SP Scientific VIRTIS ADVANTAGE PRO, Operator'S Manual, Page: 35 / 78

VirTis AdVantage Pro General Maintenance
Rev 002, 01/14 25
© SP Scientific 2014
Optional Secondary Traps
Most water-based products will completely condense or trap on the condenser when
an appropriate cycle has been completed. However, products that contain compounds
with freezing points near or below the operational temperature of the condenser coil
may bypass the condenser and enter the vacuum pump instead. The result can be
severely reduced vacuum performance and/or vacuum failure.
Optional secondary traps are available for applications where acid or solvent vapors
may bypass the condenser and extra protection is required for the vacuum pump. If
your unit was ordered with a cartridge-type trap, the cartridges may need to be
replaced periodically.
There are two (2) types of cartridges, a Sodasorb® cartridge for acid-based
applications and an activated charcoal cartridge for solvent-based applications. The
Sodasorb® cartridge has an indicator that will change to a purple color when
replacement is required. The activated charcoal cartridge contains no indicator, so
replacement at regular intervals is required. Depending on the usage and
concentration, changing the charcoal cartridge every three (3) to six (6) months may
suffice.
Gas Ballast Valve on the Vacuum Pump
The gas ballast valve removes some contaminants from the pump oil. During freeze-
drying, vapors may bypass the condenser and end up in the vacuum pump. If this
occurs, the vapors will degrade the oil, causing excessive wear and higher vacuum
pressure.
When the ballast is open, it allows a controlled amount of air into the second stage
pump cylinder. This reduces
the partial pressure, increases the pump’s operating
temperature and releases the vapors.
Note: Refer to the
operator’s manual for your specific vacuum pump for the location of the gas
ballast valve.
Vacuum Tubing and Gaskets
Inspect tubing and gaskets periodically for signs of wear ( e.g. , cracking or dried
appearance).
Vacuum Tubing
To inspect vacuum tubing:
Remove the cover of the AdVantage Pro to access the vacuum tubing. 1.
Note: For cover removal instructions refer to Appendix B: Cover Removal.
Remove the tubing and inspect it for excessive wear ( e.g., cracking or dried 2.
appearance).
If the tubing requires cleaning, it may be cleaned with a mild alcohol 3.
( e.g., ethanol).
Note: If the tubing needs to be replaced, contact SP Scientific. The required length of
the vacuum tubing is approximately 4 feet (121.9 cm).
Reattach tubing to the unit. 4.
Refit the cover. 5.