Patent ID: 6753521
Filing Date: 2004-06-22
Classification: H01J

Abstract:
An apparatus for producing ions in an ion production means for transportation to a vacuum region of a mass analyzer for subsequent mass analysis, wherein said apparatus comprises:a base for insertion into an opening in said ionization source, said base having a center opening through its entire length; a retainer for positioning a needle within said base prior to said insertion of said base into said ionization chamber; a first union for connecting said base with said retainer; first capillary section having an inlet end and an outlet end; an entrance cap having an inlet opening leading to said inlet end of said first capillary section; and a second union for removably connecting said first capillary section to a second capillary section, said second capillary section having an inlet end and an outlet end, said second union configured such that said ions introduced through said first capillary section are further introduced into and through said second capillary section into said vacuum region of said mass analyzer; wherein said needle is fixed in position within said base by said retainer such that the tip of said needle is positioned within said inlet opening such that a spray of ions from said needle are introduced through said first capillary section into said second capillary section.