No difference in the function performed by any sample or skimmer cones. The opening of the skimmer cone is substantially smaller and sharper than the sampler cone. Most skimmer cones are composed of nickel. Platinum and other corrosion-resistant metals can be used instead.

Interfacing cones are important to the ICP-MS system’s sensitivity and stability. You may safeguard your investment by selecting the appropriate authentic Agilent cone. Both single and triple quadrupole ICP-MS systems need high performance, and skimmer cones are a key component in delivering them.

The function of Skimmer Cone in ICP-MS

Regarding ICP MS Cones issues, valve clogging and corrosion are the most typical culprits. Disruption to the tip impacts the orifice’s diameter and the cone’s ability to operate. Cones in poor condition can contribute to increased background noise, memory effects, loss of sensitivity, and poor accuracy when operating your ICP-MS.

The ions exit the plasma and enter the sampler cone, the first cone. It is followed by a brief trip to the skimmer cone, which usually includes an insert combination with an aperture that is significantly smaller to assist the laboratory in choosing the cone choice that is most suited for their application.

ICP-MS Skimmer Cones

The interface zone between the atmospheric Argon plasma and the high vacuum quadrupole MS includes ICP-MS skimmer cones. The tip design of Agilent skimmer cones with nickel or platinum tips is specifically tailored to the model and configuration of your Agilent ICP-MS.

Controlling the Agilent skimmer cone’s operating temperature is critical to achieving the highest analytical performance and signal stability. 

Nickel Skimmer Cones 

Generally speaking, nickel is a long-lasting, robust material for most sample types, whereas platinum is the preferred choice for more corrosive samples. In terms of orifice diameter, the ELAN sampler cone has a 1.1 mm aperture, while the skimmer cone has an even smaller 0.9 mm hole. 

For extended runs of samples with high dissolved solids, they’ve been developed to optimize signal stability and decrease clogging. A threadless pop-in design quickly removes the sampler cone, which is continuously exposed to plasma and the sample.

Platinum Skimmer Cones

Large-orifice sampler and skimmer cones don’t get clogged and stay stable over time. They use them for analysis in high and low sample uptake situations.

Nickel is a strong material for most types of samples, while platinum seems to be ideal for corrosive samples. ELAN’s 1.1 mm sampler cone and 0.9 mm skimmer cone are the largest in the market. They are made to improve signal stability and reduce clogging during long runs of samples with a lot of dissolved solids.

Skimmer Bases for ICP-MS

Brass or stainless steel skimmer cone bases are offered for Agilent ICP-MS systems. The skimmer base regulates the skimmer cone tip’s working temperature. A nickel (Ni) skimmer cone’s stainless steel base is a common sight. Using the platinum skimmer cone with the brass skimmer base is only recommended.

If the skimmer cone runs too chilly, extra matrix deposition at the tip can cause drift and damage, which is why the skimmer base is so important. To the skimmer’s base are screwed lenses for ion extraction. It is necessary to use a suitable type of lens and ICP-MS model.

• The skimmer base regulates the skimmer cone tip’s working temperature.
• A nickel (Ni) skimmer cone’s stainless steel base is a common sight. Using the platinum skimmer cone with the brass skimmer base is only recommended.
• If the skimmer cone runs too chilly, extra matrix deposition at the tip can cause drift and damage, which is why the skimmer base is so important.
• Confirm that the sample and skimmer cones are securely attached to the skimmer’s bottom. It is possible that insufficient cooling will occur if the interface cones are not properly mounted on the base.