Thermo Scientific TSE Series

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Thermo Scientific TSE Series -86C Ultra Low Temperature Freezer is a sophisticated laboratory device designed for the long-term storage of biological samples and other temperature-sensitive materials at extremely low temperatures. This manual provides comprehensive details on its operation, maintenance, and technical specifications.

Function Description

The TSE Series freezer is designed to maintain ultra-low temperatures, typically down to -86°C, ensuring the integrity and viability of stored samples. It utilizes a cascade refrigeration system to achieve and maintain these temperatures. The freezer is equipped with a control panel that allows users to monitor and adjust temperature settings, view alarm indicators, and manage various operational modes. An optional Back-Up System (BUS) is available, which can be configured for liquid nitrogen (LN2) or CO2 supply, providing an additional layer of protection in case of power failure or other system malfunctions. This backup system is crucial for safeguarding valuable samples by maintaining critical temperatures during emergencies.

Important Technical Specifications

The TSE Series freezers come in various models, each with specific capacities and electrical requirements. Here are some key technical specifications:

Temperature Range:

All models are designed to operate from -50°C (-58°F) to -86°C (-123°F) in an 18°C to 32°C (64.4°F to 89.6F) ambient environment.

Exterior Dimensions (W x D x H):

TSE240V (933), TSE240D (947), TSE240A (930): 33.3"W x 77.9"H x 32.9"F-B (84.6cm x 197.9cm x 83.5cm)
TSE320A (931), TSE320V (935), TSE320D (948): 33.3"W x 77.9"H x 38.9"F-B (84.6cm x 197.9cm x 94.0cm)
TSE400V (936), TSE400D (949), TSE400A (932): 40.8"W x 77.8"H x 38.9"F-B (103.6cm x 197.9cm x 94.0cm)
TSE600V (950), TSE600D (937): 46.8"W x 77.9"H x 38.9"F-B (118.9cm x 197.9cm x 94.0cm)

Interior Dimensions (W x D x H):

TSE240V (933), TSE240D (947), TSE240A (930): 23.0"W x 51.5"H x 19.3"F-B (58.4cm x 130.8cm x 49.0cm)
TSE320A (931), TSE320V (935), TSE320D (948): 23.0"W x 51.5"H x 25.3"F-B (58.4cm x 130.8cm x 64.3cm)
TSE400V (936), TSE400D (949), TSE400A (932): 30.6"W x 51.5"H x 25.3"F-B (77.7cm x 130.8cm x 64.3cm)
TSE600V (950), TSE600D (937): 36.6"W x 51.5"H x 27.0"F-B (93.0cm x 130.8cm x 68.6cm)

Capacity:

TSE240V/D/A: 13.0 cu. ft. (368.1 liters)
TSE320A/V/D: 17.3 cu. ft. (488.9 liters)
TSE400V/D/A: 23.0 cu. ft. (651.3 liters)
TSE600V/D: 28.0 cu. ft. (792.8 liters)

Refrigeration: Two 1 HP (2545 BTUH each) compressors. Insulation: Non CFC, foamed-in-place urethane; 5.0" (12.7cm) cabinet; 4.5" (11.4 cm) door.

Electrical (Operating Range):

TSE240V/320V/400V/600V: 230VAC, 50 Hz, 12.0 FLA (208VAC-240VAC)
TSE240D/320D/400D/600D: 230VAC, 60 Hz, 12.0 FLA (208VAC-240VAC)
TSE240A/320A/400A: 120VAC, 60 Hz, 16.0 FLA (108VAC-130VAC)

Breaker Requirements:

230V models: 15 Amp, Dedicated Circuit, 15 Amp Time Delay Breaker
120V models: 20 Amp, Dedicated Circuit, 20 Amp Time Delay Breaker

Shipping Weight: Varies by model, e.g., TSE240V is 696 lbs. (316 kg), TSE600V is 1070 lbs. (485 kg).

Safety Specifications:

Altitude: up to 2,000 meters
Temperature: 5°C to 43°C
Humidity: Maximum RH 80% for temperatures up to 31°C, decreasing linearly to 50% RH at 40°C
Mains Supply Fluctuations: Mains supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed ±10% of the nominal voltage
Installation Category: II
Pollution Degree: 2
Class of Equipment: I

Usage Features

The TSE Series freezer offers several features designed for ease of use and sample protection:

Control Panel: Equipped with a keypad, displays, and indicators for monitoring temperature, alarm status, and operational modes. Users can set high and low temperature alarms, calibrate probes, and manage run modes.
Operation of the Keypad: The freezer has five basic modes: Up Arrow (increases parameter value), Down Arrow (decreases parameter value), Enter (saves settings), and Silence (silences audible alarms).
Installation: Detailed instructions are provided for installing wall bumpers, shelves, and connecting power. Proper leveling and clearance are emphasized for optimal performance.
Remote Alarm Contacts: Allows connection to an external alarm system, providing alerts for power failure, high/low temperature, door open, probe failure, and other critical events.
Power Cord Attachment: Secure attachment of the power cord to prevent accidental disconnection.
Electrical Connection: Requires a dedicated grounded service with appropriate voltage and breaker specifications.
Freezer Start-Up: Includes default settings for control set point (-80°C), high temperature alarm (-70°C), low temperature alarm (-90°C), and optional BUS set point (-60°C).
Temperature Setting: Users can set and adjust operating temperatures, high temperature alarms, and low temperature alarms via the control panel.
Run Mode: The default mode displays the cabinet temperature. It also shows the high stage heat exchange temperature.
Calibration: The control probe can be calibrated to ensure accurate temperature readings. Temperature stabilization periods are required after initial setup or adjustments.
Alarms: A comprehensive alarm system includes indicators for power failure, high/low temperature, probe failure, door open, wrong power, low battery, low BUS battery, hot condenser, high stage failure, and micro board failure. Each alarm has a specific delay and ringback time.
Vacuum Relief Port: Essential for equalizing pressure inside the cabinet after door openings, allowing for easier re-opening. It is crucial to maintain this port to prevent vacuum buildup.
Battery Power Switch: Located on the lower front corner, it allows the battery to charge during initial start-up. The battery provides power for the alarm system during power outages.
Optional BUS (Back-Up System): Can be configured for LN2 or CO2 supply to maintain temperature during power failures. It includes a control panel with indicators for power, low battery, and solenoid engagement, as well as a "Press-To-Test" button.
Chart Recorder: An optional feature for continuously recording temperature data. It uses a 9-volt battery and allows for changing chart paper and adjusting temperature ranges.
Datalogger: An optional ELPRO evaluation software and datalogger provide monitoring and documentation of temperature and alarm conditions, storing up to 64,000 measured values or data points.
Water-cooled Condenser: An optional feature for models 195964, 195965, 195966, 195967, and 195968, requiring specific water source, pressure, inlet/outlet connections, and flow rate.
Five Inner Door Option: Available for models 189407, 189405, 189406, 195652, and 195653, providing additional compartments for organized storage.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of the TSE Series freezer. The manual outlines a preventive maintenance schedule:

Clean Cabinet Exterior: Wipe down with laboratory disinfectant and rinse with clean water, then dry with a soft cloth (monthly).
Clean Air Filter: Open the front lower door, grasp the bottom left corner, locate the grille, remove the grille material, and gently pull out to remove. Wash the filter material using water and a mild detergent, then dry and reinstall (four times a year, minimum).
Clean Condenser: Open the front lower door, grasp the bottom left corner, and use a vacuum cleaner to clean the condenser fins (once per year, minimum). More frequent cleaning may be needed in dusty environments.
Clean Water-cooled Condenser (CIP Procedure): Disconnect from water supply, drain, rinse with fresh water, add cleaning agent, circulate cleaning solution, drain, rinse again, reconnect, and return to service. Note: Do not use liquids that are corrosive to stainless steel or brazing material (copper or nickel).
Defrost Chamber: Remove all product, turn off power, open all doors and place towels, allow frost to melt, remove frost with a soft cloth, clean interior with non-chloride detergent, rinse, dry, plug in and turn power switch on, turn battery power switch to Standby mode, and allow freezer to operate empty overnight before reloading.
Clean Door Gasket: Clean monthly with a soft cloth, remove any frost build-up (minimum).
Vacuum Relief Port: The exterior door gasket provides an excellent seal. The vacuum relief port ensures pressure equalization. Regular maintenance is required to prevent ice over, which can cause the port to become ineffective. Observe the inner side of the port periodically for frost and ice build-up. Clean with a soft dry cloth. If the tube becomes clogged with ice, it must be cleaned. Make sure during cleaning that the vacuum relief tube is completely free of ice to prevent rapid ice formation.
Replace Battery(s): Access the battery by opening the lower door and grasping the bottom left corner. The battery is rectangular in shape, located on the front left corner of the compressor compartment and is secured in place by a mounting bracket. Disconnect and remove the old battery, then install the new battery. Reconnect the battery (red to positive and black to negative). Turn the battery power switch to Standby mode. Close lower panel door. The battery should be replaced every 2 years.
Prepare Unit for Storage: Defrost the unit, turn off the battery power switch, disconnect power to the battery(s) and to the freezer.
Adjust door handle for firm latching: As needed (monthly).
Fill unit with frozen product: To help overall performance, use frozen water jugs (monthly).
Make sure certain vacuum relief port is free of frost and ice: To allow for timely re-entry into the freezer after a door opening (monthly).
Check alarm back-up battery: See "Connecting the unit to Electrical Power" in Section 1 and "Replacing the Battery" in Section 4 (yearly).
Check condenser fan motor for unusual motor noise or vibration: Yearly.
Verify and document calibration: At the minimum, annually. See Section 2 Calibration.
Clean condenser compartment and wipe off condenser: See "Cleaning the Condenser" in Section 4 (every 2 years).
Minimize ice build-up inside of freezer: Locate the freezer away from drafts or heating/cooling vents. Keep the number of door openings to a minimum. Minimize the length of time door is open. Make sure door latches securely after opening.