Maintenance And Care of Yingtai Freeze Dryers

Maintenance and Care of Yingtai Freeze Dryers

As is well known, the effective maintenance of equipment, beyond its intrinsic quality, can extend its service life. Freeze dryers, being commonly used in laboratories, are critical in many important experiments. Their stability and longevity heavily depend on whether their maintenance and care are correct and effective.

1. Maintenance and Care of the Refrigeration System

The key component in the refrigeration system is the compressor. To ensure the normal operation of the compressor, it is essential to monitor its operational parameters, such as high pressure, high discharge temperature, oil pressure, compressor frosting level, and motor current. If any of these parameters exceed the compressor's specifications, maintenance is required. Key maintenance tasks include:

(1). Changing Refrigerant Compressor Oil and Filters: Determine if oil replacement is needed by analyzing the quality of a sample of oil and measuring its acidity, or by following a scheduled replacement plan. When replacing oil, use the same brand as the original to avoid potential chemical reactions that could affect the system and compressor.

(2). Addressing Poor Cooling Performance: If the compressor's discharge temperature is too high or if there is a refrigerant shortage, first check for refrigerant leaks and air contamination in the system. Address leaks and remove any moisture from the system, and replace the acid-drying filter in the system's piping.

2. Maintenance and Care of the Vacuum System

The vacuum system ensures the sterility of samples in the freeze dryer. Maintenance involves monitoring parameters such as vacuum pumping speed, ultimate vacuum, and leakage rate. Regular maintenance tasks include:

(1). Changing Vacuum Pump Oil: Replace the oil regularly and test the ultimate vacuum and leakage rate parameters. Check the reliability of seals on connecting valves and replace them if necessary.

(2). Checking for Vacuum Leaks: If there are unusual changes in vacuum levels, perform a segmented inspection of the vacuum system to identify and address any leaks.

3. Maintenance and Care of the Automatic Control System

The automatic control system is crucial for the successful operation of the freeze dryer and product quality. Some systems offer remote diagnostics and automatic repair through network connections, allowing for more effective problem resolution. Daily checks should include:

(1). Monitoring Key Parameters: Regularly check the temperatures and vacuum levels of the drying chamber and cold trap, and monitor parameters such as compressor pressures, temperatures, oil pressure differences, refrigerant temperatures, cooling water temperatures, and solution pump pressures.

(2). Maintaining Cleanliness: Keep the equipment clean, especially the control room, and maintain appropriate temperature and humidity to ensure the proper functioning of control devices.

4. Routine Maintenance Tasks

Weekly:

Check Vacuum Pump Oil Inspect the vacuum pump oil condition and level through the oil window. If the oil level is low, add oil. If the oil is cloudy due to moisture, replace it. If there is minimal moisture, remove it by opening the vacuum pump gas pulsation valve.

Monthly:

(1). Inspect Rubber Components: Replace damaged rubber components as needed. Check all rubber valves and seals for aging, permanent deformation, or damage and replace them promptly.

(2). Clean the Equipment: Use a soft cloth, sponge, or chamois with neutral, non-abrasive soap or detergent to clean the acrylic cover, front panel, and side panels of the freeze dryer. Avoid solvents, as they can damage the equipment’s surface coating.

(3). Perform Weekly Checks: Conduct the weekly maintenance checks as outlined.

Semi-Annually:

(1). Clean the Compressor Radiator: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust from the compressor's radiator to ensure good ventilation and cooling performance. Increase cleaning frequency if the system operates in a dirty environment.

(2). Perform Monthly Checks: Complete the monthly maintenance tasks as outlined.

Regular maintenance and attention to these tasks will help ensure the efficient and reliable operation of your freeze dryer.