Maintenance

The need for maintenance may be indicated by performance issues or leaking. Typical maintenance procedures include changing filters and cleaning water.

Switching water filters

The analyzer has two water filters. One filter is used at a time. A dual valve mechanism allows you to switch from one filter to another without disrupting measurements. If the water flow rate drops during measurements, you may need to switch from one filter to the other and clean the clogged filter. When both handles point down, the filter on the left is used; when both handles point to the right, the filter on the right is used. Turn both valves simultaneously to switch from one filter to the other.

Cleaning a filter while measurements are underway

If both filters become clogged, or you want to clean one or both for any reason, you can do so while measurements are underway. Follow this procedure.

  1. Wait until the pCO2 system is measuring CO2 standards.

    It is not measuring seawater while it measures gas standards, so it is possible to stop the seawater flow to clean the filter.

  2. Turn both handles to direct flow to the other filter.

  3. Turn the small blue handle underneath the filter to drain the water.

  4. Loosen the cap slightly to let in some air.

    If water drains slowly, open the caps. After all of the water drains, tighten the cap before pumping water into the filter. The draining water may remove enough contaminant to clean the filter. Close the drain valves and air vent, and then resume normal measurements. If the filter is not clean enough, you may need to remove them for cleaning.

Removing the filter for cleaning

If you are unable to clean the filter while it is installed, you can remove the filter from the system for a more thorough cleaning.

  1. Open the blue handle valve to drain the remaining water from the filter.

  2. Disconnect the tube that connects to the blue valve below the filter.

  3. Push the gray ring on the connector evenly with two fingers towards the elbow while pulling the tube away from the elbow. A small screwdriver may be used to release the fitting.

  4. Hold the top of the transparent cup and unscrew it from the 3-way connector.

  5. Pull the filter downward to remove it from the system.

  6. Move the filter and the cup together to move them out of the box.

  7. Clean the filter with water

Reinstalling the filter:

  1. Apply some grease on the O-ring inside the connector and the tube to be inserted in the elbow-shaped connector.

  2. Insert the filter into the cup and screw it back into place.

  3. Push the tube into the connector to the mark on the tube.

  4. Turn the small blue handle underneath the filter to close the drain.