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6: Maintaining Your Freeze Dryer
Service Safety Precautions
Always ensure that only authorized technicians service the refrigeration, vacuum
and electrical systems.
If performing any electrical maintenance, always disconnect the power at the
main disconnect.
If the refrigeration system must be operated with access panels removed (for
diagnostic purposes only), stay clear of the moving fan blade.
Always practice team lifting when moving heavy equipment.
After servicing, verify all access panels or covers are in place before resuming
normal operation of the equipment.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
Under normal operation, the freeze dryer requires little maintenance. The following
maintenance schedule is recommended:
As Needed:
The user has the responsibility for carrying out appropriate decontamination if
hazardous material is spilled on or inside equipment. This may be done by wiping the
contaminated surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with alcohol. Alcohol may crazy the
acrylic door. Before using any cleaning or decontamination method except those
recommended by Labconco, users should check with Labconco that the proposed
method will not damage the equipment.
1. Clean up all spills and remove liquids from the chamber.
2. Clean tray dryer door and gasket using a soft cloth, sponge or chamois and a
mild, non-abrasive soap or detergent.
3. If using a rotary vane vacuum pump, check oil level. It should be between MIN
and MAX. If the oil level is less than an inch (25.4 mm) above MIN, add oil to
proper level.
a. If oil shows cloudiness, particles or discoloration, drain the pump and
replace with fresh oil.
4.
Utilization of acids requires immediate cleaning and neutralization after a
run or physical damage to the collector chamber and coil will result.
5. Check the collector chamber for condensed or frozen solvents and dispose of
appropriately. Completely empty the collector chamber before the next run or
attempting to start the vacuum pump.
