Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography System Operator's Manual: Document No. 155028 Revision 01 August 2020

Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography
System Operator’s Manual
Document No. 155028

Revision 01
August 2020
© 2020 by Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.
Chromeleon and OnGuard are registered trademarks of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
in the United States.
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countries.
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All other trademarks are the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and its
subsidiaries.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product
purchase to use in the product operation. This document is copyright protected and
any reproduction of the whole or any part of this document is strictly prohibited,
except with the written authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical
information in this document is for reference purposes only. System configurations
and specifications in this document supersede all previous information received by
the purchaser.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. makes no representations that this document is
complete, accurate or error-free and assumes no responsibility and will not be
liable for any errors, omissions, damage or loss that might result from any use of
this document, even if the information in the document is followed properly.
This document is not part of any sales contract between Thermo Fisher Scientific
Inc. and a purchaser. This document shall in no way govern or modify any Terms and
Conditions of Sale, which Terms and Conditions of Sale shall govern all conflicting
information between the two documents.
Revision history: Revision 01 released August 2020; new product support
Software version: Chromeleon 7.2.10 MUa and later
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Contents
1 • Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Overview of the Dionex Easion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 User Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2.1 About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2.2 Related Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.3.1 Safety Messages and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.3.2 Safety Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4 Regulatory Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4.1 Notice on Lifting and Handling of Thermo Scientific
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4.2 Notice on the Proper Use of Thermo Scientific Instruments . . . 7
1.4.3 Notice on the Susceptibility to Electromagnetic Transmission . 7
1.4.4 WEEE Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2 • Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Operating Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1.1 Front Door and Top Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1.2 Component Mounting Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.1.3 Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.2 Fluid Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
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Dionex Easion Operator’s Manual
2.3 System Component Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

2.3.1 Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
2.3.2 Pressure Transducer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
2.3.3 Injection Valve with Sample Loop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
2.3.4 Dionex CRS 500 Suppressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
2.3.5 Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
2.3.6 Conductivity Cell and Dionex DS5 Detection Stabilizer . . . . .22
2.4 Chromeleon Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
2.4.1 The Chromeleon ePanel Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
2.4.2 Software Control Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
2.4.3 System Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
3 • Operation and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

3.1 Operation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
3.2 Turning On the Dionex Easion Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.3 Connecting to Chromeleon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.4 Preparing the Eluent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.5 Preparing the Regenerant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
3.6 Priming the Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
3.7 Equilibrating the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
3.8 Verifying Operational Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
3.9 Configuring Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
3.10 Preparing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
3.10.1 Collecting and Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
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Contents
3.10.2 Pretreating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
3.10.3 Diluting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
3.11 Processing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.11.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.11.2 Manual Sample Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.11.3 Automated (Batch) Sample Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
3.11.4 Loading and Injecting Samples with an Autosampler . . . . . . . 41
3.11.5 Loading and Injecting Samples with a Syringe . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
3.11.6 Example Chromeleon Commands for Loading and
Injecting Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
3.12 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
4 • Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
4.1 Alarms and Error Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
4.2 Liquid Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
4.3 Pump Difficult to Prime or Loses Prime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.4 Pump Does Not Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.5 No Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.6 Erratic Flow/Pressure Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.7 Excessive System Backpressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.8 Peak “Ghosting” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
4.9 Nonreproducible Peak Height or Retention Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
4.10 Abnormal Retention Time or Selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
4.11 No Detector Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
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4.12 High Detector Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

4.13 Baseline Noise or Drift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
5 • Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
5.1 Diagnostics and Calibrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
5.1.1 Wellness Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
5.1.2 Calibrating the Pressure Transducer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
5.1.3 Calibrating the Flow Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
5.2 Replacing Tubing and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
5.3 Isolating a Restriction in the Liquid Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
5.4 Cleaning Eluent Bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
5.5 Changing the Sample Loop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
5.6 Replacing Pump Check Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
5.7 Cleaning Pump Check Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
5.8 Replacing a Pump Piston Seal and Backup Seal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
5.9 Replacing a Pump Piston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
5.10 Replacing the Waste Valve Seal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
5.11 Rebuilding the Injection Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
5.12 Replacing the Conductivity Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
5.13 Replacing the Suppressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
5.14 Changing the Main Power Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
A • Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
A.1 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
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Contents
A.2 Physical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A.3 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A.4 Front and Rear Panel LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
A.5 Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
A.6 Injection Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
A.7 Suppressors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
A.8 Conductivity Detector and Flow Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
A.9 Autosampler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
A.10 System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
B • Reordering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
C • TTL and Relay Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
C.1 Connecting a TTL or Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

C.2 Selecting TTL Input Control Modes and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
C.3 Configuring Relay Output 1 or 2 to Respond to the Pump Flow . . . . . 97
C.4 Controlling TTL and Relay Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
D • FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
D.1 How do I connect to the Dionex AS-DV? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

D.2 Why are the retention times moving? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
D.3 How do I adjust retention times? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
D.4 When should I remake standards? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
D.5 When should I remake eluents? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 v

D.6 How do I shut off the system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

D.7 How do I store columns? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
D.8 How do I know when a column is dirty? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
D.9 How do I clean a column? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
D.10 Why is the conductivity high? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
E • Introduction to Ion Chromatography (IC) . . . . .103
F • Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
vi Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1 • Introduction
1.1 Overview of the Dionex Easion

The Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ Easion™ Ion Chromatography System (Dionex
Easion) performs isocratic ion analyses using suppressed conductivity detection.
The Dionex Easion is an integrated ion chromatography system consisting of a
pump, an injection valve, and a conductivity cell. Other system components
(guard column, separator column, and suppressor) are ordered separately.
The Dionex Easion is controlled with a PC (personal computer) running
Windows® 10 or Windows® 8.1 operating system and the Thermo Scientific™
Dionex™ Chromeleon™ 7 Chromatography Data System (version 7.2.10 MUa and
later). Chromeleon provides complete instrument control, data acquisition, and
data management.
For communication between the Dionex Easion and the PC on which Chromeleon
is installed, the Dionex Easion must be connected to a USB (Universal Serial Bus)
port on either the PC or an external USB hub. For more information, refer to
Thermo Scientific Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography System Installation
Instructions (Document No. 155032).
NOTE For an introduction to basic ion chromatography

concepts, see Appendix E.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 1

1.2 User Documentation
1.2.1 About This Manual

The electronic version (the PDF file) of the Dionex Easion operator’s
manual contains numerous hypertext links that can take you to other
locations within the file. These links include:
• Table of contents entries
• Index entries
• Cross-references (underlined in blue) to sections, figures, and tables
If you are not familiar with how to navigate PDF files, refer to the
Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader Help for assistance.
Chapter 1 Introduces the Dionex Easion; explains the

Introduction conventions used in this manual, including safety-
related information.
Chapter 2 Describes Dionex Easion operating features, the
Description chromatographic flow path, and the software
required for Dionex Easion control.
Chapter 3 Provides operating instructions for the Dionex
Operation and Easion and describes routine preventive
Maintenance
maintenance procedures.
Chapter 4 Lists problems and presents step-by-step
Troubleshooting procedures for how to isolate and eliminate the
cause of each problem.
Chapter 5 Provides step-by-step instructions for routine
Service service and parts replacement procedures that the
user can perform.
Appendix A Provides specifications and installation site
Specifications requirements for the Dionex Easion.
Appendix B Lists spare parts for the Dionex Easion.
Reordering
Information
2 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1 • Introduction
Appendix C Describes the Dionex Easion TTL and relay

TTL and Relay control features.
Control
Appendix D Provides answers to frequently asked questions

FAQ about Dionex Easion operation.
Appendix E Describes basic ion chromatography concepts.
Introduction to Ion
Chromatography
Appendix F Provides definitions of terms commonly used in

Glossary ion chromatography.
1.2.2 Related Documentation

The following documents are available for download from the Thermo
Fisher Scientific website or by contacting your local office.
• Thermo Scientific Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography System
Installation Instructions (Document No. 155032)
• Thermo Scientific Dionex AS-DV Autosampler Operator’s Manual
(Document No. 065259)
• Manuals for columns and other consumable products, including:
Thermo Scientific Dionex CRS 500 Product Manual (Document No.
031727)
Thermo Scientific Dionex OnGuard II Cartridges Product Manual
(Document No. 031688)
Thermo Scientific Dionex Guardcap Product Manual (Document No.
065705)
• Chromeleon 7 Installation Guide (Document No. 7229.0003)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 3

1.3 Safety Information

The Dionex Easion is manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai)
Instruments Company, Ltd. at the following location:
Jinqiao Export Processing Zone, Pu Dong
T71-6 No. 211, Qin Qiao Road
201206 Shanghai
People’s Republic of China
The Dionex Easion is designed for IC (ion chromatography) applications and
should not be used for any other purpose. Operation of a Dionex Easion in a
manner not specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific may result in personal injury.
If there is a question regarding appropriate usage, contact Technical Support for
Dionex products before proceeding:
• In the U.S. and Canada, call 1-800-532-4752 and select option 2.
• Outside the U.S. and Canada, call the nearest Thermo Fisher Scientific office.
1.3.1 Safety Messages and Notes

This manual contains warnings and precautionary statements that can
prevent personal injury and/or damage to the Dionex Easion when
properly followed. Safety messages appear in bold type and are
accompanied by icons, as shown below.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will

result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,

could result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may

result in minor or moderate injury. Also used to identify a situation or
practice that may seriously damage the instrument, but will not cause
injury.
Indicates that the function or process of the instrument may be

impaired. Operation does not constitute a hazard.
4 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1 • Introduction
Messages d'avertissement en français
Signale une situation de danger immédiat qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
entraînera des blessures graves à mortelles.
Signale une situation de danger potentiel qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
pourrait entraîner des blessures graves à mortelles.
Signale une situation de danger potentiel qui, si elle n'est pas évitée,
pourrait entraîner des blessures mineures à modérées. Également
utilisé pour signaler une situation ou une pratique qui pourrait
gravement endommager l'instrument mais qui n'entraînera pas de
blessures.
Warnhinweise in Deutsch
Bedeutet unmittelbare Gefahr. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder

schwerwiegenden Verletzungen führen.
Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder

schwerwiegenden Verletzungen führen.
Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zu kleineren

oder mittelschweren Verletzungen führen. Wird auch verwendet, wenn
eine Situation zu schweren Schäden am Gerät führen kann, jedoch
keine Verletzungsgefahr besteht.
Notes
Informational messages also appear throughout this manual. These are

labeled NOTE and are in bold type:
NOTE NOTES call attention to certain information. They

alert you to an unexpected result of an action,
suggest how to optimize instrument performance,
and so on.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 5

1.3.2 Safety Symbols

These symbols appear on the Dionex Easion or on Dionex Easion labels:
Alternating current
Primary protective conductor terminal
Secondary protective conductor terminal
Power supply is on
Power supply is off
Indicates a potential hazard. Refer to this manual for an

explanation of the hazard and how to proceed.
1.4 Regulatory Compliance

Thermo Fisher Scientific performs complete testing and evaluation of its products
to ensure full compliance with applicable domestic and international regulations.
When the Dionex Easion is delivered to you, it meets all pertinent international
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), safety, and material compliance
requirements and directives.
Changes that you make to your system may void compliance with one or more of
these requirements and directives. Changes to your system include replacing a
part or adding components, options, or peripherals not specifically authorized and
qualified by Thermo Fisher Scientific. To ensure continued compliance with these
requirements and directives, replacement parts and additional components,
options, and peripherals must be ordered from Thermo Fisher Scientific or one of
its authorized representatives.
For additional details, please refer to the CE Declaration of Conformity available
on the Thermo Fisher Scientific website.
6 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1 • Introduction
1.4.1 Notice on Lifting and Handling of Thermo Scientific

Instruments
For your safety, and in compliance with international regulations, the
physical handling of this Thermo Fisher Scientific instrument requires a
team effort to lift and/or move the instrument. This instrument is too
heavy and/or bulky for one person alone to handle safely.
1.4.2 Notice on the Proper Use of Thermo Scientific

Instruments
In compliance with international regulations: This instrument must be
used in the manner specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific to ensure
protections provided by the instrument are not impaired. Deviations from
specified instructions on the proper use of the instrument include changes
to the system and parts replacement. Accordingly, order replacement parts
from Thermo Fisher Scientific or one of its authorized representatives.
1.4.3 Notice on the Susceptibility to Electromagnetic

Transmission
Your instrument is designed to work in a controlled electromagnetic
environment. Do not use radio frequency transmitters, such as mobile
phones, in close proximity to the instrument.
For manufacturing location, see the label on the instrument.
1.4.4 WEEE Compliance

This product is required to comply with the European Union’s Waste
Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2012/19/EU. It is
marked with the following symbol:
This symbol indicates that the equipment must not be thrown into general
waste and should be collected separately and processed in accordance
with local and state requirements.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 7

Conformité DEEE
Ce produit est conforme avec la directive européenne (2012/19/EU) des

Déchets d'Equipements Electriques et Electroniques (DEEE). Il est
marqué par le symbole suivant:
Ce symbole indique que l'équipement ne doit pas être jeté avec les déchets
ordinaires, mais doit être collecté séparément et traité conformément aux
règlementations locales et nationales.
WEEE Konformität
Dieses Produkt entspricht der EU Waste Electrical & Electronic

Equipment (WEEE) Richtlinie 2012/19/EU. Es ist mit dem folgenden
Symbol gekennzeichnet:
Instrumente mit diesem Zeichen sind nicht für den normallen Abfall
bestimmt; Entsorgung soll den lokalen Vorschriften entsprechend
ausgeführt werden.
8 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
2.1 Operating Features
2.1.1 Front Door and Top Cover

Figure 2-1 illustrates the front door and top cover of the Dionex Easion.
Regenerant Bottle
Eluent Bottle
Status LEDs
Injection Port
Figure 2-1. Dionex Easion
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 9

LEDs
Three status LEDs (described below) are on the Dionex Easion front door.
LED Label If On (Green) If Flashing

Power Dionex Easion power is on Does not flash
Ready System check passed, but System check failed (occurs if
sequence not yet started system check executes for
(LED remains on until run 10 minutes without success)
starts or sequence is aborted)
Run Running/acquiring data Error/alarm/fault (including
injection valve position)
Other status information and alarm messages are displayed in the audit
trail in Chromeleon. For more information about audit trail messages, see
Section 4.1.
Injection Port
When the injection port is connected to the injection valve inside the
Dionex Easion, the sample to be analyzed is injected into the injection
port using a syringe. For automated sample injections, the Dionex Easion
injection valve can be connected to a Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ AS-
DV Autosampler instead of the injection port. For more information about
sample injection, see Section 3.11.5.
Eluent and Regenerant Bottles
The Dionex Easion top cover is molded to hold one eluent bottle
assembly (P/N 062510) and one regenerant bottle assembly (for anion
analyses: P/N 068222; for cation analyses: P/N 057713).
• Eluent carries the sample through the Dionex Easion and facilitates
the ion separation process. The type of eluent used depends on the
analyses performed. For example, a Dionex Easion configured for
10 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
anion analyses uses carbonate eluent, while a Dionex Easion

configured for cation analyses uses methanesulfonic acid (MSA)
eluent.
• Regenerant renews the ability of the suppressor to suppress eluent
conductivity. A Dionex Easion configured for anion analyses uses
dilute sulfuric acid regenerant. A Dionex Easion configured for cation
analyses uses tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH) regenerant.
For more information about suppressor regeneration, see
Section 2.3.5.
2.1.2 Component Mounting Panel

Figure 2-2 shows the components installed on the component panel
behind the Dionex Easion front door.
Conductivity Cell
1 (in Dionex DS5
Detection Stabilizer)
1
2 Suppressor
3 Separator Column
2
4 Pump Heads
3
Pressure
5 5 Transducer
6 Injection Valve
4 6
7 Tubing Chase
9
8 Guard Column
Backpressure
8 7 9 Tubing
Figure 2-2. Dionex Easion Component Mounting Panel
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 11

Conductivity Cell
The flow-through heated conductivity cell measures the electrical

conductance of analyte ions as they pass through the cell. A heat
exchanger inside the cell regulates the temperature to 40 °C (104 °F). The
cell is housed inside a Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ DS5 Detection
Stabilizer (P/N 067761). For more information about the conductivity cell
and Dionex DS5 Detection Stabilizer, see Section 2.3.1.
Suppressor
The suppressor reduces the eluent conductivity and enhances the

conductivity of the sample ions, thereby increasing detection sensitivity.
The Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ Chemically Regenerated Suppressor
(Dionex CRS™ 500) is recommended for use with the Dionex Easion. For
more information about suppressors, see Section 2.3.4.
Separator and Guard Columns
Both the separator and guard columns are packed with resin and perform
the separation of the sample ions. The main function of the guard column
is to trap contaminants and particulates that might damage the separator
column.
Pressure Transducer
The pressure transducer measures the system backpressure. For more

information about the pressure transducer, see Section 2.3.2.
Pump Heads
The Dionex Easion includes a dual-piston serial pump. The flow rate can
be set from 0.01 mL/min to 5.00 mL/min. However, for optimum
performance, set the flow rate to between 0.20 and 3.00 mL/min. Setting
the flow rate to 0.00 mL/min turns off the pump. For more information
about the pump, see Section 2.3.1.
Injection Valve
The injection valve is a six-port, electrically-activated valve. For more

information about the injection valve, see Section 2.3.3.
12 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
Tubing Chase
The tubing chase routes tubing from the component panel, through the
Dionex Easion interior, to the rear panel.
2.1.3 Rear Panel

Figure 2-3 illustrates the Dionex Easion rear panel.
1 USB Connector
1
2
1 2 Link LED
3
2
3 TTL and Relay
3 Connector
4
Fuse Holder,
4 Power Switch, and
Power Receptacle
4
5 Plumbing and
5 Waste Lines
5
Figure 2-3. Dionex Easion Rear Panel
USB Connector
The USB connector connects the Dionex Easion to the PC on which

Chromeleon software is installed. For the standard system configuration
of one Dionex Easion connected to the PC, connect a USB cable between
the USB connector and a USB port on the PC. For more information, refer
to the Dionex Easion installation instructions.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 13

Link LED
The Link LED indicates the communication status

Link
between the Dionex Easion and the PC on which
Chromeleon is installed.
LED Status Description
On Although the Dionex Easion and the PC are linked, no data is
currently being transmitted or received.
Flashing The Dionex Easion and the PC are linked and data is being
transmitted.
Off The Dionex Easion and the PC are not currently linked.
TTL and Relay Connector

The TTL and Relay connector strip provides two TTL outputs, two relay
outputs, and four TTL inputs. The outputs can be used to control
functions in other TTL- or relay-controllable devices. The inputs can be
used to actuate the injection valve, turn the pump on and off, and perform
an autozero command. For connection instructions, see Appendix C.
Fuse Holder, Power Switch, and Power Receptacle
• The fuse holder contains two fast-blow IEC 127 fuses rated 3.15 A
(P/N 954745). For instructions on how to change the fuses, see
Section 5.14.
• The power switch provides on/off control of power to the Dionex
Easion.
• The power cord plugs into the IEC 320 three-prong receptacle.
The power supply cord is used as the main disconnect device. Make
sure the socket-outlet is located near the Dionex Easion and is easily
accessible.
Le cordon d'alimentation principal est utilisé comme dispositif

principal de débranchement. Veillez à ce que la prise de base soit
située/installée près du module et facilement accessible.
Das Netzkabel ist das wichtigste Mittel zur Stromunterbrechung.

Stellen Sie sicher, daß sich die Steckdose nahe am Gerät befindet und
leicht zugänglich ist.
14 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
Plumbing and Waste Lines
The following lines exit the Dionex Easion through the tubing chase in
the lower-left corner of the rear panel:
• Eluent
• Regenerant
• Cell outlet
• Waste (sample, regenerant, and pump priming)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 15

2.2 Fluid Schematic

Figure 2-4 shows the flow path through the Dionex Easion.
9
1
8
6
4
2
5
Figure 2-4. Dionex Easion Flow Schematic
16 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
• Eluent from the eluent bottle 1 is drawn into the pump 2 . The pump pushes
the eluent through the pressure transducer 3 , which measures the system
pressure, and through a pulse damper 4 , which smooths minor pressure
variations from the pump to minimize baseline noise.
• The eluent then flows into the injection valve 5 . After sample is loaded into
the sample loop and the injection valve is toggled to the Inject position, eluent
passes through the sample loop, pushing the sample into the eluent stream.
• The eluent/sample mixture is pumped through the guard and separator
columns 6 , where the ions are separated by the ion exchange process.
• The eluent/sample mixture then flows through the suppressor 7 , which
suppresses the conductivity of the eluent and enhances the conductivity of the
analytes. Regenerant flows continuously through the suppressor, restoring the
ion exchange sites to their original state.
• The eluent/sample mixture then flows through the conductivity cell 8 , where
the analytes are detected. A signal is produced and sent to Chromeleon
software.
• Finally, the eluent flows out of the cell and into the regenerant bottle 9 , where
it pressurizes the regenerant and forces it into the suppressor.
2.3 System Component Details
2.3.1 Pump
The Dionex Easion pump is a microprocessor-based isocratic eluent
delivery system. Its variable speed, dual-piston series design ensures
pulse-free pumping for the most demanding applications.
Primary Pump Head
The primary pump head pumps eluent into the secondary pump head (see
Figure 2-5). The check valves, which prevent reverse flow through the
pump, are located on the bottom (inlet) and top (outlet) of the primary
pump head.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 17

Outlet Check
Valve
Secondary
Pump Head Primary Pump
Head
Waste Valve
Inlet Check
Valve
Figure 2-5. Dionex Easion Pump Components
Secondary Pump Head
The secondary pump head delivers eluent to the pressure transducer. The
waste valve is located on the front of the secondary pump head (see
Figure 2-5).
To open the waste valve, turn the knob one-half turn counterclockwise.
When the waste valve is in the open position, all output is directed to
waste.
2.3.2 Pressure Transducer

The pressure transducer measures the system pressure at the point at
which the eluent flows from the pump head outlet check valve. Pressure
readings indicate whether the pumping system is delivering smooth,
accurate flow. You can monitor pressure readings from Chromeleon.
The system pressure should remain consistent (no more than a 3%
difference from one pressure reading to the next). High and low pressure
limits can be used to stop the pump flow if a limit is exceeded. Pressure
limits are selected in the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration Manager
(in the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box). For troubleshooting
guidance if a pressure limit is exceeded, see Section 4.7.
18 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
Pulse Damper
Flow output from the pressure transducer continues to the pulse damper,
which smooths minor pressure variations. From there, flow is directed to
the injection valve and then to the remainder of the chromatography
system.
2.3.3 Injection Valve with Sample Loop

The injection valve is a six-port, electrically-activated Rheodyne valve.
The valve has two operating positions: Load and Inject. Eluent flows
through either the Load or Inject path, depending on the valve position. A
10 L sample loop (P/N 042949) is installed on the valve at the factory.
Figure 2-6 shows flow schematics for the valve.
LOAD POSITION INJECT POSITION
From Pump From Pump

Sample Loop
L P L
W C
To Column Sample In To Waste To Column Sample In To Waste
= Sample = Eluent
Figure 2-6. Injection Valve Flow Schematics
• In the Load position, sample is loaded into the sample loop, where it
is held until injection. Eluent flows from the pump, through the valve,
and to the column, bypassing the sample loop. Sample flows from the
syringe (or the Dionex AS-DV sample out line, if installed), through
the valve, and into the sample loop. Excess sample flows out to waste.
• In the Inject position, sample is swept to the column for analysis.
Eluent flows from the pump, through the sample loop, and on to the
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 19

column, carrying the contents of the sample loop with it. For a
description of how to inject samples manually, see Section 3.11.2. For
a description of how to inject samples with an autosampler, see
Section 3.11.4.
2.3.4 Dionex CRS 500 Suppressor

The Dionex CRS 500 suppressor reduces the conductivity of the eluent
and enhances the conductivity of the sample ions, thereby increasing
detection sensitivity.
A process called Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR) (see
Section 2.3.5) pushes regenerant from the regenerant bottle and through
the suppressor. The constant flow of regenerant over the suppressor
membrane continually restores the suppression ability of the suppressor.
For more information about the suppressors, refer to the Dionex CRS 500
manual.
2.3.5 Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR)

Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR) is the process that restores
the ability of the Dionex CRS 500 suppressor to suppress eluent
conductivity. In DCR, the eluent that exits the cell is pumped into the
regenerant bottle. The eluent pressurizes the bottle and pushes the
regenerant into the suppressor. However, because the eluent is a different
density than the regenerant, it remains separate.
• In the anion DCR process (see Figure 2-7), the eluent is less dense
than the regenerant and it remains on the top of the bottle, forcing the
regenerant into the regenerant line at the bottom of the bottle and out
into the suppressor.
• In the cation DCR process (see Figure 2-8), the eluent is denser than
the regenerant and it flows to the bottom of the bottle. This displaces
the regenerant, pushing regenerant out of the regenerant line at the top
of the bottle and out into the suppressor.
20 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
Figure 2-7. Anion Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR)
Figure 2-8. Cation Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 21

The following regenerant bottle assemblies are available for use with the
Dionex Easion:
• The anion regenerant bottle assembly (P/N 068222) has a cap that is
labeled ANION. The REGEN BOTTLE OUT line extends to the bottom
of the bottle.
• The cation regenerant bottle assembly (P/N 057713) has a cap that is
labeled CATION. The REGEN BOTTLE OUT line extends only about
1 cm (0.4 in) into the bottle.
For more information, refer to the installation instructions for the
Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR) 2-Liter Kit (P/N 056882).
2.3.6 Conductivity Cell and Dionex DS5 Detection Stabilizer

The flow-through heated conductivity cell contains two 316 stainless steel
electrodes that are permanently sealed into the PEEK™ cell body. The cell
measures the electrical conductance of analyte ions as they pass through
the cell.
Temperature directly affects the conductivity of a solution. For example,
laboratory heating and air conditioning systems can cause a regular slow
cycling in the baseline. This, in turn, can affect the reproducibility of an
analysis. The higher the conductivity, the more pronounced the effect.
In ion analysis, the effect of temperature variation is minimized by
suppressing eluent conductivity. Built-in preset temperature
compensation also ensures that there is no major change in the baseline or
in peak heights. Temperature compensation further improves baseline
stability.
Direct conductive heating is used in the Dionex Easion conductivity cell
to provide temperature control and compensation. A heat exchanger
inside the cell regulates the temperature. All data is collected at 40 °C
(104 °F).
The cell is housed inside a Dionex DS5 Detection Stabilizer (P/N 067761)
(see Figure 2-9), which helps to insulate the cell from fluctuations in
ambient temperature.
22 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
r
ize
ta bil
o nS
cti
D ete
5
DS
Cell Inlet
From suppressor
ELUENT OUT port
Cell Outlet
Conductivity Cell
Connector to component
mounting panel
To regenerant reservoir
Figure 2-9. Conductivity Cell and Dionex DS5 Detection Stabilizer
The conductivity cell has two detection limit ranges: 0 to 500 S (the
default range) and 0 to 10,000 S. The range to select depends on the
expected detector readings for the application. The default range is
appropriate for most applications.
Select the detection limit range in the Chromeleon Instrument
Configuration Manager (in the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box). For
more information, refer to the Chromeleon Help.
2.4 Chromeleon Software

The Chromeleon 7 Chromatography Data System (version 7.2.10 MUa and later)
is used to control the Dionex Easion. Chromeleon provides complete instrument
control, data acquisition, and data management.
2.4.1 The Chromeleon ePanel Set

The Chromeleon ePanel Set provides access to detailed status and control
functions for each system component (pump, detector, and so on). The
Home tab of the ePanel Set includes system status information, a signal
plot, and controls for the most commonly used system functions. For
instructions on how to connect to the ePanel Set, see Section 3.3.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 23

If the function to be performed is not available on the ePanel Set, click the
Command icon on the Instrument toolbar above the ePanel Set or press
the F8 key to open the Chromeleon Command window. From there, you
can access all commands available for the function.
Figure 2-10 shows ePanel features related to the Dionex Easion.
Figure 2-10. Dionex Easion: Chromeleon ePanel Status and Control Functions
2.4.2 Software Control Modes

Two modes of software control are available: direct control and
programmed control.
• With direct control, you select operating parameters and commands
from the Chromeleon ePanel Set. Direct control commands are
executed as soon as they are entered. For more information, see
Section 3.11.2.
• With programmed control, you create a list of control commands
(known as an instrument method) to be executed in chronological
order. Instrument methods can be created automatically (with the help
of a software wizard). For more information, see Section 3.11.3.
24 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

2 • Description
2.4.3 System Wellness

System Wellness monitors the overall “health” of a chromatographic
system. It provides built-in diagnostic and calibration features that help
prevent unscheduled system shutdowns and assure reliable operation of
system devices. For more information, see Section 5.1.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 25

26 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

3 • Operation and Maintenance
This chapter describes routine operating and maintenance procedures for the
Dionex Easion.
3.1 Operation Overview

Figure 3-1 illustrates the basic steps for routine operation of the Dionex Easion.
Turn on the Dionex

Easion power
Connect to
Chromeleon
Prepare the eluent

and regenerant
Prime the pump
Equilibrate the
system
Prepare samples
Process samples
Figure 3-1. Dionex Easion Operation Flow Chart
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 27

3.2 Turning On the Dionex Easion Power

Press the power switch on the Dionex Easion rear panel (see Figure 2-3) to turn on
the system power. These are the conditions at power-up:
• The pump is off.
• The injection valve is in the Load position.
• The conductivity detector begins reading the current conductivity.
3.3 Connecting to Chromeleon

If you are beginning operation of a Dionex Easion that has not been configured in
a Chromeleon instrument, refer to the Chromeleon Help for setup instructions
before proceeding.
To start the Chromeleon client:

1. Click Start > All Programs > Thermo Chromeleon 7 > Chromeleon 7.
2. In the Console, click the Instruments Category Bar.
3. Select the name of the instrument in which the Dionex Easion is configured.
Chromeleon will connect to the instrument and display the ePanel Set (see
Figure 2-10).
3.4 Preparing the Eluent

1. Prepare the eluent. For instructions, refer to the column manual.
2. Fill the eluent bottle with the prepared eluent.
3. Insert the stopper assembly tubing into the bottle and hand-tighten the cap.
4. Use the Eluent Fill Volume slider on the Chromeleon ePanel to reset the
volume of liquid in the eluent bottle.
Chromeleon determines eluent usage by monitoring the flow rate and the
length of time the pump is on. As the eluent is depleted, Chromeleon updates
the Eluent Fill Volume display.
To ensure the accuracy of the Eluent Fill Volume display, reset the
volume each time the eluent bottle is filled.
28 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

3.5 Preparing the Regenerant

The type of regenerant used with the Dionex Easion depends on the analysis. A
dilute sulfuric acid regenerant is used for anion analyses; a tetrabutylammonium
hydroxide (TBAOH) regenerant is used for cation analyses. Follow the
instructions below to prepare either regenerant.
NOTE Use ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and

deionized water to prepare the regenerant.
1. Verify that you have the correct regenerant bottle assembly (for anion
analyses: P/N 068222; for cation analyses: P/N 057713).
• For anions, the cap is labeled ANION and the REGEN BOTTLE OUT line
extends to the bottom of the bottle.
• For cations, the cap is labeled CATION and the REGEN BOTTLE OUT line
extends only about 1 cm (0.4 in) into the bottle.
2. Rinse the regenerant bottle with deionized water.
3. Fill the bottle about halfway with deionized water.
4. Determine the regenerant concentration required for the application. To
estimate the regenerant concentration required for an eluent strength, use the
appropriate formula:
Anion Regenerant Concentration = (mM eluent) x 2
Cation Regenerant Concentration = (mM eluent) x 5
Example: If you are using 20 mM methanesulfonic acid (MSA) as the eluent
for a cation analysis, use a regenerant concentration of 100 mM
tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH).
For more information, refer to the suppressor manual and the installation
instructions for the Displacement Chemical Regeneration (DCR) 2-Liter Kit
(P/N 056882).
5. Empty the required amount of concentrate (sulfuric acid for anions; TBAOH
for cations) into the bottle.
For acid concentrates (such as the anion regenerant), always pour
the concentrate into deionized water, not into the empty bottle.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 29

Pour les concentrés acides (comme le régénérant anionique), versez

toujours le concentré dans de l'eau désionisée et non dans le
réservoir vide.
Gießen Sie säurehaltige Konzentrate (beispielsweise den

Anionregenerenten) das Konzentrat immer in entionisiertes Wasser
und nicht in den leeren Behälter.
6. Fill the bottle almost to the top with deionized water, and then place the bottle
in the tray on the top of the Dionex Easion.
NOTE To avoid staining the Dionex Easion, be careful not to

spill TBAOH on the system.
7. Using the concentrate bottle, pour additional deionized water into the bottle
until it is completely filled to the top. If a few drops spill over, then it is full
enough.
The regenerant bottle must remain filled all the way to the top at all
times.
8. Insert the stopper assembly tubing into the bottle and hand-tighten the cap.
9. Invert the bottle three or four times to disperse the concentrate.
After the analysis begins, do not mix the contents of the regenerant
bottle.
10. Verify that the liquid lines from the ELUENT and REGEN bottles are connected
to the corresponding lines from the Dionex Easion (see Figure 3-2).
30 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

ELUENT Bottle Out
REGEN
REGEN Bottle Out
Bottle In
Figure 3-2. Eluent and Regenerant Bottle Liquid Line Connections
3.6 Priming the Pump

Prime the pump if the eluent has been changed, the eluent line contains air, or the
pump heads are dry (for example, after servicing).
NOTE If the eluent line is empty or if pump heads are

completely dry, you can use a 10 cc syringe (P/N 079803)
to prime the pump (see page 33).
1. Verify that the ELUENT and REGEN bottles are filled, the bottle caps are
installed and hand-tightened, and the liquid lines are connected to the bottles.
2. Verify that the waste lines are directed to a waste container.
3. Open the waste valve on the secondary (left) pump head by turning the knob
one-half turn counterclockwise (see Figure 3-3). (Opening the valve directs
the eluent flow path to waste and eliminates backpressure.)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 31

Secondary
Pump Head
Waste Valve
(Open)
Figure 3-3. Priming the Pump
4. Click Prime on the Chromeleon ePanel (see Figure 2-10).

–or–
Open the Command window (by pressing the F8 key), select the Pump
command, and select the Prime option.
5. The pump will begin pumping at about 3 mL/min. Continue priming the
Dionex Easion until no air bubbles are exiting the pump waste line.
6. Click the pump Off button on the Chromeleon ePanel.
7. Close the waste valve. Do not overtighten. The pump is now ready for
operation.
NOTE A convenient way to verify that the waste valve is closed

is to select the pump flow rate required for your
application, turn on the pump, and then close the valve.
The pressure should rise to the value expected for the
application and quickly stabilize.
32 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Priming the Eluent Line with a Syringe (Optional)

A syringe can be used to facilitate priming when the eluent line is empty or the
pump heads are completely dry.
1. Verify that the pump is turned off.
2. Disconnect the waste line from the luer fitting on the secondary (left) pump
head.
3. Connect a 10 cc syringe (P/N 079803) to the luer fitting (see Figure 3-4).
Secondary
Pump Head
Waste Valve
(Open)
Luer Fitting 10 cc Syringe

(P/N 079803)
Figure 3-4. Priming the Eluent Lines
4. Open the waste valve by turning it one-half turn counterclockwise.

5. Draw the syringe back to begin removing air from the flow path.
NOTE When the line already contains liquid, the syringe is

difficult to draw back. In this case, prime with the Prime
command only (see Section 3.6).
6. When a small amount of liquid enters the syringe, remove the syringe from
the luer fitting and reconnect the waste line to the luer fitting.
7. Follow the instructions in Section 3.6 to finish priming.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 33

3.7 Equilibrating the System

1. Click the pump On button on the Chromeleon ePanel.
2. Select the flow rate recommended for the column and allow the system to
equilibrate. The Chromeleon ePanel displays the background conductivity
(the conductivity of the eluent without the offset performed by the autozero
command).
3. Click Autozero on the Chromeleon ePanel to offset the background and zero
the conductivity reading.
4. Monitor the system pressure to make sure it is at the expected pressure for the
installed column (refer to the column manual for details) and is stable.
Note that column manuals typically provide pressure specifications for
systems that do not include a guard column. If a guard column is installed in
the Dionex Easion, the system pressure will be 15% to 20% higher than the
specification in the column manual.
• If the pressure is less than expected, air may be trapped in the system. To
release the air, temporarily remove the pump fitting (P) on the injection
valve. After allowing the air to escape, reconnect the fitting.
• If the pressure is too high, there may be a restriction in the system
plumbing. For troubleshooting guidance, see Section 4.7.
5. Check for leaks in the regenerant bottle.
6. Check that liquid is flowing out of the suppressor REGEN OUT waste line.
7. Monitor the baseline conductivity. In general, this should be <30 S/cm for a
system set up for anion analyses or <2 S/cm for a system set up for cation
analyses. Equilibration time varies, and it can take some time to reach the
expected value.
• If the conductivity is too high, see Section 4.12 for troubleshooting
guidance.
• If the baseline is drifting or there is excessive “noise” (large fluctuations
in readings), see Section 4.13.
34 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

3.8 Verifying Operational Status

After the system has equilibrated, verify the actual pump pressure and stability by
monitoring the pump pressure.
Record the short-term pressure fluctuations; they should be less than 0.13 MPa
(20 psi). If the pressure fluctuates by more than this amount, prime the pump (see
Section 3.6).
3.9 Configuring Standby Mode

The Dionex Easion can be configured to enter standby mode after a period of
inactivity (defined as a period of time in which no data collection and no input
from Chromeleon has occurred). In standby mode, the pump flow rate is reduced.
• Configure the standby mode in the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration
Manager (in the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box).
• To cancel standby mode and return the pump to the normal flow rate, either
turn on the pump from the Chromeleon ePanel or start a new sequence.
3.10 Preparing Samples

NOTE Sample preparation can be performed while the system
is equilibrating.
3.10.1 Collecting and Storing

• Collect samples in high density polyethylene containers that have
been thoroughly cleaned with ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm)
filtered and deionized water. Do not clean containers with strong
acids or detergents. These will leave traces of ions on the container
walls, and the ions may interfere with the analysis.
• If samples will not be analyzed on the day they are collected, filter
them through clean 0.45 m filters immediately after collection;
otherwise, bacteria in the samples may cause the ionic concentrations
to change over time. Refrigerating the samples at 4C (39 F) will
reduce, but not eliminate, bacterial growth.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 35

• Analyze samples containing nitrite or sulfite as soon as possible.

Nitrite oxidizes to nitrate, and sulfite to sulfate, thus increasing the
measured concentrations of these ions in the sample. In general,
samples that do not contain nitrite or sulfite can be refrigerated for at
least one week with no significant changes in anion concentrations.
3.10.2 Pretreating
• Analyze rainwater, drinking water, and air particulate leach solutions
directly with no sample preparation (other than filtering and possibly
diluting).
• Filter groundwater and wastewater samples through 0.45 m filters
before injection, unless samples were filtered after collection.
• A Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ High-Pressure Inline Filter
(P/N 044105) is available for removing particulates down to
0.45 micron from samples. Connect the inline filter between the
Dionex AS-DV outlet and the sample inlet port on the injection valve.
For more information, refer to High-Pressure Inline Filter
Installation Instructions (Document No. 032319).
• Before injection, pretreat samples that may contain high
concentrations of interfering substances by putting them through
Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™ OnGuard™ II cartridges. For more
information, refer to the cartridge manual.
• If a Dionex AS-DV is installed, you may want to use Thermo
Scientific™ Dionex™ Guardcap™ vial caps, which contain Dionex
OnGuard resin and allow for automated sample preparation. For more
information, refer to the vial cap manual.
3.10.3 Diluting
• Because the concentrations of ionic species in different samples can
vary widely from sample to sample, no single dilution factor can be
recommended for all samples of one type. In some cases (for
example, many water samples), concentrations are so low that
dilution is not necessary.
• Use eluent or ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and
deionized water to dilute the sample. When using carbonate eluents,
36 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

diluting with eluent minimizes the effect of the water dip at the
beginning of the chromatogram. If you dilute the sample with eluent,
use eluent from the same lot to prepare the calibration standards, also.
This is most important for fluoride and chloride, which elute near the
water dip.
• To improve the accuracy of early eluting peak determinations (such as
fluoride) at concentrations below 50 ppb, dilute standards in eluent or
spike the samples with concentrated eluent to minimize the water dip.
For example, spike a 100 mL sample with 1.0 mL of a 100X eluent
concentrate.
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3.11 Processing Samples
3.11.1 Overview
Samples can be run manually (one at a time) or grouped and run
automatically (in batches). Figure 3-5 shows the typical steps for each
type of sample processing.
Manual Automated
Sample Processing Sample Processing
Using Chromeleon Using Chromeleon
Load the sample Create a sequence

(Sequence Wizard)
Start data
acquisition Add the sequence
to the queue
Autozero
Start the queue
Inject the sample
Stop data
acquisition
(Optional)
Save the manual
sequence data
Figure 3-5. Sample Processing Overview
38 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

3.11.2 Manual Sample Processing

To manually process a sample, select operating parameters and
commands from the Chromeleon ePanel. Commands are executed as soon
as they are entered.
Summary of Manual Sample Processing
1. Complete the instructions in Section 3.2 through Section 3.10 to

prepare the Dionex Easion for operation and to prepare the sample for
processing.
2. Load the sample into the injection valve sample loop with either the
Dionex AS-DV (see Section 3.11.4) or a syringe (see Section 3.11.5).
3. Click Autozero on the Chromeleon ePanel.
4. Switch the injection valve to the Inject position with either the
Dionex AS-DV (see Section 3.11.4) or a syringe (see Section 3.11.5).
The signal plot is displayed on the Chromeleon ePanel.
5. Monitor the chromatogram. When sample data has been collected,
click Monitor Baseline on the Instrument toolbar above the
Chromeleon ePanel Set.
Saving Manual Data
Data from manual processing is saved in the manual sequence under the
instrument folder in the local data vault.
To save the data from a manual run:
1. Select the manual folder and select File > Save As.
2. Enter a new name for the sequence.
3. Select the Save raw data check box.
4. Click Save.
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3.11.3 Automated (Batch) Sample Processing
NOTE This section provides a brief overview of the steps

required to perform sample analyses using Chromeleon.
For detailed instructions, refer to the Chromeleon Help.
To process samples automatically, first add sample injections to a

Chromeleon sequence. (A sequence determines how a group of injections
will be analyzed and the order in which they will be run.) For each
injection, a sequence typically includes these elements:
• An instrument method—A predefined list of commands and
parameters for controlling the system and acquiring sample data.
• The chromatographic data acquired.
• A processing method—A predefined set of instructions for evaluating
the data acquired.
• Templates for displaying chromatographic data on the screen and for
printing reports.
There are two ways to create a sequence in Chromeleon:
• eWorkflows provide predefined templates and rules for creating new
sequences. If they have been defined for your laboratory, eWorkflows
are the recommended method for creating a sequence.
• The Sequence Wizard provides a series of dialog boxes that guide you
through the process of creating a sequence.
After creating the sequence, you are ready to start automated sample
processing.
Summary of Automated Sample Processing
1. Complete the instructions in Section 3.2 through Section 3.10 to

prepare the Dionex Easion for operation and to prepare the samples
for processing.
2. If a Dionex AS-DV is installed: Prepare and fill sample vials and
place them in the autosampler tray. Refer to the autosampler manual
for detailed instructions.
40 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

If a Dionex AS-DV is not installed: Load the sample into the injection
valve sample loop through the sample loading port on the Dionex
Easion front door (see Section 3.11.5).
3. Load the sequence into a queue and start the run. Chromeleon will
perform a Ready Check to verify that the instrument is ready for
operation and that the instrument methods specified in the sequence
are error-free. If the Ready Check passes (and if another sequence is
not currently running), the sequence is started.
3.11.4 Loading and Injecting Samples with an Autosampler

1. Verify that the Dionex AS-DV sample out line is connected to port S
(5) on the injection valve. Direct the injection valve waste line as
required. For more information, refer to the Dionex Easion
installation instructions and the autosampler manual.
2. Prepare and fill sample vials, and place them in the Dionex AS-DV
tray. For more information, refer to the autosampler manual.
3. Use one of the following methods to load sample into the injection
valve sample loop and inject it onto the column:
• Automatically: Include the Load and Inject commands in a
Chromeleon instrument method (see the example method in
Section 3.11.6). For more information about automated sample
processing, see Section 3.11.3.
• Manually (with a Dionex AS-DV): Click Inject on the
Chromeleon ePanel.
Autosampler Setup Notes
Follow these steps to verify that the Dionex Easion injection valve is
controlled by the correct device.
1. Open the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration Manager.
2. In the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box, click the Inject Valve
tab.
3. For Pump_InjectValve, verify that the Controlled By setting is AS.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 41

4. If the setting is wrong, change the device name.

a. Select the Pump_InjectValve name and press the F2 key. The
Device Configuration dialog box appears.
b. Select AS from the Controlled By list.
c. Click OK.
3.11.5 Loading and Injecting Samples with a Syringe

This section describes two methods for loading sample into the injection
valve sample loop with a syringe:
• Loading sample with a syringe through the sample loading port on the
front of the Dionex Easion (push method)
• Loading sample with a vacuum syringe through the sample loading
port on the front of the Dionex Easion (pull method)
NOTE For instructions on how to load and inject

samples with an autosampler, see Section 3.11.4.
Loading Samples with a Syringe (Push Method)
1. Verify that the sample loading port on the front of the Dionex Easion
is connected to sample port S (5) on the injection valve (see
Figure 3-6).
2. Fill a syringe with a calibration standard or sample.
3. Insert the syringe into the sample loading port on the front of the
Dionex Easion.
4. Verify that the injection valve is in the Load position. If it is not, click
Load on the Chromeleon ePanel.
5. Overfill the sample loop with five sample loop volumes. Excess
sample will exit through the injection valve waste line.
NOTE Remember that the line from the syringe to the

valve must be filled before the sample loop can
be filled.
42 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

6. Leave the syringe in the port (this prevents the sample from siphoning
out of the loop before injection).
7. Use one of the following methods to inject the sample onto the
column.
• Manually: Click Inject on the Chromeleon ePanel. For more
information about manual sample processing, see Section 3.11.2.
• Automatically: Include the Inject command in a Chromeleon
instrument method (see Section 3.11.6). For more information
about automatic sample processing, see Section 3.11.3.
Loading Samples with a Vacuum Syringe (Pull Method)
1. Verify that the sample loading port on the front of the Dionex Easion
is connected to sample port S (5) on the injection valve (see
Figure 3-6).
2. Disconnect the waste line from port W (6) on the injection valve and
attach a shorter line: 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in) of PEEK or PTFE
(polytetrafluoroethylene) tubing (see Figure 3-6).
Syringe
Sample
Loading Port
(on front door)
(5) S L(4)
W C
(6) (3)
(1) L P (2)
Injection Valve
Sample
Figure 3-6. Loading Sample with a Vacuum Syringe (Pull Method)
3. Place the free end of the line into the sample.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 43

4. Verify that the injection valve is in the Load position. If it is not, click
Load on the Chromeleon ePanel (see Figure 2-10).
5. Insert a syringe into the sample loading port on the Dionex Easion
front door and pull out the plunger to draw the sample into the
injection valve. Draw at least five times the sample loop volume.
NOTE The line from the sample to port W (6) on the

injection valve must be filled before the sample
loop can be filled.
6. Use one of the following methods to inject the sample onto the
column.
• Manually: Click Inject on the Chromeleon ePanel. For more
information about manual sample processing, see Section 3.11.2.
• Automatically: Include the Inject command in a Chromeleon
instrument method (see Section 3.11.6). For more information
about automatic sample processing, see Section 3.11.3.
3.11.6 Example Chromeleon Commands for Loading and

Injecting Samples
The following example shows commands for loading and injecting
samples using a Dionex AS-DV.
Example Dionex AS-DV Instrument Method Commands
Sampler.LoadPosition ;Switch the valve to Load.

DeliverSample ;Deliver sample to the valve.
0.000 Autozero ;Zero the baseline.
Wait CycleTimeState ;Wait for cycle time (if any).
Inject ;Switch the valve to Inject.
ECD_1.AcqOn ;Start data acquisition.
14.000 ECD_1.AcqOff ;Stop data acquisition.
44 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

3.12 Maintenance
This section describes routine maintenance procedures for the Dionex Easion that
users can perform. All other maintenance procedures must be performed by
Thermo Fisher Scientific personnel.
As Needed
• Make fresh eluent.
• Regularly check the eluent level and refill the eluent bottle. After refilling the
bottle, use the Eluent Fill Volume slider on the Chromeleon ePanel to reset
the volume of liquid in the bottle.
• Every time you refill the eluent bottle, also empty the regenerant bottle, rinse
it, and refill it with fresh regenerant.
times.
Daily
• Check the Dionex Easion component mounting panel (see Figure 2-2) for
leaks or spills. Wipe up spills. Isolate and repair leaks (see Section 4.2). Rinse
off any dried eluent or regenerant with deionized water.
• Check the waste container and empty when needed.
Weekly
• Check fluid lines for crimping or discoloration. Relocate any pinched lines.
Replace damaged lines.
• Check the back of the pump head, as well as underneath the head, for
evidence of liquid leaks. Normal friction and wear may gradually result in
small liquid leaks around the piston seal. If unchecked, these leaks can
gradually contaminate the piston housing, causing the pump to operate poorly.
If leaks occur, replace the piston seals (see Section 5.8).
Annually
• Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends performing preventive maintenance
annually, as well as before scheduled Performance Qualification tests. A
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 45

Dionex Easion Preventive Maintenance Kit (P/N 088138) is available for this
purpose. The kit provides parts and instructions for performing the procedure.
• If a Dionex AS-DV is installed, perform the recommended annual preventive
maintenance procedure. A Dionex AS-DV Preventive Maintenance Kit
(P/N 072678) is available for this purpose.
46 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

4 • Troubleshooting
This chapter is a guide to troubleshooting problems that may occur while
operating the Dionex Easion.
• For descriptions of error messages that may be displayed in the Chromeleon
audit trail and suggestions for how to troubleshoot them, see Section 4.1.
• For descriptions of other operating problems and suggestions for how to
resolve them, see Section 4.2 through Section 4.13.
If you are unable to eliminate a problem by following the instructions here,
contact Technical Support for Dionex products:
4.1 Alarms and Error Conditions

If any of the following alarm conditions occurs, an error message is displayed in
the Chromeleon audit trail. Each error message is preceded by an icon that
identifies the seriousness of the underlying problem.
Icon Severity Level Description

Warning A message is displayed in the audit trail. If a run is
in progress, it is not interrupted. Although the
instrument can continue running (or can be started),
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that you take
appropriate action to remedy the situation.
Error A message is displayed in the audit trail or in the
Ready Check results. The system attempts to
correct the problem (sometimes by using an
alternative parameter). If a run is in progress, it is
not interrupted. If the error occurs during the Ready
Check, the queue will not be started until the error
is resolved.
Abort A message is displayed in the audit trail and the
running queue is aborted.
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The table below lists the Dionex Easion-related error messages, as well as their
default severity levels. For troubleshooting assistance, go to the page indicated in
the table.
Audit Trail Error Message Default See

Severity Level
Conductivity exceeds limit. Warning page 48
Flow rate calibration error. Warning page 48
Load/inject valve error. Error page 49
Module data buffer overflow. Data may have been Warning page 49
lost.
Pump motor lost control. Warning page 49
Pump pressure hardware error. Warning page 49
Pump pressure slope calibration error. Warning page 50
Remaining eluent below 100 mL. Error page 50
Remaining eluent below 200 mL. Error page 50
The system pressure has exceeded the high Abort page 51
pressure limit.
The system pressure is below the low pressure limit. Abort page 51
Conductivity exceeds limit.
If this error occurs when you turn on the Dionex Easion power, you can
disregard it. If the error occurs at other times, it should be resolved.
To troubleshoot:
Refer to the suppressor manual for troubleshooting procedures.
Flow rate calibration error.
This error occurs if you try to calibrate the flow rate while the pump is off, or
while the pump is on but the flow rate is not 1 mL/min.
To troubleshoot:
Be sure to click Start Calibration on the Wellness panel with the flow rate
calibration instructions. This automatically starts the pump and sets the flow
rate to 1 mL/min. For flow rate calibration instructions, see Section 5.1.3.
48 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Load/inject valve error.
This error occurs if the injection valve fails to actuate within 1 second of
being toggled.
To troubleshoot:
1. If a sequence is being executed, click Stop on the Chromeleon ePanel to
cancel the current injection and stop the sequence.
2. Turn off the Dionex Easion power briefly and then restart.
3. Try to toggle the valve from Load to Inject by clicking Inject on the
Chromeleon ePanel.
4. If the problem persists, contact Technical Support for Dionex products for
assistance.
Module data buffer overflow. Data may have been lost.
This error can be caused by various electronics-related problems.

To troubleshoot:
Contact Technical Support for Dionex products for assistance. The Dionex
Easion electronics components cannot be serviced by the user.
Pump motor lost control.
This error indicates a problem in the pump controller electronics.

To troubleshoot:
Pump pressure hardware error.
This error indicates a problem in the pump controller electronics.

To troubleshoot:
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 49

Pump pressure slope calibration error.
This error occurs if you try to calibrate the pressure slope when the pressure is
less than 3 MPa (500 psi).
To troubleshoot:
1. Verify that the pump is on and that the flow rate is at the rate required for
the application.
2. Verify that the pressure gauge is working correctly.
3. Verify that the number and type of installed backpressure coils is correct
(see “Insufficient conductivity cell backpressure” on page 58).
4. Check for liquid leaks (see Section 4.2).
Remaining eluent below 100 mL.

-or-
Remaining eluent below 200 mL.
These errors occur when the eluent bottle contains less than the volume
specified in the error message.
To troubleshoot:
Chromeleon determines the eluent usage by monitoring the flow rate and the
length of time the pump is on. After filling the eluent bottle, be sure to use the
Eluent Fill Volume slider on the Chromeleon ePanel to reset the volume of
liquid in the bottle. As the eluent is depleted, the volume displayed on the
ePanel is updated.
For the Eluent Fill Volume to be accurate, you must enter the level
each time the bottle is filled. The Dionex Easion does not
automatically detect when the bottle is filled, nor when it is emptied.
50 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

The system pressure is below the low pressure limit.
If the system pressure falls below the minimum pressure limit for 0.5 second,
Chromeleon stops the pump and this error message is displayed. The
minimum pressure limit can be set to between 0 and 33.7 MPa (0 and
4900 psi) in the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration Manager.
To troubleshoot:
1. Make sure the eluent bottle is full.
2. Check for liquid leaks (see Section 4.2).
3. Prime the pump (see Section 3.6).
For additional troubleshooting information related to pump priming, see
Section 4.3.
The system pressure has exceeded the high pressure limit.
If the system pressure exceeds the maximum pressure limit for 0.5 second,
Chromeleon stops the pump and this error message is displayed. The
maximum pressure limit can be set to between 0.7 and 34.4 MPa (100 and
5000 psi) in the Chromeleon Instrument Configuration Manager.
To troubleshoot:
1. Check for blockages in the liquid lines by working your way backward
from the cell to the pump (see Figure 2-4).
For additional troubleshooting information related to system pressure, see
Section 4.7.
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4.2 Liquid Leaks

• Leaking fitting
Locate the source of the leak. Tighten or, if necessary, replace the liquid line
connection (see Section 5.2). For tightening requirements, refer to Installation
of Dionex Liquid Line Fittings (Document No. 031432).
• Broken liquid line
Replace the line and fittings (see Section 5.2).
• Blocked or improperly installed line
Check that the lines are not crimped or otherwise blocked. Also, if the
blocked line is a waste line, make sure it is not elevated at any point after it
exits the Dionex Easion. If a line is blocked, replace it (see Section 5.2).
• Loose pump check valve housing
Make sure the check valves are firmly seated in the pump head. If they are
not, tighten them carefully with an open-end wrench just until the leak stops.
• Damaged pump piston seal
1. Replace the piston seal (see Section 5.8).
2. If the problem persists, replace the piston (see Section 5.9).
• Pump head not tight
Carefully tighten the pump head mounting screws just until the leak stops.
DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN!
• Leaking pressure transducer
Check that the liquid line connections into the pressure transducer are tight.
Refer to Installation of Dionex Liquid Line Fittings (Document No. 031432)
for tightening requirements. Replace any damaged fittings.
• Leaking pump head waste valve
1. Make sure the waste valve is closed. To close the valve, turn the knob
clockwise, just until tight. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Overtightening
may damage the valve and the pump head.
2. Inspect the pump head. If the waste valve is the source of the leak, replace
the waste valve seal (see Section 5.10).
52 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

• Leaking Dionex CRS 500

• Leaking injection valve
1. Make sure the liquid line connections to the valve are tight. Replace any
damaged fittings. Refer to Installation of Dionex Liquid Line Fittings
(Document No. 031432) for tightening requirements.
2. Liquid leaks from behind the valve stator may indicate a scratched rotor
seal. Rebuild the injection valve (see Section 5.11).
• Leaking conductivity cell
1. Check the waste lines for blockage; trapped particles can plug the lines
and cause a restriction and/or leak. If necessary, clear the waste lines by
reversing the direction of flow.
2. Make sure the plumbing downstream from the cell is clear; a blockage
may overpressurize the cell, causing it to leak. If the problem continues,
contact Technical Support for Dionex products for assistance.
4.3 Pump Difficult to Prime or Loses Prime

• Empty eluent bottle and/or no eluent connected
1. Fill the eluent bottle, and then use the Eluent Fill Volume slider on the
Chromeleon ePanel to reset the volume of liquid in the bottle.
2. Make sure all connections are secure.
• Dirty pump check valve
Replace (see Section 5.6) or clean (see Section 5.7) the check valves.
• Liquid leaks at junction between pump head and pump housing
Replace the piston seal (see Section 5.8).
4.4 Pump Does Not Start

• No power (front door Power LED indicator fails to light)
1. Check that the power cord is plugged in.
2. Check the main power fuses and replace, if needed (see Section 5.14).
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• No communication between Dionex Easion and Chromeleon (Link LED

on rear panel fails to light)
The USB cable is not connected correctly. For connection instructions, refer
to the Dionex Easion installation instructions.
4.5 No Flow
• Pump not primed
Prime the pump (see Section 3.6).
• Broken pump piston
Replace the piston (see Section 5.9).
4.6 Erratic Flow/Pressure Reading

• Pump needs priming
• Damaged piston seal
• Dirty pump check valve
Replace (see Section 5.6) or clean (see Section 5.7) the check valves.
4.7 Excessive System Backpressure

• Restriction in system plumbing
Check all liquid lines for crimping or blockage. Make sure the ferrule fittings
are not overtightened onto tubing. For more information, refer to Installation
of Dionex Liquid Line Fittings (Document No. 031432).
• Plugged or damaged fitting
Isolate the faulty fitting by loosening fittings, one by one, until the pressure
returns to normal. Repair or replace the fitting (see Section 5.2).
54 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

• Flow rate through columns too high

Check the pump flow rate.
• Clogged column bed supports
Refer to the column manual for troubleshooting procedures.
• Contaminated columns
Clean the columns as instructed in the column manual.
• Plugged Injection valve passages
Rebuild the injection valve (see Section 5.11).
4.8 Peak “Ghosting”

Ghosting is the appearance of extraneous peaks in a chromatogram. These may be
late-eluting peaks from a previous injection, or they may result from a
contaminated, malfunctioning, or incorrectly installed injection valve. If these
peaks co-elute with peaks of interest, they will cause nonreproducible peak
heights and/or areas.
• Insufficient time between sample injections
Wait until the previous sample has been completely eluted before making
another injection.
• Insufficient flush between samples
Flush the sample loop with at least 10 loop volumes of deionized water or
sample between sample injections.
• Incorrect or contaminated standards
Remake the standards.
• Incorrect or contaminated eluent
Remake the eluent (see Section 3.4).
• Malfunctioning injection valve
Contact Technical Support for Dionex products for assistance.
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4.9 Nonreproducible Peak Height or Retention Time

• Column overloading
Dilute the sample (see Section 3.10.3).
• Liquid leaks
Locate and eliminate the leaks (see Section 4.2).
• Incomplete or imprecise filling of the sample loop
1. Fill the sample loop until excess sample exits the waste line.
2. Inspect the 1 cc syringe (P/N 016388) and replace if damaged.
• Pump not primed properly
4.10 Abnormal Retention Time or Selectivity

• Contaminated or incorrect eluent
Remake the eluent, using concentrated eluent and ASTM Type I
(18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and deionized water (see Section 3.4).
• Contaminated or degraded sample
Take appropriate precautions when preparing and storing samples to prevent
contamination and degradation (see Section 3.10).
• Contaminated column
1. Clean the column as instructed in the column manual.
2. If cleaning is unsuccessful, replace the column.
4.11 No Detector Response

• Cell not properly installed
Check that the cell is plugged into the component mounting panel and the cell
housing is screwed down so that the bottom of the housing is flush against the
sheet metal panel (see Figure 2-2 and Figure 2-9).
56 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

• No flow from pump

There are several possible causes for this issue; for more information, see
Section 4.4 and Section 4.5.
• Cell electronics malfunctioning
Use the Wellness panel to test the electronics with a dummy cell. (For
instructions, see Section 5.1 and the Chromeleon Help.) If the conductivity
reading with the dummy cell is outside the tolerance range, the electronics are
malfunctioning. Contact Technical Support for Dionex products for
assistance. The Dionex Easion electronics components cannot be serviced by
the user.
4.12 High Detector Output

• Background not suppressed by suppressor
If Conductivity exceeds limit is displayed in the Chromeleon audit trail, refer
to the suppressor manual for troubleshooting procedures.
• Sample concentration too high
Dilute the sample (see Section 3.10.3).
• Wrong eluent or regenerant
Check that you are using the correct eluent (see Section 3.4) and regenerant
(see Section 3.5) for your system.
• Cell out of calibration
4.13 Baseline Noise or Drift

• Flow system leak; erratic baseline
Check all fittings and liquid lines for leaks. Tighten or, if necessary, replace
all liquid line connections. Refer to Installation of Dionex Liquid Line Fittings
(Document No. 031432) for tightening requirements.
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• Trapped gases
Release any trapped gases in the cell by loosening the lines to and from the
cell and then retightening them. Also loosen and retighten the fittings to and
from the suppressor eluent ports.
• Pump not properly primed
• Contaminated or incorrect eluent and/or regenerant
Remake the eluent (see Section 3.4) and regenerant (see Section 3.5).
• Rapid changes in ambient temperature
If the ambient temperature does not meet the specification of 10 to 35 °C (50
to 95 °F), verify that air conditioning and heating vents are directed away
from the Dionex Easion and that the Dionex Easion front door is closed.
• Insufficient conductivity cell backpressure
Verify that the correct backpressure coils are installed between the cell outlet
and the regenerant bottle inlet. For connection instructions, refer to the
Dionex Easion installation instructions.
Standard bore systems: Use one or two of the black backpressure coils
(P/N 045877) provided in the Dionex Easion Ship Kit (P/N 067768).
Flow Rate Number of Coils
1.5 to 3.0 mL/min 1 (black)
0.5 to 1.5 mL/min 2 (black)
Microbore systems: Use one or two of the red backpressure coils

(P/N 045878) provided in the Microbore Tubing Kit (P/N 052324).
Flow Rate Number of Coils
0.3 to 0.5 mL/min 1 (red)
Less than 0.3 mL/min 2 (red)
• Insufficient system equilibration following changes to operating

parameters; especially apparent when operating at high sensitivities
Allow a longer system equilibration time (up to 3 hours) before starting to
inject samples.
58 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

• Incorrect suppressor operating conditions

• Cell above or below temperature
• Damaged piston seal
• DCR waste backpressure tubing not installed (or installed incorrectly)
Verify that the DCR waste backpressure tubing is installed on the end of the
suppressor waste line. For more information, refer to the Dionex Easion
installation instructions.
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5 • Service
This chapter describes Dionex Easion service and repair procedures that users can
perform. Procedures not included here, including electronics-related repair
procedures, must be performed by Thermo Fisher Scientific personnel.
For assistance, contact Technical Support for Dionex products before proceeding:
Before replacing any part, refer to the troubleshooting information in Chapter 4 to
correctly identify the cause of the problem.
Substituting non-Thermo Scientific/Dionex parts may impair system
performance, thereby voiding the product warranty. For details, see
the warranty statement in the Thermo Scientific/Dionex Terms and
Conditions.
5.1 Diagnostics and Calibrations

The Wellness panel in Chromeleon provides controls for performing diagnostic
and calibration functions for the Dionex Easion.This section provides an overview
of Wellness panel functions.
Use Wellness panel controls to perform the following procedures:
• Calibration of the pressure transducer (see Section 5.1.2)
• Calibration of the flow rate (see Section 5.1.3)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 61

5.1.1 Wellness Panel Features

The Wellness panel provides the following features.
System Status • When the Dionex Easion is connected to Chromeleon, the

green Connected LED is displayed. When there is no
connection, the red Disconnected LED is displayed and all
other Wellness panel controls are disabled.
• Click the pump On or Off button to turn the pump on or off,
respectively.
• Click the Log Serial button to record the Dionex Easion
serial number in the Chromeleon audit trail.
• The Calibration or Diagnostic box is green while a
calibration or diagnostic procedure is running.
• The current electrochemical detector (ECD) conductivity,
pump Flow rate, and total system Pressure are displayed.
View and/or • Click the Calibration Values button to open a window that
Reset displays the current calibration values, the previous values,
Calibration and the factory-set values.
Parameters
• You can reset the current calibration values to the previous or
factory-set values from the window.
Calibration Pressure Transducer

• Use the Calibrate Offset and Calibrate Slope buttons when
performing the pressure transducer calibration procedure (see
Section 5.1.2).
• The Offset and Slope values and the date of the last
calibration are displayed.
Pump Flow Rate Calibration
• Click the Calibration Procedure button to start the pump
flow rate calibration procedure (see Section 5.1.3).
• Click the Log button to record the calibration value in the
Chromeleon audit trail.
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5 • Service
Diagnostics • The Pump and Conductivity Cell Variance values are a

measure of the noise of the respective channels. These values
will vary, depending on eluent, pump seal age and wear,
background conductivity, and so on. The comparison of
values obtained under the same conditions can be used as a
relative measure of system performance.
• The Variance, Minimum, and Maximum readings for the
last time the Pump and Conductivity Cell diagnostic tests
were run are displayed.
Dummy Cell • The dummy cell test connects a fixed resistance in place of
Test the conductivity cell. A measured value outside the typical
range of the test indicates a failure in the detector electronics.
• Click the Log Dummy Value button to enable the dummy
cell, log the value, and then disable the dummy cell.
• Click the Disabled check box to enable and disable the
dummy cell.
Audit Trail • The Chromeleon audit trail displays an account of every event
(including errors, status messages, and operational events)
that occurs during Dionex Easion operation.
5.1.2 Calibrating the Pressure Transducer

1. To remove any air in the injection valve loop, toggle the injection
valve position a few times by clicking Load and Inject on the
Chromeleon ePanel.(You should hear a click when the valve position
changes.)
2. Wait about 10 minutes, and then go on to Step 3.
3. To open the Wellness panel, click Wellness on the Chromeleon
ePanel (see Figure 2-10).
4. Under Pressure Transducer, click Calibrate Offset. A panel with
instructions and command buttons appears.
5. Follow the instructions on the panel to complete the transducer offset
calibration procedure. The new offset will be determined and then
stored as the current value.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 63

NOTE To open the waste valve on the front of the

secondary pump head (see Figure 5-1), turn the
knob one-half turn counterclockwise.
Pressure
Transducer
Waste Valve
Figure 5-1. Dionex Easion Interior Components
6. Close the waste valve.

7. Under Pressure Transducer, click Calibrate Slope. A panel with
instructions and command buttons appears.
8. Follow the instructions on the panel to complete the transducer slope
calibration procedure. The new slope will be determined and then
stored as the current value.
9. Turn off the pump.
10. Disconnect the pressure gauge and backpressure tubing.
11. Reconnect the pressure transducer to the pump.
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5 • Service
5.1.3 Calibrating the Flow Rate

Calibrate the flow rate if the Operational Qualification or Performance
Qualification flow rate accuracy and precision test fails.
Items needed:
• 0.076-mm (0.003-in) ID yellow PEEK tubing (P/N 049715) to create

14 ± 2 MPa (2000 ± 300 psi) of backpressure (if needed)
• ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and deionized water
• Balance capable of weighing more than 10 g with 0.001 g readability
• Tared beaker
To calibrate:
1. To open the Wellness panel, click Wellness on the Chromeleon

ePanel (see Figure 2-10).
2. Under Pump Flow Rate Calibration, click Calibration Procedure.
A panel with instructions and command buttons appears.
3. Follow the instructions on the panel to complete the pump flow rate
calibration procedure.
NOTE Enter the weight of the collected water in grams

(to the nearest milligram).
4. Click Log Calibration Value to record the new calibration value in

the Chromeleon audit trail. This value is stored as the current value.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 65

5.2 Replacing Tubing and Fittings

The Dionex Easion is plumbed with the tubing and tubing assemblies listed
below.
Tubing Size and Type Used for...

0.125-mm (0.005-in) ID PEEK, red Connection from pump pulse damper to
(P/N 044221) pressure transducer
0.25-mm (0.010-in) ID PEEK, black Connections between all other system
(P/N 042690) components
0.50-mm (0.020-in) ID ETFE, light Connection from injection port on door to
blue (P/N 035519) injection valve
0.75-mm (0.030-in) ID PEEK, green Connections from injection valve to waste,
(P/N 044777) injection valve to pump pulse damper, and
cell to regenerant bottle
1.6-mm (0.062-in) ID PTFE, natural Connections from suppressor Regen In port
(P/N 014157) to regenerant bottle, Regen Out port to waste,
pump to eluent bottle, and pump to waste
Microbore Tubing Kit (P/N 052324) Tubing for exchanging black 0.25-mm
(0.010-in) ID PEEK lines with red 0.125-mm
(0.005-in) ID PEEK lines (to reduce delay
volumes)
• 10-32 fittings (P/N 062980) and ferrules (P/N 043276) are used for most
tubing connections. For tightening requirements, refer to Installation of
Dionex Liquid Line Fittings (Document No. 031432).
• 1/8-in fittings (P/N 052267) and ferrules (P/N 048949) are used for
connections to the suppressor Regen In and Regen Out ports, as well as the
eluent and regenerant bottles.
• 1/16-in fittings (P/N 052230) and ferrules (P/N 052231) are used for
connections from the front door injection port to the injection valve.
66 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
5.3 Isolating a Restriction in the Liquid Plumbing

A restriction in the liquid plumbing will cause excessive system backpressure.
1. Begin pumping eluent through the system (including the columns).
2. Follow the Dionex Easion flow schematic (see Figure 5-2) to work backward
through the system, beginning at the cell exit. One at a time, loosen each
fitting and observe the pressure. The connection at which the pressure drops
abnormally indicates the point of restriction.
• If the restriction has caused such high pressure that the system cannot be
operated, you must work forward through the flow schematic, adding
parts one at a time until an abnormal pressure increase (and hence, the
restriction) is found.
• If the restriction is in the tubing or fitting, remove the restriction by back
flushing or by replacing the tubing or fitting.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 67

Figure 5-2. Dionex Easion Flow Schematic
68 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
5.4 Cleaning Eluent Bottles

Before preparing new eluent, all eluent bottles should be rinsed thoroughly (inside
and out) with ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and deionized water. If a
bottle still appears dirty, or if there is a slimy film on the inside, clean the bottle as
instructed below.
1. Dispose of any remaining chemicals according to municipal regulations.
2. Rinse the bottle (inside and out) with ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm)
filtered and deionized water.
3. Rinse the inside of the bottle with isopropyl alcohol or methanol.
4. If algae or bacteria have left a slimy film on the bottle, use an algicide or
disinfectant (for example, dilute hydrogen peroxide).
5. Rinse cleaning chemicals out of the bottle with ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-
cm) filtered and deionized water.
6. Dry the bottle with clean, particulate-free air.
5.5 Changing the Sample Loop

A 10 L PEEK sample loop (P/N 042949) is installed on the injection valve at the
factory. Unless you are using a 2 mm column, you can replace the sample loop
with another 10 L PEEK sample loop. When using a 2 mm column, refer to the
column manual for the loop size required.
1. Click the pump Off button
on the Chromeleon ePanel.
2. Open the Dionex Easion Sample Loop
front door.
3. Disconnect the sample loop
from ports L and L on the
injection valve (see
Figure 5-3).
Figure 5-3. Dionex Easion Injection Valve
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 69

4. Install the new sample loop between the two ports.

5. Make sure the loop is tightly coiled, so that the door can close securely.
7. Check for leaking fittings and tighten if required.
8. Close the Dionex Easion front door.
5.6 Replacing Pump Check Valves

A dirty check valve causes erratic flow rates and pressures. In addition, it may
cause the pump to lose prime and/or be difficult to reprime.
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends replacing both check valves at the same
time. If new check valves are not available, clean the check valves and reinstall
them (see Section 5.7).
To remove the old check valves:

1. Turn off the Dionex Easion power switch.
2. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Put on standard disposable laboratory rubber gloves (powder-free, particle-
free, and oil-free) before disassembling the pump head.
Never disassemble the pump head with bare hands. Even minute
particles of dust or dirt on the check valves or piston can contaminate
the inside of the pump head and result in poor pump performance.
4. Disconnect the tube fittings from the inlet and outlet check valve assemblies
on the primary pump head (see Figure 5-4).
5. Use a 1/2-inch wrench to loosen both check valve assemblies. Remove the
check valve assemblies from the pump head.
70 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
Outlet Check
Valve
Secondary
Primary
Pump Head
Pump Head
Inlet Check
Valve
Figure 5-4. Pump Heads
To install the new check valves:

1. Inspect the new inlet check valve Inlet Check Valve Outlet Check Valve
assembly (P/N 045722) to verify that the 1/4-28 Port 10-32 Port
double-hole end of the cartridge is
visible (see Figure 5-5).
If the double-hole end is not visible,
remove the cartridge from the housing
and install it correctly. Double-hole Single-hole
2. Inspect the new outlet check valve
assembly (P/N 045721) to verify that the Flow
single-hole end of the cartridge is visible.
If the single-hole end is not visible,
remove the cartridge from the housing
and install it correctly.
Flow
Figure 5-5. Check Valve Assemblies
NOTE The pump will not operate properly unless the cartridge
is installed in the housing in the correct orientation.
Liquid flows through the check valve in the large single
hole and out the small double holes.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 71

3. Install the inlet check valve assembly on the bottom of the primary pump
head. Install the outlet check valve assembly on the top of the head. Tighten
the check valves finger-tight, and then use a wrench to tighten an additional
one-quarter to one-half turn.
Overtightening may damage the pump head and check valve housing
and crush the check valve seats.
4. Reconnect the liquid lines and the power cord.

5. Turn on the Dionex Easion main power.
7. When the Dionex Easion is at operating pressure, check for leaks from the
check valves. Tighten a check valve a little more only if it leaks.
5.7 Cleaning Pump Check Valves

If a check valve leaks or is dirty, both check valves should be replaced (see
Section 5.6). However, if new check valves are not available, follow the
instructions here to clean both check valves and reinstall them.
1. Follow Step 1 through Step 5 in the check valve replacement procedure to
remove the check valve cartridges from the valve housings.
2. Place the check valve housings and cartridges in a beaker with methanol.
Sonicate or agitate the parts for several minutes.
3. Rinse each check valve housing and cartridge thoroughly with filtered
deionized water.
4. Follow Step 1 through Step 7 in the check valve replacement procedure to
reinstall the check valves.
72 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
5.8 Replacing a Pump Piston Seal and Backup Seal

A damaged seal allows leakage past the piston, as well as leakage from the piston
seal wash housing. This can cause unstable flow rates and baseline noise, and may
make it difficult to prime the pump.
Preparation:
1. Rinse the pump flow path with deionized water. Direct the flow to waste by
opening the waste valve on the secondary pump head (see Figure 5-4). To
open the valve, turn the knob one-half turn counterclockwise.
2. After rinsing, close the waste valve.
To remove the pump head and piston:

3. Put on standard disposable laboratory rubber gloves (powder-free, particle-
free, and oil-free) before disassembling the pump head.
Never disassemble the pump head with bare hands. Even minute
particles of dust or dirt on the check valves or piston can contaminate
the inside of the pump head and result in poor pump performance.
4. Disconnect all tubing connections to the pump head with the defective seal.
5. Using a 7/64-in hex key (P/N 068227), loosen the two screws on the pump
head. Remove the screws, and then carefully remove the head and place it on
a clean surface.
6. Slowly pull the pump head and allow it to separate from the housing.
Carefully disengage the head from the piston by pulling the head straight off
and away from its mounting studs.
Lateral motion while disengaging the pump head from the piston may
break the piston.
Un mouvement latéral pendant la séparation de la tête et du piston

peut casser le piston.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 73

Vermeiden Sie Seitwärtsbewegungen, wenn Sie den Pumpenkopg

vom Kolben lösen. Andernfalls kann der Kolben brechen.
7. Place the pump head (front end down) on a clean work surface.
8. The piston does not come off as part of the pump head assembly because it is
captured by a magnetic retention system. After removing the pump head, hold
the shaft of the piston (near the base), tilt the piston slightly, and pull the
piston away from the pump.
Refer to Figure 5-6 or Figure 5-7 when disassembling and reassembling the
pump head.
Outlet Check
Valve Assembly
(P/N 045721)
Piston Seal
(P/N 055870)
O-Ring
(P/N 014895)
Spacer with Drain
(P/N 067705) Primary Pump Head
(P/N 067702)
Backup Piston Seal

(P/N 063382)
Inlet Check
Valve Assembly
(P/N 045722)
Seal Holder
(P/N 067706)
Piston
(P/N 052840)
Figure 5-6. Primary Pump Head
74 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
Figure 5-7. Secondary Pump Head
To install the new backup piston seal:

1. Lift the spacer off the pump head.
2. Remove the seal holder from the spacer, using one of the following methods:
• With the seal holder facing up, cup the spacer
Notch
in your hand and blow clean laboratory air at
the spacer to dislodge the seal holder.
–or–
• Insert a thin object or pointed tool into the
small notch on the spacer and carefully pry out Spacer Seal
the seal holder. Be careful not to scratch the Holder
spacer.
3. Insert a thin object (for example, the straightened end of a paper clip) into the
spacer and carefully pry the backup piston seal out of the spacer. Be careful
not to scratch the spacer.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 75

4. To install the new backup piston seal:

Grooved side
a. Hold the new backup piston seal of backup
piston seal
(P/N 063382) with the grooved side
facing down, and insert the shaft of the
piston through the seal.
b. Insert the piston into the center hole in
the spacer.
c. Push the piston into the spacer until

the top of the piston is flush with the
spacer. A clicking sound indicates that
the seal is correctly seated.
The backup piston seal is made of soft plastic. Do not press on the
seal with anything hard or sharp, including your fingernail. If the seal
is nicked or gouged, it will not seal properly and may result in leaks.
d. Pull out the piston. The top of the seal should

be flush with the surface of the spacer.
e. Press the seal holder onto the spacer.
To remove the old piston seal from the pump head:

1. Fill the pump head cavity with deionized water by injecting the liquid through
the piston opening.
2. Reinsert the piston about 3 mm (0.125 in) into the seal.
76 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
3. If this is the primary pump head, install a 10-32 fitting plug (P/N 042772) on
the outlet check valve. Tighten the plug.
If this is the secondary pump head, install a 10-32 fitting plug (P/N 042772)
in both the inlet and outlet ports. Tighten the plugs.
4. Push the piston into the pump head. (This should hydraulically unseat the seal
from the head.) Remove the piston and pull off the seal.
NOTE If the piston seal is not removed, make sure the 10-32
fitting plug(s) are tight and add more water. Make sure
the pump head contains no air bubbles, and then repeat
Steps 2 and 4.
5. Remove the 10-32 fitting plug(s).
To install the new piston seal:

1. If this is the secondary pump head, open the waste valve knob by turning the
knob one-half turn counterclockwise.
2. Lubricate the seal and the pump head
opening with a small amount of isopropyl
Piston Seal
alcohol to facilitate insertion.
3. Push the piston through the spacer and
then through the new piston seal.
Piston
Spacer
4. Insert the piston and seal into the pump

head.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 77

5. To seat the seal, push down on the spacer

until it is flush with the pump head. A
clicking sound indicates that the seal is
correctly seated.
6. Remove the spacer and piston and verify

that the seal is flush with the surface of the
pump head.
7. Verify that the O-ring is installed in the

spacer.
78 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
To reinstall the pump head and piston:

Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends reinstalling the pump head and piston as a
single assembly, so that the piston centers itself onto the magnetic follower.
1. Hold the assembled spacer and guide with the drain tube aligned vertically,
and then press the spacer into the pump head until it is flush with the indented
surface of the head.
2. Insert the piston so that about 6 mm
(1/4 in) of the shaft remains exposed. This
ensures that the magnet in the follower
picks up the piston. (The follower is the
cylinder that holds the piston in place as it
moves in and out of the pump head
assembly.)
3. Reinstall the pump head and piston
assembly. Tighten the screws evenly.
To complete the procedure:

1. Reconnect all liquid lines to the pump head.
2. Close the waste valve knob.
3. Turn on the Dionex Easion power switch.
5.9 Replacing a Pump Piston

Continued leaking of the piston seal after installation of a new seal (assuming the
pump head is tight) indicates a dirty, scratched, or broken piston.
Follow the instructions in Section 5.8 to install a new piston (P/N 052840) and
piston seal (P/N 055870). Always replace the piston seal when replacing a piston.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 79

5.10 Replacing the Waste Valve Seal

A damaged seal causes leakage around the base of the waste valve knob.
2. To remove the waste valve from the pump head (see Figure 5-8), turn the
knob counterclockwise until it is loose, and then pull the knob straight out of
the cavity in the head.
Waste Valve
Figure 5-8. Waste and Priming Valves
3. If the seal is removed with the valve knob in Step 2, pull the seal off the end of
the knob (see Figure 5-9).
If the seal is not removed with the valve
Valve Knob
knob, insert a thin object (for example,
the straightened end of a paper clip) into
the cavity in the pump head and carefully
pull out the seal. Do not scratch the
cavity. Seal
Figure 5-9. Waste Valve Seal Replacement
Scratches in the cavity will cause leaks around the base of the knob
while the pump is being primed.
80 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
4. Orient the new seal (P/N 063382) with the grooved side away from the valve,
and slide it over the end of the valve.
5. Insert the valve with the new seal into the pump head opening and turn the
knob clockwise. Tighten finger-tight.
6. Turn on the Dionex Easion power switch.
5.11 Rebuilding the Injection Valve

Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends rebuilding the injection valve annually.
The Injection Valve Rebuild Kit (P/N 075973) contains all the required
replacement parts.
NOTE Substitution of non-Thermo Scientific/Dionex parts may

impair valve performance and void the product
warranty.

2. Open the front door of the Dionex Easion.
3. Disconnect each liquid line connected to the injection valve.
4. Follow the instructions provided in the Injection Valve Rebuild Kit to replace
the rotor seal, isolation seal, and stator face.
5. Reconnect all liquid lines to the injection valve.
5.12 Replacing the Conductivity Cell

3. Open the Dionex Easion front door.
4. Disconnect the black ELUENT OUT line from the ELUENT OUT port on the
suppressor (see Figure 5-10).
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 81

r
ize
bil
n Sta
o
cti
ete
5D
DS
ELUENT OUT
to suppressor
Connector to component
mounting panel
CELL OUT (orange)

to CELL OUT (black)
Figure 5-10. Conductivity Cell Assembly
5. Disconnect the orange CELL OUT line from the union that connects it to the
black CELL OUT line.
6. Use an Allen wrench to remove the two screws on the top of the cell housing.
7. Remove the cell by unplugging it from the component mounting panel.
8. Plug the new conductivity cell (P/N 067761) into its mounting location.
9. Replace the screws on the top of the cell housing and tighten.
10. Attach the orange CELL OUT line from the cell to the union attached to the
black CELL OUT line.
11. Attach the ELUENT OUT line to the ELUENT OUT port on the suppressor.
13. Reconnect the power cord and turn on the Dionex Easion power.
82 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

5 • Service
5.13 Replacing the Suppressor

Refer to the suppressor manual for guidance about when to replace a suppressor.
2. Open the front door of the Dionex Easion.
3. Disconnect the four eluent and regenerant lines from the suppressor.
4. Slide the suppressor to the left to detach it from the component mounting
panel.
5. Slide the new suppressor to the right until it locks into place on the mounting
panel.
6. Connect the four eluent and regenerant lines to the new suppressor.
5.14 Changing the Main Power Fuses

HIGH VOLTAGE—Disconnect the main power cord from its source and
also from the rear panel of the Dionex Easion.
HAUTE TENSION—Débranchez le cordon d'alimentation principal de

sa source et du panneau arrière du Dionex Easion.
HOCHSPANNUNG—Ziehen Sie das Netzkabel aus der Steckdose und

der Netzbuchse auf der Rückseite des Dionex Easion.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 83

3. The fuse drawer is located above the

power switch (see Figure 5-11). A small Fuse
tab locks the fuse drawer in place. Using Drawer
a small screwdriver, press the tab in and Tab

then up to release the fuse drawer.
4. Pull the fuse drawer out of the rear panel
and remove the old fuses.
5. Replace the two fuses with new fast-blow
IEC 127 fuses rated 3.15 A
(P/N 954745). Thermo Fisher Scientific
recommends always replacing both fuses.
Figure 5-11. Fuse Drawer
6. Insert the fuse drawer into the rear panel and press until the drawer snaps into
place.
7. Reconnect the main power cord and turn on the power.
84 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

A • Specifications
A.1 Electrical
Main Power 100 to 240 Vac, 50 to 60 Hz, autoranging

Maximum input power: 90 W
Maximum line draw: 1.5 A
Fuses Two fast-blow IEC 127 fuses rated 3.15 A (P/N 954745)
A.2 Physical
Dimensions Height without bottles: 33 cm (13 in)

Height with bottles and cap tubing: 60 cm (24 in)
Width: 24 cm (9.5 in)
Depth: 40 cm (15.75 in)
Weight 10 kg (22 lb)
Decibel Level < 53 dBA
A.3 Environmental
Operating 10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F)

Temperature
Humidity 5% to 95% relative humidity, noncondensing
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 85

A.4 Front and Rear Panel LEDs

Front Panel LEDs
Power Indicates when the power is on.
Ready Indicates when the Dionex Easion is ready to acquire data; flashes
if the system check fails.
Run Indicates when the Dionex Easion is running/acquiring data;

flashes if an error occurs.
Rear Panel LED
Link Indicates when there is communication between the Dionex Easion

and Chromeleon; flashes when data is being transmitted or
received.
A.5 Pump
Type Serial dual-reciprocating piston, microprocessor-controlled

constant-stroke, variable-speed
Construction Chemically inert, metal-free PEEK pump heads and flow path;
compatible with aqueous eluents of pH 0 to 14 and reversed-phase
solvents
Operating 0 to 35 MPa (0 to 5000 psi)

Pressure
Flow Rate 0.00 to 5.00 mL/min, in increments of 0.01 mL/min (without

Range changing pump heads)
Flow Precision <0.1%
Flow Accuracy <0.1%
Pressure Ripple <1%
Eluent Bottle None required

Pressure
86 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Vacuum Optional with external vacuum degasser

Degasser
A.6 Injection Valve
Injection Valve Two-position, six-port, electrically-activated Rheodyne valve
A.7 Suppressors
Chemical 2 mm and 4 mm anion and cation
Suppression
Displacement 2 mm and 4 mm anion and cation
Chemical
Regeneration
Suppression Dionex ACRS 500 (4 mm): 150 eq/min
Capacity Dionex ACRS 500 (2 mm: 37.5 eq/min
Dionex CCRS 500 (4 mm): 150 eq/min
Dionex CCRS 500 (2 mm): 37.5 eq/min
Void Volume Dionex ACRS 500 (4 mm): <50 L
Dionex ACRS 500 (2 mm: <15 L
Dionex CCRS 500 (4 mm): <50 L
Dionex CCRS 500 (2 mm): <15 L
Sequential With a Dionex CRS 500 and a Thermo Scientific™ Dionex™
Suppression for Carbonate Removal Device:
Anions
• The Dionex CRD 300 is designed for use with carbonate eluent-
based chemistries.
• The Dionex CRD 200 is designed for use with hydroxide- and
borate-based chemistries.
Suppressor Wear None; peristaltic pump and inline filters not required
Parts
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 87

A.8 Conductivity Detector and Flow Cell
Type Bipolar-heated conductivity cell; microprocessor-controlled digital

signal processing over a range of 0 to 10,000 S/cm
Temperature Preset for accurate reading at 40 ºC

Compensation
Cell Drive 8 kHz square wave
Auto Offset -9,999 to 9,999 S
Linearity 1%
Resolution 0.0047 nS/cm
Calibration Factory-calibrated before shipment to the user; calibrated in the

field with memory retention and transfer
Control and Provided by Chromeleon software; communication with the

Data Evaluation Dionex Easion is via USB (Universal Serial Bus)
Cell Body PEEK
Cell Electrodes Passivated 316 stainless steel
Cell Active 1 L
Volume
Maximum Cell 10 MPa (1500 psi)

Operating
Pressure
Cell Regulated at 40 ºC
Temperature
Cell Chemical Fully compatible with all typical ion chromatography eluents,
Compatibility including MSA
88 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

A.9 Autosampler
Automation Dionex AS-DV Autosampler (or third-party autosampler)
Using
Autosampler
Sequential/ Dependent on autosampler capabilities
Simultaneous
Injection
Inline Sample Optional with Dionex CRD 200 or Dionex CRD 300
Degassing
Inline Filtration Dionex AS-DV Autosampler or inline filter
High Automation Conditionals using Chromeleon and post-run features
Flexibility
Automated Automated inline removal of alkaline earth and transition metals,
Sample surfactants, or anions, and neutralization of acidic or basic samples
Preparation can be achieved using optional Dionex Guardcap vial caps
A.10 System Software

Software Chromeleon 7 Chromatography Data System; validated for use with
Windows 10 or Windows 8.1
Automated Standard feature
Procedure
Wizards
System Wellness Standard feature
Virtual Column • Evaluation mode: Standard feature
Simulator
• Isocratic and gradient modes: Optional features
Application Standard feature
Templates
Automation Fully controls over 300 different instruments (including GC, HPLC,
Support for and MS) from more than 30 manufacturers
Third-Party
Vendors
Customizable Standard feature
System Control
Panels
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 89

System Status Standard feature

Virtual Channels
Power Failure Standard feature
Protection
Sequential Standard feature for independent dual-system analysis
Injection
System Trigger Standard feature
Commands and
Conditionals
Daily Audit Trail Standard feature
Sample Audit Standard feature
Trail
Multiple Network Optional feature
Control and
Network Failure
Protection
Storage of System Factory, current, and previous values stored; the user can reset
Calibration current values to the factory or previous values
Settings
Semiautomated IQ/OQ/PQ procedures
System
Qualification
Customized Standard feature with unlimited report workbooks
Reporting
90 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

B • Reordering Information
Part Number Item

Pump
067701 Primary pump head assembly
067703 Secondary pump head assembly
045722 Inlet check valve assembly, 1/4-28
045721 Outlet check valve assembly, 10-32
055870 Piston seal
014895 O-ring
063382 Backup piston seal
067706 Seal holder
052840 Piston
Sample Loop and Injection Valve

042949 10 L sample loop assembly
075973 Injection Valve Rebuild Kit
024305 Luer adapter fitting, 1/4-28 (for manual injections)
Reagent Bottle Assemblies

062510 Eluent bottle assembly (includes stopper and cap)
068222 Anion regenerant bottle assembly (includes stopper and cap)
057713 Cation regenerant bottle assembly (includes stopper and cap)
059068 O-ring for eluent or regenerant bottle stopper
Reagents
057559 Anion regenerant concentrate (75 mL of 2.0 N sulfuric acid)
057555 Anion regenerant concentrate (4-pack)
057561 Cation regenerant concentrate (100 mL of 2.06 M TBAOH)
057556 Cation regenerant concentrate (4-pack)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 91

Part Number Item

Suppressors and Cell
085090 Dionex ACRS 500 (4 mm) Chemically Regenerated Suppressor
085091 Dionex ACRS 500 (2 mm) Chemically Regenerated Suppressor
085092 Dionex CCRS 500 (4 mm) Chemically Regenerated Suppressor
085093 Dionex CCRS 500 (2 mm) Chemically Regenerated Suppressor
067761 Conductivity cell with DS5 Detection Stabilizer
Miscellaneous Items
052324 Microbore Tubing Kit
960777 USB cable, 1.8 m (6 ft) long
954745 IEC 127 fast-blow fuses, rated 3.15 amps
Preventive Maintenance Kits

088138 Dionex Easion Preventive Maintenance Kit
072678 Dionex AS-DV Preventive Maintenance Kit
92 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

C • TTL and Relay Control
A 12-pin connector strip for TTL/relay control is located on the Dionex Easion
rear panel. The connector provides two relay outputs, two TTL outputs, and four
TTL inputs (see Figure C-1).
Pin Function Description
1 Solid State Relay Contacts Output

RELAY
OUT
2 Solid State Relay Contacts Output
TTL OUT 1 TTL Output 1 (1 k pull up to +5, 100 mA sink)

(+) 2 TTL Output 2 (1 k pull up to +5, 100 mA sink)
1 TTL Input 1 Autozero Note: These are the
TTL IN 2 TTL Input 2 Inject/Load default TTL input
function assignments.
(+) 3 TTL Input 3 Pump On/Off Functions can be
4 TTL Input 4 Autozero reassigned to any input.
TTL GND 1 Ground

(-) 2 Ground
Figure C-1. TTL and Relay Connector
Relay loads in excess of 200 mA or with included power supplies over

60 V may damage the relay drivers on the Dionex Easion’s CPU board.
TTL and relay outputs can be used to control functions in external devices (for
example, an autosampler). Relay outputs 1 and 2 can be programmed to switch
any low-voltage control. Switched current must be less than 200 mA and 60 V
peak.
Relay outputs 1 and 2 can be configured to close when the pump flow is on and
open when the pump flow is off, thus ensuring that a connected device is turned
off when the pump flow is off. For more information, see Section C.3.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 93

When connected to a controlling device, the inputs can be programmed to perform

the following Dionex Easion functions:
• Switch the injection valve position (load/inject)
• Set the conductivity to zero (autozero)
• Turn the pump on and off
C.1 Connecting a TTL or Relay

1. Locate the 12-position
connector plug (P/N 923686)
(see Figure C-2) provided in
the Dionex Easion Ship Kit
(P/N 067768).
Locking
2. Locate the twisted pair of wires Screws
(P/N 043598) provided in the
Ship Kit of the Dionex module
you plan to connect to the
Dionex Easion.
3. Follow these basic steps to Figure C-2. 12-Position Connector Plug
connect the TTL or relays:
a. For each TTL or relay to be used, connect an active wire (red) and a
ground wire (black) to the 12-position connector plug at the appropriate
pin locations. For connector pin assignments, see either Figure C-1 or the
label on the Dionex Easion rear panel.
To attach a wire to the plug: Strip the end of the wire (if necessary), insert
the wire into the plug, and use a screwdriver to tighten the locking screw.
(You can attach multiple ground wires to a single TTL input/output
ground pin.)
When attaching wires to the connector plug, be careful not to allow
stray strands of wire to short to the adjoining position on the
connector.
b. Plug the connector into the 12-pin connector on the Dionex Easion rear
panel.
94 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

c. Connect the wires from the Dionex Easion connector plug to the TTL or
relay connector pins on the other module(s). Additional connector plugs
are provided with other Dionex modules.
NOTE Check the polarity of each connection. Be sure to

connect signal wires to signal (+) pins and ground
wires to ground (-) pins.
4. If you connected a TTL input, verify that the correct input control mode and
function are assigned to the input. Select different settings, if necessary (see
Section C.2).
5. If you connected a TTL output that you want to have turned on and off with
the pump flow, select the Flow Zero option in the Chromeleon Instrument
Configuration Manager (see Section C.3).
C.2 Selecting TTL Input Control Modes and Functions

Follow the steps below to select a control mode and function for a TTL input.
2. In the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box, click the TTL Inputs tab.
3. Double-click the TTL input name (or select the name) and press the F2 key.
The Device Configuration dialog box for the selected input appears.
4. Select the preferred Mode and Control Function.
5. Click OK.
TTL Input Control Modes

The Dionex Easion TTL inputs respond to four types of signals. The default
control mode, Normal Edge, is compatible with the output signals provided by
Thermo Scientific Dionex modules.
If the device connected to the Dionex Easion does not send a normal edge signal,
select the appropriate control mode. Refer to the documentation provided with the
controlling device, as well as the information below, to select the correct type.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 95

• Normal Edge: In normal edge Action Off or No Effect

operation, the negative (falling) edge of
TTL +5 V
a signal turns on the function. For NORMAL
example, for the Load/Inject function, EDGE
+0 V
the negative edge switches the injection Action On
valve position to Load. For the Pump
On/Off function, the negative edge turns on the pump. For the Autozero
function, the negative edge performs an autozero command.
The action of the positive (rising) edge depends on the function. For example,
for the Load/Inject function, the positive edge switches the injection valve to
the Inject position. For the Pump On/Off function, the positive edge turns off
the pump. For the Autozero function, the positive edge has no effect.
• Inverted Edge: The inverted edge mode
Action On
works identically to the normal edge
mode except that the positive and TTL +5 V
INVERTED
negative edges are reversed in function. EDGE
+0 V
Action Off or No Effect
• Normal Pulse: In normal pulse

operation, the negative edge of the TTL TTL +5 V
signal is the active edge and the positive NORMAL
PULSE +0 V
edge is ignored.
Action On Action Off
A pulse width of 50 ms or more is
guaranteed to be detected. A pulse
width of 4 ms or less is guaranteed to be ignored. The action for pulse widths
that are greater than 4 ms and less than 50 ms is undefined.
• Inverted Pulse: The inverted pulse
mode operates identically to the normal Action On Action Off
pulse mode except that the positive and TTL +5 V
negative edges are reversed in function. INVERTED
PULSE +0 V
96 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

C.3 Configuring Relay Output 1 or 2 to Respond to the

Pump Flow
Follow the steps below to configure relay output 1 or 2 to open when the pump
flow stops and close when the pump flow starts. The relay output can then be used
to turn a connected device off and on with the pump flow.
2. In the Dionex Easion Properties dialog box, click the State Devices tab.
3. Select the relay output name (Pump_ECD_Relay_1 or Pump_ECD_
Relay_2) and press the F2 key. The Device Configuration dialog box appears.
4. Select the Flow Zero check box.
To use the selected relay output for a different function, clear the Flow Zero
check box. Chromeleon will then control the relay output (see Section C.4).
5. Click OK.
C.4 Controlling TTL and Relay Outputs

The Dionex Easion provides two TTL outputs and two relay contacts for control
of functions in external devices (for example, a Dionex AS-DV).
The TTL outputs are normally at 5 volts. Setting a TTL output to 0 volts turns on
the action in the connected device.
The relay outputs can be used to switch any low-voltage control. Switched current
must be less than 200 mA and 60 V peak blocking. The relay-contact closures are
normally open; when the relay is closed, current flows to the connected device.
Relay loads in excess of 200 mA or with included power supplies over

60 V may damage the relay drivers on the CPU.
You can control the TTL and relay output states either by issuing direct control
commands or by including commands in an instrument method.
To directly control TTL and relay outputs:

1. In Chromeleon, press the F8 key to open the Command window.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 97

2. Expand the list of commands under Pump_ECD and select the TTL or relay
output name.
3. Execute the command.
To program control of TTL and relay outputs:

Include commands for control of the TTL and relay outputs in the Chromeleon
instrument method. You can enter the commands in the Instrument Method
Wizard (on the Relay and State Devices Options page) or in the Instrument
Method Editor.
98 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

D • FAQ
D.1 How do I connect to the Dionex AS-DV?

For instructions on how to connect the Dionex Easion to the Dionex AS-DV, refer
to the autosampler operator’s manual.
D.2 Why are the retention times moving?

Retention times can shift if the pump flow is erratic, or if the column or eluent is
contaminated.
• To troubleshoot pump flow issues, see Section 4.6.
• If you suspect eluent contamination: Remake the eluent, using concentrated
eluent and ASTM Type I (18.2 megohm-cm) filtered and deionized water (see
Section 3.4).
• If you suspect column contamination: Clean the column as instructed in the
column manual.
Note that changes in ambient temperature will have an impact on peak retention
times. The effect varies with the type of column installed, but it is generally more
pronounced for certain cation analyses. The magnitude of the effect varies with
the analyte and is proportional to the temperature changes that the column is
exposed to.
D.3 How do I adjust retention times?

Retention times are calculated during calibration. The Use Recently Detected
Retention Times parameter in the Chromeleon Processing Method Editor (on the
General tab page) can be used to compensate for some causes of retention time
drift; for example, evaporation of volatile components in premixed solvents or an
aging column. For more information, refer to the Chromeleon Help.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 99

D.4 When should I remake standards?

Standards are used for calibration and should always be made fresh. They have a
lifetime of one week.
D.5 When should I remake eluents?

• Eluents should be remade every two or three weeks. After refilling the eluent
bottle, use the Eluent Fill Volume slider on the Chromeleon ePanel to reset
the volume of liquid in the bottle.
• When you refill the eluent bottle, always remake the regenerant and fill the
regenerant bottle.with fresh regenerant.
times.
D.6 How do I shut off the system?

Click the pump Off button on the Chromeleon ePanel (see Figure 2-10).
–or–
Turn off the power switch on the Dionex Easion rear panel (see Figure 2-3).
D.7 How do I store columns?

Columns should be stored in eluent. Refer to the column manual for complete
instructions.
D.8 How do I know when a column is dirty?

Refer to the troubleshooting section of the column manual.
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D • FAQ
D.9 How do I clean a column?

Refer to the troubleshooting section of the column manual.
D.10 Why is the conductivity high?

Possible reasons for high conductivity include:
• The suppressor needs regeneration. Refer to the troubleshooting section of the
suppressor manual.
• The regenerant is exhausted and should be remade. See Section 3.5 for
instructions for how to prepare regenerant.
• The cell is out of calibration. Contact Technical Support for Dionex products
for assistance.
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102 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

E • Introduction to Ion Chromatography (IC)
The Dionex Easion performs isocratic ion analyses using suppressed conductivity
detection. An ion chromatography system such as the Dionex Easion typically
consists of a liquid eluent, a high-pressure pump, a sample injector, a separator
column, a chemical suppressor, and a conductivity cell. Before running a sample,
the system is calibrated using a standard solution. By comparing the data obtained
from a sample to that obtained from the standard, sample ions can be identified
and quantitated. A PC running chromatography software converts each peak in a
chromatogram to a sample concentration and produces a tabulated printout of the
results.
The IC analysis consists of four stages (see Figure E-1).
Eluent 3. Detection
Separator
Suppressor Cell
2. Separation
1. Eluent Delivery Waste
Injection Valve
Guard
Sample
5 4
Pump 6 3
1 2
4. Data Analysis
Waste
Figure E-1. Ion Analysis Process
1. Eluent Delivery
• Eluent, a liquid that helps to separate the sample ions, carries the sample
through the ion chromatography system. The Dionex Easion is an
isocratic delivery system. This means that the eluent composition and
concentration remain constant throughout the run.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 103

• Liquid sample is injected into the eluent stream either manually or

automatically (if an autosampler is installed).
• The pump forces the eluent and sample through a separator column (a
chemically-inert tube packed with a polymeric resin).
2. Separation
• As the eluent and sample are pumped through the separator column, the
sample ions are separated. In the Dionex Easion, the mode of separation is
called ion exchange. This mode is based on the premise that different
sample ions migrate through the IC column at different rates, depending
upon their interactions with the ion exchange sites.
3. Detection
• After the eluent and sample ions leave the column, they flow through a
suppressor that selectively enhances detection of the sample ions while
suppressing the conductivity of the eluent.
• A conductivity cell monitors and measures the electrical conductance of
the sample ions as they emerge from the suppressor and produces a signal
based on a chemical or physical property of the analyte.
4. Data Analysis
• The conductivity cell transmits the signal to a PC running
chromatography software.
• The chromatography software analyzes the data by comparing the sample
peaks in a chromatogram to those produced from a standard solution. The
software identifies the ions based on retention time, and quantifies each
analyte by integrating the peak area or peak height. The results are
displayed as a chromatogram, with the concentrations of ionic analytes
automatically determined and tabulated.
NOTE For a glossary of chromatography terms, see

Appendix F.
104 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

F • Glossary
Analytical Column
Synonymous with Separator Column.
Band Spreading
The broadening of the sample band as it travels through the column. Band
spreading can also occur in the injection valve, detector cell, and interconnecting
tubing.
Calibration Curve
A graph showing detector response in peak height or area versus analyte
concentration.
Capacity Factor (k´)
The number of column volumes of eluent, pumped through the column, required
to elute an analyte. Capacity factor is a dimensionless measure of retention which
is independent of column length or eluent flow rate. It is calculated as follows:
tr – to
k = --------------
to
Where: tr = retention time
to = retention time of unretained solute (column void volume)
Cell Constant (k)
A factor determined experimentally by measuring the conductance (G) of a
standard solution of known equivalent conductivity (k).
k = G
The value of k depends upon the surface area of, and distance between, the
electrode faces in the conductivity detector cell.
k = lA
Where: l = length
A = area of one electrode (the other electrode is equal to
the first)
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 105

Channeling
The preferential flow of liquid along more open, less resistant paths through the
column packing. This causes Band Spreading.
Column Efficiency (N)
A measure of the narrowness of analyte bands as they elute from the column.
High efficiency is desirable because resolution between closely spaced bands
improves with greater efficiency. For a symmetrical (Gaussian) peak, column
efficiency can be determined by the following:
N = 5.54(t1/W1/2)2
Where: t1 = the peak retention time, in seconds
W1/2 = the peak width at 1/2 height, in seconds
Column efficiency is proportional to column length: for a given resin and column
diameter, increasing the column length increases the column efficiency.
Synonymous with Theoretical Plates.
Column Selectivity (a)
Describes the relative separation of the band maxima between two adjacent peaks.
Selectivity can be determined by the following:
a = (t2 - t0)/(t1 -t0)
Where: t1 and t2 = retention time of components 1 and 2, respectively
t0 = retention time of unretained components (void volume)
Concentrator Column
A short column used to retain and concentrate analytes from a measured volume
of relatively clean sample. This allows large volumes of sample to be injected,
lowering concentration detection limits.
Conductivity
A measure of the ease with which electrical current flows through a liquid
contained between two oppositely charged electrodes. Conductivity is a
characteristic of ions in solution. Units are siemens.
Counterion
Ions carrying a charge opposite that of the sample ions (for example, Na+) may be
the counterion of a Cl- analyte. These ions preserve electrical neutrality in
solution.
106 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

F • Glossary
% Crosslink
Divinylbenzene content in a polystyrene/divinylbenzene (PS-DVB) resin; this
contributes to the mechanical strength of the resin and determines
chromatographic properties.
Equivalent Conductivity ()
The contribution of an ionic species to the total conductivity of a solution as
measured in a standard cell having electrodes 1 cm2 in area and exactly 1 cm
apart.
Guard Column
A small column that prevents poisoning of the separator column by sorbing
organic contaminants and removing particulates. It is filled with the same packing
as the separator column. Synonymous with Pre-Column.
HETP (H)
Height Equivalent to a Theoretical Plate. A measure of column efficiency which
allows comparison between columns of different lengths.
HETP = H = L/N
Where: L = the column length (mm)
N = the number of theoretical plates
Ion-Exchange Capacity
The number of active ion exchange sites in a given weight or volume of resin; this
is usually expressed in meq/g or meq/mL.
Ion-Exchange Resin
An insoluble polymer matrix containing fixed-charge exchange sites (anionic or
cationic). IC resins are formed into small spherical particles (beads).
Packing
The material that fills a chromatographic column; usually a resin or silica-based
material.
Pellicular Resin
A resin with a solid, nonporous core coated with a thin layer of more porous
material. The exchange sites of pellicular ion-exchange resins are located only on
the surface layer of the bead. These resins have a low ion-exchange capacity.
Pre-Column
Synonymous with Guard Column.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 107

Regenerant
A dilute acid or base which converts ion exchange sites in the suppressor back to
the form which will suppress the eluent conductivity.
Resin
See Ion-Exchange Resin.
Resolution (R)
A measure of the separation between two sample components. It is expressed as
the ratio of the distance between the two peak maxima to the mean value of the
peak width at the baseline.
R = 2(t2 - t1)/(W2 + W1)
Where: t1 and t2 = the retention times of components 1 and 2,
respectively
W1 and W1 = the baseline width of peaks 1 and 2,
respectively (measured in the same units as the retention
time)
R is proportional to the square root of efficiency (N). A value of R = 1.5
represents “baseline separation” of the two peaks.
Retention Time
The time from injection to peak maximum; the basis for identification of a species
in chromatographic analysis.
Separator Column
The column used to perform a chromatographic separation; also called analytical
column.
Siemens (S)
Unit of conductance; the reciprocal of the electrical resistance of a solution.
Suppressor
A device used to minimize eluent conductivity and convert sample species to a
common form, thus increasing detection sensitivity.
Temperature Coefficient
The percent of change in the conductivity of a solution with a 1 oC change in
temperature. Every solution has a characteristic temperature coefficient which is
determined experimentally.
Theoretical Plates (N)
See Column Efficiency.
108 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

F • Glossary
Void Volume (V0)

The volume occupied by the eluent in a packed column. This volume includes the
volume between the injection valve and the column, as well as between the
column and the detector cell. Unretained components are eluted in the void
volume.
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 109

110 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Index
A Bottle
Eluent, 10
Air particulate samples, 36 Regenerant, 10
Alarms, 10, 47 Bottle, eluent
See also Error messages Cleaning, 69
Ambient temperature, 58 Connecting, 30
Anion eluent, 11 Monitoring the liquid level, 28
Anion regenerant, 11 Bottle, regenerant
Bottle assembly, 22 Connecting, 30
Anion separations, 34
AS-DV Autosampler
Instrument method example, 44
Sample loading, 41 C
Specifications, 89 Cables
Audit trail, 10, 47, 63 Power cord, 83
Error messages, 48 USB, 13
Auto offset requirements, 88 Calibration, 61
Automated sample processing, 38 Flow rate, 65
Autozero, 34, 39 Pressure transducer, 63
Carbonate eluent, 11
Cation eluent, 11
B Cation regenerant, 11
Bottle assembly, 22
Background conductivity
Cation separations, 34
High, 48, 57 Cell, 12, 22
Offsetting, 34 Detection limit ranges, 23
Backpressure High cell output, 57
Causes of excessive backpressure, 54, 67 Leaking, 53
Monitoring, 34 No response, 56
Backpressure coils, 58 Replacing, 81
For microbore systems, 58 Check valves
For standard bore systems, 58 Cleaning, 72
Backup piston seal Replacing, 70 – 71
Replacing, 73 Chromatogram
Baseline conductivity, 34 Monitoring, 39
Baseline drift, 57 Chromeleon, 1, 23
Baseline noise, 17, 57 Audit trail, 47
Blockages Audit trail error messages, 48
Liquid lines, 51, 67 Canceling standby mode, 35
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 Index-1

Communication with Easion, 14, 54

Configuring standby mode, 35
D
Control modes, 24 Data collection, 39
Eluent Fill Volume slider, 28 Cell temperature during, 22
Error messages, 47 DCR
Instrument methods, 40, 43 – 44 See Displacement chemical regeneration
Processing methods, 40 Decibel level, 85
Sequences, 40 Detection limit ranges, 23
Starting, 28 Detector signal plot, 39
System Wellness, 25 Detector specifications
User interface, 23 Auto offset, 88
Version required, 1 Calibration, 88
Wellness panel, 61 Cell drive, 88
Columns Control and data evaluation, 88
Cleaning, 100 – 101 Linearity, 88
Contaminated, 56 Range, 88
Separator and guard, 12 Resolution, 88
Storing, 100 Temperature compensation, 88
Commands Diagnostics, 61, 63
Creating an instrument method, 40 Dionex Technical Support, 4, 47, 61
Component mounting panel, 11, 23 Direct software control, 24
Conductivity Displacement chemical regeneration, 20
Background reading, 34 Anion bottle assembly, 22
Baseline, 34 Anion process, 20 – 21
High conductivity causes, 101 Cation bottle assembly, 22
Offsetting the background, 34 Cation process, 20 – 21
Temperature effect, 22 Drifting baseline, 57
Conductivity cell, 12, 22 DS5 Detection Stabilizer, 22
Detection limit ranges, 23 Dummy cell, 57, 63
High cell output, 57
Leaking, 53
Replacing, 81 E
See also DS5 Detection Stabilizer Easion
Conductivity cell specifications Component mounting panel, 23
Active volume, 88 Dimensions, 85
Cell body, 88 Flow rate range, 86
Chemical compatibility, 88 Front panel, 9
Electrodes, 88 No USB communication, 54
Maximum pressure, 88 Power-up conditions, 28
Temperature, 88 Regulatory compliance, 6
Conductivity exceeds limit error, 48 Software control, 1
CRS 500 suppressor, 12, 20 Standby mode, 35
See also Suppressor System flow path, 16
Index-2 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Index
Top cover, 9 Requirements, 66

Tubing assemblies, 66 Flashing LED, 10
Weight, 85 Flow path, 16
Electrical specifications Flow rate, 12
Fuses, 85 Automatically reducing, 35
Main power, 85 Calibrating, 62, 65
Electrochemical detector conductivity Standby mode, 35
See Conductivity Flow rate calibration error, 48
Eluent, 11, 29 Flow rate range, 12, 86
Delivery process, 103 Flow Zero option, 97
Preparing, 28 Fluid path, 16
When to remake, 100 Front panel, 9
Eluent bottle, 10 Fuses, 14
Cleaning, 69 Changing, 83
Monitoring the liquid level, 28 Requirements, 85
Eluent Fill Volume, 28
Environmental specifications
Gas pressure, 85
Humidity, 85
G
Operating pressure, 85 Ghosting, 55
Operating temperature, 85 Guard column, 12
Equilibration time, 34
Error messages, 47
Conductivity exceeds limit, 48 H
Default severity levels, 48 Heat exchanger, 22
Flow rate calibration error, 48 Humidity limits, 85
Load/inject valve error, 49
Module data buffer overflow, 49
Pump motor lost control, 49
Pump pressure hardware error, 49
I
Pump pressure slope calibration error, 50 Injecting samples, 19
Remaining eluent below 100 mL, 50 Chromeleon commands, 44
Remaining eluent below 200 mL, 50 With a syringe, 42
System pressure below low pressure limit, With an autosampler, 41
51 Injection port, 10
System pressure exceeds high pressure Loading with a syringe, 42
limit, 51 Injection valve, 12, 19
Flow schematic, 19
Leaking, 53
Rebuilding, 81
F Specifications, 87
Fittings Instrument methods (Chromeleon)
Leaking, 52 Autosampler control, 43 – 44
Replacing, 66 Autosampler example method, 44
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 Index-3

Creating instrument methods, 40 Microbore system

Inverted pulse TTL input control, 96 Backpressure coil requirements, 58
Ion chromatography overview, 103 Microbore Tubing Kit, 58, 66
Ion exchange, 104 Module data buffer overflow error, 49
Isocratic delivery system, 103 MSA eluent, 11, 29
L N
Leaks Nitrite in samples, 36
Cell, 53 No detector response, 56
Fittings, 52 Noisy baseline, 57
Injection valve, 53 Normal edge TTL input control, 96
Liquid, 52 Normal pulse TTL input control, 96
Pressure transducer, 52
Pump head waste valve, 52
Suppressor, 53 O
LEDs, 10
Operating features, 9
Link, 14
Operating temperature, 85
Power, 10
Operation
Ready, 10
Equilibration time, 34
Run, 10
Injecting samples, 41, 43 – 44
Linearity requirements, 88
Loading samples, 42
Link LED, 14
Main steps, 27
Liquid flow path, 16
Overview, 27
Liquid leaks, 52
Priming, 31
Load/inject valve error, 49
Sample processing, 38
Loading samples, 19, 42
With a syringe, 42
With a vacuum syringe, 43
With an autosampler, 41 P
Panels
Component mounting panel, 11, 23
M Front panel, 9
Rear panel, 13
Main power receptacle, 14
Wellness panel (Chromeleon), 61
Maintenance, 45
Parameters
Daily, 45
Chromeleon commands, 40
Ongoing, 45
Peak ghosting
Weekly, 45
Troubleshooting, 55
Yearly, 45
Peak height, nonreproducible
Manual sample processing, 38 – 39
Troubleshooting, 56
Methods
PEEK cell body, 22
See Instrument methods (Chromeleon)
Index-4 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Index
Physical specifications Pump head waste valve

Decibel level, 85 Leaking, 52
Dimensions, 85 Seal replacement, 80
Weight, 85 Pump motor lost control error, 49
Piston Pump pressure hardware error, 49
Replacing, 79 Pump pressure slope calibration error, 50
Piston seal Pump specifications
Replacing, 73 – 74 Construction, 86
Plot, signal, 39 Delay volume, 86
Power cord, 83 Eluent bottle pressure, 86
Power LED, 10 Eluent generation, 86
Power receptacle, 14 Flow accuracy, 86
Power requirements, 85 Flow precision, 86
Power switch, 14 Flow rate range, 86
Preparing samples, 35 Gradient capabilities, 86
Pressure Operating pressure, 86
Monitoring, 34 Pressure ripple, 86
Pressure limits, 18, 51 Type, 86
Pressure transducer, 12, 18 Vacuum degasser, 86
Calibrating, 62 – 63 Push method (sample loading), 42
Leaking, 52
Primary pump head, 17, 74
Priming, 31, 34
Troubleshooting, 53
R
With a syringe, 33 Raw data
Processing methods (Chromeleon), 40 Saving, 39
Processing samples, 38 Ready LED, 10
Automatically, 38, 40 Rear panel, 13
Manually, 38 – 39 Fuses, 14
Product warranty, voiding, 61 Link LED, 14
Programmed software control, 24 Power receptacle, 14
Pull method (sample loading), 43 Power switch, 14
Pulse damper, 17, 19 Relay connector, 14
Pump, 17 TTL connector, 14
Check valve cleaning, 72 USB receptacle, 13
Check valve replacement, 70 Waste lines, 15
Flow rate range, 12 Regenerant, 11, 29
Piston seal replacement, 73 Acid concentrates, 29
Primary pump head, 17 Concentrate types, 29
Priming, 31, 34 Preparing, 29
Priming problems, 53 Regenerant bottle, 10
Secondary pump head, 18 Anion assembly, 22
Troubleshooting, 53 Cation assembly, 22
Connecting, 30
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 Index-5

Regulatory compliance, 6 Selectivity

Relay control, 93 Troubleshooting, 56
Rear panel connector, 14 Separator column, 12
Relay outputs Sequences (Chromeleon), 40
Direct control, 97 Service chase, 13
Instrument method control, 98 Service procedures, 71
Responding to pump flow, 97 Backup piston seal replacement, 73
Voltage and current specifications, 93 Cell replacement, 81
Remaining eluent below 100 mL error, 50 Check valve cleaning, 72
Remaining eluent below 200 mL error, 50 Check valve replacement, 70
Reordering information, 91 Eluent bottle cleaning, 69
Replacing tubing and fittings, 66 Fuse replacement, 83
Retention time Injection valve rebuilding, 81
Adjusting, 99 Piston replacement, 79
Moving, 99 Piston seal replacement, 73
Troubleshooting, 56 Removal of liquid line restriction, 67
Rheodyne valve, 19 Sample loop replacement, 69
Run LED, 10 Suppressor replacement, 83
Tubing and fitting replacement, 66
Waste valve seal replacement, 80
S Signal plot, 39
Software control, 1
Safety messages, 4 Modes, 24
Sample loading Software specifications, 89
With a syringe, 42 – 43 Spare parts, 91
With an autosampler, 41 Specifications
Sample loop, 19 Autosampler, 89
Changing, 69 Conductivity cell, 88
Injecting, 19 Detector, 88
Loading, 19, 42 – 43 Electrical, 85
Sample processing, 38 Environmental, 85
Automated, 38 Injection valve, 87
Manual, 38 – 39 Physical, 85
Samples Pump, 86
Collecting and storing, 35 Supressors, 87
Diluting, 36 System software, 89
Filtering, 35 Standard bore system
Injecting, 41, 43 – 44 Backpressure coil requirements, 58
Loading, 41 – 43 Standards
Preparing, 35 When to remake, 100
Pretreating, 36 Standby mode, 35
Processing, 38 Canceling, 35
Seal replacement, 74 Configuring, 35
Secondary pump head, 18, 75 Status LEDs, 10
Index-6 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Index
Sulfite in samples, 36 Error messages, 47

Sulfuric acid concentrate, 29 Liquid leaks, 52
Sulfuric acid regenerant, 11 No cell response, 56
Suppressor, 12, 20 No detector response, 56
Leaking, 53 No pump flow, 54
Replacing, 83 Peak ghosting, 55
Supressor specifications Peak height is nonreproducible, 56
Chemical suppression, 87 Pressure is erratic, 54
Displacement chemical regeneration, 87 Pump does not start, 53
Electrolytic suppression, 87 Pump flow is erratic, 54
Sequential suppression for anions, 87 Pump priming issues, 53
Suppression capacity, 87 Retention time is abnormal, 56
Suppressor wear parts, 87 Retention time is nonreproducible, 56
Void volume, 87 Selectivity is abnormal, 56
Syringe injection, 42 System status, 62
Vacuum, 43 TTL and relay connector, 93
System pressure, 18 Connection instructions, 94
Monitoring, 34 Pin assignments, 93
System pressure over high pressure limit, 51 TTL and relay control
System pressure under low pressure limit, 51 Rear panel connector, 14
System shutdown, 100 TTL control, 93
System status, 62 TTL inputs
System Wellness, 25 Default function assignments, 94
TTL outputs
Direct control, 97
T Instrument method control, 98
Tubing chase, 13
TBAOH concentrate, 29 Tubing connections
TBAOH regenerant, 11, 29 Isolating a restriction, 51, 67
Technical Support, 4, 47, 61 Replacing, 66
Temperature Requirements, 66
Compensating, 22
During data collection, 22
Heating the cell, 22
Minimizing the effect of variations, 22 U
Top cover, 9 USB cable, 13, 92
Transducer, 12 Connected incorrectly, 54
Troubleshooting, 56 USB receptacle, 13
Backpressure is excessive, 54
Baseline drift, 57
Baseline noise, 57
Cell output is high, 57
V
Detector output is high, 57 Valve
Diagnostics, 61 See Check valves
Doc. 155028-01 08/20 Index-7

See Injection valve

See Waste valve
W
Waranty, voiding, 61
Waste lines, 15
Blocked, 52
Waste valve, 18
Opening, 18, 73
Seal replacement procedure, 80
Water samples, 36
Wellness panel (Chromeleon), 61 – 62
Audit trail, 63
Diagnostics, 63
Dummy cell test, 63
Flow rate calibration, 62
Opening, 63, 65
Presssure transducer calibration, 62
System status, 62
Index-8 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography System Operator's Manual: Document No. 155028 Revision 01 August 2020

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Dionex Easion Ion Chromatography

System Operator’s Manual

Document No. 155028

Software version: Chromeleon 7.2.10 MUa and later

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 i

2.3 System Component Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

3 • Operation and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

ii Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 iii

4.12 High Detector Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

iv Doc. 155028-01 08/20

C • TTL and Relay Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

C.1 Connecting a TTL or Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

D.1 How do I connect to the Dionex AS-DV? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 v

D.6 How do I shut off the system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

E • Introduction to Ion Chromatography (IC) . . . . .103

vi Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1.1 Overview of the Dionex Easion

NOTE For an introduction to basic ion chromatography

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 1

1.2 User Documentation

1.2.1 About This Manual

Chapter 1 Introduces the Dionex Easion; explains the

2 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Appendix C Describes the Dionex Easion TTL and relay

Appendix D Provides answers to frequently asked questions

Appendix F Provides definitions of terms commonly used in

1.2.2 Related Documentation

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 3

1.3 Safety Information

1.3.1 Safety Messages and Notes

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may

Indicates that the function or process of the instrument may be

4 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

Messages d'avertissement en français

Bedeutet unmittelbare Gefahr. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder

Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zum Tod oder

Bedeutet eine mögliche Gefährdung. Mißachtung kann zu kleineren

Informational messages also appear throughout this manual. These are

NOTE NOTES call attention to certain information. They

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 5

1.3.2 Safety Symbols

Primary protective conductor terminal

Secondary protective conductor terminal

Power supply is off

Indicates a potential hazard. Refer to this manual for an

1.4 Regulatory Compliance

6 Doc. 155028-01 08/20

1.4.1 Notice on Lifting and Handling of Thermo Scientific

1.4.2 Notice on the Proper Use of Thermo Scientific

1.4.3 Notice on the Susceptibility to Electromagnetic

1.4.4 WEEE Compliance

Doc. 155028-01 08/20 7

Ce produit est conforme avec la directive européenne (2012/19/EU) des

Dieses Produkt entspricht der EU Waste Electrical & Electronic