Shimadzu Basics of Systematic Troubleshooting

Basics of Systematic Troubleshooting

A systematic approach is crucial for effective troubleshooting and problem resolution. By using a step by step approach, we can begin to understand the issue:

• Narrow Down the Problem
• Focus on one potential issue at a time. This allows you to identify the cause more accurately. 
• Understand Your System
• Familiarise yourself with your HPLC and method. Key aspects to monitor include: 
• Baseline of a blank measurement 
• Pressure behaviour 
• Retention time and peak area of analytes 
• Peak shapes
• Having consistency between runs - such as a standard you run with each batch or buying pre-mixed solvents - can help you track these parameters effectively.
• Analyse and Resolve
• After identifying a problem, it's possible to understand and narrow down potential errors. In upcoming course topics, we will cover the most common issues and the changes that can be made to resolve the issue. Only change one factor at a time. If a change doesn’t solve the problem, start from the beginning and test the next possible source of error.
• Document Your Findings
• Keep a record of the errors encountered and the changes made. This documentation benefits you and your colleagues by improving collective knowledge and speeding up future troubleshooting. 
• Dispose of Defective Parts
• When replacing components, if the issue has been resolved, dispose of the worn parts immediately to avoid reinstalling them later. If the replaced part hasn’t solved the issue then it could be worth keeping them for a later date. Keep them somewhere safe and labelled so colleagues know what they are.

Structure of an HPLC

To be able to troubleshoot effectively, we first need to understand the structure of a typical HPLC. Every HPLC is fundamentally built the same. It consists of a solvent delivery system, an injector, a separation column, a detector, and the solvent waste. Ideally, an online degasser and a column oven are installed to ensure reproducibility - we'll cover these aspects in future topics. A PC is also required for system control and data evaluation. 

Every HPLC module has the potential to cause errors that can easily be recognised with some experience. By checking every module one by one, issues can be identified and rectified quickly. The pressure trace gives us a lot of information that can be used diagnostically for many errors. Try to get into the habit of recording and monitoring the typical back pressure for your separations so that you can identify andy issues early on.  

In the next course unit, we’ll explore preventive measures for extending the lifespan of your HPLC and reducing potential problems.  

Your Shimadzu LC Team 

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