Despatch LND Series with Protocol Plus - Manual (Page 14)

6
Inert Atmosphere Theory
The goal of the inert atmosphere oven is to reduce oxygen concentration levels to an
acceptable level. This is accomplished by injecting an inert gas into the sealed
chamber. As the flow rate of inert gas into the chamber is increased, the chamber
becomes pressurized and gas is exhausted out the pressure relief valve located on the
back of the oven. Since oxygen is repelled by inert gas flow, the overall oxygen
concentration in the chamber is reduced.
However, there is a limit to the desired inert gas flow rate into the chamber. To
minimize the oxygen concentration level, you must minimize the number of exhaust
outlets. The only desired outlet is through the pressure relief valve. If the inert gas flow
rate is too high, other exhaust outlets will be formed (usually the door seal). In this
situation oxygen can penetrate back through the leak or outlet even though the chamber
is pressurized. This process is called diffusion. As diffusion is minimized, oven
performance is maximized.
WARNING:
This oven is not designed for use with
flammable material. If your process
involves flammable material see the LFD
series.