Tekmar Talk Blog

Quantitative analysis determines the concentration of a target analyte present in a test sample. Detection limits and quantitation limits are used to express the ability of the instrumentation and the accuracy of the analytical results. This blog provides a brief overview on guidelines and references for achieving applicable detection limits and reliable quantitation limits.

A typical analysis schedule for the Fusion TOC analyzer starts with a cleaning procedure. The cleaning procedure confirms cleanliness of the system and will ensure low instrument background. Also, tracking cleaning procedure results from day to day will give an indication if any contamination issues may be occurring. It is imperative to have low background and no contamination to achieve superior low-level TOC results.

The Fusion Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analyzer is equipped with TOC Teklink, a fully optimized graphical user interface.

This blog will demonstrate how Teklink helps to achieve the maximum analytical range for analysis.

To allow for quick startup, predetermined methodology has been set up for various sample types. For example, there are preset methods for analyzing pharmaceutical water, drinking water, and wastewater.

Preventive maintenance for analytical instrumentation should be scheduled and performed proactively. It is something that should not be put on the back burner. Establishing and adhering to a preventive maintenance schedule is beneficial in many ways:

• Reduces the risk of instrument failure
• Decreases unexpected downtime
• Increases laboratory productivity
• Extends instrumentation lifetime
• Saves money

What are the three worst enemies of low-level total organic carbon (TOC) analysis? Contamination, contamination, and contamination. Why stated three times? Because contamination can come from at least three different sources. The top three ways contamination can be inadvertently introduced into a TOC analyzer are reagents, laboratory glassware, and samples.

With today’s blog, let’s get to know the employees of Teledyne Tekmar/Leeman Labs. The next person I would like to introduce to you is Steve Proffitt.

Steve is an Applications Chemist for Teledyne Tekmar. He is an expert in Total Organic Carbon analysis using the Fusion, Torch, Lotix, and LSS Boat products. He is responsible for the overlap between marketing and chemistry. Steve helps develop analytical methods for testing customer samples, provide technical input during sales calls, and offer guidance for the complete line of carbon analyzers. Steve has been with Teledyne for 24 years. Steve was previously an R&D Scientist for 14 years and helped design the Fusion, Torch, Lotix, and LSS Boat as well as some of the VOC products. In his lengthy career at Teledyne Tekmar, Steve has also worked in Technical Support and as a Service Engineer.

Let’s ask Steve some questions to get to know him better.