Back in 2000, I had an implement from Costech that was purchased with 
a CE NCS2500. It was basically a metal pipe, a bit longer than the 
length of the head space in the combustion column having a cup at the 
end with a jagged edge. Just by inserting it into the column and 
twisting, you could easily pack the ash into the cup and remove it. 
It was borrowed by another lab and never came back again. I have used 
the vacuum removal method since but it does not work nearly as well.

I have searched for the device in product lines over the years and 
have not seen one.

Lisa Thurn
San Diego State University

At 11:03 AM 2/26/2009, you wrote:
>Listmembers,
>
>I've been having trouble with ash tubes from our EA breaking lately.
>
>We use Elemental Microanalysis C1090, which is open both ends and 
>has slits on the bottom half. I have a small bit of quartz wool at 
>the bottom of the tube, and at the top of the reactor. Typically, 
>the tube is stuck when I try to remove it, and breaks near the top 
>of the ash level when I force it. This occurs regardless of whether 
>I am at full temperature or standby temperature, and I have had the 
>same trouble with tubes that are closed at the bottom.
>
>My best guess is that the slag is seeping through the slits and 
>fusing to the reactor tube. Does anyone have any applicable wisdom?
>
>I'm considering the vacuum removal method at this point....
>
>Paul Eby
>University of Victoria