When to align the sampling needle in the inject port:

After replacing the sampling needle assembly and/or the needle seal assembly, or if the needle becomes misaligned after a period of operation.

Step 1:

After clicking Inject port align, open the autosampler door for a better view of the needle and inject port during the alignment procedure.

Caution:

Be aware of unexpected sampling arm movement when operating with the door open.

Step 2:

After clicking Test, adjust the X-position and/or Y-position values until the needle is centered in the inject port.

Step 3:

Select the syringe speed and diverter valve position (if installed) that will provide the maximum backpressure delivered to the needle seal during use. This backpressure must not exceed 690 kPa (100 psi) (see Selecting the Syringe Speed (AS/AS50) for guidelines on selecting the speed).

After selecting the syringe speed and the diverter valve position (if installed), click Test. 100 ml  of fluid is dispensed into the port.

Monitor the top of the inject port for fluid. If fluid appears, first wipe up the fluid, then increase the needle’s z-axis height and click Move to move the needle down. Note: Each digit in the z-axis height value moves the needle 0.127 mm (0.005 in).

Caution:

Increase the z-axis height value only until no more leaks occur. If the z-axis height is too large, the needle will hit the bottom of the port during operation and can damage the needle or port.

Step 4:

After you click Check, the AS dispenses 500 ml of fluid into the port. This larger amount of fluid provides a more thorough check than the 100 ml  that is dispensed by clicking Test in Step 3.

Finishing:

After clicking Finish, the new calibration values are displayed on the panel. Write these values on the label inside the AS front door.

If you are performing this procedure after replacing the needle seal assembly, go on to calibrate the inject port volume (see Calibrating the AS Inject Port Volume).