Labconco FreeZone 1 Liter Benchtop Freeze Dry Systems 7740071 - Manual (Page 26)

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Chapter 4: Using Your Freeze Dryer
Product Service: Domestic 1-800-522-7658, International 816-333-8811
3. Before adding another sample, allow system vacuum to return
to 0.133 mBar or lower. Any combination of valves and
sample sizes may be utilized at one time provided that the
system vacuum and collector temperature remain sufficiently
low to prevent melting of the frozen sample.
4. When all the frost has disappeared from the outer surface of the
sample container and no cold spots can be detected by handling
the container, the sample is nearly dry. To be certain of low
final moisture content, dry the sample for several hours past
this point.
5. To remove a container after drying is complete, turn the plastic
knob on the valve to the “VENT” position, which closes the
valve and vents the container. Should backfilling with an inert
gas be required, connect the gas supply line to the vent port on
the valve before turning the plastic knob on the valve to vent
position. The sample container may now be removed. In the
vent position the bevel on the knob should point away from the
sample port.
6. Ampules may be flame sealed while connected to a valve by
using a sealing torch. Care must be taken not to burn the valve.
An insulation material placed between the valve and the torch
is recommended.
Shut Down
At the end of a run or when a sufficient amount of condensate
accumulates on the collector coil to obstruct the flow of vapor to
the collector chamber, the Freeze Dryer should be defrosted. First,
release system vacuum by turning the plastic knob on a valve to
the open position or by pulling the collector chamber drain plug
out of the drain hose. Now press the Vacuum Switch on the
control panel to turn the vacuum pump OFF. Turn OFF the Main
Power Switch on the right hand side of the cabinet.
Defrosting
The following procedure should be followed when defrosting the
collector coil:
1. Pull the collector chamber drain hose out from the left hand
side of the Freeze Dryer and remove the drain plug. Place the
drain hose in a suitable container to collect the condensate that
will melt off the collector coil.
2. Remove the collector chamber lid and allow ambient room air
to melt the ice. Dispose of the liquid appropriately.
3. Flush the collector chamber with water and wipe chamber dry.