In ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis, attention naturally focuses on the plasma, nebuliser, torch and detector. Yet one relatively small component plays a critical role before the sample reaches the plasma: the ICP pump tube.
Peristaltic pump tubing controls the movement of samples, standards, reagents and waste through the sample introduction system. Its condition, dimensions and material can influence sample delivery, flow stability and ultimately the consistency of analytical results. Graham B. Jackson provides reliable ICP pump tubing solutions to support consistent sample introduction.
For laboratories performing routine elemental analysis, choosing the right ICP pump tubes from Graham B. Jackson and replacing them at the appropriate time should therefore be part of a proactive instrument-maintenance strategy.
What Are ICP Pump Tubes?
ICP pump tubes are flexible tubing sections used with the peristaltic pump in ICP-OES and ICP-MS systems. The pump compresses the tubing as it rotates, creating a controlled flow that transports liquid through the sample introduction system.
In ICP-OES, the peristaltic pump can introduce samples and internal standards while removing waste. In ICP-MS, it similarly controls solution flow into and out of the sample introduction system.
A consistent flow is important because changes in sample delivery can affect nebulisation and signal stability.
Why ICP Pump Tubes Matter for Analytical Performance
Pump tubing is a consumable component. Repeated compression causes the material to stretch and wear over time.
As tubing deteriorates, laboratories may encounter:
- Irregular sample uptake
- Reduced or changing flow rates
- Increased signal instability
- Poorer precision
- Pulsation or inconsistent nebulisation
- Leakage or tubing failure
Inorganic Ventures’ ICP sample-introduction guidance identifies peristaltic pump tubing as a potential weak point because stretching can alter the flow conditions delivered to the nebuliser.
Regular inspection and replacement can therefore be a simple but effective way to maintain stable sample introduction.
Choosing the Right ICP Pump Tubing
Not all pump tubes are interchangeable. Selection should consider the instrument, pump configuration, internal diameter, tubing material, sample matrix and intended flow rate.
1. Internal Diameter
The internal diameter affects the volume of liquid transported with each pump revolution. Smaller IDs are useful for lower-flow applications, while larger IDs can accommodate higher flow requirements.
Commercial ICP tubing is available across a broad range of internal diameters. For example, current ICP tubing portfolios include sizes from approximately 0.19 mm to more than 3 mm depending on the application.
2. Material Compatibility
Chemical compatibility is equally important.
PVC is commonly used for aqueous applications, while specialised materials such as SolvaFlex, Viton, Fluran and other elastomers can be selected for more demanding matrices or organic solvents.
The correct material can improve tubing service life and reduce the risk of chemical degradation.
3. 2-Stop vs 3-Stop Tubes
Pump-tube configuration should match the instrument and pump head.
GBJ supplies both 2-stop and 3-stop pump tubes, giving laboratories flexibility when replacing tubing across different ICP configurations.
4. Flared vs Non-Flared
GBJ also provides flared and non-flared options.
A flared end can make it easier to connect tubing with different external diameters, while non-flared designs may be appropriate for standard connections. The correct configuration depends on the sample-introduction setup.
How Often Should ICP Pump Tubes Be Replaced?
There is no universal replacement interval.
Service life depends on factors such as:
- Pump speed
- Compression pressure
- Tubing material
- Sample chemistry
- Acid concentration
- Organic solvent exposure
- Daily instrument usage
For example, Agilent notes that PVC tubing used with 1% nitric acid may have a typical lifetime of around one to two weeks, with shorter lifetimes possible at higher acid concentrations.
Rather than relying solely on a calendar-based replacement schedule, laboratories should monitor flow performance and replace tubes when performance becomes unacceptable.
GBJ ICP Pump Tubes for Australian Laboratories
Graham B Jackson provides ICP pump tubes to complement its range of ICP standards and certified reference materials.
The GBJ range includes:
- 2-stop pump tubes
- 3-stop pump tubes
- Flared options
- Non-flared options
This allows laboratories to select tubing based on their specific ICP sample-introduction requirements.
By combining reliable ICP consumables with appropriate analytical standards and good maintenance practices, laboratories can build a more consistent and controlled elemental-analysis workflow.
Conclusion
Reliable ICP analysis depends on every stage of sample introduction—not just the instrument itself.
The right ICP pump tubes help maintain consistent liquid delivery, while appropriate material selection, correct dimensions and timely replacement can reduce avoidable sources of analytical variation. Graham B. Jackson (GBJ) provides reliable ICP consumables to support consistent sample introduction.
For laboratories running ICP-OES or ICP-MS routinely, treating pump tubing as a critical consumable rather than an afterthought can contribute to more stable sample introduction and more dependable analytical performance.
FAQs
- What are ICP pump tubes used for?
ICP pump tubes are used with the peristaltic pump to transport samples, standards, reagents and waste through ICP-OES or ICP-MS sample-introduction systems. - How often should ICP pump tubes be replaced?
Replacement frequency depends on tubing material, pump speed, sample chemistry and instrument usage. Laboratories should monitor flow performance and replace tubing when deterioration begins to affect performance. - What is the difference between 2-stop and 3-stop ICP pump tubes?
The difference relates to the number of stops or tabs used to position the tubing in the peristaltic pump head. The appropriate configuration depends on the pump and instrument. - Why does ICP pump tube material matter?
Different materials have different chemical-resistance and durability characteristics. PVC, SolvaFlex, Viton and other materials may be suitable for different sample matrices and solvents. - What are flared ICP pump tubes?
Flared pump tubes have an enlarged or shaped end that can simplify connections with sample tubing of different diameters. The correct design depends on the instrument’s sample-introduction configuration.
For Further Enquiry Contact: sales@gbjpl.com.au