Troubleshooting and Maintenance
The analyzer has been designed to provide efficient and continuous service; however, certain maintenance procedures should be followed to obtain the best results over the longest period of time. When unexpected results occur, some common operational problems not indicated on the window and their respective causes and solutions are provided:
Log in to your customer portal to access error messages. Parts and accessories can be found online at www.Micromeritics.com.
Most operational problems are caused by the following:
- Leaks (commonly around the sample tube O-ring at the analysis port)
- Sample weighing errors
- Use of too much analysis bath fluid in the dewar at the start of an analysis
- Entry of incorrect system volume for analysis
Analysis valves cannot be operated.
Cause A: |
Circuit opened by circuit breaker. |
Action A: |
Reset breaker (depress Breaker button) located on the right side of the instrument beneath the tray cover. See Analyzer Components for the ASAP 2425 Analyzer . If the circuit breaker trips (pops out), call your Micromeritics Service Representative. |
Cause B: |
Cable from computer to the instrument is loose. |
Action B: |
Ensure the cable is seated properly. |
Vacuum pump gurgles continuously.
Cause A: |
Sample tube
O-ring or fitting loose. |
Action A: |
Tighten fitting. Replace O-ring. |
Cause B: |
Sample tube cracked. |
Action B: |
Replace with new sample tube. |
Cause C: |
No sample tube loaded on a selected port. |
Action C: |
Install plug or empty sample tube. |
Cause D: |
Gas inlet valve open while vacuum valve open. |
Action D: |
Go to to ensure a checkmark appears next the . Open the schematic. Right click on the open valve and select Close. |
Vacuum gauge shows reading above 20 mmHg, even after extended pumping through unrestricted valve with analysis or degas ports closed.
Cause A: |
Vacuum pump oil is low, causing ineffective evacuation. |
Action A: |
Add or change vacuum pump oil. Add oil to proper level according to oil level window. |
Cause B: |
Filter in port being used is dirty. |
Action B: |
Replace filter in port. See Replace the Analysis Port Filter. |
Cause C: |
Leak in vacuum plumbing. |
Action C: |
Check and tighten all connections in vacuum plumbing, including cold traps. |
Cause D: |
Vacuum pump powered off or unplugged. |
Action D: |
Check pump power plug and power switch. |
Cause E: |
The alumina in the oil vapor trap is holding moisture. |
Action E: |
Replace or dry the alumina. Log in to your customer portal to access the Vacuum Pump Guide. |
Cause F: |
Filter in port being used is dirty. |
Action F: |
Replace filter in the port. See Replace the Analysis Port Filter. |
Cause G: |
Dry forepump needs to be serviced. |
Action G: |
Replace the diaphragms. |
Cause H: |
High vacuum pump may have timed out. |
Action H: |
Remove the lower front panel of the analyzer and power the high vacuum pump OFF, then back ON. |
Cause I: |
No diaphragm in the high vacuum pump is worn or damaged. |
Action I: |
Contact your Micromeritics Service Representative. |