Teledyne Tekmar Purge and Trap System Model 72

Overview

The Teledyne Tekmar Purge and Trap System Model 72 is a laboratory-grade, fully automated sample introduction platform engineered for trace-level analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in aqueous, soil, and solid matrices. Operating on the principle of dynamic headspace extraction—where inert gas purges VOCs from the sample into a hydrophobic sorbent trap, followed by rapid thermal desorption into a gas chromatograph—the Model 72 delivers high reproducibility, low carryover (<0.01%), and robust inter-laboratory comparability. Designed for compliance-driven environments, it integrates seamlessly with Agilent, Thermo, Shimadzu, and PerkinElmer GC and GC/MS systems. This refurbished unit has undergone full functional validation per Tekmar Factory Service Protocol, including trap conditioning, purge efficiency verification, system blank assessment, and calibration check using certified EPA standards (e.g., TO-14A/TO-15 mix).

Key Features

• Fully automated 48-position autosampler with programmable sample inversion, spiking, and internal standard addition
• Triple-bed sorbent trap (Tenax TA / Carbopack B / Carbopack C) optimized for C2–C12 VOC recovery and minimal water retention
• Precision mass flow-controlled purge gas delivery (N₂ or He), adjustable from 25–500 mL/min with ±1% accuracy
• Integrated cryofocusing at −30 °C using closed-cycle refrigeration—no liquid CO₂ or LN₂ required
• Thermal desorption at 280 °C with <50 ms transfer time to GC inlet, minimizing band broadening
• Onboard leak detection and pressure monitoring with real-time diagnostics and event logging
• Modular architecture supporting field-upgradable firmware and hardware options (e.g., soil module, high-sensitivity mode)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Model 72 accommodates 5–25 mL aqueous samples, 2–10 g solid matrices (via purge vessel with sparge bar), and leachates per SW-846 Method 5035. It meets performance criteria outlined in U.S. EPA Methods 502.2, 524.2, 624, and 8260D, as well as ASTM D5024 (determination of VOCs in drinking water). All system qualification documentation—including Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ) reports—is provided with this unit. The system operates under GLP/GMP-aligned workflows, with electronic signatures, user access levels, and full 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails enabled via Atomx Connect software.

Software & Data Management

Controlled exclusively through Atomx Connect v3.x, the Model 72 supports method-driven operation with customizable sequence templates, automatic calibration curve generation (linear/non-linear), and QC failure flagging (e.g., breakthrough, desorption efficiency <90%). Raw data files are stored in vendor-neutral .csv and .xml formats compatible with LIMS integration. Audit logs record all user actions—including method edits, run starts/stops, and maintenance events—with timestamps, operator IDs, and IP addresses. Remote monitoring via secure HTTPS connection allows lab managers to verify instrument status and queue progress without local access.

Applications

This system is routinely deployed in environmental testing laboratories for regulatory reporting of VOCs in groundwater, wastewater, and soil extracts; in pharmaceutical manufacturing for residual solvent analysis (ICH Q3C); and in food safety labs for off-flavor compound screening (e.g., chloroanisoles, geosmin). Its high sensitivity and low matrix interference make it suitable for ultra-trace analysis in semiconductor-grade water testing (ASTM D5127) and forensic toxicology (blood/bile VOC profiling). When paired with a capillary GC column (e.g., DB-624 or equivalent) and MS detection, it achieves identification confidence exceeding Level 2 per SWGTOX guidelines.

FAQ

Is this unit eligible for extended warranty or service contracts?
Yes—post-purchase support plans (1–3 years) covering preventive maintenance, parts, labor, and priority remote diagnostics are available upon request.
Does the system include a GC interface kit?
Yes—standard configuration includes GC transfer line, ferrules, graphite gaskets, and GC inlet adapter compatible with split/splitless injectors.
Can the Model 72 be validated for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation?
Absolutely—the delivered IQ/OQ/PQ package aligns with ILAC-G8:2022 requirements and includes uncertainty budgeting templates for VOC recovery studies.
What consumables are included with the refurbished unit?
One set of certified traps, 100 purge vessels with septa, 50 sparge bars, and a full complement of calibration standards (EPA TO-14A Mix, surrogate spiking solution) are provided.
Is training included with purchase?
Yes—two days of on-site or virtual operator training covering method setup, troubleshooting, routine maintenance, and compliance documentation is included.