How to fix a blocked capillary on the PA 800 Plus system

For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Issue Description

Crystallized reagents on the capillary tip can cause a blocked capillary on the PA 800 Plus system. 

Symptoms:  No peaks or low signal is seen in the data.

Possible causes:

1. There is gel or liquid on the outside of the cartridge.
2. The cartridge was not fully dried after cleaning.
3. Soap or detergent was used to clean the cartridge.

Resolution

Solutions: 

1. Check that the capillary is not broken by examining it and paying special attention to the capillary window.
2. Clean the cartridge, capillary tips and cartridge seals.

• • Clean the cartridge using a lint-free wipe.
  • Use CE-grade water to clean the outside surface of the capillary inlets.
  • Use a lint-free wipe to clean the capillary inlets carefully in an outward direction.

     

    

• • Use a magnifying glass to examine both sides of the capillary window. If lint or other particles have been collected, use short bursts of electronics-grade compressed air to remove them. Do not use water or other liquids to clean the capillary window.

3. Perform a manual pressure rinse to determine if the cartridge is blocked and repeat to unblock the capillary if required.

Perform a manual pressure rinse

1. 1. In 32 Karat software, open the Direct Control window and click Load.

2. Install one universal vial filled with 1.5 mL of CE-grade water in space A1 of the reagent inlet tray.

3. Install one empty universal vial or nano vial on space A1 of the reagent outlet tray.  Note: You may find it easier to see the water droplet when using a nano vial in the reagent outlet tray.

4. Install the cartridge.

5. In 32 Karat software, click the Pressure box.

6. In the Pressure Settings window, select Forward for Direction.
7. Select Pressure for Pressure type.
8. Enter 75 for Pressure.
9. Enter 2 for Duration.
10. Click Trays and select A1 for both the Reagent Inlet and Reagent Outlet trays.
11. Click OK in the Tray window.
12. Click OK in the Pressure settings window. The pressure rinse will start.
13. Once the rinse is finished, click Load.
14. Examine the vial on the reagent outlet tray.
    1. If you see a water droplet, your capillary is clear from blockages.
    2. If you do not see a water droplet, the capillary is blocked. Repeat the manual pressure rinse process and set the duration to 10 min. Install a new capillary if you still do not see a water droplet.
    3. If you do not yet see a water droplet, repeat the 10 min rinse process in the version direction. If you still do not see a water droplet, install a new capillary.