LimsPulse
Spectroscopy

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer

Records the infrared absorption spectrum of a sample, which acts as a molecular fingerprint. The standard technique for identification of APIs and excipients in pharma QC.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Polymers & plastics
  • Chemicals
  • Forensics
  • Food
  • Academic research
Photo of a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer
Photo: Wang, F., Zhang, L., Zhang, X., Li, H. and Wu, S., CC BY 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Daily / each use

  • Check the humidity indicator
  • Clean the ATR crystal before and after use
  • Inspect the background spectrum for unusual water or contamination bands

Weekly

  • Check the energy or interferogram signal against its normal value
  • Clean the KBr press die and mortar

Monthly / quarterly

  • Replace or regenerate desiccant as indicated
  • Run a polystyrene performance check if not done more often

Six-monthly / annual

  • Full calibration: wavenumber accuracy, resolution and signal-to-noise
  • Preventive maintenance by a trained engineer (source, laser, alignment)
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the FTIR
  • Do not look into the reference laser beam (a low-power Class 2 or similar laser in most instruments).
  • Wear gloves when handling KBr and samples; some APIs are potent.
  • Use the hydraulic press with its guard and do not exceed its rated load.
  • Clean the ATR crystal with small amounts of solvent away from ignition sources.
  • The source runs hot; let it cool before any service access.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every FTIR in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how