Chapter 3: Getting Started
Product Service 816-333-8811 or 1-800-522-7658
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C – Moderate degradation; Limited use
D – Severe degradation; infrequent use recommended; immediate thorough
cleaning required.
•
Most common compounds used in freeze drying processes, if allowed to
enter the vacuum pump, will degrade the oil and cause damage to the
vacuum pump.
•
Sugars and proteins typically will have minimal negative effect on any of
the materials of construction.
When using compounds in the freeze dryer that are hostile to the materials of
construction, it is imperative the equipment is thoroughly cleaned after use.
•
Rubber and plastic components that have been exposed to damaging
compounds should be removed and flushed with water.
•
The oil in the vacuum pump should be checked often. It must be changed
if it is cloudy, shows particles or is discolored. The useful life of vacuum
pump oil can be extended if the vacuum pump is operated for an extended
period of time after a freeze dry run. This allows contaminants to be
purged from the hot oil. This must be done with the inlet to the pump
blocked off to prevent air from free flowing through the pump. If the
pump is operated at an elevated vacuum level (> 10mBar), oil may be
expelled from the pump and damage could occur.
Another way to extend the life of the vacuum pump is to install an optional
secondary trap in the line between the freeze dryer and the vacuum pump.
Contact Labconco for ordering information.
With prudent maintenance the FreeZone Freeze Dry System will provide
years of service. Warranty on the affected parts will be voided if
maintenance has been obviously neglected. If you have questions about
using specific compounds in the freeze dryer, contact Labconco Technical
Service at 1-800-821-5525 or 816-333-8811 or e-mail:
.
Solvent Safety Precautions
Solvents used in the freeze dryer may be flammable or hazardous to
your health. Use extreme caution and keep sources of ignition away
from the solvents. When using flammable or hazardous solvents, the
vacuum pump must be vented to or operated inside a fume hood.
