The Problem
A SCIEX 5500 LC-MS system paired with an Agilent HPLC stack was not delivering proper sensitivity. Because LC-MS performance depends on both the mass spectrometer and the front-end liquid chromatography system, the service work needed to address the complete workflow rather than treating the MS in isolation.
MS Diagnostics and Cleaning
Inspection showed contamination in the front end of the mass spectrometer, including areas related to the ion source and ion transfer path. These areas can directly affect response, stability, and tuning behavior.
ScientifiCo cleaned the affected MS components and restored proper response. During follow-up service, a stuck ion spray capillary was also corrected, and additional front-end cleaning was performed to support stable ionization.
HPLC System Recovery
The connected Agilent HPLC stack also required service. Routine wear components were replaced during preventive maintenance, and system testing was performed to verify basic function. An autosampler initialization failure was resolved by replacing the transport unit.
The degasser was also repaired after a fault was traced to the air pump and missing vacuum-line components. After repair, degasser operation was confirmed so the LC side could support stable MS analysis.
Tuning and Verification
After the MS cleaning and HPLC repairs, the system was tuned and checked for stable operation. The tuning parameters met the required operating expectations, confirming that both the MS front end and LC support modules were functioning properly.
Result
The SCIEX 5500 LC-MS and Agilent HPLC system were returned to stable working condition. The repair addressed sensitivity loss, source contamination, capillary restriction, autosampler initialization, and degasser function in one coordinated service workflow.
