LUMEX INSTRUMENTS

RA-915LAB MERCURY ANALYZER

OPERATION MANUAL

В0300-00-00-000 OM

2020
Read the instructions in this manual carefully before operating the RA-
915Lab MERCURY ANALYZER. Neither LUMEX INSTRUMENTS nor its
representatives will accept any liability for the damage caused by non-
observance of the requirements of this manual.

RA-915Lab MERCURY ANALYZER is subject to improvements and the in-

formation in this manual may not include the latest updates on the RA-915Lab
MERCURY ANALYZER design.

No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or

by any means, neither electronically nor mechanically, without the prior
written permission of LUMEX INSTRUMENTS.

Contact us at [email protected]

Welcome to our Website www.lumexinstruments.com

Version 11
Created 16.03.2021
 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM I

About this manual

This manual is designed to familiarize you with the principle of opera-

tion and structure of the RA-915Lab analyzer (hereinafter referred to as the
«analyzer»), its design, performance characteristics and operating condi-
tions. It contains information that will provide proper operation and compre-
hensive utilization of the analyzer capabilities. Please take time to read the
manual in order to attain the best results in operation and to gain the great-
est benefit from your analyzer. This manual contains:
• List of important safety measures, warnings and precautions,
which you should follow when operating the analyzer.
• The purpose of the analyzer, its basic performance and analyti-
cal characteristics, and operating conditions.
• Brief description of the physical foundations and the principle of
operation of the analyzer, and of its design.
• Procedures for preparation of the analyzer for operation.
• Brief description of procedures for operating the analyzer using
a PC.
• Procedures for analyzer maintenance.
• Instructions for troubleshooting.

Symbols used in this manual

Danger:

Used when failure to follow safety precautions may result in a serious

injury.
II Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Warning:

Used when there is a danger of a minor injury or serious damage to

the analyzer if you do no follow the precautions.

Caution:

Used when there is a danger of a minor damage to the analyzer if you

do no follow the precautions.

Used to indicate additional information or to call attention to rec-

ommendations which may simplify daily operation.

Safety guidelines
Important safety precautions
Read these rules thoroughly before starting operation with the ana-
lyzer.
• Carefully study all sections of this operation manual and ana-
lyzer design.
• To avoid electrical shock, never work with the analyzer panels
taken off.
• Do not put extraneous objects inside the analyzer through its
ports.
• Use only the power supply, which is provided.
• Never use a defective power supply cord, do not put any ob-
jects on the power supply cord, and locate it in a manner to
avoid a trip hazard.
• External surfaces of the analyzer and silicone tube connected
to the outlet fitting on the back panel of the analyzer can be
heated up to 60…80°С during the analyzer operation. To avoid
skin burn, do not touch them until they fully cool down.
Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM III

• Turn the power supply of the analyzer off after measurements

only after it has fully cooled (the green button on the front panel
is off).
• Do not allow liquids on the case or inside the analyzer.
• Do not leave the sample port of the analyzer opened;
• Keep the analyzer at a minimum distance of 1 meter from heat-
ing devices and heat sources.
• Do not forget to switch the analyzer off when the working day is
over and to disconnect it from the mains if the analyzer is not
used for more than 6 hours.
• The analyzer should be switched off before any maintenance
operations.
• When measuring mercury concentrations, it is necessary to fol-
low instructions and documents stating safety regulations for
operation in chemical laboratories and safety rules for using
electrical appliances.
• Personnel admitted to operate the instrument are recommend-
ed to undergo training at the Manufacturer and/or Supplier
premises or at a regional service centre.
• Do not try to repair the analyzer or adjust its optical units and
electronic boards by yourself, except for cases stipulated in the
troubleshooting section.
• Call an authorized agent or certified service engineer in the fol-
lowing cases:
➢ If the analyzer does not operate properly or its pa-
rameters have noticeably deteriorated.
➢ If the analyzer has fallen down or if its case is dam-
aged.
➢ If you hear unusual sounds or sense an unusual
smell coming from the analyzer.
 Contents I

Contents

1 Introduction.............................................................................................. 1
1.1 General description ................................................................................ 1
1.2 Performance characteristics and specifications ..................................... 2
1.3 Operating conditions .............................................................................. 2
1.4 Analyzer design ...................................................................................... 2
1.5 Analyzer Description and Principle of Operation .................................... 4
1.5.1 Description of Analyzer ....................................................................... 4
1.5.2 Description of Autosampler ................................................................. 7
1.5.3 General Principles of Operation .......................................................... 7

2 Analyzer operation .................................................................................. 9

2.1 Pre-operational Procedures and Setup .................................................. 9
2.1.1 Equipment unpacking ......................................................................... 9
2.1.2 Analyzer installation .......................................................................... 10
2.1.3 Analyzer unlocking ............................................................................ 11
2.1.4 Connection of condenser container and sorption filter ...................... 17
2.1.5 Connection of the autosampler to the analyzer ................................. 19
2.1.6 Connection to power supply source .................................................. 19
2.1.7 Connection to PC .............................................................................. 19
2.1.8 Switching the analyser on and off ..................................................... 20
2.2 Analyzer Operation in Manual Mode .................................................... 21
2.3 Analyzer Operation with Autosampler .................................................. 24

3 Analyzer Maintenance ........................................................................... 25

3.1.1 Quartz windows cleaning .................................................................. 25
3.1.2 Quartz windows replacement............................................................ 30
3.1.3 Tray and atomizer inlet port cleaning ................................................ 30
3.1.4 Analytical cell and baffles cleaning ................................................... 32
3.1.5 Condenser container emptying ......................................................... 34
3.1.6 Outlet sorption filter replacement ...................................................... 34

4 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) .......... 38

5 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 1

6 Analyzer Storage and Transportation .................................................... 2

II Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

7 Warranty ................................................................................................... 3

Annex A ........................................................................................................... 4
 List of Figures I

List of Figures

Fig. 1-1 - The RA-915Lab analyzer with PC ..................................................................... 4

Fig. 1-2 – Front panel of the analyzer ............................................................................... 5
Fig. 1-3 – Back panel of the analyzer ............................................................................... 6
Fig. 1-4 - Right-hand (a) and left-hand (b) side panels of the analyzer ............................ 6
Fig. 1-5 – Principle of operation of the RA-915Lab analyzer ............................................ 8
Fig. 2-1 – Analyzer feet adjustment ................................................................................ 11
Fig. 2-2 – Removing right-hand side panel of the analyzer ............................................ 12
Fig. 2-3 – Locking screw in the angle bar ....................................................................... 12
Fig. 2-4 – Moving optical unit to the right ........................................................................ 13
Fig. 2-5 – Removing spacer from the magnet ................................................................ 13
Fig. 2-6 – Storage of the locking screw and the spacer .................................................. 14
Fig. 2-7 – Installing the right-hand side panel on the analyzer ....................................... 14
Fig. 2-8 – Disassembling the cover from the front panel of the analyzer ........................ 15
Fig. 2-9 – Removing the locking screw and the insert .................................................... 16
Fig. 2-10 – Storage of the locking screw and the insert .................................................. 16
Fig. 2-11 – Assembling the cover on the front panel of the analyzer .............................. 17
Fig. 2-12 – Connection of condenser container and sorption filter ................................. 18
Fig. 2-13 – Placing the sample boat on the holder ......................................................... 23
Fig. 2-14 – Inserting the holder with the sample boat into the atomizer inlet port ........... 23
Fig. 3-1 – Location of the special wrench in the analyzer ............................................... 26
Fig. 3-2 – Taking out the window mount from the analyzer ............................................ 27
Fig. 3-3 – Removing the window from the mount ........................................................... 28
Fig. 3-4 – Installing the window into the mount............................................................... 28
Fig. 3-5 – Window mounts .............................................................................................. 29
Fig. 3-6 – Tray on the inside of the cover ....................................................................... 31
Fig. 3-7 – Taking out the baffle from the analytical cell .................................................. 33
Fig. 3-8 – Installing the baffle into the analytical cell ...................................................... 33
Fig. 3-9 – Using the special wrench for the cover of the outlet sorption filter ................. 35
Fig. 3-10 – The spacer for the outlet sorption filter ......................................................... 35
Fig. 3-11 – The case of the filtering element .................................................................. 36
II Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 3-12 – The filtering element in the case .................................................................. 36

Fig. 3-13 – The sealing ring for the case of the filtering element .................................... 37
Fig. А-1 - Principle of operation of the RA-915Lab mercury analyzer .............................. 4
Fig.А-2 - Block diagram of the RA-915Lab mercury analyzer .......................................... 5
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 1 Introduction 1

1 Introduction

1.1 General description

The RA-915Lab mercury analyzer is designed for determina-

tion of mercury content in potable, natural and waste water samples,
soils, foodstuff and feed stocks, biological samples, oil and its pro-
cessing products in accordance with established techniques.
The main principle of the analyzer operation is controlled heat-
ing of the sample in the atomizer and further transfer of the released
mercury to the heated analytical cell, in which its content is deter-
mined by differential atomic absorption spectrometry with Zeeman
correction of non-selective absorption.
The RA-915Lab mercury analyzer is a stationary laboratory in-
strument controlled by a PC. It is possible to connect an au-
tosampler to the RA915-Lab analyzer, allowing automatic analysis of
up to 45 samples.
The analyzer is used for direct determination of total mercury
content in solid and liquid samples for environmental monitoring,
technological process control, industrial sanitary inspection and sci-
entific research. The direct determination means that the analysis is
performed without preliminary sample preparation (acid digestion,
etc.).
2 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

1.2 Performance characteristics and specifications

Mercury mass detection limit, ng, not more than 0.2

Permissible relative standard deviation (RSD) of the output signal
5
when introducing 40 ng of mercury, %
Analyzer warm-up time, min, not more than 40
Temperature range of atomizer and analytical cell, °C 50 – 950
Maximum number of samples in the autosampler 45
110 – 240 V
Analyzer power supply:
50 – 60 Hz
Capacity, VА, not more than 2000
Analyzer dimensions (WхLхH), not more than, mm 450×490×460
Dimensions of analyzer with connected autosampler (WхLхH), not
450×840×460
more than, mm
Mass of analyzer, kg, not more than 40
Mass of analyzer with connected autosampler, kg, not more than 57

1.3 Operating conditions

Ambient air temperature, C 10 - 35

Ambient atmosphere pressure, кPа 84.0 – 106.7
Relative humidity at 35C, not more than, % 80

1.4 Analyzer design

The components, which compose the basic delivery kit, are shown in
Table 1-1.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 1 Introduction 3

Table 1-1
№ Item Quantity, pcs

1 RA-915Lab Mercury Analyzer 1

2 Boat holder 2
3 Sample boat 5*
4 Power cord 1
Storage device with:
5 - RAPID software 1
- RAPID software User’s Manual
6 Interface cable 1
Condenser container and
7 1
outlet absorption filter (assembled)
8 Tray for boats carrying 1
Spares kit:
9 Filtering element 1
10 Special wrench** 1
11 Quartz window 2
12 Set of wrenches for maintenance 1
13 Cleaning brush 1
14 Tweezers 1
15 Lab spatula 1
Documentation:
16 Certificate of Quality (RA-915Lab) 1
17 RA-915Lab Operation Manual 1
Software RAPID guidelines on software installation
18 1
and analyzer connection
* The required number of sample boats is supplied with the autosampler kit (if
ordered)
** The special wrench is supplied inside the analyzer
4 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

1.5 Analyzer Description and Principle of Operation

1.5.1 Description of Analyzer

The RA-915Lab mercury analyzer is designed as a stationary labora-

tory instrument controlled by a PC using the RAPID software (Fig. 1-1). The
main components of the analyzer are the sample heating unit (atomizer),
the heated analytical cell, the carrier gas flow forming unit, and the differen-
tial atomic absorption spectrometer with Zeeman correction of non-
selective absorption.

Fig. 1-1 - The RA-915Lab analyzer with PC

The following marks are located on the front panel of the analyzer
(Fig. 1-2):
• Analyzer name;
• Manufacturer’s trademark.
The nameplate with the following information is located on the back
panel of the analyzer (Fig. 1-3):
• Manufacturer’s trademark;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 1 Introduction 5

• Analyzer name;
• Analyzer serial number;
• Year of manufacture;
• Power supply parameters;
• CE certification marks.
The analyzer panels are displayed in the Fig. 1-2, Fig. 1-3 and Fig.
1-4.

Fig. 1-2 – Front panel of the analyzer

1 – analyzer on/off switching button; 2 – inlet port of the analyzer;

3 –opening/closing handle of the shutter of the atomizer inlet port; 4 – cover;
5 – covers of the holes for autosampler mounting
6 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 1-3 – Back panel of the analyzer

1 – USB port; 2 – on/off power switch; 3 – power cord socket; 4 – air (or other gas) inlet
fitting; 5 – outlet fitting (for removal of gaseous products of thermal decomposition); 6 -
nameplate

a) b)
Fig. 1-4 - Right-hand (a) and left-hand (b) side panels of the analyzer

1 – latches for side panel disassembling

В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 1 Introduction 7

1.5.2 Description of Autosampler

The autosampler is designed for automatic input of pre-weighed

samples into the atomizer of the RA-915Lab analyzer. The autosampler is
controlled by the RAPID software. For detailed description, refer to the au-
tosampler operation manual.

1.5.3 General Principles of Operation

The principle of operation of the RA-915Lab analyzer is based on

thermal destruction of the sample matrix and reduction of the bound mercu-
ry followed by determination of amount of elemental mercury thereby
formed by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy with Zeeman correction of the
background absorption (ZAAS).
The pre-weighed sample in the boat is inserted into the RA-915Lab
analyzer manually or using the autosampler. In the atomizer of the analys-
er, the sample undergoes thermal decomposition upon heating according
to the pre-programmed mode. The carrier gas (purified air) transfers gase-
ous products of thermal decomposition to the heated analytical cell (Fig.
1-5). Mercury content is determined in the analytical cell by Zeeman atomic
absorption spectrometer.
The structural feature of the analytical cell is the presence of window
protecting gas, which prevents contamination of the optical windows and
minimalizes the efforts for the instrument maintenance.
The physical principles of the Zeeman spectrometer are described in
more details in Annex A.
8 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 1-5 – Principle of operation of the RA-915Lab analyzer

В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 9

2 Analyzer operation

2.1 Pre-operational Procedures and Setup

2.1.1 Equipment unpacking

Unpack the equipment (analyzer and/or autosampler) in the following

order:
• Use a sharp tool to cut the packing tape and carefully open
the transportation box;
• Remove the foam frame to uncover the equipment, docu-
mentation;
• Take the equipment out of the transportation box and put it
on a table;
• Take out the documentation;
• Take out the accessories;
• Take out the PC (if ordered).
Make sure that the package with the equipment is stored indoors for
at least ten hours after the transportation at temperatures below 0C and
then start unpacking the equipment.
For transportation, the equipment should be packed in the reverse
order.
Before starting operation with the equipment make sure that there are
no external damages of the analyzer and/or autosampler and accessories.
Check if the delivery set is complete in accordance with the enclosed pack-
ing list.
10 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Caution:

In case of any inconsistency please contact your Supplier.

2.1.2 Analyzer installation

Observe the following requirements when installing the analyzer:

• Operating conditions (see par. 1.3);

• The room in which the analyzer is installed must be equipped

with supply-and-exhaust ventilation to ensure the removal of
gaseous products of combustion;

• The instrument should be installed on a flat horizontal sur-

face of at least 1000×500 mm (when the analyzer operates
with the autosampler - at least 1400×500 mm);

• Connection of the analyzer to the mains power supply must

provide power consumption of no less than 2000 V·A. The
power consumed by the computer and other devices should
be clarified in the corresponding documentation.
Place the analyzer on the horizontal surface, ensuring its stable posi-
tion. To do this, loosen the locking ring (pos. 1 in Fig. 2-1), adjust the height
of the foot (pos. 2 in Fig. 2-1) and fix it with the locking ring, by twisting it up
to the stop. When the analyzer is supplied with the autosampler, adjust the
height of the autosampler feet in the same way.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 11

Fig. 2-1 – Analyzer feet adjustment

1 – locking ring; 2 – analyzer feet

2.1.3 Analyzer unlocking

Caution:

Transport locking screws are installed inside the instrument. Do not

switch the analyzer on until they’re removed.

To unlock the optical unit, proceed as follows:

• Disassemble the right-hand side panel. To do this, slide the
latches on the side panel as shown in Fig. 2-2 (a), pull the pan-
el towards you (Fig. 2-2 (b)) and remove it from the hinges;
• Using the hex wrench supplied with the spares kit, completely
unscrew the red locking screw from the angle bar as shown in
Fig. 2-3;
• Using the handle, move the optical unit to the right until it stops
as shown in Fig. 2-4;
12 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

a) b)
Fig. 2-2 – Removing right-hand side panel of the analyzer

Fig. 2-3 – Locking screw in the angle bar

В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 13

Fig. 2-4 – Moving optical unit to the right

• Remove the spacer from the magnet (see Fig. 2-5);

Fig. 2-5 – Removing spacer from the magnet

• Secure the spacer with the red locking screw inside the analyz-
er for storage as shown in Fig. 2-6;
14 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 2-6 – Storage of the locking screw and the spacer

• Using the handle, move the optical unit back to the left until it
stops;
• Replace the right-hand side panel of the analyzer. To do this,
assemble the panel so that the juts on the panel install into the
hinges on the analyzer’ body (see Fig. 2-7), press the panel on
top until it clicks.

Fig. 2-7 – Installing the right-hand side panel on the analyzer

В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 15

To unlock the atomizer inlet port, proceed as follows:

• Disassemble the cover (pos. 4 in Fig. 1-2) from the front panel
of the analyzer. To do this, pull it towards you, as shown in Fig.
2-8 (the cover is attached with magnetic holders);

a)

b)
Fig. 2-8 – Disassembling the cover from the front panel of the analyzer

• Using the hex wrench supplied with the spares kit, completely
unscrew the red locking screw and take out the insert (Fig. 2-9).
16 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 2-9 – Removing the locking screw and the insert

• Using the hex wrench, secure the insert with the locking screw
inside the analyzer for their storage (see Fig. 2-10);

Fig. 2-10 – Storage of the locking screw and the insert

• Assemble the cover on the front panel of the analyzer so that

the two guides on the inside of the cover enter into the corre-
sponding holes on the analyzer’s front panel, and the sleeve of
the rotating handle inserts into the groove of the shutter of the
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 17

atomizer inlet port (Fig. 2-11). The cover is fixed to the front
panel with magnets.

Fig. 2-11 – Assembling the cover on the front panel of the analyzer

Warning:

To avoid damage, the installed analyzer should be moved with

care, without sharp shocks, and only in the locked state. The ana-
lyzer locking procedure should be performed in the reverse order.

2.1.4 Connection of condenser container and sorption filter

To connect the condenser container and sorption filter to the analyz-

er, proceed as follows:
• Connect one end of the silicone tube to the outlet fitting on the
back panel of the analyzer (pos. 1 in Fig. 2-12), and the other
18 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

end – to the inlet fitting of the condenser container (pos. 2 in

Fig. 2-12) as shown in Fig. 2-12;
• Connect one end of the silicone tube to the outlet fitting of the
condenser container (pos. 3 in Fig. 2-12), and the other end –
to the inlet fitting of the sorption filter (pos. 4 in Fig. 2-12);

Fig. 2-12 – Connection of condenser container and sorption filter

Caution:

For the correct operation of the instrument, it is important that the

silicone tube connecting the analyzer and the condenser container
does not bend downwards or upwards to avoid accumulation of liquid
in it, and the tube connecting the condenser container and the sorp-
tion filter is not pinched.

• To abduct outlet gases into the exhaust ventilation (hood) con-

nect the outlet fitting of the sorption filter with any suitable tube
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 19

and bring out the other end of the tube to the exhaust ventila-
tion.

2.1.5 Connection of the autosampler to the analyzer

When the analyzer is ordered with the autosampler, the instruments

are supplied already connected. It’s necessary to attach the autosampler to
the analyzer if it’s ordered separately.

Caution:

Attachment of the autosampler to the RA-915Lab analyzer should

be carried out only by a representative of Lumex Instruments.

2.1.6 Connection to power supply source

Connect the supplied power cord into the socket (pos. 3 in Fig. 1-3)
on the back panel of the analyzer. Connect the analyzer to an AC network
using the power cord.
When operating the analyzer with the autosampler, the power of both
instruments is via the power cord connected to the RA-915Lab analyzer.

2.1.7 Connection to PC

Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the appropriate port of
the PC, and the other end – to the USB port on the back panel of the ana-
lyzer (pos. 1 in Fig. 1-3).
When operating the analyzer with the autosampler, connection of
both instruments to the PC is via the USB cable connected to the RA-
915Lab analyzer.
20 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

2.1.8 Switching the analyser on and off

To switch the analyzer on, proceed as follows:

• Switch the power supply of the analyzer using the switch on

the back panel (pos. 2 in Fig. 1-3). A single beep will sound;

• Switch the analyzer by pressing the button on the front panel

(pos.1 in Fig. 1-2). The indicator on this button will turn green,
cooling fans will start working. If the autosampler is connect-
ed to the analyzer, it will also switch on being ready to load
samples;

• Switch the PC on. The operating system will load, and the
Windows desktop screen will appear;

• Start the RAPID software (see the RAPID software User’s

Manual). The self-test procedure will start, with the green in-
dicator on the front panel blinking for a while. In case of suc-
cessful self-testing it will constantly light green, if an error oc-
curs – the indicator will light red.
To switch the analyzer off, proceed as follows:

• Start the automatic cooling mode of the analyzer by pressing

the button on the front panel (pos. 1 in Fig. 1-2). A single beep
will sound and the green indicator on the front panel will
blink. The fans and air flow inducers of the analyzer will con-
tinue working until the instrument cools down;

• When the analyzer’s temperature reaches the specified safe

value, all fans and air flow inducers as well as the green indi-
cator will automatically turn off;

• If you do not intend to use the analyzer for a long time, switch
it off using the switch on the back panel (pos. 2 in Fig. 1-3).
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 21

Warning:

Switch the analyzer off using the switch on the back panel only after
the analyser has fully cooled down (the green indicator on the front
panel has turned off).

Caution:

Do not turn off or restart the PC with the RAPID software activated.
This can disrupt the software and lead to data loss.

2.2 Analyzer Operation in Manual Mode

This section contains basic instructions for operation with the analyz-
er in manual mode. General procedure is as follows:
1) Prepare the analyzer for operation and switch it on ac-
cording to par. 2.1;
2) Follow the appropriate instructions when preparing sam-
ples, selecting operation modes, and performing sample
analysis;
3) Open the Sample analysis window in the RAPID soft-
ware;
4) Select the atomizer operation mode in the drop-down list
in the RA-915Lab atomizer control section of the Sam-
ple analysis window;
5) Click the Start button in the RA-915Lab atomizer control
section. The atomizer heaters and the air pump will start
operating according to the settings of the initial stage of
the mode. The Stop button, which activates the dropdown
list for selecting operation mode, appears instead of the
Start button;
22 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Caution:

It takes 40 min to get the analyzer ready for operation after it started
heating the atomizer. Continue operation only after the specified time
has elapsed

6) Click the Start button in the Sample analysis window to

start measurements of the output signals;

Prior to sample analysis carry out the calibration of the analyzer for the
given sample type and specified working conditions (i.e. mode) in which
sample analysis will be performed. Calibration should be carried out us-
ing (certified) reference materials with the established (certified) mercury
content.

7) Place the known amount of the sample into the sample

boat;
8) Place the sample boat with the sample on the boat holder
using tweezers as shown in Fig. 2-13 (a, b);
9) Turn the handle of the shutter (pos. 3 in Fig. 1-2) counter-
clockwise until it stops to open the atomizer inlet port. In-
sert the holder with the sample boat into the atomizer (Fig.
2-14 (a)), turn the handle clockwise until it stops to close
the atomizer inlet port and provide gas tightness of the
analyzer (Fig. 2-14 (b)).

Danger:

While operating the analyzer, the atomizer inlet port must be closed.
Open the inlet port only when inserting the sample boat.
It is strictly forbidden to insert any objects into the heated atomizer,
except for the sample boat, as well as to touch the inlet port of the at-
omizer.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in severe burns.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 2 Analyzer operation 23

a)

b)
Fig. 2-13 – Placing the sample boat on the holder

a) b)
Fig. 2-14 – Inserting the holder with the sample boat into the atomizer inlet
port

10) If required, click the Start scenario button (in agreement

with the requirements of the method used). The atomizer
starts operating at numbered stages (1 - 50) according to
the settings of each stage. The Stop scenario button,
24 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

which returns the atomizer to the initial stage of the se-

lected mode, appears instead of the Start scenario but-
ton;
11) Wait after the analytical signal peak comes back to the
baseline level;
12) Turn the handle of the shutter (pos. 3 in Fig. 1-2) counter-
clockwise until it stops to open the atomizer inlet port.
Take the holder with the boat out and turn the handle
clockwise until it stops to close the atomizer inlet port;

Danger:

After taking out the holder with the sample boat from the atomizer,
they remain hot for a while. Avoid touching them - use tweezers! Do
not place hot boat holder on any surface other than the tray for boats
carrying supplied with the analyzer.

13) Integrate the output signal and save the result of analysis
according to the RAPID Software User’s Manual;
14) Repeat steps 7 – 13 for the following samples.

2.3 Analyzer Operation with Autosampler

For the basic instructions of operating the analyser with the au-
tosampler refer to the Autosampler Operation Manual.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 25

3 Analyzer Maintenance

The analyzer maintenance includes the following preventive mainte-

nance, which is carried out on site:
• Quartz windows cleaning (as it gets dirty);
• Quartz windows replacement (as it gets dirty and cannot be
cleaned);
• Tray and atomizer inlet port cleaning (quarterly);
• Analytical cell and baffles cleaning (quarterly);
• Condenser container emptying (as it gets half full);
• Outlet sorption filter replacement (annually).

3.1.1 Quartz windows cleaning

Danger:

Make sure that the analyzer has cooled to room temperature before
cleaning the quartz windows of the analytical cell

If the SD (standard deviation) of the analytical signal in the Sample

analysis window exceeds 2 units (for more details see the RAPID Software
User’s Manual), it is necessary to clean the quartz windows. To do this,
proceed as follows:

1) Disassemble the right-hand side panel. To do this, slide

the latches on the side panel as shown in Fig. 2-2 (a), pull
the panel towards you (Fig. 2-2 (b)) and remove it from the
hinges;
2) Using the handle, move the optical unit to the right until it
stops as shown in Fig. 2-4;
26 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

3) Disassemble the left-hand side panel as described in the

1st step;
4) The special wrench (pos.1 in Fig. 3-1 (a)) is supplied,
mounted inside the analyzer case. To take the special
wrench out of the analyzer, unscrew the butterfly screw
(pos. 2 in Fig. 3-1 (a)) and remove the wrench (Fig. 3-1 (b));

a) b)
Fig. 3-1 – Location of the special wrench in the analyzer

5) Install the special wrench on the window mount as shown

in Fig. 3-2 (a, b), then turn it counter clock-wise and take
the window mount out from the analyzer as shown in Fig.
3-2 (c);

6) Carefully remove the window from the window mount (Fig.

3-3);

7) Clean the window with a cottonswab wetted with a solvent

(alcohol, acetone);
8) Install the cleaned window into the mount as shown in Fig.
3-4 (a, b);
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 27

a)

b)

c)
Fig. 3-2 – Taking out the window mount from the analyzer
28 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 3-3 – Removing the window from the mount

a) b)
Fig. 3-4 – Installing the window into the mount

9) Using the special wrench, install the window mount into

the analyzer turning it clockwise;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 29

Warning:

The window mount installed in the left side of the analyzer (see Fig.
3-5 (a)) differs from the mount installed in the right side of the ana-
lyzer (see Fig. 3-5 (b)). Incorrect installation of the mounts will lead to
incorrect analyzer operation!

a) b)
Fig. 3-5 – Window mounts

a) window mount installed in the left side of the analyzer;

b) window mount installed in the right side of the analyzer

10) Move the optical unit by the handle to the left until it stops;
11) Replace the right-hand side panel of the analyzer. To do
this, assemble the panel so that the juts on the panel in-
stall into the hinges on the analyzer’ body (see Fig. 2-7),
press the panel on top until it clicks;
12) Replace the special wrench into the analyzer case secur-
ing it with the butterfly screw (Fig. 3-1 (a));
13) Replace the left-hand side panel of the analyzer as de-
scribed in the 11th step.
30 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

3.1.2 Quartz windows replacement

Danger:

Make sure that the analyzer has cooled to room temperature before
replacing the quartz windows of the analytical cell

If after quartz windows cleaning the SD (standard deviation) of the

analytical signal in the Sample analysis window exceeds 2 units (for more
details see the RAPID Software User’s Manual), it is necessary to replace
the windows. To do this, take the windows out from the analyzer as de-
scribed in par. 3.1.1 and replace them with new ones.

Warning:

The window mount installed in the left side of the analyzer (see Fig.
3-5 (a)) differs from the mount installed in the right side of the ana-
lyzer (see Fig. 3-5 (b)). Incorrect installation of the mounts will lead to
incorrect analyzer operation!

3.1.3 Tray and atomizer inlet port cleaning

Danger:

Make sure that the analyzer has cooled to room temperature before
cleaning the tray and atomizer inlet port

To clean the tray and the atomizer inlet port, proceed as follows:

1) Turn the handle (pos. 3 in Fig. 1-2) located on the cover

(pos.4 in Fig. 1-2) counter clock-wise until it stops to open
the atomizer inlet port;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 31

2) Take the cover out carefully so as not to spill the contents

(pyrolysis products) from the tray located on the inside of
the cover. To do this, pull it towards you, as shown in Fig.
2-8 (the cover is attached with magnetic holders);

3) Clean the tray located on the inside of the cover (see Fig.
3-6);

4) Clean the atomizer inlet port using the cleaning brush

supplied in the spares kit;

Fig. 3-6 – Tray on the inside of the cover

5) Assemble the cover on the front panel of the analyzer so

that the two guides on the inside of the cover enter into
the corresponding holes on the analyzer’s front panel, and
the sleeve of the rotating handle inserts into the groove of
the shutter of the atomizer inlet port (Fig. 2-11). The cover
is fixed to the front panel with magnets.
32 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

3.1.4 Analytical cell and baffles cleaning

Danger:

Make sure that the analyzer has cooled to room temperature before
cleaning the analytical cell and the baffles.

To clean the analytical cell and the baffles, proceed as follows:

1) Disassemble the right-hand side panel. To do this, slide

the latches on the side panel as shown in Fig. 2-2 (a), pull
the panel towards you (Fig. 2-2 (b)) and remove it from the
hinges
2) Using the handle, move the optical unit to the right until it
stops as shown in Fig. 2-4;
3) Disassemble the left-hand side panel as described in the
1st step;
4) The special wrench (pos.1 in Fig. 3-1 (a)) is supplied,
mounted inside the analyzer case. To take the special
wrench out of the analyzer, unscrew the butterfly screw
(pos. 2 in Fig. 3-1 (a)) and remove the wrench (Fig. 3-1 (b));
5) Install the special wrench in the window mount as shown
in Fig. 3-2 (a, b), then turn it counter clockwise and take the
window mount out from the analyzer as shown in Fig. 3-2
(c);
6) Carefully take the baffle out the analytical cell as shown in
Fig. 3-7;

7) Clean the baffle and the analytical cell using the cleaning
brush supplied in the spares kit;
8) Install the cleaned baffle so that the edges of its protru-
sions are deeper than the end of the cell, as shown in Fig.
3-8;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 33

9) Using the special wrench, install the window mount into

the analyzer turning it clockwise;
10) Move the optical unit by the handle to the left until it stops;

Fig. 3-7 – Taking out the baffle from the analytical cell

Fig. 3-8 – Installing the baffle into the analytical cell

34 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

11) Replace the right-hand side panel of the analyzer. To do

this, assemble the panel so that the juts on the panel in-
stall into the hinges on the analyzer’ body (see Fig. 2-7),
press the panel on top until it clicks;
12) Replace the special wrench into the analyzer case secur-
ing it with the butterfly screw (Fig. 3-1 (a));
13) Replace the left-hand side panel of the analyzer as de-
scribed in the 11th step.

3.1.5 Condenser container emptying

As the condenser container gets half full, empty it as follows:

1) Disconnect the tubes from the inlet and outlet fittings of

the condenser container;
2) Unscrew the lid and empty the container;
3) Connect the tubes to the container lid as described in par.
2.1.4.

3.1.6 Outlet sorption filter replacement

It is recommended to replace the filtering element in the outlet sorp-

tion filter at least once a year.

To replace the filtering element in the outlet sorption filter, proceed as

follows:

1) Switch the power of the analyzer off and disconnect it from

the mains;
2) Empty the condenser container according to par. 3.1.5,
given any liquid in it;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 35

3) Take the special wrench (Fig. 3-1) out of the analyzer as

described in par. 3.1.1;
4) Using the special wrench turn the cover of the outlet sorp-
tion filter counter clockwise and remove it (see Fig. 3-9);

Fig. 3-9 – Using the special wrench for

the cover of the outlet sorption filter

5) Take the spacer (Fig. 3-10) out, then remove the case of
the filtering element (Fig. 3-11);

Fig. 3-10 – The spacer for the outlet sorption filter

36 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Fig. 3-11 – The case of the filtering element

6) Using the screwdriver supplied, unscrew three screws in

the cover of the case of the filtering element (Fig. 3-12).
Remove the cover, replace the filtering element with a
new one and secure the cover on the case of the filtering
element with three screws;

Fig. 3-12 – The filtering element in the case

1 – cover; 2 – screws; 3 – case of the filtering element

7) Install the filtering element in the case on the sealing ring

as shown in Fig. 3-13;
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 3 Analyzer Maintenance 37

Fig. 3-13 – The sealing ring for the case of the filtering element

8) Install the spacer on the case of the filtering element as

shown in Fig. 3-10;
9) Using the special wrench secure the cover of the outlet
absorption filter turning it clockwise.
38 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

4 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Directive (WEEE)

At the end of your products and accessories life, it must not be dis-
carded as domestic waste. Ref: EU Directive 2012/19/EU on Waste Electri-
cal and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Please contact your dis-
tributor / supplier for further information. For the users outside of the EU
consult applicable regulations.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 5 Troubleshooting 1

5 Troubleshooting

The RA-915Lab Analyzer should be repaired at an authorized service

center or by the manufacturer.
Refer to Table 5-1 for possible causes of minor malfunction and find
tips how to deal with them. In other cases of malfunction please inform your
Supplier or the Manufacturer and follow the instruction received.
Table 5-1
Fault symptom Possible cause Remedial measure
When pressing the button The power switch on the Switch the power switch on
on the front panel of the back panel of the analyzer the back panel of the ana-
analyzer, the green indica- is not switched on. lyzer.
tor does not light. The power cord faulty. Replace the power cord.
The fuse in the analyzer The fuse restores its opera-
has tripped. tion after 5-10 minutes.
Switch on the analyzer af-
ter the specified time.
The SD value of the analyt- Dirty quartz windows. Clean or replace the quartz
ical signal exceeds 2 units. windows according to par.
3.1.1 and 3.1.2.
The specified values of flow The liquid level in the con- Empty the condenser con-
rates of the carrier gas and denser container has ex- tainer according to par.
window protecting gas are ceeded the limit value. 3.1.5.
not stable.
The regression coefficient A silicone tube is pinched. Eliminate the tube pinching.
(a) for the calculated cali- A window mount is assem- Assemble the window
bration has significantly bled incorrectly. mount correctly.
changed compared to the
There is too much conden- Empty the condenser con-
previous value.
sate in the container. tainer.
The sealing ring on the Replace the sealing ring on
boat holder is weak. the boat holder.
The sealing ring on the Z- Replace the sealing ring on
manipulator of the au- the Z-manipulator.
tosampler is weak.
2 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

6 Analyzer Storage and Transportation

Only the analyzer which is packed according to the requirements

shown in 2.1.1 can be transported.
The analyzer may be transported by any kind of transportation with-
out the limitations in speed and distance under the following conditions:
• Ambient air temperature from minus 50 to 50°C
• Relative humidity up to 100% at 25°C.
Placing and fastening the box with the analyzer on transportation ve-
hicles should guarantee the steady position throughout the delivery, lack of
displacements and instrument shocks. Instructions given by cargo signs
should be followed at all stages of the delivery from the manufacturer to the
customer.
Analyzer storage conditions within the transportation box:
• Ambient air temperature from 5 to 40°C
• Relative humidity not more than to 80% at 25°C.
Should other conditions be applied, they must be specified in the con-
tract for the supply.
The content of dust, fumes of acids and alkalis and other corrosion-
active agents shall not exceed the content of those for laboratories.
During the storage period, the analyzer should be placed so that a
distance to the walls of the room should be not less than 0.1 m. Distance to
heating devices should be not less than 0.5 m.
В0300-00-00-000 OM Section 7 Warranty 3

7 Warranty

The Manufacturer warrants each analyzer complies with the Specifi-

cation given in this manual if the customer observes the rules of analyzer
operation, transportation and storage conditions established by this Opera-
tion manual.
For more information please refer to Certificate of Quality В0300-00-
00-000 CQ.
4 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Annex A
(informative)
Physical Foundation and Principle of Operation
The RA-915Lab analyzer operation is based on differential Zeeman
atomic absorption spectrometry using high frequency modulation of light
polarization (ZAAS-HFM).

Fig. А-1 - Principle of operation of the RA-915Lab mercury analyzer

The radiation source (a mercury lamp) is placed in a permanent

magnetic field H. The mercury resonance line =254 nm is split into three
polarized Zeeman components (, + and - respectively). When the radia-
tion propagates along the direction of the magnetic field, only the radiation
of the -components: one of these falling within the absorption line profile
and another one lying outside reaches the photo detector. When mercury
vapour is, absent in the analytical cell, the radiation intensities of both -
components are equal. When mercury atoms appear in the cell, the differ-
В0300-00-00-000 OM Annex A Annex A 5

ence between the intensities of the -components increases as the mercu-

ry vapour concentration grows.
The -components are separated by the polarization modulator. The
spectral shift of the -components is significantly smaller than the widths of
molecular absorption bands and scattering spectra, hence the background
absorption by interfering components does not affect analyzer’s readings.
A multi-path cell with an effective length about 10 m is used to enhance the
sensitivity of analysis.
The block diagram of the analyzer is presented in Fig.А-2, where:
1. Mercury EDL lamp,
2. High-frequency generator,
3. Polarization modulator,
4. Built-in analytical cell,
5. Photo detector,
6. Electronic signal-processing unit,
7. PC.

Fig.А-2 - Block diagram of the RA-915Lab mercury analyzer

6 Operation manual RA-915Lab В0300-00-00-000 OM

Mercury EDL lamp (1), which is placed in the gap between the poles
of the magnet, is excited by the high frequency generator (2). The light
successively passes through the polarization modulator (3) to the built-in
analytical cell (4) and is finally detected by a photo detector (5). The photo
detector signal arrives at the electronic signal-processing unit (6), where
the signal is separated at the modulation frequency and the analytical sig-
nal is formed. After that the information is displayed on the screen of a PC
(7).