Optional Components
irTis BenchTop 2K, 4K and 6
30 Rev 007, 10/11
© SP Scientific 2011
7. Trap is now in operation. Liquid Nitrogen evaporates rapidly over time and
solvent is condensed. Check center well often and refill with liquid nitrogen as
needed.
Filter Trap
VirTis filter traps protect your vacuum pump from damaging and corrosive vapors
released during freeze-drying. If purchased, the filter trap is typically located between
your freeze dryer and the vacuum pump.
Disposable Sodasorb®, activated charcoal, and molecular sieve trap drop-in wire
mesh cartridges are available and must be purchased separately.
To install the filter trap:
1. Connect the vacuum pump to the port marked OUT.
2. Connect the rest of the system to the port marked IN.
Degassing Filter Trap Cartridges
Filter trap cartridges are highly absorbent and may require degassing prior to freeze-
drying. If you do not degas filter trap cartridges, vacuum pump-down may take
significantly longer. Degassing is also necessary each time you change your filter trap
cartridge. Most filters require an overnight degassing to achieve proper vacuum.
To degas the filter trap cartridge:
1. Unscrew the clear polypropylene housing from the white plastic top.
2. To begin degassing, enable the vacuum pump, open the gas ballast valve
slightly and close all ports.
Note: See Vacuum Pump Gas Ballast Valve in Chapter 8: General Maintenance for
more information.
3. Degassing is complete when vacuum reaches 50 mT, or less. Prior to turning
off the pump, close the gas ballast.
Note: Degassing may take between 12 and 24 hours.
Filter trap cartridges are disposable. Their lifespan depends on frequency of use and
the volume of contaminants they absorb. The Sodasorb® cartridges contain an
“Absorbent Exhaustion Indicator,” which turns purple to signify the need for
replacement. Full exhaustion is indicated by a deep purple color.
The activated charcoal cartridges contain no absorption limit indicator. Pump oil must
be routinely checked for clarity to assess the charcoal’s absorbing capacity.
Depending on the usage and concentration, changing the charcoal cartridge every
three to six months may suffice.
WARNING! BE SURE TO PROPERLY HANDLE AND DISPOSE OF USED CARTRIDGES.
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