Chapter 5: Troubleshooting; Monitoring The Flow Rate; Unplugging The Chamber(S); Maintaining Connections & Fittings - Microfluidics Microfluidizer LM20 User Manual

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting

5.1 Monitoring The Flow Rate

An initial flow rate of the product at a base line process pressure (10,000psi) should be done when the
unit is received. This will provide a reference point if it is necessary to compare product flow rate data in
the future. The pumping system on your LM20 Microfluidizer
additional capacity to allow for wear in the interaction chamber and still maintain process pressure. It is
recommended that frequent checks of flow rate be performed to track any wear on the interaction
chamber. Any change in flow rate over a period of time when processing identical product could indicate
interaction chamber wear. Perform a flow rate check using water and compare the results with the initial
flow rates found on the Data Sheet. This will indicate the amount of wear in the interaction chamber.
Record this data on a regular basis.
NOTE: Testing should always be done under identical, ambient conditions. Remember, other
factors such as partial plugging, temperature, and formulation change may cause flow rate
change. As a general recommendation, irrespective of flow rate, if you are able to maintain
sufficient process pressure to result in acceptable product processing, the interaction chamber may still
be used.

5.2 Unplugging The Chamber(s)

If the interaction chamber becomes plugged, it may be cleared by reversing the fluid flow as follows:
1. Disconnect the inlet gland from the nipple before the interaction chamber.
2. If the unit is equipped with an auxiliary processing module, disconnect it at the outlet gland.
3. Turn the interaction chamber and auxiliary processing module, so that the flow goes through
the auxiliary processing module first.
a. Rotate the IXC and APM so that product flow travels through each component opposite
than what the arrow indicates.
4. Run the unit at maximum process pressure if necessary until the interaction chamber is
unplugged. If the chambers do not unplug when back flushed as a set, try back flushing them
individually. For a stubborn plug, sonicating the chambers in a solvent bath may help clear the
blockage. If you are unable to clear the chamber(s) contact the Technical Service Department
at 800 370-5452.
5. Reverse steps 1 through 4 to return the unit back to normal operation.
!
CAUTION: Abrasive materials should not be run through the Microfluidizer
was specifically designed for such an application.
5.3 Maintaining Connections & Fittings
All high pressure connections on the Microfluidizer
NOT use TFE tape on the fittings. These connections provide a metal to metal seal with the gland providing
the sealing force. The threads on the collar and piping are left hand threads. Turn the collar counter
clockwise until there are approximately 2-3 threads exposed. When assembling, tighten glands finger
tight, then, with a wrench, tighten to recommend torque. For required torque, see Coned and Threaded
Connections Drawing.
MANUAL.LM20
TM processor are coned and threaded connections. DO
Revision C
Processor has been designed with enough
TM
TM processor unless the unit
January 2023 Page 32 of 52