Mass spectrometry

Orbitrap is a high-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) analyzer technology. Systems such as Q-Exactive combine a quadrupole mass filter (for ion selection) with an Orbitrap detector. While all Orbitrap systems focus on ultra-high resolution, the Q-Exactive series additionally provides MS/MS selectivity and is ideal for both targeted and untargeted screening analyses.

For optimal performance and to maintain mass accuracy within specifications (e.g. <3 ppm), external calibration is recommended every 24 to 48 hours using standard calibration solutions (e.g. Pierce Calibration Solutions). When internal calibration (lock mass) is used, long-term stability can be extended.

H-ESI (Heated Electrospray Ionization) is an enhanced version of electrospray ionization that uses additional gas heating to improve desolvation. This enables more efficient ionization at higher mobile-phase flow rates (typical for UHPLC), reduces source contamination, and increases sensitivity across a wide range of compounds.

Yes. Thermo Scientific offers dedicated GC-MS systems such as the ISQ 7610 (single quadrupole) and TSQ 9610 (triple quadrupole), as well as the Orbitrap Exploris GC for high-resolution gas-phase analysis. Systems can be configured for rapid source exchange without breaking vacuum using Vacuum Interlock technology.

The primary acquisition software is Xcalibur. For specific applications, dedicated software packages are available, such as Compound Discoverer (small molecules/metabolomics), Proteome Discoverer (proteomics), or TraceFinder (routine quantification). Software licenses are typically defined during the initial quotation, with options for later upgrades. Today, it is also possible to integrate the entire software workflow into a single platform using Chromeleon CDS.

Preventive maintenance is typically performed once per year and includes cleaning of the ion source and ion optics, replacement of oil in rotary pumps, inspection of the vacuum system, calibration of electronics, and performance testing using standards. Regular maintenance significantly reduces the risk of unplanned downtime.

High sensitivity in TSQ Altis or Quantis systems is achieved through Active Beam Guide technology, which reduces noise from neutral particles, and segmented quadrupoles that enable faster ion transmission and shorter dwell times without signal loss. Additional contributions come from advanced electron multipliers, while the latest mass spectrometers also incorporate ion-vector technology to further enhance sensitivity.

No. MS/MS (fragmentation) is available on triple quadrupoles (TSQ), ion traps, and hybrid systems such as the Orbitrap Exploris or Tribrid series. Single quadrupole instruments (e.g. ISQ or MSQ Plus) provide only molecular mass information (full scan) and are not intended for structural characterization via fragmentation.

Mass spectrometers require high-purity gases, most commonly nitrogen for desolvation and argon as a collision gas. Stable electrical power is essential (a UPS is mandatory), as well as adequate room air conditioning, since temperature fluctuations can affect mass stability.

As an authorized distributor, we offer the complete range of original Thermo Scientific spare parts. Consumables such as ESI needles, pump filters, and dedicated LC columns (e.g. Vanquish or PepMap for proteomics) should always be selected using the original catalog numbers to ensure warranty validity.