Operator`s manual

Optional Components VirTis BenchTop 2K, 4K and 6K

32 Revision 004, 12/09

Filter Trap

VirTis filter traps protect your vacuum pump from damaging and corrosive vapors

released during freeze-drying. If purchased, the filter trap is located on the side of

your freeze dryer, near the vacuum pump.

Disposable Sodasorb and activated charcoal 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.

3. Turn the handle fully counterclockwise to activate the filter trap. The inlet and

outlet ports will open.

4. To turn off the filter trap, turn the handle fully clockwise. The inlet and outlet

ports will close, breaking vacuum from inside the housing.

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 need to be degassed overnight in order to allow proper vacuum

to be established.

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.

3. Degassing is complete when vacuum reaches 50 mT, or less. 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 be sufficient.