Solvent safety precautions – Labconco FreeZone Bulk Tray Dryer 78060 Series User Manual
Page 14
Chapter 3: Getting Started
Product Service 1-800-522-7658
10
• Most common compounds used in freeze drying processes, if allowed to enter
the vacuum pump, will degrade the oil and cause damage to the vacuum
pump.
• Sugars and proteins typically will have minimal negative effect on any of the
materials of construction.
When using compounds in the Freeze Dryer that are hostile to the materials of
construction, it is imperative the equipment is thoroughly cleaned after use.
• Rubber and plastic components that have been exposed to damaging
compounds should be removed and flushed with water.
• The oil in the vacuum pump should be checked often. It must be changed if it
is cloudy, shows particles or is discolored. The useful life of vacuum pump
oil can be extended if the vacuum pump is operated for an extended period of
time after a freeze dry run. This allows contaminants to be purged from the
hot oil. This must be done with the inlet to the pump blocked off to prevent
air from free flowing through the pump. This is accomplished by closing all
sample valves on a clean, dry freeze dry system and turning on the vacuum
pump. If the pump is operated at an elevated vacuum level (> 10mBar), oil
may be expelled from the pump and damage could occur.
Another way to extend the life of the vacuum pump is to install an optional
secondary trap in the line between the Freeze Dry System and the vacuum pump.
Contact Labconco for ordering information.
With prudent maintenance the FreeZone Freeze Dry System will provide years of
service. Warranty on the affected parts will be voided if maintenance has been
obviously neglected. If you have questions about using specific compounds in the
Freeze Dry System, contact Labconco Technical Service at 1-800-821-5525 or
816-333-8811 or e-mail:
.
Solvent Safety Precautions
Solvents used in the Bulk Tray Dryer may be flammable or hazardous to
your health. Use extreme caution and keep sources of ignition away from the
solvents. When using flammable or hazardous solvents, the vacuum pump
must be vented to a fume hood.
Hazardous materials such as strong acids or bases, radioactive substances
and volatile organics must be handled carefully and promptly cleaned up if
spilled. If a sample is spilled in the collector chamber it must immediately be
cleaned up.
WARNING: The disposal of substances used in connection with this
equipment may be governed by various Federal, State or local regulations.
All users of this equipment are urged to become familiar with any
regulations that apply in the user’s area concerning the dumping of waste
materials in or upon water, land or air and to comply with such regulations.