This video is a tutorial on conducting a vacuum test for a Harvest Right freeze dryer, particularly useful if you are setting up your machine for the first time, receiving an inadequate vacuum message, or have been instructed to perform a vacuum test by a technician.
Tools needed:
- Paper towels
- Timer (or use the built-in timer on the freeze dryer)
- Camera (to take pictures of the screen if needed)
Steps
- Preparation: Ensure the freeze dryer is on the home screen. Remove the shelving unit from the machine and set it aside, leaving the cord in the back.
- Cleaning: Clean the interior chamber with paper towels to ensure it is completely dry and free of debris.
- Inspect and Place Door Gasket: Check the door gasket for debris and ensure it is clean, then place it lightly and evenly around the chamber's lip. Let the door push the gasket to secure it in place. If there are gaps, adjust the gasket to close them.
- Seal the Chamber: Close and latch the freeze dryer door, checking for significant gaps in the door gasket. If any are found, adjust the gasket to remove the gaps.
- Close the Drain Valve: Ensure the black valve is perpendicular to the drain valve, forming a 'T'.
- Check Vacuum Pump: Confirm the on/off switch on the pump is in the on position and the vacuum pump is plugged into the freeze dryer. Verify the vacuum hose is hand-tight on both ends and has the black o-rings in place.
- Oil Level and Gas Ballast (if applicable): For oil pumps, ensure oil is at the correct level. If using a premier oil pump, open the gas ballast.
- Functional Testing: Go to the functional testing screen on the freeze dryer. If in a humid climate, freeze the chamber for 30 minutes before turning on the vacuum. If the chamber is very dry, you can turn the vacuum on immediately.
- Running the Vacuum Test: Turn on the vacuum and observe the mTorr reading. A successful test will show the mTorr drop to 500 within 30 minutes.
- Final Steps: Once the test is successful, click 'done' to turn off the vacuum and go back to the home screen. Release the drain valve to let air back into the chamber before opening the door. Reinsert the shelving unit and the machine is ready for use.
