I have a red “Cell” light on the equipment. What does this mean?
- Red cell light can be triggered under either of the two or both circumstances:
- High particle concentration (rate of count) at the minimum active channel; coincidence loss effect may be greater than 5%.
- High noise level with relation to the minimum active channel.
What does “High Noise” or “Noise High” on my print out mean?
- These print out messages are triggered by the red “Cell” light; please see the red “Cell” light FAQ above for additional information.
What is coincidence loss?
- An effect on all light blockage and light scattering particle counter technologies that occur when increasing particle concentration increases the probability of overlapping particle signals.
My sample has bubbles. Does it matter?
- Yes, air bubbles will scatter light and generate signals. Please contact your local representative to discuss solutions.
My syringe only fills halfway when I am purging and/or measuring, what should I do?
- This will lead to sample volume inaccuracy. It could be from multiple causes such as air bubbles in sample, loose connections, worn-out syringe, clogged flow path, too much pressure drop. Please contact your local representative for assistance.
What does RD Timeout error in RP Monitor mean. Why?
- Communication error. Please check all power and communication cables.
How often should I calibrate my particle counter?
- The unit should be calibrated Annually.
How is my particle counter calibrated?
- Size accuracy: using size standards to set and verify particle sizing.
- Count accuracy: comparison with standard units to set and verify particle counts and efficiency.
What can I do to verify my particle counter between calibrations?
- Cleanliness / Contamination check:
- Quick Method: run a static measurement using known clean liquid
- Detailed Method: check sensor condition using pulse height analyzer
- Count and Sizing check:
- Quick Method: measure previously measured sample(s) and compare data; please consider possible aging/contamination of the sample.
- Quick Method: comparison test with another recently calibrated unit or internal standard unit
- Detailed Method: purchase standard solutions for measurement
I want to measure inline. Do I have to buy a new particle counter?
- RION’s modular design allows most systems to be converted to in-line measurement with just the proper piping connections and flow control. Your local representatives will be able to assist.
How do I change the channels/bin sizes on my RION particle counter?
- Systems using KE-40 controller: Channels are fixed.
- Systems using KE-40B1 controller: Main Menu > System Config > Page Down > Channels Section:
- New channels: Highlight empty row > Input > enter value > ENT > Back
- Override channels: Highlight existing row > Input > adjust value > ENT > Back
- Delete channels: Highlight existing row > Input > enter 0 > ENT > Back
Does MGN International offer sample characterization and testing?
- Yes, MGN International offers sample noise characterization and particle measurements. Please contact your local representative to schedule this service.
How do I pack up the system and what address do I use for shipping?
- Please follow the below link to the RION liquid particle counter packing and shipping instruction sheet.
- RION LPC Shipping Instructions
- Please do not hesitate to contact any MGN representatives for questions or support.
Does MGN offer refresher training or support?
- Yes. We offer customized training / retraining to support different needs. Please contact your local representative to discuss needs and options.
How can I reduce my operational cost?
- Service Contracts are available, this includes reduced calibration and service costs while elevating the customer to Priority Status.
- Power OFF sensors when not using. This will conserve laser usage life.
- Regular preventative maintenance (PM) and care. See the section below on basic PM.
What are some basic Preventative Maintenance and Best Practices?
- Avoid mixing of incompatible and/or reactive chemicals. Use a compatible intermediate solution when needed.
- Avoid letting the flow path dry out, always keep liquid inside the unit.
- Use inlet/outlet caps to keep liquid inside when disconnected from liquid lines.
- Avoid touching/contaminating the portion of the inlet tubing that comes in contact with the sample. Considering using an empty bottle (or bottle with clean liquids) to store the inlet line when not sampling.
- Avoid touching the control screen/buttons with chemical contaminated gloves. Use the touchscreen pen provided.
- Clean up and neutralize any chemical spills on/around the system immediately.
- Conduct regular cleaning of the area around the system and sample area to prevent dust buildup.
- Avoid leaving high particle count liquid inside the unit; flush and keep in clean liquid after use.
- Shorten excess lines to minimize purge volume and reduce pressure drop.
- Pre-rinse and flush new or old dried tubing before connecting to the particle counter.
- Minimize upstream moving components (particle source).
- For storage, recommend keeping IPA inside and avoid freezing conditions.
Please contact your local representative for additional questions and/or support.