Diagnostics (UltiMate 3000 Series)
Leak Test

Run this test to check the WPS-3000SL/RS/TXRS fitting connections, needle seat, injection valve and the entire HPLC system (pump and autosampler) for leaks. A Viper fitting plug is installed on the injection valve output (port 4). The flow is pumped  through the closed system to generate high pressure. The pressure drop per time is measured at zero flow.

 Notes: 

For this test, the specified upper and lower pressure limits will be changed. However, user values will be restored at the end of the test.

Do not run this test if a leak is visible. Instead reduce the flow rate to 0 ml/min and refer to the troubleshooting section in the Operating Instructions for the autosampler.

For a correct test analysis, it is important that the pressure increase at the beginning of the test is linear and continuous (no pressure jumps or drops). However, there will be a sharp bend in the pressure signal after the flow rate changes from 0.1 to 0.01 mL/min .

Required materials and preparatory measures

To run this test, you need an UltiMate 3000 pump, a waste capillary, and a fitting plug. Thoroughly flush at least one pump channel with water before running the test.

 Tip: 

Dionex recommends using the Diagnostics Kit for UltiMate 3000 pumps and detectors (Dionex P/N 6035.3000), which contains all materials required for this test.

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 autosampler is not connected in Chromeleon or in Standby mode. Connect the autosampler to Chromeleon before you continue by selecting the Connected check box. If the autosampler is in Standby mode, you must also clear the Standby check box.

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

3. Prepare the autosampler:

   1. Reduce the flow rate to 0 ml/min clicking Execute.

   2. Select the eluent channel for water.

   3. Select the pressure range for which you want to perform the test:
      PEEK (max. pressure 250 bar (~3600 psi)) - for testing an autosampler with PEEK capillaries and fingertight fittings.
      SST (max. pressure 400 bar (~5800 psi)) - for testing an autosampler with stainless steel capillaries and fittings.

   4. Install a waste capillary on the injection valve outlet (port 4).

4. Click Done when you have performed the above steps. Clicking Next> takes you to the next test step

5. The autosampler is automatically flushed with water for 30 seconds.

6. A beep indicates that the flush cycle is finished. Replace the waste capillary on injection port 4 with a fitting plug. Do not use other fittings than the one provided in the WPS Diagnostics Kit, as they may damage the injection valve.

7. The test phase starts. During the test phase, pressure builds up in the system.

8. When the test phase has finished, remove the fitting plug, reconnect the fluidics, and confirm with Done. Click Next> to view the test results on the next page.

9. 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: 

For an efficient failure analysis, Dionex recommends performing the Leak Test for the autosampler first. If the system leak is too large, perform the General Leak Test for the UltiMate 3000 pumps afterward.

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

For more diagnostic tests, refer to:

 WPS Drives and Sensor Test

 General Leak Test (UltiMate 3000 Pumps)