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| Maintenance & Cleaning
Chapter 10
|
10-88
305435H03
NOTE
An Element Set is defined as the group of Elements that are powered from the same
electrical supply. Often the Elements are connected electrically in series.
Each Element set should have elements that are within 2 amps of each other. For
example, an eight-element set may properly have elements measuring 15, 15, 15,
16, 16. 16, 17 & 17 Amps.
While another element set with elements measuring 14, 15, 16. 17, 17, 17, 18 & 18
Amps has too wide of an Amp range to produce the necessary uniform heating in the
furnace chamber. The uneven amps will also cause some elements to operate hotter
then the others and reduce their life expectancy.
The Element resistance is useful to track the life expectancy. With a resistance
increase of approximately 20% from the original resistance, an element would be
considered unable to produce enough wattage to achieve maximum temperatures.
Cleaning and Decontamination
Furnace must be kept clean in order to ensure proper operation. Cleaning routine should
be started with furnace at room temperature.
1. Vacuum the interior of the furnace to remove dust/debris, if needed.
2. Clean/Disinfect all exterior surfaces with a general-use laboratory disinfectant, such
as quaternary ammonium. Rinse thoroughly with sterile distilled water, then 70%
alcohol. Dry with a clean cloth as needed. Be sure not to spray any liquids directly on
electronics, controls, ceramic insulating materials, or heating elements.
3. Interior Surfaces Cleaning: Do not use any liquids on ceramic insulating materials or
heating elements.
a. Organic contaminants may be removed by burning them out. Refer to section
"Furnace Start Up" to do this.
b. Inorganic contaminants may embed themselves into the ceramic insulating
materials and heating elements. Recommend replacement. Contact Technical
Service for further use or replacement.
1500°C Tube Furnace
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