Diagnosis · Repair · Recommissioning
We offer repair and restoration services for older PerkinElmer thermal analysis instruments that are no longer supported by the manufacturer. Our focus is on older PerkinElmer calorimeters for which no manufacturer service or spare parts supply is available.
Drawing on many years of experience with these instrument generations, we can carry out fault diagnosis, repair and recommissioning — extending the service life of proven instruments.
In particular older PerkinElmer DSC calorimeters as well as associated TGA and TMA systems that are no longer supported by the manufacturer.
From years of hands-on experience with these instrument generations we know the most common failures in older PerkinElmer thermal analysis instruments. The table below provides an overview of typical symptoms, likely causes and the corresponding repair approach:
| Area | Symptom / Fault | Typical Cause | Repair Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Instrument does not start, no response on power-on | Faulty power supply or main board (fuses, electrolytic capacitors, voltage regulators) | Component-level repair (fuses, electrolytic capacitors, voltage regulators); board replacement if component repair is not feasible |
| Electronics | Noisy signal, unstable baseline, drift | Defective amplifier board, aged op-amps or resistors | Component-level repair (op-amp replacement, resistor replacement); board replacement if required |
| Sensors | Temperature reading incorrect, large deviation from calibration value | Damaged or contaminated Pt resistance sensor (RTD), contact failure at sensor connections | Sensor replacement using tested spare from stock |
| Measuring Head | DSC measuring head provides no usable signal | Damaged or corroded DSC sensor assembly (sample/reference side) | Replacement of measuring head with refurbished exchange unit |
| Measuring Head | Unstable temperature control, overshoot | Incorrect PID parameters, degraded analogue control circuitry (capacitors, op-amps in control loop) or defective heating element | Inspection of heating element; replacement of controller/heater board |
| Mechanics | TGA balance arm sticks, does not zero correctly | Contaminated or damaged balance mechanism (suspension, compensation coil), deposits in the balance chamber or damaged sample suspension wire | Cleaning, readjustment or replacement of balance mechanism |
Since original spare parts for older PerkinElmer instruments are no longer supplied by the manufacturer, we rely on refurbished and tested used parts (Refurbished Parts). This approach enables repairs at a fraction of the cost of a new instrument and considerably extends the service life of proven instruments.
ifa GmbH maintains a stock of spare parts for older PerkinElmer thermal analysis instruments. The inventory includes both new old-stock parts and refurbished, tested used components:
Stock is limited and varies by availability. Please get in touch — we will be happy to check whether the required spare part is in stock.
Please describe the fault in as much detail as possible — symptoms, when the problem occurs, affected function, instrument type and serial number. Via our contact form or by e-mail.
Based on your description, we assess whether a repair is technically feasible and economically viable, and inform you of the result.
You receive an initial cost estimate. If you wish to proceed, please ship the instrument in suitable packaging. Shipment is at the sender's cost and risk.
Upon receipt of the instrument, we carry out a detailed fault analysis. You receive a binding repair quote including labour and parts costs — repair only proceeds after your approval. If repair is technically not possible or economically not viable, you will receive a written diagnostic report; actual costs for diagnosis and return shipment will be charged.
Typical turnaround after quote approval: approx. 2 weeks, or as individually agreed. Full functional testing and calibration using certified reference standards are carried out upon completion. A calibration report can be provided on request.
The repaired instrument is returned to you. All repair work carries a 12-month warranty.
The repair price consists of two components: