To obtain consistently accurate results from Biochrom 20, the routine maintenance procedures described here should be performed carefully.  These procedures are divided into daily checks, weekly checks, monthly checks and Cleaning/General Care.

Daily Checks

Each day, before commencing instrument operation, check the following:

1. The volume of buffer in the buffer bottles.
2. The volume of ninhydrin in the ninhydrin bottle.
3. The volume of water in the distilled water bottle (for the coil flush).
4. The level in the drain bottle.
5. The quantity of paper in the chart recorder.
6. That the recorder pens are functioning correctly.
7. The quantity of paper in the printer.
8. The quantity of nitrogen in the cylinder.

That no leaks are visible including in the low pressure fluidics behind the left hand side panel.

Failure to perform these checks may invalidate an analysis or a whole series of analyses.

Weekly Checks

Every week, before commencing a series of analyses, perform the following checks:

1. The buffer and ninhydrin flowrates.
2. For Autoloader Systems:  Check the refrigeration unit for condensation and ice build-up.
3. For Autoloader Systems:  Remove and wash the capsule shute.

After performing these checks, perform the daily checks before commencing instrument operation.

Monthly Checks

Each month, before commencing a series of analyses, perform the following checks:

1. Clean/replace the ninhydrin filter.
2. Clean the flowcell with solvent, e.g., propan-1-ol.
3. Clean the reaction coil backpressure valve with solvent, e.g., propan-1-ol.
4. Flush the waste line with solvent, e.g., propan-1-ol.

Visually check the buffers for bacterial contamination.

 

CAUTION: Contaminated buffer must not be pumped through the analytical column.   Never add new buffer to old - always discard remaining buffer.  Thoroughly clean and rinse buffer reservoir and refill with fresh buffer.

After performing these checks, perform the daily checks and the weekly checks before commencing instrument operation.

Cleaning and General Care

Use a damp cloth for cleaning external surfaces.

Wash any buffer or ninhydrin spillage's with distilled water.