SP Scientific VIRTIS 2K - Product Preparation: Chamber Drying; Quickseal Valves

Basic Operation
V
irTis BenchTop 2K, 4K and 6
K
20 Rev 007, 10/11
© SP Scientific 2011
Product Preparation: Chamber Drying
BenchTop series freeze dryers can process product in vials or trays directly in the
condenser chamber.
To process samples in the chamber:
1. Fill tray(s) or vials with your product.
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Do not exceed more than half of the
container’s total capacity.
2. If using a BenchTop 2K or 4K, ensure that the vacuum baffle plate is in the
desired position (i.e., position 1 for pre-freezing or position 2 for freeze-
drying).
3. If desired, insert product probes into the product. For accurate temperature
readings, probe ends should be close to, but not in contact with the bottom of
the container.
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4. Close and secure the chamber lid.
PRACTICAL OPERATING TIP. TO MINIMIZE DRYING TIME, ALWAYS FREEZE PRODUCTS
IN AS THIN A LAYER AS POSSIBLE. NEVER FILL A CONTAINER TO MORE THAN HALF
ITS TOTAL CAPACITY.
Quickseal Valves
Quickseal valves are utilized in many methods of drying. They permit the attachment
of flasks for in vitro freeze-drying. They are also used to break vacuum after a cycle
completes. Quickseal valves operate as follows:
Note: Quickseal valves are an integral part of the freeze-drying process and must be
maintained as such. For information regarding upkeep and service of Quickseal valves, see the
General Maintenance section of this manual.
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Refer to Appendix B for a list of standard serum vial capacities.
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For precise positioning of probes in vials, contact SP Scientific about optional MVP Probe Holders.