Chapter 4: Using Your Freeze Dryer
Product Service 816-333-8811 or 1-800-522-7658
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11.
Collector Temperature Graph Display – This display indicates the temperature of
the collector. The highest LED indicates the collector temperature is warmer than
10°C. The indicators will sequence down when the temperature reaches 10, 0,
-10, -20, -30, -40°C. When the collector temperature is –40°C or lower the green
indicator will light.
12.
Alarm Indicator – This red LED indicates that a system alarm has occurred. Press
the Menu Switch to display the alarm message on the LCD display.
13.
Main Power Switch – Turns the freeze dryer on or off. (Not shown, located on
the left side of the cabinet).
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 ensure that the hose is free of
moisture and that the drain plug is securely installed. The freeze dryer
will not start if moisture is detected.
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.
Remove the drying chamber or accessory manifold from the connection
port and using a soft, lint-free cloth or paper towel, wipe the port gasket
and sealing surfaces of the drying chamber/manifold to remove any dirt
and contaminants that could cause a vacuum leak. Reinstall the drying
chamber or manifold on the port. Vacuum grease is not required on the
port gasket to obtain a proper vacuum seal.
5.
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. 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.
