What Curtain Gas Settings Should Be Used on SCIEX 3200, 4000 and 5000 Series Systems?

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

Answer

The curtain gas (CUR) is an important parameter that protects SCIEX mass spectrometers from contamination. 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 explains the CUR value used for SCIEX 3200, 4000 and 5000 series systems.

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

The table below provides a proper starting point to set up the curtain gas. Ideally, 5 psi or more above the table values assures protection of instrument ion optics from matrix contamination. Alternatively, if a significant increase in signal is gained, reducing the curtain gas by 5 psi from the table values is allowed.

For example, at an LC flow of 0.500 mL/min, CUR should ideally be set at 30 psi or more (for maximum robustness and minimum contamination). However, if reducing CUR (down to 20 psi) results in a higher analyte signal, then a lower value of CUR is acceptable if the samples are relatively clean.

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



More information on ion source parameters can be found in this link:
https://sciex.com/support/knowledge-base-articles/ion-source-parameters-gs1-gs2-cur-temperature_en_us