Transport

Stationary spectrometers now weight about 80kg and floor module weight about 120kg, so that they can be transported on the level using a lifting-truck. The commissioning technician from the spectrometer manufacture should be present .It must be possible for the equipment to pass through all narrow spaces, as well as up or down steps etc. to reach the installation site.

Spectrometers are often relatively tall, for operating reasons, so that their center of gravity is often above the geometric center. Aa a result. Spectrometers are “top-heavy” and tend to tilt, which must be borne in mind during transport by fork lift truck/ When carried by ordinary truck, aircraft or ship, anchorages should be arranged to prevent the spectrometer from falling over.

Installation and commissioning

When the spectrometer has reached the installation site, the package is removed. Damage during transport should be documented and photographed. If the damage raises any question about commissioning, the spectrometer manufacture and transport insurance agency should advised immediately. When unpacked., the consignment must be inspected to ascertain whether it is complete with respect to peripherals, connecting cable, samples, spares etc. preferably on the basis of a packing list enclosed by the spectrometer manufacturers. The packing list should be compared with what is covered by the order.

Today, only a few manipulations and connections for the electricity supply, gas is necessary for spectrometer commissioning. For this reason I prefer to call this process “commissioning” and not “installation”. If in spite of this, installation is involved, pre-delivery planning has not been thorough.

The spectrometer can be brought into operation within a few h after it has been switched-on. If calibration has been carried out at the manufacture ‘plant, it can carry out its work, namely analyses, directly. Operator training takes up a longer part of the commissioning process.