A freeze dryer, also known as a Lyophilizer, is a sophisticated and specialized equipment used to remove moisture from substances through a process called lyophilization or freeze-drying. This process involves freezing the material and then subjecting it to a low-pressure environment, where the frozen water content transitions directly from a solid (ice) to a gas (water vapour) without passing through the liquid state. This unique process preserves the structure, shape, and biological activity of the material while extending its shelf life by eliminating moisture.
How Does a Freeze Dryer Work?
The freeze-drying process comprises three main stages: freezing, primary drying, and secondary drying.
Freezing: The material to be dried is first frozen to very low temperatures, often below -40°C (-40°F). This freezing step solidifies the water content within the material, converting it into ice.
Primary Drying: In this stage, the freeze dryer creates a vacuum by lowering the pressure, causing the frozen water (ice) to undergo sublimation. Sublimation is the direct conversion of ice into water vapour without becoming a liquid. This process helps in removing a significant portion of the moisture from the material.
Secondary Drying: After most of the moisture has been removed through sublimation, the freeze dryer raises the temperature slightly to facilitate the removal of any remaining bound water molecules. This secondary drying step ensures the material’s moisture content is reduced to a level suitable for long-term preservation.
This unit is a compact, multi-tasking unit with 3.5 litter sample capacity. The unit has a large work surface of 235 mm diameter and can accommodate variety of drying accessories used for flasks/vials/ampoules and bulk tray etc. All the accessories are modular in construction.
Features:
•Temperature Control
•Vacuum Control
•Condenser and Defrosting System
•Pressure Control
•Multiple Shelves
•Automated Control and Data Logging
•Drying Chamber Observation
•CIP (Clean-in-Place) System
•Interchangeable Trays and Accessories
•Touchscreen Interface
•nert Gas Purge
•Remote Monitoring and Control
•1.5 Liters ice capacities
•Digital PID controller