Vacuum Pump Troubleshooting; Adjusting Vacuum Pump - Molecular Devices SkanStacker 300 User Manual

Troubleshooting

Vacuum Pump Troubleshooting

Adjusting vacuum pump

Step 1 Start pump with only the vacuum line inserted to pump.
If hydrophobic filter installed, make sure the ventilation hole is
covered.
Turn manometer clockwise to close the regulator.
Start the pump. Air should be flowing freely and the manometer
should read 950-1000 mbar.
Step 2 Close vacuum tubing by putting your finger over the opening. Vac-
uum should reach a level of 50-100 mbar.
Step 3 Open manometer regulator screw about half a turn. The peak vac-
uum will be reduced a few millibars, but this prevents condensation
in the pump.
Step 4 Connect the empty 15-L waste collection vessel to vacuum pump
and washer.
Step 5 Test the vacuum system performance. Record the reading from the
manometer at 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 120 seconds, and at 3-4 min-
utes. The expected performance (+/- 10%) is as follows:
With a start value of 1000 mbar, reading after 30 seconds should
be 500 mbar.
With a start value of 1000 mbar, reading after 60 seconds should
be 300 mbar.
With a start value of 1000 mbar, reading after 120 seconds should
be 200 mbar.
With a start value of 1000 mbar, reading after a few minutes
should be 100 mbar.
Step 6 Evaluate system if performance not met. Rule out leaks in the sys-
tem and/or build-up of condensed particles in filter. Repeat test if
indicated.
43 SkanStacker 300 User Guide