Hands-on GC and GC-MS

Details

This course provides the theory of the Gas Chromatograph and Mass Spectrometer essential to any delegates knowledge, along with the hands-on practical element in the laboratory to practice and re-enforce the theoretical knowledge. These hands-on courses are 50% theory and 50% practical in a lab environment, within a small group size.

The course combines the five individual hands-on days covering Gas Chromatography Theory and Methods, GC Maintenance, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Theory and Methods, MS Maintenance and GC & GC-MS troubleshooting. Delegates can attend individual days of this course or multiple days to suit their requirements.

Course topics include:

GC Theory & Methods

The course begins with an introduction to GC followed by identification of the individual GC instrument components such as gas supplies, inlets, columns, detectors and data analysis systems. Following the introduction, detailed presentations of each component gives delegates a sound understanding of the function and operation of that component. The associated laboratory practicals present the delegates with an opportunity to implement their knowledge gained, by familiarising themselves with the GC system, creating methods, performing injections and changing method parameters to see the effects.

GC Maintenance

This part of the course examines the GC components from the maintenance side. Building on prior knowledge of each component, various parts and consumables are identified in addition to understanding the impact they have on the chromatography and the performance of the GC. The components are not only examined in isolation but the relationships to each other are also considered. Delegates then perform maintenance tasks on a live GC system, removing and/or dissembling GC components; replacing or cleaning consumables and parts; reassembling and reinstalling onto the GC system; finally testing the system and checking system suitability.

GC-MS Theory & Methods

Delegates are introduced to GC-MS by exploring the variety of components available for the mass spectrometer such as vacuum systems, types of ionisation, types of mass analysers, detectors and data analysis systems. The course then moves on to look at setting-up a single quadrupole MS method in both scan and SIM. The laboratory practical allows the delegates to implement the knowledge gained by familiarising themselves with the MS system, creating GC-MS methods, performing injections, manipulating MS data and changing method parameters to see the effects.

Prerequisites

Includes: lunch and refreshments; hardcopy of the training manual in colour; glossary on GC & GC-MS terms; any instrument parts & consumables used; certificate of attendance; ability to discuss own problems. 

Can also be taught onsite and offsite.

Additional information

This course is suitable for all levels of knowledge; however for complete beginners it is advisable to attend the 1-day Absolute Basics of GC & GC-MS first to get a good basic overview of gas chromatography and GC-MS.