of the peak, and record the peak height in 

the instrument log book. 

Figure 4-20 

10.0 µg/L Peak Profile Response With Baseline Correction. 

93



Setting a Two-Point Baseline 

1 Examine the absorbance curve. 

The absorbance curve is displayed in the Method Editor after the peak profile 

has been performed. 

NOTE 

If you leave the method editor, the peak graph will not be retained. Make all 

your inspections and adjustments then save prior to exiting method editor. To 

save the adjustments, select File | Save, which will save the entire worksheet. 

2 Check “Baseline drift correction” to enable setting Baseline Point #1. 

3 Check “Two-point baseline correction” to enable setting Baseline Point #2. 

Figure 4-21 

Typical Results from ng/L Settings. 

94



4 To set Baseline Point #1, place the end of the read about 4 seconds before the 

inflection point on the left side of the peak. 

Figure 4-22 

Setting Baseline Correction Point #1 (ng/L). 

5 Set Baseline Point #2 just after the signal returns to its baseline level on the 

right side of the peak. 

Figure 4-23 

Setting Baseline Correction Point #2 (ng/L). 

95



Figure 4-24 

View of ng/L Baseline Correction Points. 

The software will average the baseline points and subtract that value from the 

peak height. The response will remain the same for each standard or duplicate 

sample and the drift correction will compensate for baseline drift, effectively 

zeroing out any instrument drift. 

For example, if the 100 ng/L response is 5000 units at time 0 and the baseline 

is at 0 the software will report 5000 units. If the baseline should drift over 

time, such as a baseline drift of 1000 units, and you analyze the 100 ng/L the 

response will be 6000 units. With baseline correction, the software will 

subtract the 1000-units drift from 6000 units and report a value of 5000 units 

or 100 ng/L. The same is true for a negative baseline drift. 

96



Figure 4-25 

100 ng/L Peak Profile Response With Baseline Correction. 

6 Zoom in on the graph to see the top of the peak, and record the peak height in 

the instrument log book. 

97



Summary of Gas and Liquid Flows for Analytical 

Ranges of the QuickTrace M-7600 

RANGE #1: M-7600 ng/L 



RANGE #2: M-7600 µg/L 

0.1 – 20 µg/L Hg 

Gas Flow 

100 mL/min 

Peristaltic Pump Speed 50% 

Sample Flow Rate 

~5 mL/min 

ASX Rinse Pump Speed 50% 

Sample Time (for Liquid Uptake or autosampler “Sip”) 40 s 

Rinse Time 

95 s 

Read Delay 

52 s 

Replicate Read Time 

1.5 s 

Replicates 4 

Baseline Correction Method 1 point (20-25 s) 

Expected Results: 10 ppb | 7% HCl 

~150,000 µAbs 

Detection Limit (nominal): 

< 0.01 ppb 

Sample Throughput Rate (minutes/sample) 

~ 2.25 min/sample 

Table 4-2 

µg/L Parameters to Optimize 

Figure 4-27 

Typical Results from µg/L Settings. 

99



Placing the QuickTrace M-7600 in Standby Mode 

To prolong instrument life, do not leave the system fully on (with lamp on) 

overnight, or when not in use. However, to speed the next day’s startup, the 

QuickTrace M-7600 can be left on with the lamp off overnight without 

significantly shortening its life. 

1 Turn the lamp off. 

Figure 4-28 

Turning Off the Lamp. 

NOTE 

The lamp will automatically turn off when you exit the QuickTrace software. 

2 When analysis is done for the day, rinse with 10% HNO 3 for several minutes 

through the reagent uptake tube. 

3 Rinse with deionized water through the reagent uptake tube for several 

minutes. 

NOTE 

Failure to perform this “shutdown rinse” may result in a system clog. 

4 Withdraw the reagent uptake tube. 

Secure the reagent uptake tube in a container that will keep it clean. A plastic 

re-sealable zipper storage bag, a plastic bottle, or a graduated cylinder with a 

plastic bag sealed over the top all work sufficiently. 

5 Remove the autosampler rinse supply tube from the bottle of rinse solution 

and allow the rinse station to run completely dry. 

Use the QuickTrace software controls to withdraw the autosampler probe 

from the rinse station when the rinse station becomes empty. Allow the drain 

and waste tubes to run completely dry. 

CAUTION 

Make sure the rinse return tube stays inside the bottle of rinse solution. Rinse 

solution may drain from the tubing while you are removing and wiping off the 

rinse supply tube. 

100



6 Turn off both the M-7600 peristaltic pump the autosampler peristaltic rinse 

pump. 

7 Release the M-7600 peristaltic pump pressure shoes, and then lift the stops on 

the tubes out of the slots. 

8 Turn off the gas (main supply). 

9 Disconnect the Hg vapor tube from the GLS. 

Leave the system mains power on. The Hg lamp sent with the system has an 

operation life of ~5000 hours, but internal optical filter life may be 

substantially extended by turning off just the lamp whenever analyses are not 

being performed. Leaving the main power on leaves the lamp block heaters on, 

and consequently the lamp block remains thermally stable. 

To return the instrument to “run” status, simply turn the lamp on again, reestablish 

appropriate gas and liquid flows and operate the instrument 

normally. The system will be stable and ready to run within 5-10 minutes. 

If desired, exit the QuickTrace software, but leave the mains power on. This 

will also effectively keep the system in a warm start state. 

Cold Shutdown 

For a total system shutdown (to cold condition), prepare the pump tubing as 

you would for standby mode. Exit the QuickTrace software, shut down 

Windows and turn off the computer. Turn off the gas, autosampler, pump, and 

QuickTrace M-7600 main power. 

Summary of QuickTrace M-7600 Shut Down 

1 Place the reagent capillary in a beaker of 10% HNO 3 and cap the reagent bottle. 

Rinse the system for a minimum of ten minutes. 

2 Place the reagent capillary in a beaker of DI water and rinse the system for one 

minute. 

3 Remove reagent capillary from DI water. 

4 Remove the autosampler rinse supply tube from the bottle of rinse solution 

and allow the rinse station to run completely dry. 

Use the QuickTrace software controls to withdraw the autosampler probe 

from the rinse station. Allow the drain and waste tubes to run completely dry. 

CAUTION 

Make sure the rinse return tube stays inside the bottle of rinse solution. Rinse 

solution may drain from the tubing while you are removing and wiping off the 

rinse supply tube. 

5 Turn off both the M-7600 peristaltic pump the autosampler peristaltic rinse 

pump. 

101



6 Release the M-7600 peristaltic pump pressure shoes, then lift the stops on the 

tubes out of the slots. 

7 Close the vents on the waste container. 

8 Disconnect the GLS exhaust tube from GLS. 

9 Turn off gas and lamp. 

10 If you are going to use the instrument the next day or in the near future, leave 

the instrument in this condition. It will then be ready for a warm start. 

11 If you are not going to be using the instrument in the near future then exit the 

QuickTrace software and turn off the autosampler and QuickTrace M-7600. 

NOTE 

Before shutting down the instrument to either Standby or Cold condition, 

remember to run 10% HNO 3 and deionized water through the SnCl 2 reagent 

tubes. This will clean out any chemicals from the peristaltic pump and sample 

tubing and prevent residue encrustation in the Gas-Liquid Separator and its 

drain. Remember to pump all tubes completely dry after rinsing. 

CAUTION 

Always remember to release all clamps and unhook the pump tubing from the 

peristaltic pump. Failure to release clamps and unhook the tubing when the pump 

is off, will cause tube fatigue and lead to poor results (bad RSD) when used for 

analysis the next time. 

102

5 Maintaining the 


Routine maintenance of the analyzer consists of daily and weekly cleaning of 

specific analyzer components. Routine maintenance also includes checking for 

leaks or other damage. Additional periodic maintenance tasks may be 

required, including replacement of the following analyzer components: 

peristaltic pump tubing, sample probe, rinse station tubing, GLS capillaries, 

GLS drain tubing and Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge. 

CAUTION 

Discharge static buildup and ground to the analyzer base or cabinet before 

performing any maintenance. Avoid touching the contacts on the communication 

ports. 

Maintenance Schedule 

Daily Maintenance (Always Check Before Analysis) 

‣ Ensure the autosampler rinse bottle is rinsed between analytical batches 

with small amounts 10% HNO 3 follow by DI water and refilled with 

acidified rinse solution. For concentration of standards and samples 

greater than 20 µg/L, a 5% HCl / 2% HNO 3 v/v should be sufficient. For 

trace to ultra-trace calibrations (such as 0 to 500 ng/L) a rinse solution of 

1% HCl / 1% HNO 3 v/v should be sufficient. 

‣ Ensure the rinse bottle tubes are completely submerged in rinse solution. 

The rinse station supply tubing should be at the bottom of the rinse bottle 

and the rinse station return tubing should be at the top of the rinse bottle. 

This will ensure that the rinse is a true recirculating rinse. Inspect the 

rinse station flow and ensure that the rinse is not removed via the sample 

probe faster than it is supplied. If the rinse station is being drained faster 

than the supply rate, you may need to adjust the autosampler pump rate in 

the method or change rinse pump tubing. Replace the autosampler rinse 

pump tubing periodically for best performance (See the Autosampler 

Operator’s Manual). 

103


Chapter 5: Maintaining the Mercury Analyzer 

‣ Inspect the sample peristaltic pump tubing for fatigue and wear. Replace if 

too worn or fatigued. 

‣ If the pump tubing was left clamped overnight, install new tubing. 

‣ Pre-wet the GLS center post and be sure it remains completely wet during 

operation. 

‣ Check that the liquid flows, to and from the GLS, are smooth. Verify by 

close inspection the inlet to the GLS center post and drain exit points. 

‣ Be sure the waste bottle will not overflow during the run. 

‣ Check that the reagent bottle is sufficiently full for the number of samples 

to analyze. 

‣ Check that the SnCl 2 is fresh and not precipitated, crystallized, yellowed, 

or oxidized or that the small cap on reagent bottle was left open overnight. 

Replace if necessary. 

‣ For autosampler maintenance, see the appropriate autosampler Operator’s 

Manual. 

Weekly Maintenance 

‣ Remove the GLS and clean if residue is building up. See page 112 for 

instructions. 

‣ Clean the SnCl 2 reagent bottle weekly or before refilling. 

‣ Change the pump tubing if it is too worn, appreciably “flattened,” or left in 

place overnight. 

‣ Empty the waste bottle. Cap all Luer fittings to carry this bottle. 

‣ Check the cells and cell windows for cleanliness. 

Monthly Maintenance 

‣ Clean the GLS. See page 112 for instructions. 

‣ Clean the cells and cell windows. See page105 and following. 

‣ Replace the GLS inlet tubing and capillary insert. See page 115. 

‣ Replace the GLS drain tube. See page 116. 

‣ Check that the Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge is still good. A failing dryer 

cartridge may be indicated by loss of mercury absorbance sensitivity and 

an increase in the baseline of more than 3000 µabs during a short run of 

30 minutes or less. If the mercury absorbance for a given standard 

solution drops to 50% or more of its original value, change the cartridge. 

See page 117. 

Yearly Maintenance 

‣ Replace the Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge bi-yearly, or as needed. (See page 

117.) A failing dryer cartridge may be indicated by loss of mercury 

absorbance sensitivity and an increase in the baseline of more than 

3000 µabs during a short run of 30 minutes or less. If the mercury 

104



absorbance for a given standard solution drops to 50% or more of its 

original value, change the cartridge. 

‣ Replace the 2-micron filter (See “Step 5: Connect the Carrier Gas Tubing” 

on page 40). 

Autosampler Yearly Maintenance 

‣ Replace the sample probe. 

‣ Replace the autosampler rinse peristaltic pump tubing. 

See the autosampler Operator’s Manual. 

Removal or Inspection of the Sample Cell 

Opening the Optics Access Panel 

1 Turn off power to the mercury analyzer and wait five minutes. 

2 Remove the four Philips screws which hold the access panel in place. 

Figure 5-1 

Screws for Optics Access Pane. 

WARNING 

For continued protection against hazards indicated on the warning labels, 

always retighten the screws securely after servicing. 

105



3 Lift the access panel and set it aside. 

Figure 5-2 

Optical Access Panel of QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer. 

4 Remove the thumbscrews on the optical cell clamps. 

Thumbscrews 

Cells 

Figure 5-3 Optical cabinet of QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer. 

(Note that Viton ® tubing is always used for the carrier gas tubing; the color of 

the tubing in this figure has been modified to make it visible.) 

106



Removing the Sample Cell 

Refer to Figure 5-3 and Figure 5-4. The cells are designed for simple removal 

and cleaning. When removing the cells, be careful to not touch the cell 

windows at the ends of the optical cells. If the cells and cell windows are dirty, 

use a clean foam swab and isopropyl alcohol (spectrophotometric grade only) 

to clean the surfaces (see page 107). If needed, the windows can be taken out 

by removing the end caps and the O-rings. 

Once the cell clamps have been removed, disconnect the carrier gas tubes from 

the cell end caps. Remove the cell end caps by holding the glass cell, pull, and 

rotate the end cap until it slides off the glass cell. Repeat this procedure for the 

reference cell. Inspect and/or clean the cell and its windows per the 

instructions beginning on page 107, or perform tubing maintenance as 

described in on page 113. 

Cleaning the Cell Windows 

Refer to Figure 5-4. 

There are two ways to clean cell windows: 

‣ Quick exposed surface cleaning (without dismantling). 

‣ Dismantling for total cleaning. 

The need for cleaning (or re-cleaning) is determined by close inspection of the 

window (D in Figure 5-4), visible through the hole in the window cap (A), 

while maintaining a low-angle total surface reflection of room light on the 

window. Any film, fingerprint, dust, or dirt will show up dramatically against 

the “white” background of a low-angle surface reflection of room light from the 

window. 

Quick Exposed Surface Cleaning 

Cleaning the exposed surface of the window requires the following: a clean 

foam swab, Kimwipes ® wipers, and a bottle of isopropyl alcohol (use only 

spectrophotometric grade). 

NOTE 

Do NOT use cotton swabs. They will leave small bits of lint, which can offset the 

absorbance baseline and add a great deal of noise, if the lint moves or flutters 

in the optical beam. Use only clean foam swabs. To pre-clean the foam swab, 

rinse in alcohol and dry with a KIMTECH SCIENCE KIMWIPES® delicate task 

wiper. Do not dip the swab in the alcohol supply (when new, the swabs may be 

dirty and contaminate the alcohol supply). Instead, squirt alcohol onto the 

swab with a wash-bottle that is for alcohol only and dry with the Kimwipes® 

wiper. Rinse and only lightly blot the swab with Kimwipes® wipers when 

cleaning; this will leave the swab moist with alcohol, which will be enough to 

clean the cell windows. 

Using the pre-cleaned, alcohol-moistened swab, gently swab the outside of the 

cell window. Wipe with a Kimwipes ® wiper and blow-dry with UHP Argon or 

Nitrogen. The blow-drying will also remove any lint or dust that may have 

107



settled after cleaning. Re-check the surface reflection to see if the window is 

completely clean. If residue, fingerprints, or particles remain, repeat the 

process with another pre-cleaned alcohol-moistened foam swab until the 

windows are clean. If this quick procedure fails, it may be necessary to 

dismantle the assembly for more rigorous “total” cleaning, as described below. 

Figure 5-4 Cell assembly diagram. 

A - Window cap C - Phillips screws E - Cell end cap 

B - Window O-ring D - Sapphire windows F - Glass cell 

108



Dismantling for Total Cleaning 

Refer again to Figure 5-4. Total cleaning requires a small Phillips screwdriver, 

clean Kimwipes ® wipers, isopropyl alcohol, and a clean plastic forceps. 

Carefully pull the cell end caps (E) off the cell (F), using a twisting motion, next 

remove the Phillips screws (C) and the window caps (A). This will allow the 

sapphire windows to be removed. Grip the window (D) with the forceps or 

wear powder free gloves when cleaning. Squirt the window with alcohol or use 

an alcohol wetted foam swab, then rub the surface of the window clean with a 

Kimwipes ® wiper. Rotate the forceps to a different position on the window and 

repeat the cleaning. Blow-dry with clean UHP Nitrogen or Argon. 

Clean the non-O-ring portion and gas ports of the end cap (E) with alcohol. Do 

not use alcohol to clean the O-ring (B). Do not handle the cleaned parts with 

your fingers; use clean forceps or powder free gloves. It will be necessary to 

blow dry the end cap; gas orifice and fitting with clean gas before assembly. Be 

sure not to touch the windows after cleaning. 

NOTE 

It is strongly recommended to clean both reference cell and sample cell at the 

same time. Be careful to keep the part orientation as originally supplied. 

Cell Assembly 

Reassemble the sapphire window (D), O-ring (B), and a window retainer (A) 

onto the cell end cap (E) with three flat-head Phillips screws (C), as shown in 

Figure 5-4. Be sure not to touch the clean O-ring (B). Handle it instead with 

clean forceps. 

Grip the cell (F) near one end and insert the cell into the open end of the cellend 

cap (E) with a pushing twisting motion. From Figure 5-5, which shows the 

“open” end, note that each cell end cap has two imbedded O-rings (A, B). 

Firmly push (with twisting motion) the cell into the open end of the cell end 

cap and continue pushing until both O-rings (A, B) are fully engaged. 

Figure 5-5 

A - O-ring 

Open End of Cell End Cap. 

B - O-ring 

109



Inspect the assembled cell to determine that both O-rings (A, B) are fully 

engaged as shown in Figure 5-6. In Figure 5-6, shown without the window and 

cell cap, area “C” reveals no O-ring gap. This indicates that both O-rings A and B 

of Figure 5-5 are fully engaged. Figure 5-7, shown with window and cell cap, 

also reveals no O-ring gap at point C, (the boundary between the cell end (E) 

and the cell end cap. 

Figure 5-6 Engaged O-Ring. Shown without the window and cell cap. 

C - No gap visible 

Figure 5-7 Engaged O-Ring. Shown with the window and the cell cap. 

C - No O-ring visible D - Window O-ring E - Cell 

NOTE 

The O-ring “D” visible in Figure 5-7 seals against the cell window. 

If an O-ring is NOT engaged, as in Figure 5-6, the O-ring “B” Figure 5-8 is 

visible in the gap immediately at the end of the glass cell “E” Figure 5-8. This 

should look, instead like region “C” in Figures 5-5 and Figure 5-7. If the O-rings 

are not engaged correctly (as in Figure 5-8), then the system may drift and 

perform poorly. Assemble and attach the remaining cell end cap to the other 

end of the glass cell. 

110



Figure 5-8 O-Ring NOT Engaged. 

B - O-ring is visible E - Cell end 

An alternate means of checking complete engagement of all O-rings in both 

cells is to measure the overall length of the fully assembled cell with a ruler. If 

the overall assembled cell length is: 8 29/32 inches (226.5mm), then both O- 

rings are engaged; 8 31/32 inches (228mm) indicates one O-ring is not 

engaged; 9 1/32 inches (229.5mm) indicates that two O-rings are not engaged 

(one in each end). 

CAUTION 

The glass tubing is sufficiently thick-walled that there is almost no danger of 

breakage (provided you have gripped near the end being inserted). However, for 

maximum safety, grip the glass tube with a sufficient thickness of cloth or paper 

towel to protect your hands in the unlikely event of glass breakage. Never insert or 

try to use a cracked or chipped glass tube. 

Once the cell has been completely assembled, with both O-rings fully engaged, 

place the cell on a flat surface with both cell end cap “flats” facing downward. 

Rotationally adjust the cells until both “flats” are flat against the surface and 

parallel with each other. Recheck O-ring engagement (as above) and re-inspect 

both windows under low-angle reflection illumination to verify that no 

residual dust, lint, fingerprints, or other smudges exist on the windows. If both 

windows are “clean”, attach the appropriate Viton ® interconnect tubing and 

reinstall the cells. 

To reinstall the clean (and/or re-tubed) sample cell, first check that the two 

cell holder “flats” are parallel to each other. A simple check will reveal both cell 

end cap flats to be completely “tight down” against a flat surface with no gap 

visible between the end cap and the flat surface, when parallel. 

Finally, reconnect the tubing and the optical cabinet cover. 

111



Cleaning the Gas-Liquid Separator 

Periodically it will be necessary to clean the Gas-Liquid Separator. Try 

pumping 10% HNO 3 through the system for 30 minutes continuously, followed 

by a deionized water rinse. For more aggressive cleaning, disconnect all tubing 

from the GLS. Be careful not to pull hard on the tubing; this can break the glass 

side arms off. Instead, use a fingernail to gently work the tubing off the glass 

arms. 

GLS Retainer 

Thumbscrew 

Figure 5-9 

Removing the GLS. 

Refer to Figure 5-9. After removing the drip tray, loosen the white, plastic 

retainer screw, and carefully remove the GLS by rotating the vapor outlet to the 

front and slide the GLS down through the clamp and exiting at the clamp 

bottom. 

Once the GLS is removed, place it in a beaker containing 50% HNO 3 v/v in DI 

water. If an ultrasonic bath is available, place the beaker in the bath, sonicate 

for 30 minutes, rinse both inside and outside with DI water, then repeat the 

cleaning with fresh acid. If an ultrasonic bath is not available, let the GLS soak 

for two hours in the 50% HNO 3. If excessively dirty immerse the GLS in a 

mixture of 20% nitric and 20% sulfuric acid and heat on a hot plate for several 

hours or until clean. 

Finally, rinse with DI water and dry. Reassemble GLS as shown on page 115. 

Tighten the plastic screw finger tight only. 

WARNING 


Hot concentrated acids may cause severe burns, severe fume inhalation 

trauma and/or death. They should be handled only by professionally 

trained chemists, who employ proper safety precautions and equipment 

(hoods, goggles, gloves, tongs, etc.). 

112



Changing the Cell Gas Tubing 

Begin by opening the optical access panel as shown on page 106. 

Next, replace the tubing. The replacement tubes, which are in the cell gas 

tubing kit, are labeled and precut to length. See Figure 5-10 for label 

designations. Match these numbers and letters with the existing tubing to see 

where each labeled tube should go. It is best to replace one tube at a time. 

Figure 5-10 

Tubing Diagram and Connection Table. 

To remove an old tube from a plastic connector, grip it near its connector and 

pull firmly. For glassware, it is better to slit the old tube with a razor blade or 

sharp knife, before removing. Alternatively, you may use the edge of a 

fingernail to ease the tube off its glass arm. 

A simple way to avoid making wrong connections is to remove only one tube at 

a time, and replace this tube with the appropriate, labeled new one, before 

proceeding to the next tube. 

Drying cartridges are replaced as assemblies (replacements with tubing 

already attached). 

When finished, be sure no tubing is pinched when the covers are replaced. 

113



Replace the Tygon ® drain waste as described on page 59. 

Sample in and drain tubes need to be replaced monthly. If needed, a cell gas 

tubing kit is available from CETAC with the correct labeled tubing included, 

pre-cut to the correct length. 

NOTE: 

Do not use waste tubing other than that provided by CETAC. The interior 

diameter and length (3 feet) of the drain tube are optimized for maximum 

system stability, and should not be altered. Other tubes are similarly optimized 

and substitutions/alterations should not be made. 

114



Retubing the Gas-Liquid Separator 

This procedure should be followed once a month, unless the samples are 

excessively “dirty,” in which case the procedure should be followed more often, 

as needed. Improper installation can damage the GLS, so it is recommended to 

read the entire procedure before beginning. 

This procedure shows the drain tubing being installed after the GLS is 

mounted on the instrument. Alternatively, the capillary, liquid mix tube, and 

drain tube can be installed prior to the GLS being installed in its mount. 

GLS Inlet 

Refer to Figure 5-11. Note tubing routing and then remove all tubing, drain 

sleeve (J), inlet capillary (C) and silicone sleeve (D) from the GLS using the 

same procedure as for Viton ® tubing above. 

A – Liquid mix tube 

B – Capillary heat-shrink 

C – Teflon capillary 

D – Silicon inlet sleeve 

E – Sample inlet guide 

F – Hg vapor outlet 

G – Frosted center post 

H – Carrier gas inlet 

I – Teflon drain tubing 

J – Silicon drain sleeve 

Figure 5-11 

Assembled Gas-Liquid Separator. 

1 Select a new translucent white silicone inlet sleeve (D), and push it down over 

the glass sample inlet guide (E) until ≈ 6mm (1/4 inch) of silicone tubing 

protrudes above the top of the glass inlet guide (E). 

2 Select a replacement GLS Teflon inlet capillary assembly, (C). Carefully direct 

the capillary end of the insert into the top protruding end of the silicone tube 

(D), and GENTLY push straight down. 

The capillary insert (C) should go down inside the inlet guide (E). Continue 

pushing gently downward until the exposed capillary end (C) protrudes below 

115



the glass guide (E). Stop pushing when the bottom edge of the capillary is 

about 0.5 mm (range of 0.3 - 0.6 mm) above the top of the GLS frosted center 

post (G). 

CAUTION 

The capillary insert should not touch the GLS center post. Pushing the capillary too 

far can damage the GLS. 

3 Select a replacement liquid mix tube (A). Carefully slide the end of the Viton ® 

liquid inlet tube labeled "2



Replacing the Perma Pure ® Dryer Cartridge 

Replace this cartridge if mercury absorbance diminishes to less than 50% of 

original value. 

14 

11 

Hg Vapor 

12 

Sample Gas 

18 

17 

Dryer Supply 

Dryer Exhaust 

Figure 5-12 Perma Pure ® Cartridge. (The numbers in this figure refer to 

the labels which are attached to each tube.) 

1 Open the instrument front door for access to the dryer cartridge. 

2 Disconnect the Hg vapor tube (labeled “11>Hg Vapor>12”) from the GLS arm 

(11). 

Figure 5-13 


117



3 Disconnect the sample gas tube (labeled “>Sample Gas>14”) from the bulkhead 

(14). 

Figure 5-14 

Disconnecting the Sample Gas Tube. 

4 Disconnect the dryer gas supply tube (labeled “



6 Pull the Perma Pure ® dryer forward to detach it from the two black clamps and 

set aside. 

7 Install a new Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge and reattach tubes described above. 

(When reconnecting Luer lock fittings, be careful not to kink the tubing, which 

could cause gas flow constriction.) Remember to route the dryer tube (“18



exhaust.” If liquid has passed through the system, then proceed with the below 

corrective action steps. 

3 Remove the sample cell, GLS, and Perma Pure ® cartridge (with all tubing still 

attached). Place all parts on a clean lab cloth (or equiv.) on the lab bench. 

4 Dismantle the sample cell completely. See page 109. 

CAUTION 

Do NOT remove the cell window blocks over the optical rail if the cell is wet or full 

of water. Do this instead outside the instrument to avoid spillage onto the optical 

components. 

5 Dump out all water and brine from the sample cell glass tube. 

6 Rinse the sample cell glass tube with deionized water and oven dry. 

Alternatively, dry by rinsing with alcohol (recommended spectophotometric 

isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol)) and blowing dry with clean air, nitrogen, or 

argon. 

You can supply drying gas from the argon carrier gas source by simply 

disconnecting the instrument gas supply and turning down the gas pressure to 

create a low flow. 

WARNING 

The flow used for drying of the optical components must be less than 100 

mL/min or extremely low psig such as < 5 psi. If a flow greater than this is 

used, the gas could blow the optical parts from your grip and cause 

personal injury. 

7 Rinse and all remaining cell holder parts, fittings and transfer tubing with 

deionized water. Dry these parts by rinsing with alcohol (recommended 

spectophotometric isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol)) and blowing dry with 

clean air, argon, or nitrogen. Inspect closely to be sure all water, and/or all 

residual alcohol is completely eliminated from all fittings, tubes, parts, and gas 

ports. 

When you re-assemble the cell components and install the cleaned cells, use 

new or clean, dry reference and sample cell tubing. 

CAUTION 

Do not oven dry any of the parts except for the sample cell glass tube. Instead, use 

the alcohol rinse/blow-dry procedure. Excessive heat could damage these parts. 

8 Clean the sapphire window first with water and then as described on page 

109. 

9 Reassemble the window and cell end caps. Handle the window with clean 

forceps or hold by the edge with fingertips while wearing gloves (verify 

cleanliness by inspection with low-angle room light reflection). 

10 Install the glass tube into the cell end caps, and seat firmly to fully engage both 

O-rings. 

120



11 For Perma Pure ® dryer cartridges that have gotten wet, if not already 

disconnected, disconnect the cartridge “sample gas” from sample cell. Attach a 

10 mL Luer lock syringe filled with DI water to tube 14 and gently push the 

water through the dryer cartridge. The water will exit through the cartridge at 

tube 11 (Figure 5-12, tube numbered 11). Hold tube 11 so it is positioned over 

an empty beaker (do not pull on tube 11 because it may disconnect from the 

cartridge and render it useless). Repeat the flushing procedure again followed 

by a syringe filled with air, which will flush the water out of the dryer 

cartridge. Next, adjust carrier gas flow to 40 mL/min. Reconnect tube 11 to the 

GLS. Turn on the gas and allow GLS and cartridge to blow dry for one hour 

with flowing gas. Be sure to engage all peristaltic pump tube clamps before 

initiating gas flow (otherwise the gases will leak out the pump tubing and 

bypass the dryer cartridge). 

12 Turn off gas! 

13 Reattach the cartridge sample outlet tube to the QuickTrace M-7600 SAMPLE 

IN gas port, verify that the gas path tubing is correctly installed, and close the 

front door. 

See Figure 5-10 on page 113 for the gas path tubing. At this point, all of the 

tubing should be attached except for the final tube end labeled “18GAS 

EXHAUST”. 

NOTE: 

More than likely, water saturation of the Perma Pure® dryer will destroy it, 

making replacement necessary. However, if the overflow accident is quickly 

caught, cleaning and drying the Nafion® membrane in the dryer immediately 

(per above procedures) may save it. 

14 Determine whether any rinse solution (acidic stannous chloride dissolved in 

water) got past the sample cell (during the original accident), and into any 

portion of the remaining gas exhaust tubes and KMnO 4 trap. 

Determine this by dismantling all fittings “en route” and inspecting for the 

presence of any liquid or salt encrustation in any of the fittings or tube ends. 

Make sure to check the dark purple potassium permanganate powder to see if it 

is wet or no longer “free flowing” in any part of the trap tube. 

15 If no undesirable conditions are found in the above plumbing inspection, 

reconnect all the system plumbing and check the gas flow. The gas flow that 

exits the GLS should exit the exhaust fitting on the rear of the system at rate 

equal to the GLS exhaust rate less 1 to 2 mL/min due to internal Perma Pure ® 

dryer restrictions. As an example, if the flow out of GLS is 100 mL/min the flow 

out of the exhaust port should be ~ 98 mL/min. Be sure all peristaltic pump 

tubes are engaged by their clamps before checking gas flow (otherwise the 

gases will leak out the pump tubing and bypass the flow meter). 

16 If any undesirable condition was found during the above plumbing inspection 

proceed to the next step. Otherwise, skip to step 25. 

121



17 Remove the potassium permanganate mercury trap from the rear of the 

instrument. 

WARNING 

POISON HAZARD 

The mercury vapor trap contains potassium permanganate (KMnO 4 ) and 

may contain mercury. Handle and dispose of the used KMnO 4 according to 

your laboratory’s procedures and your country’s hazardous waste 

regulations. 

If it is completely dry, simply set it aside. 

If the vapor trap is wet: 

1. Empty the KMnO 4 and dismantle the trap. 

2. Remove the glass wool plugs. 

3. Rinse all parts, fittings and tubes with deionized water and then 

Hydroxylamine Hydrochloride. The Hydroxylamine Hydrochloride will 

clean any remaining purple color from the vapor trap. 

4. Dry by means of rinsing with alcohol and blowing dry with clean air, 

argon, or nitrogen. 

5. Reinstall loose glass wool plugs into the endcaps. 

6. Install one cap, and refill tube body with potassium permanganate 

powder (crystals). Gently tap the tube as you fill it to settle the 

KMnO 4. 

7. Install the remaining end cap and set the trap aside. 

Do not reinstall the mercury vapor trap on the QuickTrace M-7600 

instrument at this time. 

18 It is still necessary to rinse residual acidic stannous chloride brine out of 

remaining internal and external gas exhaust tubing. Refer to Figure 5-10. 

Locate the sample cell exit. Disconnect the exhaust tube at the sample cell. 

19 Connect the sample cell exhaust tube to a 10 mL syringe filled with water to 

perform a water flush of the internal and external exhaust tubes and port. 

20 Place the disconnected tubing from the KMnO 4 vapor trap into a waste 

receptacle (>100 mL) immediately under the “gas exhaust” fitting on the rear 

of the instrument. Alternatively, use the appropriate Luer fittings and hook 

another transfer tube from the rear gas exhaust fitting to the drain bottle on 

the floor. 

21 Using the syringe, push 50 to 100 mL of deionized water through the exhaust 

tube, until it all passes through to the waste collection receptacle. This will 

wash all residual perchlorate salt encrustation and/or acidic stannous chloride 

brine out of the internal gas exhaust tubes and fittings. 

22 Dry all of the tubing. To do this, engage the peristaltic pump tubing with all 

connections to the GLS and gas ports connected and allow gas to flush through 

the system until the exhaust tubing is dry. 

122



23 Reinstall all covers and close all doors. 

24 Initiate a reasonable gas flow, then pump rinse solution through the GLS 

continuously, and let the system “purge,” “dry” and thermally stabilize for a 

period of 90 minutes. 

25 Reinstall the permanganate trap onto the back of the instrument. 

26 Operate instrument normally. 

123



Replacing the Hg Lamp Bulb 

The effect of lamp current on data quality (absorbance and noise) is minimal 

over the range 2 – 15 mA. When a lamp is new, the normal operating lamp 

current is 2 – 5 mA. As the lamp ages, the lamp current will automatically 

adjust to maintain constant emission intensity reaching the EOFM 

filter/detector. 

WARNING 

ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION HAZARD 

Before opening the cover, turn off the power switch and disconnect the 

power cord. Sustained exposure of eyes to UV rays emitted from the lamp 

may result in permanent eye injury. 

When to Replace or Service the Lamp 

If the OVER RANGE indicator on the front of the mercury analyzer remains 

illuminated for more than 15 minutes when the mercury analyzer is turned on, 

it is time to consider replacing the lamp. The OVER RANGE indicator is 

illuminated whenever the current through the lamp exceeds a certain 

threshold. 

Cleaning the EOFM 

The electro-optical feedback monitor (EOFM) monitors the output of the lamp 

and adjusts the lamp current to ensure constant light intensity as the lamp 

ages. A filter ensures that the lamp output is measured only at the correct 

wavelength. 

Use a dentist mirror and flashlight to check that the EOFM filter is not 

“smudged.” Refer to Figure 5-18. If it's clean, order a replacement lamp. 

If the EOFM filter is dirty, clean in place using the cell cleaning procedure. If the 

OVER RANGE indicator continues to stay on, or if you need greater absorbance 

sensitivity than the old “high current” lamp can provide, replace the lamp. 

Lamp 

Assembly 

Cells 

Detector 

Assembly 

Figure 5-18 

M-7600 Optical Rail. 

124



Figure 5-19 

Lamp Assembly with Cover Removed (Side View). 

Lamp Block (Lamp is 

inserted from the other 

side of the bulkhead) 

EOFM Block 

EOFM Filter 

(Faces the lamp) 

Figure 5-20 

Lamp Assembly with Cover Removed (Side View). 

Getting a Replacement Lamp 

Lamps may be ordered from CETAC Technologies by visiting www.cetac.com. 

125



Caring for the Lamp 

CAUTION 

Do not touch the glass part of the lamp. Fingerprints may damage the lamp. 

If it becomes necessary to clean the bulb, follow the same procedure as for 

cleaning the cell windows on page 107. 

Replacing the Lamp 

WARNING 

BURN HAZARD 

Turn off power and allow the mercury analyzer to cool for at least five 

minutes before touching the lamp. 

1 Turn off the mercury analyzer and disconnect the power cord. 

2 Allow the instrument to cool five minutes. 

3 Remove the cabinet screws from the electrical cabinet cover of the 

QuickTrace M-7600 and remove the cover. 

Figure 5-21 

Location of Screws for Access to Lamp. 

4 Lift the right side of the gasket away from the sheet-metal divider to free the 

yellow lamp cord. It is not necessary to completely remove the gasket. 

Yellow Lamp Cord 

Gasket 

Figure 5-22 

Lifting the Gasket. 

126



5 Locate the “heavy” yellow/orange colored lamp cord, on the right-hand side of 

the cabinet interior. Trace the cord backward and unplug it from the lamp 

controller board. Squeeze the lever on the bottom of the connector to release 

it. 

Figure 5-23 

Unplugging the Lamp Cord. 

6 On the top surface of the lamp block, push back the edge of the gray foam. 

Under the edge of this foam is a small Allen set screw. Insert the lamp 

replacement tool (a 0.050 inch Allen wrench, supplied with the M-7600 

completion kit) into the setscrew head and loosen the screw. 

Figure 5-24 

Loosening the Set Screw. 

127



7 Grab the old bulb where it attaches to its yellow cord and pull it straight out. 

The bulb will slide out easily. 

Lamp Bulb – DO NOT TOUCH 

Alignment Mark 

Figure 5-25 

Removing or Inserting the Lamp. 

8 Clean the new bulb by wiping clean with a Kimwipes ® wiper or optical tissue 

moistened with high purity (spectrophotometric grade) isopropanol, and blow 

dry with argon gas. Don't touch the bulb face, once it is clean. 

9 Holding it by the base, carefully insert the bulb into the lamp block until it 

stops. 

10 Rotate the bulb base until the mark on the lamp body faces straight up. 

Light output from the lamp is asymmetric—it is stronger toward the positive 

side of the lamp. 

11 Hold this position carefully while tightening the Allen set screw. 

12 Plug the yellow lamp cord into the lamp controller board. 

13 Replace the gasket. Start on the left end and work it onto the edge of the sheet 

metal. 

14 Replace the cover. 

15 Check the lamp current as described in the next section. 

128



Adjusting the Lamp Current 

The lamp current can be adjusted using a potentiometer on the back of the 

instrument. 

Note that the effect of lamp current on data quality (absorbance and noise) is 

typically minimal when a lamp is new. As the lamp ages, the lamp current will 

automatically adjust to maintain constant emission intensity reaching the 

EOFM filter/detector. 

A new lamp needs a minimum of a 30 minute warm up time before final 

adjustment. After installation of the new lamp, the lamp current will 

automatically return to a value similar to the initial set up value. 

1 Make sure the mercury analyzer is turned on and that it is connected to the PC. 

2 Move the PC's display so that you can see it while you are behind the mercury 

analyzer. 

3 Exit the QuickTrace software, if it is running. 

4 Run the M-7600 Lamp Current Configuration Tool. On the taskbar navigate to 

Start | All Programs | CETAC QuickTrace | M-7600 Lamp Current Configuration 

Tool. 

5 Click Search for Analyzers. 

Figure 5-26 

Searching for the Analyzer. 

6 Select the analyzer (if more than one is found) and click Connect. 

If you see an “analyzer in use” error, double-check to make sure that the 

QuickTrace software is not running. 

7 Allow 30 minutes for the lamp to warm up. 

8 While the lamp is warming up, remove the LAMP ADJUST access panel on the 

back of the instrument. 

9 Click Check Lamp Current. 

129



10 Locate the mA ADJ potentiometer and use a small flat-blade screwdriver 

(jewelers screwdriver) to adjust the lamp current. 

Figure 5-27 

Adjusting the Lamp Current. 

‣ Begin by rotating the potentiometer fully clockwise until the OVER RANGE 

LED lights, then counterclockwise until the lamp current reads < 0.5 mA. At 

this point, the lamp is ready for adjustment. 

‣ Adjust the lamp current potentiometer until the marker is in the center 

(the green region) of the scale. 

‣ Clockwise will increase the current and counter-clockwise will decrease 

the current. 

‣ After each adjustment, click Check Lamp Current. 

‣ Let the voltage stabilize and make fine adjustments until the system 

stabilizes. 

11 Reinstall the cover and begin using the mercury analyzer. 

130



Replacing the Fuse 

WARNING 

FIRE AND SHOCK HAZARD 

Replace only with the specified fuse. Using an incorrect fuse may cause fire 

or personal injury. 

Two fuses are located in the power supply, just above the power cord 

connector. Use a 5 A, 250 V, SLOBLO, 5x20 mm cylindrical fuse. 

1 Disconnect the power cord. 

2 Inspect all of the equipment which is plugged into the power supply for 

moisture or other conditions which might pose a hazard and cause the new 

fuse to blow. 

3 Using your fingernails or a small, flat-blade screwdriver, squeeze the ends of 

the fuse holder. 


Power Switch 

Fuses 

4 Pull the fuse holder out. 

Figure 5-28 

Removing the Fuse Holder. 

131



5 Replace the blown fuse with a new one of the same size, type, and rating. 

Figure 5-29 Fuse. 

6 Press the fuse holder back in until it clicks into place. 

7 Plug the power cord back in. 

132

6 Troubleshooting the 


This chapter explains how to troubleshoot mercury analyzer problems. If you 

cannot solve a problem using the steps given in this chapter, you should 

contact CETAC Technologies Customer Service and Support. 

Troubleshooting Communication Issues 

If the QuickTrace cannot connect to the analyzer: 

Step 1: Check the Cable 

Check that the PC is connected directly to the M-7600 with a standard Ethernet 

cable. To eliminate the possibility of an IP address conflict with another device 

on the company network, disconnect the PC from the company network while 

troubleshooting. 

Step 2: Use the IPSetup Tool to Check the Configuration 

Figure 6-1 

IPSetup Tool. 

133


Chapter 6: Troubleshooting the Mercury Analyzer 

IPSetup a product of Netburner, Inc. IPSetup.exe is installed in the following 

folder: 

C:\Program Files\QuickTrace\IPSetup 

On the right hand side of the window will be a list of all Netburner-based 

devices (like the M-7600) that the program could find on the network. If you 

select one such device, its current IP configuration will appear on the left hand 

side of the window. These settings can be changed, and the changes applied 

simply by clicking on the “Set ” button in the middle. (The gateway and DNS 

settings are not necessary if the M-7600 is connected directly to the PC, and 

can be left at 0.0.0.0 or any other legal value.) After making a change this way, 

turn the M-7600 off, wait 15 seconds, then turn it back on. 

If no device is detected by the IPSetup tool then it is likely that either the 

device is not powered, or it is not connected to the network that the computer 

running IPSetup is connected to. It should be noted that IPSetup uses UDP, so if 

the M-7600 is not directly connected to the PC, a router or bridge could be 

blocking UDP broadcasts. 

Step 3: Check the Subnet Configuration Using the Define 

QuickTrace Hardware Tool 

Once we know the device is connected to the network, and powered on we 

have to make sure the device is on a logical subnet that our PC can 

communicate with. 

1 To start CETAC's Define QuickTrace Hardware tool, click Start | All Programs | 

CETAC Technologies | QuickTrace | Define QuickTrace Hardware. 

If the instrument is seen and connected to, then subnet compatibility is 

assured. Skip to “Step 4: Check for an IP address conflict” on page 137. 

If the instrument is not detected, then we’ll have to look at the IP address of 

the device. 

2 Open the Windows network connections dialog. 

For Windows 7, open the Windows Control Panel and select Network and 

Internet | Network and Sharing Center | View network status and tasks. 

Figure 6-2 

Network and Internet Settings (Windows 7, View by Category). 

134



For Windows XP, open the Windows Control Panel and select Network 

Connections. Note that the remainder of the instructions below assume 

Windows 7. 

3 Click on the connection name (shown in blue). 

Figure 6-3 Network Connections in the Windows Control Panel. 

The network status will pop up. 

4 Click Properties. 

Figure 6-4 

Network Connection Properties Button. 

135



5 Select ‘Internet Protocol Version 4’ and click ‘Properties’. 

Figure 6-5 

IPv4 Properties Button. 

6 Click Internet Protocol Version 4 (under XP there is no 4/6) and then click 

Properties. 

You will see a dialog that shows the TCP/IP setup for the connection. 

Figure 6-6 

IP Address and Subnet Mask. 

Subnet masks are often 255.255.255.0 and if this is the case, then you have to 

make sure that the first 3 sets of numbers for each device match (192.168.1 in 

this example; note that this is not the default value) and that the last numbers 

are different. The network administrator is in charge of allocating IP 

136



addresses, and should be consulted if there’s any doubt about what number(s) 

to use. Once this configuration has been achieved, Define QuickTrace Hardware 

should be able to connect to the M-7600 – this will result in the device IP 

configuration appearing as seen below. 

Figure 6-7 

Example of Network Settings for the Mercury Analyzer. 

Step 4: Check for an IP address conflict 

Checking for an IP address conflict is an important diagnostic step. A symptom 

of an IP address conflict might be that the M-7600 works fine when the 

computer is not connected to the company network, but fails to connect, or 

fails intermittently when connected to the network. 

1 Determine the IP address of the M-7600 using the IPSetup tool, then power off 

the M-7600. 

2 Open a command prompt (found under the “Accessories” folder on the Start 

menu.) 

Figure 6-8 

Opening a Command Prompt Window. 

3 Type the following command to change to the Windows system folder: 

CD \Windows\System32 

4 Type 

ping 

In our working example that would be ping 192.168.1.148. If a device 

with that address exists on the network (and is therefore in conflict with our 

M-7600) it will respond as seen at the top of the screen capture below with 

“Reply from : bytes= 32 time …” If there is no device with that IP 

address you’ll get a response that indicates “Destination host unreachable” as 

seen below for the ping 192.168.1.149 command. 

137



Figure 6-9 

Example “Ping” Commands. 

If there’s a conflict, contact the network administrator for another IP address 

that can be used instead. 

If the IPSetup Tool Does Not Find the M-7600 

1 Reset the IP configuration on the M-7600 by holding down the recessed IP 

RESET button on the back of the analyzer as the analyzer is powered on. 

Continue to hold the button for about 5-10 seconds after you turn on the M- 

7600. This will reset the IP address to 192.168.0.149 with a netmask of 

255.255.255.0. 

2 Run IPSetup again. You should now be able to see the device and configure it. 

If IPSetup still cannot see the device and configure it: 

3 Switch the PC network interface to a compatible IP address (for example, 

192.168.0.100). See “Step 3: Check the Subnet Configuration Using the Define 

QuickTrace Hardware Tool” on page 134. 

4 Run Define QuickTrace Hardware to set the desired IP address. 

5 Turn the M-7600 off, wait 15 seconds, then turn it back on. 

6 Set the PC’s network interface to a compatible setting. 

138



"Subnet of this PC and the M-7600 are Not Compatible" Error 

The ‘Define QuickTrace Hardware’ application may display the following 

message: 

Figure 6-10 

Error Message: Incompatible Subnet 

This means that the subnet configured for the secondary network card in the 

PC is not compatible with the subnet of the IP address configured for the M- 

7600. Click Yes to see what IP addresses are currently set: 

Figure 6-11 

Configuration Information for an Incompatible Subnet 

The address of the secondary network card should show up as "Interface 1." 

(The interface metrics you set earlier force this network card to be listed first.) 

In this example, the subnet of the M-7600 is set to 11 and the subnet of the 

network card is set to 0. Since the laboratory network has a subnet of 0, a 

possible solution is to change the IP address of the secondary card to 

192.169.11.156. 

139



Cannot Zero Instrument 

Perform the following steps: 

‣ Be sure instrument is fully warmed up with the peristaltic pump running 

at the method rate. The warm up time is dependent on the chosen method: 

ultra-trace may need at least 1 hour with the lamp and pump on; a normal 

µg/L range may only need 15 to 30 minutes. See “Starting the System” on 

page 81. 

‣ Check that both cells (sample & reference) and cell end caps are clean and 

“dry” (no liquid or dried stannous chloride obstructing the gas flow or the 

optical beam). See page 107 for cleaning instructions. 

‣ Check that both cell windows are clean. See page 107 for cleaning 

instructions. 

"Integration Adjustment Reached" Messages 

These messages can result if the M-7600 power is cycled too rapidly. If this 

happens, the lamp current can get "stuck" at 6.5 mA. Always allow at least 15 

seconds before turning the M-7600 back on. 

1654: Upper limit integration adjustment reached 

Cleaning the optics is recommended. 

This message means too little light is reaching the detector, and the system 

cannot compensate by increasing the integration period. 

‣ Turn the M-7600 off. Wait at least 15 seconds, then turn it back on. 

‣ Clean the sample cells. 

‣ Check the lamp and replace it if needed. 

1655: Lower limit integration adjustment reached 

Contact CETAC technical support. 

This message means too much light is reaching the detector, and the system 

cannot compensate by decreasing the integration period. 

‣ Turn the M-7600 off. Wait at least 15 seconds, then turn it back on. 

‣ Check that the sample cells are installed. 

‣ Adjust the lamp current. 

Drifting Baseline 

The system might not be thermally stable because of insufficient warm up 

time. Wait longer. 

‣ Check that gas pressures are stable and correct. Variable gas flow can 

cause the baseline to drift. Check that no stannous chloride encrustation 

exists in gas tubes/fittings after a GLS overflow accident. See “Removal or 

Inspection of the Sample Cell” on page 105. 

140



‣ Check that the gas hoses are not pinched. 

‣ Check that the lamp block heater works. The lamp block should be hot 

(50°C) to touch. Turn the lamp power off. Remove lamp-housing cover and 

touch the lamp block momentarily to verify that it is hot. 

‣ With the Hg lamp off, check that the EOFM filter is not dirty (inspect it 

with a dentist’s mirror and low angle flashlight). 

‣ Check that the lamp current is not too high using the QuickTrace M-7600 

instrument controls. High current indicates a worn-out lamp, if all the 

windows and optics are clean. 

‣ Replace the Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge. 

Low Absorbance or No Mercury Response 

‣ Ensure the Hg lamp is on. 

‣ Check all liquid uptake rates and gas flow. If there is no liquid or gas flow, 

see page 141. 

‣ Check that the reagent tube is in the reagent bottle. 

‣ Check that SnCl 2 is active, not empty, not oxidized or precipitated. 

‣ Check that standards have the correct Hg concentrations in them. 

‣ Check the liquid tubes for kinks or clogs. 

‣ Check that standards have 7% HCl in them. 

‣ Check the gas flow at the GLS outlet. 

‣ Check the gas flow at the sample cell outlet. 

‣ Check that the gas flow at the KMnO 4 trap outlet; does not drop in 

pressure or flow, this indicates an upstream block or a leak. 

‣ Check all plumbing connections for correct location and proper seal. 

‣ Replace the Perma Pure ® dryer cartridge. 

‣ Mechanically block the sample beam optical path (such as with a business 

card) and see if absorbance goes full scale (≥ 8,000,000 µabs). This task 

can be accomplished in instrument controls by starting the strip chart 

recorder. 

‣ Reboot the system: shut down the software, and power down the 

QuickTrace M-7600 and autosampler. Restart, and check the signal. 

No Liquid or Gas Flow 

No Sample or Rinse Flow 

‣ Increase the tension on the sample pump tubing to start flow. 

‣ Be sure the sample, SnCl 2, and “Liq. Mix” tubes are not pinched off 

anywhere and restricting flow. 

141



‣ Ensure the rinse station is filled with acidified rinse. 

‣ Ensure all pump tubing is centered in clamps. 

‣ Check for clogs in sample tubing. 

‣ Check for kinks in the autosampler sample probe and in the reagent 

uptake tube. 

‣ Check for excessive pump tubing wear. Replace if needed. 

No SnCl2 Flow 

‣ Increase tension on the reagent pump tubing to start flow. 

‣ Check to see that no precipitate has formed and clogged the reagent 

uptake and/or pump tubing. 

‣ Check for excessive pump tubing wear. Replace if needed. 

No Drain Flow 

‣ Increase tension on the drain pump tubing to start flow. 

‣ Check that there is no clogging of the drain outlet tubing of the Gas-Liquid 

Separator. If clogged, clean or replace the drain outlet tubing. 

‣ Be sure the drain tube is not pinched off and restricting flow. Ensure it is 

not pinched under the autosampler foot. 

‣ Check that the vent port on the waste bottle is open, and that the bottle is 

not overflowing. 

No Gas Flow or Low Gas Flow 

‣ Check that the in-line gas filter is not clogged. Remove the threaded 

connection downstream from the filter and check for gas flow at the filter 

outlet. 

‣ Check that all gas supply tubes are connected correctly. 

‣ Check that no gas tube is kinked or pinched. 

‣ Be sure that the KMnO 4 trap is not packed too tightly (with either the glass 

wool plugs or the reagent crystals) and restricting flow. Repack if too tight. 

‣ Check for leaks/clogs throughout the gas system, especially after a GLS 

overflow accident. Check flow after each fitting/component to isolate the 

bad section. 

Double Peak with Low Absorbance 

This may indicate a problem with not enough (or none at all) reagent 

(stannous chloride) uptake. Check the following items: 

‣ The reagent uptake tube is in the reagent bottle (rather than sitting in a 

deionized water container or loose in air). 

‣ There is liquid in the reagent bottle. 

‣ The reagent uptake tube is submerged below the liquid level. 

142



‣ The liquid is 10% stannous chloride solution in 7% HCl. 

‣ The reagent is not “old,” precipitated, yellowed, or otherwise oxidized (for 

example, by leaving the bottle open overnight). 

‣ There is no clog, kink, pinch, or other obstruction in the reagent-tubing 

pathway. 

‣ The reagent liquid uptake rate is at least 1.5 mL/min at ~ 30% pump rate. 

‣ The autosampler sample probe tubing is the standard i.d. optimized for 

the mercury system: 1.0 mm i.d. (marked with a double blue band). 

‣ The sample uptake is at least 4.5 mL/min at ~ 30% pump rate. 

‣ The autosampler probe, reagent uptake tube, QuickTrace M-7600 mixing 

tee and GLS liquid/mix capillary inlet is not under pressure from a partial 

clog. 

Poor Reproducibility 

‣ Always be sure to matrix match standards and samples as closely as 

possible (excluding the 7% HCl in the standards), and rinse solution 

should also be acidified. 

‣ Inspect the liquid flow into and out of the Gas-Liquid Separator. If either 

the sample in or waste out is pulsing, adjust the clamp tension on the 

corresponding tubing in the peristaltic pump to smooth out flows. If 

unable to stop the pulsing, check to see if the pump tubing is worn out. If 

so, replace the pump tubing. Be sure to check all the pump tubes. 

‣ Ensure the center post is fully “wet.” If partially dry anywhere on post 

surface, wet the post. See page 84. 

‣ Check to see if the reagent tube is in the reagent bottle. 

‣ Ensure that the stannous chloride has not been emptied or oxidized. Old 

SnCl 2 can lead to poor results. Replace if yellow, precipitated, or just too 

old. 

‣ Ensure that the autosampler rinse station and rinse bottle are filled with 

acidified rinse. 

‣ Inspect both cell windows for fingerprints, films, or debris. If dirty, clean 

the windows following the procedure on page 107. 

‣ Make sure gas pressure to the QuickTrace M-7600 is 120 psig (825 kPa). 

‣ Check the output gas flow after the KMnO 4 gas trap with a flow meter (to 

check this flow, all pump tubes must be clamped or plugged). This gas flow 

should be the same as set in the software. Check all the seals and 

recalibrate if necessary. Note calibration and flow stability. 

‣ Check the gas flow at the GLS exit. 

‣ Check the gas flow at the sample cell exit. 

‣ Check that the optimal instrument settings are employed. See “Using the 

Analyzer” beginning on page 75, the QuickTrace M-7600 help file, or the 

QuickTrace M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Software Manual for more details. 

143



‣ Check that the peristaltic pump rollers are not severely worn. Inspect all 

rollers with tubing removed. Roller facets should not be “grooved.” All 

rollers should spin freely when turned by sliding your thumb quickly 

across them. None should feel “gritty” or slow in spinning. Replace the 

head if any one of the 12 rollers are grooved or fail to move freely. 

‣ Ensure the baseline is not drifting severely. (See page 140). 

‣ Check that the raw analog system noise is ≤ 400 µAbs peak to peak. If not, 

call CETAC Support. 

Noisy Baseline 

‣ Check that flows into and out of the Gas-Liquid Separator are not pulsing. 

Pulsation indicates improperly adjusted pump clamps. 

‣ Make sure the gas pressures are correct. 

‣ Be sure the SnCl 2 is fresh and not oxidized or precipitated. 

‣ Ensure the cell windows are clean. 

‣ Check that the EOFM filter is clean. Turn the Hg lamp off and ensure that 

the EOFM filter is not dirty (inspect it with a dentist’s mirror and low 

angle flashlight). 

‣ Check that nothing has been spilled on the binocular camera lenses. Turn 

the Hg lamp off and ensure that the camera lenses are not dirty (inspect 

them with a dentist’s mirror and low angle flashlight). Call CETAC 

Customer Service and Support if the camera lenses are dirty. 

Ensure the lamp current is not excessive. For more information see “Adjusting 

the Lamp Current” on page 129. 

Bad DL 

‣ Check Low Absorbance. See “Low Absorbance or No Mercury Response” 

on page 141 and “Double Peak with Low Absorbance” on page 142. 

‣ Check noisy baseline. See page 144. 

Sudden Standard Absorbance Rise During Run 

‣ Ensure the rinse bottle has acidified rinse. 

144



Poor Accuracy 

‣ Verify good reproducibility (typically ~1% RSD on standard replicates). 

‣ If reproducibility is poor, see “Noisy Baseline” on page 144. 

‣ Be sure the standards contain 7% HCl (v/v). 

‣ Be sure the samples are properly digested. 

‣ Utilize an appropriate process standard to validate digestion and 

container storage. 

‣ Check process (digestion blanks, containers, and rinse solution) for 

mercury contamination. 

‣ Check standard solution accuracy, and all gravimetric/volumetric process 

steps and equipment for accuracy and calibration. 

‣ If very low samples are run immediately following high samples or 

standards, the rinse time may not have been long enough and the result 

may be reading low. (Increase rinse times when sample and/or standard 

concentrations are widely spread). 

Be sure that the rinse solution contains at least 1% HCl / 1% HNO 3. If it only 

contains deionized water, very low samples (acidified) may read erroneously 

high if they immediately follow the high standard or a high sample, regardless 

of allocated deionized water rinse time. The problem is avoided by a acidified 

rinse solution in the rinse solution bot 

145



Returning the Product to CETAC for Service 

Refer to the following information if you need to return the product to CETAC 

Technologies for service. 

Shipping the Product 

Follow these guidelines when shipping the product: 

‣ Use the original packing materials. If the original shipping materials are 

not available, place a generous amount of shock-absorbing material 

around the instrument and place it in a box that does not allow movement 

during shipping. Seal the box securely. 

‣ Contact CETAC Technologies before shipping the product. 

‣ Pre-pay all shipping expenses including adequate insurance. 

‣ Write the following information on a tag and attach it to the product: 

• Name and address of the owner 

• Product model number and serial number 

• Description of service required or failure indications 

‣ Mark the shipping container as FRAGILE. 

‣ In all correspondence, refer to the instrument by model name or number 

and full serial number. 

‣ Do not return products which are contaminated by radioactive 

materials, infectious agents, or other materials constituting health 

hazards to CETAC employees. 

Product Warranty Statement 

NOTE 

Contact CETAC Technologies or refer to the warranty card which came with 

your product for the exact terms of your warranty. The following copy is 

provided for your convenience, but warranty terms may be different for your 

purchase or may have changed after this manual was published. 

CETAC TECHNOLOGIES warrants that for (1) one year from the date of 

shipment of any CETAC unit manufactured or supplied by CETAC and found in 

the reasonable judgment of CETAC to be defective in material or workmanship 

will be repaired by CETAC without charge for parts and labor. 

The unit, including any defective part, must be returned to CETAC within the 

warranty period. The expense of returning the unit to CETAC for warranty 

service will be paid for by the buyer. CETAC’s responsibility in respect to 

warranty claims is limited to making the required repairs or replacements, and 

no claim of breach of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or recession of 

the contract of sale of any unit. 

Products may not be returned which are contaminated by radioactive 

materials, infectious agents or other materials constituting health hazards to 

CETAC employees. 

146



This warranty does not cover any unit that has been subject to misuse, neglect, 

negligence or accident. The warranty does not apply to any damage to the unit 

that is the result of improper installation or maintenance, or to any unit that 

has been operated or maintained in any way contrary to the operating or 

maintenance instructions as specified in the CETAC Instruction and Operations 

Manual. The warranty does not cover any unit that has been altered or 

modified so as to change its intended use. Any attempt to repair or alter any 

CETAC unit by anyone other than by CETAC authorized personnel or agents 

will void this warranty. 

In addition, the warranty does not extend to the repairs made necessary by the 

use of parts, accessories, or fluids which are either incompatible with the unit 

or adversely affect its operation, performance or durability. 

CETAC reserves the right to change or improve the design of any unit without 

assuming any obligation to modify any unit previously manufactured. 

THE FOREGOING EXPRESS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER 

WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF 

MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. 

CETAC’S OBLIGATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS STRICTLY AND 

EXCLUSIVELY LIMITED TO THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE 

PARTS, AND CETAC DOES NOT ASSUME OR AUTHORIZE ANYONE TO ASSUME 

FOR THEM ANY OTHER OBLIGATION. 

CETAC ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR INCIDENTAL CONSEQUENTIAL OR 

OTHER DAMAGES (EVEN IF ADVISED OF SUCH POSSIBILITY), INCLUDING BUT 

NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OR DAMAGE OF PROPERTY, LOSS OF REVENUE, LOSS 

OF USE OF THE UNIT, LOSS OF TIME, OR INCONVENIENCE. 

This warranty and all matters arising pursuant of it shall be governed by the 

laws of the State of Nebraska, United States. 

Returned Product Procedures 

Claims for shipment damage (evident or concealed) must be filed with the 

carrier by the buyer. CETAC must be notified within ninety (90) days of 

shipment of incorrect materials. No product may be returned, whether in 

warranty or out of warranty, without first obtaining approval from CETAC. No 

replacements will be provided, nor repairs made, for products returned 

without such approval. Any returned product must be accompanied by a 

return authorization number. The expense of returning the unit to CETAC for 

service will be paid by the buyer. The status of any product returned later than 

thirty (30) days after issuance of a return authorization number will be subject 

to review. Shipment of repaired products will generally be made forty-eight 

(48) hours after the receipt. 

Do not return products which are contaminated by radioactive materials, 

infectious agents, or other materials constituting health hazards to CETAC 

employees. 

Returned Product Warranty Determination 

After CETAC’s examination, warranty or out of warranty status will be 

determined. If a warranted defect exists, the product will be repaired at no 

charge and shipped prepaid back to the buyer. If the buyer desires an air 

147



freight return, the product will be shipped collect. Warranty repairs do not 

extend the original warranty period. 

If an out of warranty defect exists, the buyer shall be notified of the repair cost. 

At such time the buyer must issue a valid purchase order to cover the cost of 

repair and freight, or authorize the products to be shipped back as is, at the 

buyer’s expense. Failure to obtain a purchase order number approval within 

fifteen (15) days of notification will result in the products being returned as is, 

at the buyer’s expense. 

148


Chapter 7: Safety and Regulatory Information 

7 Safety and Regulatory 

Information 

Review this product and related documentation to familiarize with safety 

markings and instructions before you operate the instrument. 

Characteristics 

Environmental Characteristics 

Operating Temperature +5° C to +40° C (+41° F to +104° F) 

Non-Operating Temperature +0° C to +55° C (+32° to +131° F) 

Operating Altitude 

Relative Humidity 

Non-Operating Relative Humidity 

Up to 2,000 m (6,562 ft) 

0% to 80% non-condensing for 

temperatures up to 31° C, decreasing 

linearly to 50% at 40° C 

0% to 95% non-condensing 

Pollution Degree Pollution Degree 2 

Normally no pollution or only dry, nonconductive 

pollution occurs. The 

pollution has no influence. Occasionally, 

however, a temporary conductivity 

caused by condensation may be 

expected. 

Table 7-1: Environmental Characteristics for Safe Operation 

For indoor use only. 

Avoid sudden, extreme temperature changes which could cause condensation 

on circuit boards in the product. 

These environmental characteristics indicate the conditions for safe 

operation. See “Establishing Optimal Operating Conditions” on page 17 

for the recommended environment for the best experimental results. 

149



Electrical Characteristics 

Power requirements 

M-7600 Mercury 

Analyzer 

Input: 

AC Voltage, Frequency, and Current 

100-240 V ~ 

50-60 Hz 

3 A 

Installation Category: CAT II (Line voltage in appliance and 

to wall outlet) 

AUX POWER Outputs: 

24 V DC, max 3.33 A each connector, max 6 A total 

Table 7-2: Power Requirements 

Input and output connectors 

Connector 

AUX INPUT 

Description and characteristics 

Trigger signal input, reserved for future use. Connect only 

as instructed by CETAC Technologies. (Max 28V DC) 

ETHERNET Ethernet connection. (Max 5V) 

Table 7-3: Electrical Input and Output Connectors on the Analyzer 

150



Safety Notices 

WARNING 

INJURY HAZARD 

If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by CETAC Technologies, 

the protection provided the equipment may be impaired. 

Repair or service that this not covered in this manual should only be 

performed by qualified personnel. 

Replacement Parts 

Except as otherwise noted, all replacement parts must be obtained from CETAC 

Technologies. Visit www.cetac.com for a current list of available spare parts. 

Chemical Hazards 

WARNING 

POISON HAZARD 

Do not prepare organomercurial concentrates unless you are qualified to 

do so. Improper handling can result in injury or death. 

The handling of organomercurial concentrates which may be used in the 

preparation of process standards presents a substantial (potentially lethal) 

safety hazard. Only an experienced, professionally trained organo-metallic 

chemist, knowledgeable and skilled specifically in the safe handling of 

organomercurials (using approved apparatus and approved protection 

measures in an approved facility) should attempt to prepare diluted 

organomercurial process standards from concentrates. 

CETAC Technologies assumes no liability for the handling of organomercurial 

concentrates or the preparation, handling, or use of diluted organomercurial 

process standards. Instead, CETAC Technologies recommends use of 

appropriate standard reference materials to validate sample preparation 

(dissolution/digestion) and use of inorganic mercury standards for instrument 

calibration. 

Power Cord Set Requirements 

The power cord set supplied with your instrument meets the requirements of 

the country where you purchased the instrument. 

If you use the instrument in another country, you must use a power cord set 

that meets the requirements of that country. 

Power Cord Safety Maintenance 

The operator should check the power/signal supply cord condition. The 

equipment should not be operated if the mains inlet is cracked or broken. Any 

obvious damage to the case (from a drop or fall) should be checked by service 

personnel for loose or damaged parts. See individual parts lists for approved 

replacement parts 

151



Grounding 

This equipment is designed for connection to a grounded (-earthed) outlet. 

The grounding type plug is an important safety feature. To reduce the risk of 

electrical shock or damage to the instrument, do not disable this feature. 

See “Power Requirements” on page 20 and “Electrical Characteristics” on page 

150 for more information. 

Mains Disconnect 

The power switch on the rear panel is not the mains disconnect. Power mains 

disconnect is accomplished by unplugging the power cord at the power supply 

or at the wall outlet. Ensure the power cord is easily accessible and removable, 

in the event of an emergency which requires immediate disconnection. 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

Ensure that power cord is disconnected before removal of any covers. 

Mechanical Hazards 

1 

Figure 7-1 

Overview of Mechanical Hazards. 

WARNING 

1 –PINCH HAZARD 

Keep fingers, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts when the 

system is powered on. 

Additional hazards related to the autosampler are described in the 

autosampler Operator's Manual. 

152



Cleaning Instructions 

For additional cleaning information, see “cleaning” in the index. 

To clean the exterior surfaces of the instrument, complete the following steps: 

1 Shut down and unplug the instrument. 

2 Wipe the instrument exterior surfaces only using a towel dampened with a 

lab-grade cleaning agent. 

3 Repeat step 2, using a towel dampened with clear water. 

4 Dry the instrument exterior using a dry towel. 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

Do not allow any liquid to enter the instrument cabinet or come into 

contact with any electrical components. The instrument must be 

thoroughly dry before you reconnect power, or turn the instrument on. 

Operating Environment 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

To reduce the risk of fire hazard and electrical shock, do not expose the 

unit to rain or humidity. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not open 

the cabinet. All maintenance is to be performed by an Authorized CETAC 

Service Provider. 

Protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if the equipment is 

used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer. 

WARNING 

SHOCK HAZARD 

Equipment is not intended for wet locations. Miscellaneous liquids in the 

equipment could cause hazardous conditions. 

WARNING 

EXPLOSION HAZARD 

Do not operate in an explosive atmosphere. 

153



Explanation of Caution and Warning Notices 

Warning symbol marked on equipment. This symbol means “Attention! Refer 

to the manual.” 

Pinch Point – Keep hands, hair, and clothing clear of moving parts. 

Lifting Hazard – Single person lift could cause injury. Use assistance when 

moving or lifting. 

WARNING 

The WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, 

practice, or the like, that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could 

result in personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING notice until 

the indicated conditions are fully understood 

CAUTION 

The CAUTION notice indicates an action which must be taken to prevent 

equipment damage or a serious loss of data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION 

notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met. 

154



Avertissements en Français 

This section provides French translations of notices which may appear on the 

instrument or on other instruments used as part of the measurement system. 

AVERTISSEMENT 

POUR UNE PROTECTION CONTINUÉ CONTRE LES RISQUES 

D’INCENDIE, REMPLACER UNIQUEMENT PAR DES FUSIBLES 

DE MÊME TYPE ET AMPÈRAGE. 

AVERTISSEMENT 

POUR LA PROTECTION PERMANENTE 

CONTRE UN CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE, UNE 

BRÛLURE DES YEUX (RADIATION UV) OU DE 

LA PEAU, LAISSER LE COUVERCLE 

HERMÉTIQUEMENT FERMÉ LORSQUE 

L’APPAREIL EST SOUS TENSION. 

LAISSER REFROIDIR 5 MINUTES (APPAREIL 

ÉTEINT) AVANT D’ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE. 

AVERTISSEMENT 

SURFACES CHAUDES, LAISSER LE 

COUVERCLE HERMÉTIQUEMENT FERMÉ. 

POUR ACCÉDER, METTRE LA TEMPÉRATURE DU FOUR À 

ZÉRO, OUVRIR LE COUVERCLE ET LAISSER REFROIDIR 5 

MINUTES AVANT DE TOUCHER LA VERRERIE OU TOUTE 

SURFACE MÉTALLIQUE INTÉRIEURE. 

AVERTISSEMENT 

TOUT CONTACT AVEC LES HAUTES TENSIONS PEUT 

ENTRAINER LA MORT OU DES BLESSURES SÉVÈRES. CE 

PANNEAU NE DOIT ÊTRE ENLEVE QUE PAR UN 

RÉPARATEUR QUALIFIÉ. 

155



Electromagnetic Interference 

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) NOTICE 

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, 

pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection 

against harmful interference in a commercial installation. 

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and 

used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio 

communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential environment is likely to cause 

harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his 

expense. 

MODIFICATIONS 

The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications made to this device that 

are not expressly approved by CETAC Technologies may void the user's authority to operate the 

equipment. 

CABLES 

Connections to this device must be made with shielded cables with metallic RFI/EMI connector 

hoods to maintain compliance with FCC Rules and Regulations. 

CANADIAN NOTICE 

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digital 

apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital Apparatus" 

ICES-001 of the Department of Communications. 

AVIS CANADIEN 

Cet appareil numerique respecte les limites de bruits radioelectriques applicables aux appareils 

numeriques de Classe A prescrites dans la norme sur le materiel brouilleur: "Appareils 

Numeriques," NMB-001 edictee par le ministre des Communications. 

Explanation of Regulatory Marks 

Do not dispose in domestic household waste. 

The affixed label indicates that you must not discard this 

electrical/electronic product in domestic household waste, in compliance 

with the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive 

(WEEE, 2002/96/EC). 

For instructions on how to return end-of-life equipment, producer-supplied 

electrical accessories, or auxiliary items for proper disposal please contact 

the supplier or importer. In the event a supplier cannot be reached, contact 

CETAC Technologies customer service department at 1 (800) 369 2822. 

The CE mark is a registered trademark of the European Community. This CE 

mark shows that the product complies with all the relevant European Legal 

Directives. 

156

8 Glossary 

A Amperes, electrical current 

AAS Atomic Absorption Spectrometry 

Abs Absorbance (-log 10 T or 2-LOG 10 %T) 

ADC or A/D Analog-to-digital converter 

ADX-500 Optional autodilutor accessory 

ASX-500 A CETAC ASX-500 series autosampler, such as the ASX-510 

autosampler or ASX-520 autosampler 

Bar Unit of pressure. 1 bar = 100 kPa ≈ 14.5 psi 

Ar Argon carrier gas, chemical formula 

CH 3 HgCl Methyl mercuric chloride (or “methyl mercury”), chemical formula 

of a common organo-mercurial 

CLP Contract Laboratory Protocol (analysis protocol of U.S. EPA) 

cm Centimeter (10 -2 meter), unit of length 

Cold Vapor Direct Atomic Absorption Spectrometric analysis (at 253.652 nm) of 

Direct AAS or 

“head-space” gas from a stannous chloride or stannous sulfate 

CVAAS 

reactor using neither flame, nor plasma, nor furnace nor any other 

electro-thermal atomizer. CVAAS works only for the element 

mercury (Hg) 

Dia. Diameter 

DL Detection limit. Smallest statistically detectable concentration, 

where the absorbance, Abs (produced by that concentration), 

equals 3 times the standard deviation σ of the blank Abs 

DSP Digital Signal Processor 

ea. Each 

EOFM Electro-Optic Feedback Module; used to stabilize the Hg lamp 

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

EPA-245.1 The standard EPA method of water quality analysis for measuring 

mercury (Hg) 

ETFE Ethylenetetrafluoroethylene (Tefzel), a polymeric tubing material 

157


Chapter 8: Glossary 

g Gram, unit of mass or “weight” 

GCU Gas Control Unit, sets and regulates carrier gas flow rate 

GLS Gas-Liquid Separator 

HCl Hydrochloric Acid, chemical formula 

Hg Mercury, chemical symbol 

Hg 0 

Hg 2+ 

Mercury, elemental (reduced) state 

Mercuric ion, mercury in +2 (oxidized) state, typically HgCl 2 

HgCl 2 Mercuric chloride, chemical formula 

HNO 3 Nitric acid, chemical formula 

Host The computer that controls operation of the instrument . 

Computer 

i.d. Inside diameter 

IDL Instrument Detection Limit. DL in ultra-clean, high purity acid media 

(for example, 7% HCl, “Ultrex II” grade). IDL is generally measured 

under “favorable” operating conditions and does not involve 

sample digestion or preparation steps. IDL indicates what the 

instrument is capable of doing, if not subjected to contamination, 

digestion loss, storage loss, or other sample collection/preparation 

errors or limitations 

KMnO 4 Potassium permanganate, chemical formula of oxidizing reagent, 

and mercury exhaust trap agent 

L Liter, unit of volume 

LED Light-Emitting Diode 

QuickTrace 

system 

The entire mercury analyzer system including the QuickTrace, 

autosampler, peristaltic pump, etc. 

mA Milliamperes (10 -3 amperes), electrical current 

MDL Method Detection Limit; DL measured under actual reagent purity, 

sample preparation, and storage conditions for samples, reagents, 

and containers in question. Calibration standards are generally 

prepared in the sample media and are carried through all sample 

digestion/preparation, storage and transfer steps, etc., as are 

samples. In the presence of significant contamination, small 

concentration detectability gets worse and the actual MDL should 

be redefined as 1/3 the contamination, but not less than the 

statistical MDL! 

mL Milliliter (cubic centimeter, cc, 10 -3 L), unit of volume 

mm Millimeter (10 -3 meter), unit of length 

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet specifying chemical hazard type and 

level 

N 2 Nitrogen carrier gas, chemical formula 

Nafion® DuPont's porous polymer membrane which passes water vapor, but 

not Hg vapor. 

nm Nanometer (10 -9 meter), wavelength unit. 

158

ng Nanogram (10 -9 gram), mass or weight unit 

o.d. Outside diameter 

P Transmitted radiant power, photon flux at sample detector (after 

passing through sample) 

P 0 Incident radiant power, photon flux at reference detector (before 

passing through sample) 

PC Personal Computer 

PEEK Polyetheretherketone; a machined polymeric construction material 

Perma Pure Brand name of the dryer tubing which uses a DuPont Nafion® 

membrane. 

pg Picograms (10 -12 g), mass or weight unit 

PID Proportional Integral Differential. Description of a type of precision 

heater control device 

ppb Parts per billion (ng/mL, 10 -9 -6 g/mL, µg/L, 10 g/L), concentration 

unit 

ppm Parts per million (µg/mL, 10 -6 -3 g/mL, mg/L, 10 g/L), concentration 

unit 

ppt Parts per trillion (pg/mL, 10 -12 g/mL, ng/L, 10 -9 g/L), concentration 

unit 

psi Pounds per square inch. Pressure. 1 psi ≈ 0.068 bar. 1 bar = 100 kPa 

psig Pounds per square inch, gauge reading (above atmospheric 

pressure) 

PTU Precision-Timed Uptake 

Pump or PP Peristaltic Pump 

P-P Peak to Peak. A description of how signal noise is measured (One 

method) 

RMS Root Mean Square. A description of how signal noise is measured. 

RMS = 0.707 of peak amplitude (another method), approximately 

one standard deviation unit 

RSD Relative Standard Deviation. A measure of data precision or 

reproducibility 

SCR Stannous Chloride Reactor 

Sn Tin, chemical symbol. Typically as SnCl 2 reagent 

SnCl 2 Stannous chloride, chemical formula of reducing agent 

SRM Standard Reference Material, containing a certified, known mercury 

level 

T Transmittance (P/P 0 ), often %T or percent transmittance (P/P 0 x 

100%) 

TC “To Contain” Designation of a type of volumetric flask calibrated to 

accurately contain a specified volume of liquid 

TD “To Deliver” Designation of a type of volumetric flask or pipet 

calibrated to accurately deliver a specified volume of liquid 

159


Chapter 8: Glossary 

UHP Ultra High Purity 

UV Ultraviolet; short wavelength region of spectrum below 370 nm 

(such as 253.7 nm) 

VAC Volts Alternating Current 

VDC Volts Direct Current 

XS A substantial concentration “excess” of one chemical reactant (over 

another) 

µg Micro-gram (10 -6 g), unit of mass or weight 

µL Micro-liter (10 -6 L), unit of volume 

µAbs Micro-absorbance units. (10 -6 Abs) 

160

Index 

autosampler 

data cables, 44, 46 

placement, 26 

power, 40 

probe installation, 36 

rinse solution, 79 

rinse station, 26 

sample tube, 61 

Z-drive, 31 

avertissements, 156 

avis Canadien, 157 

baseline correction, 91 

bulb. See lamp 

cleaning, 154 

cold shutdown, 101 

condensation. See humidity 

dimensions, 18 

disposal, 157 

dryer cartridge 

inspecting, 104 

Nafion membrane, 78 

overflow cleaning, 119 

replacing, 117 

water damage, 121 

earthing, 21 

earthquake precautions, 20 

electrical characteristics, 151 

EOFM, 124 

Ethernet setup, 45 

exhaust, 42 

FCC notice, 157 

footprint, 18 

fuse, 131 

gas pressure 

maximum, 42 

minimum, 70 

range 1, 98 

range 2, 99 

GLS 

cleaning, 112 

inspecting flow, 90 

installing, 53 

overflow, 71 

overflow recovery, 119 

parts of, 115 

tubing, 115 

wetting, 72, 73, 84 

grounding, 21 

hazards, 153 

chemical burn, 42, 71, 119 

electrical, 154 

inhalation, 20, 112 

mechanical, 153 

organomercurial, 80 

poison, 152 

humidity, 21, 150, 154 

ICES 001, 157 

installation category, 151 

integration limits, 140 

interference, 157 

IP address, 137 

IP Address, 50 

IP RESET button, 138 

IPSetup, 133 

LAMP ON indicator, 12 

lamp, mercury vapor 

current, 140 

replacement, 124 

warm-up, 82 

lamps 

power, 12 

LEDs. See lamps 

lifting, 22 

log book, 91 

mains disconnect, 153 

mercury vapor trap, 82 

inspecting, 43 

installing, 42 

refilling, 122 

Nafion. See dryer cartridge 

network setup, 45, 63 

OVER RANGE indicator, 12, 124 

over voltage category, 151 

PC setup, 63 

Perma Pure. See dryer cartridge 

physical characteristics, 18 

pollution degree, 150 

power 

requirements, 20, 151 

power cord, 152 

POWER indicator, 12 

reagent uptake tube, 61 

161

Index 

reducing agent, 69 

regulatory notices, 150 

return procedure, 147 

safety information, 150 

service, 147 

SnCl2, 69 

standby, 100 

supplies, 14 

temperature 

recommended, 17 

safe operating, 150 

tubing 

cell gas, 113 

kinks, 21 

unpacking, 21 

uptake tube (reagent), 61 

vibration, 20 

warranty, 147 

WEEE notice, 157 

work surface requirements, 20 

162

Manual Part Number 480195 Rev 2 

Printed in USA

CETAC M-7600 Mercury Analyzer Operator's Manual

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?