Product Service 1-800-522-7658
49
Original instructions
C
HAPTER
7
T
ROUBLESHOOTING
Refer to the following if your Freeze Dryer fails to operate properly. If the
suggested corrective actions do not solve your problem, contact Labconco for
additional assistance.
Labconco Freeze Dry Systems that are clean, dry and without samples attached
should reach a vacuum of 0.133 mbar within 10 minutes and should achieve an
ultimate vacuum of 0.040 mbar within 18 hours when the refrigeration is
operating. If the Freeze Dryer does not obtain a satisfactory vacuum, perform the
following maintenance tests.
I. Vacuum Pump
First make sure that the vacuum pump operates. If it fails to operate, check the
electrical connections of the Freeze Dryer to the power source and then check the
electrical connection of the vacuum pump to the Freeze Dryer. If the vacuum
pump has a power switch, make sure that it is turned on.
Note: If the vacuum
pump is plugged directly into a wall outlet for troubleshooting purposes, the
vacuum START button must be initiated on the display screen
.
If the vacuum
START button is not initiated the vacuum vent valve will remain open and
the vacuum reading will remain on HIGH.
If the vacuum is not adequate when
the vacuum pump is operating, proceed with the following steps:
1.
Check the oil and ensure it is clear and clean. If the oil looks cloudy or has
any particulates, replace the pump oil. Sometimes it may be necessary to
flush the pump with clean oil several times. To flush the pump, run the
pump 5 to 10 minutes to allow the oil to warm up. Drain the oil and refill
with clean oil. Repeat as necessary.
2.
Check the oil level in the pump. Ensure it is filled to the correct level.
3.
Check vacuum hose connections from the pump to the Freeze Dryer and try
running the unit.
If vacuum problems continue, consider obtaining a second vacuum gauge capable
of reading a vacuum of 0.010 mbar. It is often useful in determining if the vacuum
pump is operating properly and the vacuum sensor reading is accurate.
