Diagnostics (UltiMate 3000 Series)
Detailed Leak Test

Run this test to check the pump's valves and seals for leakage and to identify the source of the leak. When this test is run, a blind nut is installed on the pump outlet. The flow is started in different phases, starting from zero pressure. The pump passes the test when the pressure shows a linear increase for a certain value per time unit in both phases.

 Tips: 

This test changes the defined upper and lower pressure limits. After the test has been finished, the limits are reset to the user-defined values.

Do not run this test if a leak is visible. In this case, reduce the flow rate to 0 ml/min and follow the instructions in the troubleshooting section in the operating instructions for the pump.

Caution:

The detailed leak test is not suited for SDN pumps and should not be used with this pump type. If you run a detailed leak test on a SDN pump, you will get incorrect results.

How to

  1. On the first test page, click Next to proceed with the settings required for the test.

     Tip: 

    If the Next button is not active on the first test page, the pump is not connected in Chromeleon or is in Standby mode. Connect the pump to Chromeleon before you continue by selecting the Connected check box. If the pump is in Standby mode, also clear the Standby check box.

  2. Optional: Enter a descriptive text in the Comments field, e.g., the reason why the test was performed.

  3. Prepare the pump. (Grayed test steps can be ignored.) After each completed step, click the Done button.

    1. Reduce the flow rate to 0 ml/min by clicking Execute. This will automatically set the flow to the required value.

    2. HPG pump only: Select the pump block to test.

    3. Select the eluent channel that contains water.

    4. Purge the pump if required. Click Purge and select the required settings in the Pump Purge dialog box. Click Yes if you have already purged the pump.

    5. HPG pump only: Disconnect the other pump block. (For instructions, see  Disconnecting Pump Block From Flow.)

    6. Open the purge screw and install a blind nut on the pump outlet.

  4. Click Next to proceed to the next test step(s).

  5. After the baseline was determined and the piston moved to the target position, you are asked to tighten the purge screw. Click Done to confirm.

  6. During the following test phase, pressure builds up in the pump. Follow the instructions on the test panels and click Next to go to the last wizard page that shows the test result.

  7. To view or print the report with details of the analysis, click Finish and Preview Report. Click Finish to quit the test panel without viewing the report. For information about troubleshooting, click Open Troubleshooting Guide.

 Tips: 

The Detailed Leak Test is a very sensitive test. Even if the pump fails the test, the pump's performance can be considered sufficient for operation under usual conditions.

If this test is performed for new piston seals, allow the seals to run in for several hours before you perform the test. Without this, the test result may not be accurate.

For an efficient failure analysis, Dionex recommends performing the General Leak Test before you perform the Detailed Leak Test.

 

For general information, refer to  Diagnostics (UltiMate 3000 Series).

For more diagnostic tests for UltiMate 3000 Pumps, refer to:

 General Leak Test

 General Leak Test (ISO-3100BM Pump)

 Detailed Leak Test (ISO-3100BM Pump)

 Detailed Leak Test (NCP-3200RS/NCS-3500RS - NC Pump)

 Performance Test

 Outlet Frit Test/Mixer Frit Test

 Degasser Vacuum Test