Labconco FreeZone and FreeZone Plus 6, 12 and 18 Liter Freeze Dry Systems 79600 Series - Manual (Page 34)

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Chapter 4: Using Your Freeze Dryer
Product Service: Domestic 1-800-522-7658, International 816-333- 8811
5. 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. Press the Refrigeration Switch next
to the illuminated LED to turn OFF the refrigeration system. Turn
OFF the Main Power Switch on the left hand side of the cabinet.
After a run is complete, it may be desirable to purge contaminants
from the vacuum pump oil. This can be accomplished by first
closing the purge valve by pressing the purge switch. The LED will
illuminate. Then turn on the vacuum pump by pressing the vacuum
switch, let the pump operate for an extended period of time.
Defrosting
The following procedure should be followed when defrosting the
collector coil:
1. Pull the collector chamber drain hose out from the front
panel of the unit and remove the drain plug. Place the drain
hose in a suitable container to collect the condensate that
will be defrosted off the collector coil.
2. Press the DEFROST switch on the control panel. The
green LED above that switch will illuminate. Allow unit to
operate in this condition until all condensate is defrosted
from the collector coil. Dispose of the liquid appropriately.
3. Lift out the ice plug after it has melted sufficiently to be
removed without force.
4. Flush the collector chamber with water and wipe chamber
dry.
5. If rapid defrost is desired, pour warm water into the
collector chamber covering no more than the bottom 2
coils. If excess water is added it can enter the vacuum
port and drain into the vacuum pump.