Measurement error correction method due to temperature displacement of measurement device and mass spectrometer using the method

摘要

A reference member (5) shaped like a columnar rod and made of a material whose coefficient of thermal expansion is different from that of a flight tube (2) is placed in contact with the tube (2). One end of the tube (2) and one end of the reference member (5) are fixed to each other with a fixture part (6). A distance measurement sensor (7) measures the difference in length between the tube (2) and the reference member (5) whose lengths fluctuate due to a change in temperature. A displacement of the difference in length, as expressed by a proportion, is larger than that of the length of the flight tube (2). The difference in length is far smaller than the length of the flight tube (2). Accordingly, the displacement due to the thermal expansion can be accurately detected even with a strain gauge or similar inexpensive sensor. The m/z values in mass spectrum data are corrected based on the measured values of the displacement, whereby a highly accurate mass discrepancy correction can be achieved.