HelixTM CT Spray Chamber with ConstantTorqueTM Technology
Traditionally, ICP-OES and ICP-MS sample introduction systems have relied on o-rings to form a gas-tight seal between the nebulizer and spray chamber. There are several drawbacks with an o-ring seal, such as:
- Potential for contamination due to dead volume around the o-ring seal
- Chemical resistivity of strong acids and organic solvents
- The o-rings are difficult to replace, often requiring tools
- Bonding to the nebulizer can result in breakage
Glass Expansion now equips all of its glass, PFA, and PTFE spray chambers with the new Helix ConstantTorque nebulizer interface to provide a constant, reproducible, inert, gas-tight seal between the nebulizer and spray chamber.
The new Helix locking screw with built-in torque control mechanism allows for a consistent seal of the PTFE ferrule against the nebulizer – making it impossible to overtighten or under-tighten while ensuring a gas-tight seal each and every time.
A new PressFit PTFE ferrule provides a chemically inert seal around the nebulizer, which is immune to strong acids and organic solvents routinely used in ICP sample preparation.
The new Helix CT cyclonic spray chamber by Glass Expansion, therefore, eliminates all the drawbacks of the o-ring nebulizer seal, while improving user safety by preventing broken nebulizers.
Glass Expansion’s new Helix CT design still maintains the original positive stop to ensure that the nebulizer is inserted to the correct and optimum depth within the spray chamber.
However, the torque applied to the nebulizer seal is also critical. Consistent nebulizer depth combined with constant torque provides the ICP analyst with unparalleled, reproducible day-to-day analytical performance.
In addition to improved performance, the Helix CT is the only nebulizer-spray chamber interface that significantly reduces the dead volume around the nebulizer. This unique design minimizes washout time with highly concentrated samples, reducing sample-to-sample carryover and improving sample throughput.
Achieving consistent day-to-day analytical performance in your ICP laboratory is just a click away with the new Helix CT cyclonic spray chamber. If you already have a Helix spray chamber, you can easily upgrade to the Helix CT interface.
The new Helix CT locking screw and PressFit PTFE ferrule are fully compatible with all Glass Expansion Helix style spray chambers. Learn more at GEICP.com/HelixCT and upgrade your ICP today.