Helix CT ICP Spray Chamber

Traditionally, ICP-OES and ICP-MS sample introduction systems have relied on o-rings to form a gas-tight seal between the nebulizer and spray chamber. There are several drawbacks with an o-ring seal, such as:

Glass Expansion is now pleased to introduce the new Helix CT spray chamber with ConstantTorque technology, which provides a constant, reproducible, inert, gas-tight seal between the nebulizer and spray chamber.

The main feature of the Helix CT spray chamber is a new Helix locking screw with a built-in torque control mechanism that allows for a consistent seal of the PTFE ferrule against the nebulizer, making it impossible to overtighten or under tighten while ensuring a gas-tight seal every time. A new PressFit PTFE ferrule provides a chemically inert seal around the nebulizer, which is immune to strong acids and organic solvents routinely used in ICP sample preparation. The new Helix CT cyclonic spray chamber by Glass Expansion, therefore, eliminates all the drawbacks of the o-ring nebulizer seal, while improving user safety by preventing broken nebulizers.

The new Helix CT nebulizer interface is also simple to use:

Glass Expansion will equip all of its glass, PFA, and PTFE spray chambers with the Helix CT interface as standard. To be the first to request a Helix CT spray chamber for your ICP, please contact Glass Expansion and we will provide you with a quote.

Part Number Description
70-803-1439 Helix CT Locking Screw with Seal
70-803-1456 Helix CT Seal (Pkt. 4)


Benefits of the New Helix CT Design Include:

ConstantTorque Locking Screw

A new Helix locking screw with CT technology allows for a consistent inert PTFE seal against the nebulizer - making it impossible to overtighten while ensuring a gas-tight seal every time. Torque control also improves user safety, preventing broken glassware.

PTFE PressFit Seal

A new PressFit Helix PTFE seal provides a chemically inert seal around the nebulizer. The PTFE ferrule is immune to strong acids and organic solvents routinely used in ICP sample preparation. It therefore, eliminates all the drawbacks of the O-ring nebulizer seal, including broken nebulizers.

Prevents nebulizer bonding and breaking

Zero Dead Volume Interface

Compared to other types of nebulizer-spray chamber interfaces, the Helix CT is the only interface that significantly reduces dead volume around the nebulizer. This unique design minimizes washout time with highly concentrated samples, reduces the sample to sample carry-over, and improves sample throughput.

Washout comparison of 10ppm Mo

Optimum Depth and Torque

The new Helix CT interface still maintains the original positive stop to ensure that the nebulizer is inserted to the correct and optimum depth within the spray chamber. However, the torque applied to the nebulizer seal is also critical. Consistent nebulizer depth combined with ConstantTorque control provides the ICP analyst with unparalleled, reproducible day-to-day analytical performance.

Sensitivity Vs. Torque



Download the Helix CT ICP Spray Chamber Flyer


Download the Helix CT ICP Spray Chamber Application Note