Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Table of Contents

Table of Contents
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
TurboIonSpray Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Ion Source Temperature Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Liquid Chromatography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
TurboIonSpray Nebulizer (Gas 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Heater Gas (Gas 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Ion Source Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Sprayer Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Transfer Line and Grounded Union/Splitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Heater Probe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Exhaust Pump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Optimizing the TurboIonSpray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
TurboIonSpray Probe Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
TurboIonSpray Voltage (IS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Nebulizer Gas (GS1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Curtain Gas (CUR). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Heater Gas (GS2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Turbo Temperature (TEM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Declustering Potential (DP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Solvent Composition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Source Exhaust Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Operating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Changing the PEEK Tubing Transfer Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Changing the Stainless Steel Sprayer Tube . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Changing the Grounded Union/Splitter Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Appendix A: Consumable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Appendix B: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

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Table of Contents Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual About This Manual

About This Manual

This manual contains the instructions required to operate the Q Trap LC/MS/MS
TurboIonSpray ion source.

Conventions
Within this manual, the following conventions are used:

WARNING! Indicates an operation that may cause personal injury if precautions are
not followed.

WARNING! This symbol indicates a warning of electrical shock hazard. You should
read the warning before attempting any procedure described in this manual. Failure
to do so can result in serious injury.

WARNING! Indicates an operation that may cause injury if precautions are not
followed. Handle after allowing the unit time to cool, or use appropriate insulating
gloves to avoid burns.

CAUTION! Indicates an operation that may cause damage to the instrument if

precautions are not followed.

Note: Emphasizes significant information in a procedure or description.

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About This Manual Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Introduction

Introduction
The TurboIonSpray is an atmospheric pressure ion source in which pre-formed ions in
solution are emitted into the gas phase with or without the application of heat. In this way,
quasi-molecular ions can be generated from very labile and high molecular weight
compounds with no thermal degradation.
TurboIonSpray is the technique by which a liquid sample is pumped by a liquid
chromatograph (LC) pump or syringe drive through a sprayer probe, which is maintained
at a high voltage, and is nebulized into the ion source creating a mist of highly charged
droplets. Once inside the ion source, the droplets evaporate causing the ions to enter the
gas phase by a low energy process called ion evaporation.
The use of heated gas extends the rugged and versatile technique of the TurboIonSpray to
accept higher flow rates with improved sensitivities. The TurboIonSpray will accept flows
from 5 to 1000 L/min of solvent compositions from 100% aqueous to 100% organic,
such as acetonitrile, without splitting. This allows the use of 300 m, 1 mm, 2 mm, and
4.6 mm analytical columns with or without splitting.
A heater probe directs a jet of heated dry gas (up to a maximum of 500 C) at the mist
produced by the sprayer. The gas is sprayed across the orifice at an angle of approximately
45 with respect to the curtain plate. The liquid spray emerging from the TurboIonSpray is
directed at an angle of about 45 from the opposite direction (or 135 from the curtain
plate). The TurboIonSpray effluent and the heated dry gas intersect at an angle of
approximately 90 near the orifice. This interaction helps focus the TurboIonSpray stream
and increases the rate of droplet evaporation resulting in an increased ion signal.

TurboIonSpray setup
TurboIonSpray is ideally suited for LC/MS/MS quantitative analyses. The sensitivity
increases that are achieved with this technique are both flow rate and analyte dependent.
In the conventional IonSpray, source sensitivity decreases with increased flow rate, while
the heated TurboIonSpray process increases ionization efficiency, especially at the higher
flow rates; this results in improved sensitivity. Sensitivity is compound dependent and
compounds of extremely high polarity and low surface activity usually show the greatest

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Introduction Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

sensitivity increases. The TurboIonSpray technique is mild enough to be used with labile
compounds such as peptides, proteins, and thermally labile pharmaceuticals.
Note: The difference between conventional IonSpray and TurboIonSpray is that in the
TurboIonSpray, the ionization of the sample is achieved with additional heater gas
delivered to aid in the desolvation of the spray. Typically, the TurboIonSpray is used at
higher flow rates (greater than or equal to 40 L/min).

Features
The following list outlines the features of the TurboIonSpray ion source:
Able to function as a conventional IonSpray source when the heater gas is turned off.
Able to function with flow rates from 1 L/min to 1000 L/min.
Able to vaporize 100% aqueous to 100% organic solvents.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual TurboIonSpray Components

TurboIonSpray Components
Specifications
Ion Source Temperature Range
Probe temperature from 0500 C

Liquid Chromatography
Interfaces to any liquid chromatography system

TurboIonSpray Nebulizer (Gas 1)

Zero grade air regulated to 100 psi

Heater Gas (Gas 2)

Zero grade air regulated to 100 psi

Ion Source Housing

The ion source housing forms a seal with the instrument interface assembly to prevent any
solvent or sample from escaping into the laboratory environment. Any liquid or vapor
entering the source is safely transferred to a waste receptacle or fume hood with the aid of
the source exhaust pump.
The source housing incorporates two motion mechanisms that adjust the position of the
sprayer, described below, two windows to allow the operator to view the position and
condition of the sprayer, a PEEK tubing transfer line, a grounded union/splitter fitting, two
latches used for locking the source in place, and integrated voltage/gas connectors. The
connections for the voltage, heater, and gases are made automatically once the source is
locked to the interface.

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TurboIonSpray Components Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

TurboIonSpray ion source

Sprayer Probe
The TurboIonSpray source contains a fixed angle adjustable sprayer probe. The sprayer
probe is adjustable in two directions: toward the orifice from a scale of 0 to 12 (adjusted
by the horizontal adjusting ring mounted on the TurboIonSpray probe), and up and down
toward the orifice from 0 to 12 by the lateral adjustment control on the top of the ion
source.

Sprayer probe and adjustments

The TurboIonSpray nebulizer gas (GS1) and Ion Spray voltage (IS) are set at the
applications computer using the software. The connections for the voltage and gas are
made automatically once the source is locked to the interface.

Transfer Line and Grounded Union/Splitter

A short piece of PEEK tubing (30 cm [12"] long, 65 m [0.0025"] ID) connects the
sprayer probe inlet to a grounded fitting that can be used either as a union or a splitter.
Since the liquid being sprayed from the source is in contact with high voltages, the transfer
line must be connected to the grounded fitting.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual TurboIonSpray Components

PEEK Tubing

Grounded Union/Splitter

Peek tubing and grounded union/splitter

WARNING! The use of the PEEK tubing transfer line connected to the grounded
fitting is mandatory because it prevents any exposed peripherals connected to the
source from floating at high voltage.

WARNING! PEEK tubing (or fused silica) with PEEK fittings must be used as the
transfer line. Metal tubing or fittings must not be used. The use of metal may result
in the exposure of the operator to high voltage.
Refer to the procedure for changing the grounded fitting from a union connection to a
splitter described later in this document.

Heater Probe
The heater probe temperature is set in the applications computer software by modifying
the TEM parameter. There is a direct correlation between the TEM parameter value and
the actual heater temperature (for example, TEM 350 is equal to 350 C at the heater). The
heater gas (Gas 2) is also set in the applications computer software. The connections for
the heater and the gas are made automatically once the source is locked to the interface.
The heater probe temperature is maintained by the temperature control board (TCB)
mounted behind the ion source panel (below the ion source housing). The TCB adjusts the
flow of power to the heater element as a function of the difference between the actual
heater temperature and the temperature setting in the applications computer. The probe
temperature is monitored by a thermocouple connected directly to the heater element that
maintains the temperature within 5 degrees of the applications computer setting. The
operating range for the probe is approximately 100500 C.
Note: The temperature is controlled by monitoring the output of a thermocouple
connected to the heater surrounding the metal tube. At the temperature control board the
thermocouple output is compared with the temperature setting, the difference determines
the power flow to the heater.

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TurboIonSpray Components Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

The operating temperature should be adjusted relative to LC mobile phase composition

and flow rate. In general, a combination of heat and gas flow that allows the liquid spray to
reach dryness before reaching the curtain plate will provide optimum performance.
Heater gas (Gas 2) flows of approximately 6 L/min can be considered optimum for
conditions where heat is required. Ionization efficiency is improved with the input of heat
for all liquid flow rates. However, at lower flow rates (< 20 L/min), the gains are small.
Heat inputs may be desirable under low flow conditions for the additional reason of
enhancing in-source (orifice-skimmer) fragmentation. Temperatures as low as 80100 C
have proven useful for enhancing this capability (phosphopeptide mapping for instance)
when operating at low flow rates.

Exhaust Pump
The TurboIonSpray source requires that the source exhaust system is properly connected
and functioning. See "Source Exhaust Pump" on page 15. A filtered nitrogen or air gas
supply (free from pump oil) is delivered to the source exhaust pump at 60 psi pressure at a
flow of at least 4 L per minute. The source exhaust pump is used to vent solvent vapors
that develop in the ion source plenum.
It is recommended that these vapors be passed through a trap vented to a fume hood or
outside port.

WARNING! Failure to provide proper ventilation of the ion source can result in
hazardous vapors being released into the laboratory environment.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Installation

Installation
The TurboIonSpray source connects to the vacuum interface housing. Two latches
mounted on the source housing secure the TurboIonSpray against the vacuum interface.

WARNING! Some surfaces on the TurboIonSpray source will become hot during
operation. Use caution when installing or removing the source.

To install the TurboIonSpray on the Q Trap instrument

1. Ensure that the two source latches are in the unlocked (up) position.
2. Align the two guide pins on the source with the vacuum interface receptacles.

Guide pin alignment

3. Slide the source along the guide pins towards the interface as far as it can go without
using excessive force.
4. Turn the two source latches to the locked (down) position.
5. The TurboIonSpray nebulizer and heater gas (Gas 1 and Gas 2), the sprayer high
voltage and heater connectors are automatically engaged once the source is locked in
position.
6. Connect the liquid sample tubing to the grounded fitting which is connected to the
inlet end of the sprayer probe. Ensure that all fittings are properly seated in order to
minimize dead volumes.
Note: In order to reduce the band broadening of sample with solvent, thus maximizing
sensitivity, the use of 0.005" ID PEEK or fused silica tubing between the TurboIonSpray
source and the injector is recommended.

To remove the TurboIonSpray from the API instrument

WARNING! The ion source may be hot for several minutes after it is removed from
the instrument.

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Installation Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

1. Stop all scans and place the instrument in Standby.

2. Turn off the liquid flow entering the ion source.
3. Disconnect the liquid sample tubing from the grounded fitting.
Turn the two source latches to the unlocked (up) position.
The sprayer high voltage and heater connectors are automatically disengaged once the
source is unlocked.
4. Slide the source along the guide pins away from the interface to remove it.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Optimizing the TurboIonSpray

Optimizing the TurboIonSpray

The following section outlines the practical considerations that must be made when
optimizing the TurboIonSpray performance. It is intended to provide the information
necessary to aid the operator in quantifying the separate operating parameters.
TurboIonSpray performance depends on the following factors:
Sprayer position
TurboIonSpray (IS) voltage
Nebulizer gas (GS1)
Curtain gas (CUR)
Heater gas and temperature (GS2 and TEM)
Declustering potential (DP)
Solvent composition
Optimum performance on standard compounds is relatively easy to achieve and little
adjustment or tuning is required once the source is optimized.
With experience, the operator will develop a personal optimization method that works
best. In general, once the sprayer is set up and optimum factors have been determined,
little or no readjustment of the values is required on a day-to-day basis.
For tuning purposes, a compound with a known molecular ion should be introduced either
by continuous infusion or flow injection. Infusion is preferable because it provides a
continuous flow of sample. The tuning compound should have characteristics similar to
the sample to be analyzed during normal operation and should be introduced at the same
liquid flow rate.

CAUTION! When optimizing the sprayer position, make certain not to spray directly
down the orifice. Spraying down the orifice may contaminate the vacuum interface
and vacuum chamber ion optics and could impact instrument performance.

CAUTION! To avoid possible damage to the instrument, always view the sprayer tip
through the side port when adjusting its position.

CAUTION! If the source is to be left unattended while in operation, ensure that an

LC shutoff is in use to prevent flooding of the plenum chamber.

TurboIonSpray Probe Position

The position of the TurboIonSpray Probe relative to the orifice and to the heater probe is
an important factor in optimizing TurboIonSpray performance. The probe should point
between 5 and 10 mm off axis with respect to the center of the orifice. The distance of the
heater probe from the orifice plane is fixed, but the TurboIonSpray can be adjusted using
the scale on the side of the sample inlet arm. Changing from low solvent flow rates
(40 L/min) to high solvent flow rates (1 mL/min) requires that the TurboIonSpray be

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Optimizing the TurboIonSpray Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

repositioned further away from the orifice to prevent solvent penetration through the
orifice into the mass spectrometer.

Optimal Curtain Plate

TurboIonspray
Target

Orifice
40 L/min
200 L/min
1 mL/min

TurboIonSpray positioning across the orifice

Also, as the aqueous composition of the carrier solvent increases at high flow rates
(1 mL/min), the more visible the spray becomes and the farther away from the orifice it
should be directed. See the preceding figure where the areas indicated in the diagram for
the different flow rates are the optimum target areas for the TurboIonSpray liquid spray.
The circle immediately around the orifice (for example, the part of the orifice plate that is
visible when viewing the front of the interface) should remain clear of solvent or solvent
drops at all times.
The best position is usually a few millimeters off axis to the bottom of the curtain plate
aperture. Multiply charged proteins and peptides introduced at a few microliters per
minute usually require the sprayer to be as close as possible to the curtain plate.

TurboIonSpray Voltage (IS)

In positive mode, compounds usually require a high probe voltage of between 4000 and
5500 V. In negative mode, compounds usually require a lower voltage, between
3000 and 4500 V.
Note: If the TurboIonSpray voltage is set too high a blue glow can be seen at the tip of the
TurboIonSpray indicating a corona discharge. This will result in decreased sensitivity and
stability of the ion signal.

Nebulizer Gas (GS1)

Optimize for signal stability and sensitivity. Typically a value of 10 to 45 psi is used as
applied by the applications computer.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Optimizing the TurboIonSpray

Curtain Gas (CUR)

The curtain gas ensures a stable, clean environment for the sample ions entering the mass
spectrometer. The gas curtain prevents air or solvent from entering the analyzer region of
the instrument while permitting the sample ions to be drawn into the vacuum chamber by
the electrical fields generated between the vacuum interface and the TurboIonSpray
needle. The presence of the solvent vapor or moisture in the analyzer region of the mass
spectrometer contaminates the Q0 rod set causing a reduction in resolution, stability, and
sensitivity, and an increase in chemical background noise.
In order to prevent instrument contamination, the curtain gas should be optimized at the
highest possible setting, (never below 11 psi) that does not result in a significant
reduction in signal intensity.

Heater Gas (GS2)

The heater gas (Gas 2) aids in the evaporation of solvent, which aids in increasing the
ionization of the sample. The higher the liquid flow or the higher the aqueous composition
of the solvent, the higher the heater gas temperature and gas flow required. However, too
high a temperature can cause premature vaporization of the solvent, and result in a high
chemical background noise, while too high a heater gas flow can produce a noisy or
unstable signal.
The following table provides recommended operating conditions for the TurboIonSpray at
three different flow rates. For each flow rate, the curtain gas (from setting 11 to 45 at the
applications computer) should be as high as possible. The solvent composition used for
optimization was 1:1 water, acetonitrile. These conditions represent a starting point from
which to optimize TurboIonSpray. By an iterative process, the various settings can be
optimized using flow injection analysis to obtain maximum signal-to-noise for the
compound of interest.
TurboIonSpray Suggested Operating Settings
Flow TurboProbe Heater Gas (GS2) Nebulizer Gas
Rate Temperature (GS 1) Position
(L/min) (C)
L/min psi psi V H
40 300 6 65 20 2 0
(200500) (48) (4090) (1030)
200 400 7 75 30 3 5
(300500) (48) (4090) (1535)

1000 475 8 90 50 6 10
(450500) (48) (4090) (2055)
V = vertical position
H = horizontal position

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Optimizing the TurboIonSpray Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

Turbo Temperature (TEM)

The quantity and type of sample affect the optimal TurboIonSpray temperature. At higher
flow rates, the optimal temperature increases. A more significant factor is the composition
of the solvent. As the organic content of the solvent increases, the optimal probe
temperature should decrease. With solvents consisting of 100 percent methanol or
acetonitrile, the probe performance may optimize as low as 300 C. Aqueous solvents
consisting of 100 percent water at flows approximately 1 mL/min require a minimum
probe temperature of 425 C. Normal optimization is usually performed in increments of
25 C.
The TurboIonSpray is normally used with sample flow rates of 40 L/min to
1000 L/min. The heat is used to increase the rate of evaporation and this improves
ionization efficiency resulting in increased sensitivity. For recommended temperatures,
see the TurboIonSpray Suggested Operating Settings table on page 13.

CAUTION! Do not operate the TurboIonSpray with probe temperatures greater than
500 C.

Declustering Potential (DP)

Optimal declustering potential operating conditions with the TurboIonSpray source should
be set high enough to reduce the chemical noise, but low enough to avoid fragmentation.
Start with the declustering potential (DP) at 20 V.
Note: The fragmentation energy of a compound is a function of its structure and
molecular weight. Generally, lower molecular weight compounds require less
energy lower declustering potential to induce fragmentation. For some labile
compounds, DP values of between 5 and 10 may be required with the TurboIonSpray.
In general terms, the higher the declustering potential, the greater the energy imparted to
the ions entering the analyzing region of the mass spectrometer. The energy helps to
decluster the ions and to reduce the chemical noise in the spectrum, resulting in an
increase in sensitivity. Increasing the voltage beyond optimal conditions can induce
fragmentation before the ions enter the mass filters, resulting in a decrease in sensitivity.
In some instances, fragmentation is a valuable tool that provides additional structural
information.

Solvent Composition
Commonly used solvents and modifiers are acetonitrile, methanol, propanol, water, acetic
acid, formic acid, ammonium formate, and ammonium acetate. The modifiers such as
triethyl amine (TEA), sodium phosphate, trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), and sodium dodecyl
sulfate are not commonly used because they complicate the spectrum with their ion
mixtures and cluster combinations. They may also suppress the strength of the target
compound ion signal. The standard concentration of ammonium formate or ammonium
acetate is from 2 to 10 millimole per liter for positive ions and 2 to 50 millimole per liter
for negative ions. The concentration of the organic acids is 0.01% to 0.5% by volume.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Optimizing the TurboIonSpray

Source Exhaust Pump

WARNING! The TurboIonSpray source exhaust is a safety measure and must be
kept operational to ensure continued safe operation.

The source exhaust system is required for TurboIonSpray operation. The exhaust pump
draws the solvent vapors from the enclosed source chamber and delivers them to a trap at
the rear of the instrument chassis where they can be collected. The source exhaust system
is interlocked to the system electronics, such that if the source exhaust pump is not
operating to specification, the instrument electronics are disabled.
The exhaust system lowers the pressure in the source slightly below atmospheric pressure.
If the pressure in the source rises beyond a preset trip point, the instrument high voltage
power supply is disabled.

WARNING! The source exhaust pump must be vented to either an external fume
hood, or external exhaust source.

WARNING! Standard laboratory rules should apply when using or handling

flammable compounds with APCI source. Since this source includes a heating
element with an operating temperature above the flammability point of some
solvents, it is important to maintain and verify the API instrument before each use of
the APCI source.

The pressure switch for the exhaust line must be tested before each use by shutting off the
source exhaust gas supply. If the hose is connected to a forced ventilation system,
disconnect the hose from the drain bottle. Fault messages will be displayed on the monitor
indicating the source exhaust gas is off, which verifies that the pressure switch is working.
If the fault messages are not displayed the pressure switch is defective and the APCI
source must not be used. A service call is mandatory. If the above procedure is not
followed, the ion source pressure sensor may inadvertently allow the system to operate
when the ion source is not being properly exhausted. When the source is not properly
exhausted, vapor can escape through the heated nebulizer probe and condense within the
probe's electrical wiring. This could cause a short circuit and the possibility of a fire if
flammable solvents are used.

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Optimizing the TurboIonSpray Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

Exhaust supply connection points

Operating Tips
1. When running the TurboIonSpray, with or without the heater probe on, run the curtain
gas at as high a flow rate as possible without decreasing the signal. This will help to:
a) Prevent penetration of the curtain gas, which can produce a noisy signal.
b) Prevent contamination of the orifice.
c) Increase the overall signal to noise ratio.
2. The liquid spray from the TurboIonSpray should be directed away from the orifice in
order to:
a) Prevent contamination of the orifice.
b) Prevent piercing of the curtain gas, which can create an unstable signal.
c) Prevent electrical shorting due to the presence of the liquid.
3. The higher the liquid flow, or the higher the aqueous composition of the solvent, the
higher the temperature and heater gas (Gas 2) flow required. However, too high a
temperature can cause thermal degradation of the compound, and result in a high
chemical background noise, while too high a heater gas flow can produce a noisy, or
unstable signal.

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Changing the PEEK Tubing Transfer Line

Changing the PEEK Tubing

Transfer Line
A PEEK tubing transfer line is used to carry the sample and solvent from the sample inlet
to the stainless steel sprayer tube where it is nebulized and ionized. The standard
TurboIonSpray setup uses a 30 cm [0.0025"] (65 m) ID PEEK tubing transfer line. In the
event of a blockage of the line, use the following procedure to change the tubing.

WARNING! The use of the PEEK tubing transfer line connected to the grounded
fitting is mandatory because it prevents any exposed peripherals connected to the
source from floating at high voltage.

To exchange the PEEK tubing transfer lines

1. Remove the TurboIonSpray and set on its side.
2. Unscrew the PEEK tubing fittings from the probe inlet and the grounded union/splitter
fitting, and then remove and discard the old tubing (the fittings may be reused if they
have not been overtightened and damaged).

PEEK tubing
3. Obtain a new piece of 0.0025" PEEK tubing (it must be at least 30 cm [12"] long) and
place PEEK connection fittings on each end.

WARNING! PEEK tubing (or fused silica) with PEEK fittings must be used as the
transfer line. Metal tubing or fittings must not be used. The use of metal may
expose the operator to high voltage.
4. Connect the PEEK tubing to the probe inlet and the grounded union/splitter fitting.

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Changing the PEEK Tubing Transfer Line Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Changing the Stainless Steel Sprayer Tube

Changing the Stainless Steel

Sprayer Tube
The standard TurboIonSpray setup uses a 100 m (0.004") ID stainless steel sprayer tube.
The procedure outlined below should be used to exchange the metal tube in the
TurboIonSpray in the event of blockage or degradation of the sprayer tip.

To change the sprayer tube

1. Remove the TurboIonSpray and set on its side.
2. Disconnect the PEEK transfer line from the probe inlet.
3. Unscrew and remove the black inlet probe fitting. The PEEK union, metal spring, and
the stainless steel sprayer tube can now be removed from the probe.
4. Unscrew the fitting holding the stainless steel sprayer tube to the PEEK union.
Remove the stainless steel sprayer tube from the fitting and discard. Do not discard the
fittings.

Stainless steel sprayer tube removed

5. Place a new stainless steel sprayer tube and ferrule in the fitting and screw into the
PEEK union. Ensure that the sprayer tube is placed as far as it can go into the PEEK
union to guarantee a leakproof seal (two wrenches should also be used to tighten the
fittings).
6. Place the metal spring and stainless steel sprayer tube/PEEK union back into the
probe.
7. Place the black inlet probe fitting over the PEEK union and tighten. This fitting is used
to adjust the protrusion of the stainless steel sprayer tube tip at the end of the probe.
The sprayer tube should protrude approximately 0.75 mm, although a protrusion
between 0.5 and 1.25 mm is ideally acceptable.

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Changing the Stainless Steel Sprayer Tube Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Changing the Grounded Union/Splitter Fitting

Changing the Grounded Union/

Splitter Fitting
A PEEK tubing transfer line connects the sprayer probe inlet to a grounded fitting that can
be used either as a union or splitter. Since the liquid being sprayed from the source is in
contact with high voltages, the transfer line must be connected to the grounded fitting.

WARNING! The use of the PEEK tubing transfer line connected to the grounded
fitting is mandatory because it prevents any exposed peripherals connected to the
source from floating at high voltage.

To change between the union and splitter insert fittings

1. Remove the TurboIonSpray and set on its side.
2. Disconnect the PEEK transfer line from the grounded fitting.
3. Disconnect any other fittings or tubing that may be connected to the grounded fitting.
4. The insert within the grounded fitting should now move freely and can be removed by
tilting the source and allowing the fitting to fall out.
5. Place the new insert into the fitting and align it such that all the openings match.
6. Connect the PEEK transfer line to the grounded fitting and any other fittings or tubing
that may be used.

WARNING! PEEK tubing (or fused silica) with PEEK fittings must be used as the
transfer line. Metal tubing or fittings must not be used. The use of metal may result
in the exposure of the operator to high voltage.

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Changing the Grounded Union/Splitter Fitting Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Appendix A: Consumable Parts

Appendix A: Consumable Parts

The following is a list of parts included in the kit of consumable parts
(part number 022559) supplied with the TurboIonSpray assembly.

Item Part No. Description Quantity

1 019479 Probe Spring 1
2 016485 0.0025" ID PEEK Tubing 60 cm
3 019663 Probe Inlet Nut 1
4 013297 Viton O-ring, 7/64" ID 2
5 018783 Viton O-ring, 4 mm ID 2
6 018782 Metal Electrode Tube 2
7 016325 PEEK LC Fitting 2
8 018722 PEEK Union 1
9 019675 Splitter Tee Insert, 0.25 mm bore 1
10 019674 PEEK Ferrule 4
11 018784 Viton O-ring, 2 mm ID 2

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Appendix A: Consumable Parts Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

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Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual Appendix B: Troubleshooting

Appendix B: Troubleshooting
Introduction
This troubleshooting section is suitable for use by operators who have access to an ohm
meter and are familiar with its use. Diagnosis does not require removal of the instrument
covers and does not expose the operator to hazardous voltages.
The heater control circuits are protected by a fuse that can be reset. This device may be
tripped by excessive heater current, or by failure to approach the desired operating
temperature within about 5 minutes. When tripped, the device will remove power from the
heater. To reset the protective device, power off the system for about one minute or
remove the ionizer from the system for about one minute.
Diagnosis of the nature of the fault is done by means of ohm meter readings taken across
the pins of the 24-pin connector on the ionizer shown in the following figure.

Ionizer 24-pin connector

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Appendix B: Troubleshooting Q Trap LC/MS/MS TurboIonSpray Ion Source Manual

Failure Modes Heated Ionizer Table

Cause Symptoms Diagnosis Cure

Short circuit in No heat. Heater resistance Call Service to
heater. measured across pins 7 replace heater.
and 19 is less than 15
ohms.
Open circuit in No heat. Heater resistance Call Service to
heater. measured across pins 7 replace heater.
and 19 is greater than 25
ohms.
Heater No heat. Heater resistance from pin Call Service to
grounded. 9 to ionizer frame is less replace heater.
than 100,000 ohms.
RTD short No heat. RTD resistance measured Call Service to
circuit. across pins 9 and 10 is replace RTD.
less than 100 ohms.
RTD open No heat. RTD resistance measured Call Service to
circuit. across pins 9 and 10 is replace RTD.
greater than 300 ohms.
RTD grounded. No heat. RTD resistance from pin Call Service to
10 to ionizer frame is less replace RTD.
than 100,000 ohms.
Poor thermal When starting the The heater works Call Service to
contact between heater with the normally when the correct clips
the RTD and temperature set to temperature is set to attaching the
the heater. greater than 300 C, 150 C. RTD to the
the heat comes on for heater.
about 5 minutes and
then goes off.

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