Chapter 4: Operating Instructions
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Monitoring the System Operation
Press the DISPLAY button to obtain the Monitor Screen. The display will
show the collector temperature, shelf temperature, system vacuum and
sample temperatures. If the sample probe is not connected, the sample
temperature display will show “- - -”. The temperatures and vacuum are
displayed in the units selected in Set Up. Above 5.0 mBar the display will
show “hi” vacuum.
The ice collecting coil temperature and the vacuum level should be
monitored. Higher than desired collector coil temperature or vacuum levels
will inhibit or ruin the freeze dry process.
Sample Freezing
Before the freeze dry process can occur, the products to be dried must be in a
frozen state. This can be accomplished in a freezer separate from the freeze
dry system or on the shelf in the Triad Freeze Dry System. If the samples
will be pre-frozen on the shelf inside the Triad, turn ON the Power Switch
and set the controls to cool the shelf. This is done by setting the temperature
to “pre-freeze” in the manual mode or the pre-freeze segment in the
automatic mode can be programmed to cool the shelves and start the vacuum
after the end of the pre-freeze segment. If desired, place the temperature
probe in a sample vial. Monitor the shelf and sample temperatures by
pressing the DISPLAY button until the monitor indicator lights.
Shelf Loading
The stoppering mechanism is capable of generating a very strong force,
which can damage the shelf or mechanism. Therefore, it is important to
distribute the serum bottles to be stoppered evenly across the entire surface of
the shelf. When stoppering vials, always place a vial on each corner of the
shelf.
Freeze Drying Inside the Chamber
The following procedure should be followed when freeze drying using the
temperature controlled shelf inside the vacuum chamber.
Manual Mode with Pre-Frozen Samples
1.
With the display set to manual, select the desired “set point
temperature” between –55°C and 50°C.
2.
Select MAN mode.
3.
Start the refrigeration system by pressing “RUN/STOP.” Close the
door; turn on the vacuum.
4.
When the collector temperature reaches –80°C and the shelf
temperature reaches the desired set point. Turn off the vacuum pump
and release the vacuum. Place the frozen samples on the shelf. Close
the door and turn the vacuum on.