HTL Potassium Hollow Cathode Lamp

is a single-element spectral source for potassium analysis by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). It provides characteristic emission at 766.5 nm and 404.4 nm in a standard 38 mm (1.50 in.) uncoded 2-pin format.

Applications

Potassium Analysis by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Designed as an element-specific spectral source for quantitative potassium determination using the 766.5 nm and 404.4 nm analytical lines.

Environmental and Water Testing

Suitable for potassium measurement in prepared drinking water, wastewater, soil extracts, and other environmental samples using validated atomic absorption methods.

Food, Agriculture, and Chemical Analysis

Supports potassium determination in prepared food, agricultural, chemical, and process samples for routine laboratory testing and quality control.

Research and Quality Control

Useful for elemental testing, method development, materials characterization, and laboratory procedures requiring quantitative potassium analysis by AAS.

Features

• Single-element hollow cathode design for potassium analysis
• Analytical emission lines at 766.5 nm and 404.4 nm
• Recommended operating current of 10 mA
• Standard 38 mm (1.50 in.) lamp format
• Uncoded 2-pin octal base for compatible AAS instruments
• Typical service life of 5,000 mA·h

Specifications

FAQs

How can I tell when the hollow cathode lamp is nearing the end of its useful life?

Reduced analytical-line intensity, unstable output, increased signal noise, unstable lamp current, or failure to produce a usable spectral line can indicate that the lamp is approaching the end of its service life. Instrument settings, lamp alignment, and operating conditions should also be checked before replacing the lamp.

Why does the lamp require warm-up time before analysis?

Hollow cathode lamp output requires time to stabilize after startup. Allowing the lamp to reach stable operating conditions helps minimize baseline drift and supports consistent analytical measurements.

Why might a new hollow cathode lamp have dark areas inside the glass envelope?

Dark deposits can result from normal lamp manufacturing and conditioning processes. Their presence does not necessarily indicate that the lamp has been previously used or that its analytical performance has been affected.

Can operating conditions affect lamp life?

Yes. Operating the lamp at excessive current accelerates cathode sputtering and can shorten its useful life. For normal operation, use the recommended current and do not exceed the specified maximum current.

Why are both 766.5 nm and 404.4 nm listed for potassium?

The 766.5 nm line provides higher sensitivity for routine potassium measurements, while the less-sensitive 404.4 nm line can be useful for higher potassium concentrations or methods requiring an alternate analytical wavelength.

What safety precautions should be followed when handling the lamp?

Turn the lamp off before installation or removal and allow it to cool before handling. Protect the glass envelope from impact, handle the lamp by its base whenever possible, avoid touching optical surfaces, and operate the lamp only within its specified current limits. Follow all installation and safety procedures provided by the atomic absorption instrument manufacturer.

Warranty

The HTL HCL3-19 Potassium Hollow Cathode Lamp is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. Please inspect all protective equipment before each use. For warranty assistance, replacement parts, product support, or application guidance, contact ScienceLighting technical support. Warranty valid for 12 months.

Ordering

Have additional questions? Contact ScienceLighting at (650) 961-9031 or sales@sciencelighting.com.