Finish Thompson LS-55IIE - Manual (Page 21)

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Service and Troubleshooting
In the event the Little Still does not appear to operate correctly, use the following tips to diagnose common
problems. If these suggestions do not pinpoint the cause of your problem, contact FTI’s toll-free “Tech Service
Hotline” between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
Tech Service Hotline - 800-888-3743
WARNING:
Never electrically trouble shoot or operate this equipment in the hazardous area when electrical
components are exposed (e.g., the explosion-proof control box is opened). Doing so can provide an ignition
source for hazardous vapors, resulting in serious injury or death. Any electrical tests should be performed
by a qualified electrician.
CAUTION:
Always wear eye protection, protective clothing, gloves and an approved respirator when working on or
with this unit. Never work on or with this equipment while it is hot. Never open a hot Still. Allow a
minimum of two hours or more cool-down time.
LS SERIES STILLS: BASIC TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
PROBLEM: Still appears to be operating, but nothing is processing.
POSSIBLE CAUSES:
 Turn up the cycle temperature to a higher temperature.
 Solvent’s boiling point is too high. Use a JetVac attachment for solvents with boiling points between 300°F and
500°F.
 Cooling water left in quick-cool coil. Verify that the water supply to the quick-cool coil is off, and all water has
been evacuated from the coil.
 Residue build-up. Clean any accumulation of residues from the bottom of the boiling chamber. A build-up of
material will act as an insulator and make it difficult to transfer heat into the solvent.
 Too high of solids in waste solvent. Process the solvent when it is less contaminated. Solids level should not
exceed 20% for best results.
PROBLEM: Odor of solvent vapors around the LS units.
POSSIBLE CAUSES:
 Normal occurrence. During the process, very small amounts of vapors can escape from the lid and from the
receiving drum. Proper ventilation in the area should evacuate these vapors.
 Lid ajar. Verify that the gasket for the lid of the Still and/or JetVac pump reservoir is not damaged and the lid is
properly seated.
 Condenser is plugged with mineral deposits or scale. Replace the condenser; treat the cooling water supply to
prevent re-occurrence.
 Cooling water temperature too high. Cooling water temperature must be less than 80° F or 50° F below the lowest
boiling point of the solvent being processed—whichever is lower (determine solvent boiling point under vacuum,
if applicable).
 Faulty flow switch not detecting low water flow. Test the operation of the flow switch and service if necessary.
 Pressure relief valve is activating. Check for obstructions.