Bio-Rad Model 583 Gel Drying Supports - Manual (Page 17)

14
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Table 6 (continued)
Troubleshooting Guide
Indication Problem
Vacuum seal is lost Vacuum leak in gel dryer.
during operation.
Sealing Gasket is dirty
or damaged.
Gel Support is damaged.
The vacuum line leaks.
The vacuum pump is
not pulling an
adequate vacuum.
Gels crack or are Vacuum has been
still wet. released before the gel is
dry, or the vacuum
fluctuated during the
drying cycle.
The gel dryer lid is
frequently opened and
closed during the
drying cycle.
The dryer temperature is
set too high or changes
too quickly. This is
especially a problem for
the more sensitive
gradient and >15%T gels
or the thicker 3.0 mm gels.
The glycerol concentration
is too low for gradient gels.
Action
Ensure the filter paper, gel, and gel cover do not
overlap the edges of the Gel Support.
Check the transparent Sealing Gasket for dirt, folds,
or cracked areas. Replace if necessary.
Check the edges of the Gel Support for physical flaws
or indentations. The edges must be kept smooth to
maintain a good vacuum.
Check all tubing and connections between the dryer
and the vacuum source for a vacuum leak.
Check the performance of the vacuum pump.
Check the performance of the vacuum pump.
Temperature fluctuations stress the gel and can result
in cracking. Open the dryer lid only when necessary.
Reduce the temperature and dry the gels for a longer
period of time. Also try using the gradient drying
cycle.
Increase the glycerol concentration in pre-drying
treatment to 5% (w/v).