Spectroscopy
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS)
Measures one metal at a time by how much light of that element's own wavelength is absorbed by free atoms in a flame or graphite furnace. Simple, robust and still widely used for metals in pharma QC.
- Pharmaceutical
- Food & beverage
- Environmental
- Mining & metallurgy
- Agriculture
- Clinical
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Maintenance checklist
Daily / each use
- Inspect the burner slot for carbon or salt deposits
- Check the drain trap liquid level
- Check gas pressures and for leaks
- Run the sensitivity check standard
Weekly
- Clean the burner head by soaking in dilute detergent or acid
- Clean the spray chamber and nebuliser
- Inspect the graphite tube and contacts for wear (furnace)
Monthly / quarterly
- Check lamp energy and hours; replace weak lamps
- Clean the window optics
- Check exhaust flow
Six-monthly / annual
- Preventive maintenance by a trained engineer
- Calibration of sensitivity and precision
- Check gas regulators and flashback arrestors
SAFETY
Safety precautions
Before you work on the AAS
- Acetylene is extremely flammable: check for leaks, use flashback arrestors and keep the cylinder secured.
- Never leave a lit flame unattended.
- The flame emits UV light: do not stare at it; keep the burner shield in place.
- Use the exhaust: combustion fumes may contain toxic metal vapours.
- Handle acids and metal standards (Pb, Cd, Hg) with gloves and eye protection; collect waste for proper disposal.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management
Keep every AAS in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.