22
Product Service: Domestic 1-800-522-7658, International 816-333-8811
Chapter 4: Using Your Freeze Dryer
Operation Checklist
The following checklist should be followed prior
to each use of your Freeze Dryer:
1. Wipe the interior of the collector chamber with
a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any
accumulated moisture.
2. Check the collector chamber drain hose to
insure that the hose is free of moisture and that
the drain plug is securely installed.
3. Using a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel,
wipe the collector chamber lid gasket to
remove any dirt and contaminants that could
cause a vacuum leak. Vacuum grease is not
required on the lid gasket to obtain a proper
vacuum seal.
4. Inspect each sample valve and check for any
visible damage and for improper installation
that might cause a vacuum leak. Also check
that each sample valve is closed or in the
“vent” position.
Vacuum Pump Ballast
Setting
Most vacuum pumps are equipped with a gas
ballast mechanism. The freeze dry process
requires high vacuum (<133 x 10
-3
mBar or <100
microns). Therefore, it is recommended that the
gas ballast be closed during the operation of the
Freeze Dry System. If the gas ballast is left open
for extended periods of operation, the oil can be
pumped out the exhaust, causing the pump to fail.