Labconco FreeZone and FreeZone Plus 6, 12 and 18 Liter Freeze Dry Systems 79600 Series - Manual (Page 33)

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Chapter 4: Using Your Freeze Dryer
Product Service Domestic 1-800-522-7658, International 816-333-8811
Adding Sample
The following procedure should be followed when using sample
valves in the freeze dry process:
1. Connect a pre-frozen sample to a sample valve on the drying chamber
or manifold using an adapter. Turn the plastic valve knob to the
“VACUUM” position to open the valve. The bevel on the knob should
be positioned toward the sample port to apply vacuum to the sample.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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 valve knob should point away from the sample port.
Vent/Backfill Port
Bevel in “vent” position
Bevel in “vacuum”
position
Adapter