What Curtain Gas (CUR) Settings Should Be Used on SCIEX 3500, 4500 and 5500 Systems?

For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Answer

The curtain gas (CUR) is an important parameter that protects the mass spectrometer from contamination. However, the proper amount of curtain gas depends on the LC flow introduced into ion source and the model of SCIEX mass spectrometer used. This article provides the CUR settings for the SCIEX 3500, 4500 and 5500 (5500+) series systems.

CUR values range is from 10-50 psi. In general, the higher value of CUR gas (up to 45 psi) is preferred; however, if the CUR is too high, it might suppress ion transfer and reduce signal.

The table below provides a proper starting point to set up CUR based on the flow rate of the LC method. Ideally, 5 psi or more above the values in table would assure protection of instrument ion optics from matrix contamination. Alternatively, if user gains a significant increase in signal, reducing the CUR by 5 psi the listed value is allowed.

For example, at an LC flow of 0.500 mL/min, CUR should ideally be set at 35 psi or more (for maximum robustness and minimum contamination). However, if reducing CUR (down to 25 psi) results in a higher sensitivity, such a low value of CUR is acceptable as long as the samples are relatively clean.

Users are encouraged to consult SCIEX Tech Support before finalizing the method.



For more information on setting the ion source parameters, see this link:
https://sciex.com/support/knowledge-base-articles/ion-source-parameters-gs1-gs2-cur-temperature_en_us