Hanil CleanVac 12 Laboratory Freeze Dryer
| Brand | Hanil |
|---|---|
| Origin | South Korea |
| Model | CleanVac 12 |
| Maximum Sample Capacity | 12 L |
| Chamber Dimensions | Ø310 × 300 mm (D × H) |
| Condenser Temperature | ≤ –85 °C |
| Vacuum Range | 5 × 10⁻³ to 760 torr (Pirani gauge, semi-log scale, resolution: 0.5 per decade) |
| Compressor | Dual 0.75 HP units |
| Power Supply | 220 V, 60 Hz, single-phase, 1.5 kW |
| Temperature Sensor | Pt100, range –85 to +40 °C, resolution 1 °C |
| Overall Dimensions | 740 W × 600 D × 965 H mm |
| Weight | Approx. 125 kg |
Overview
The Hanil CleanVac 12 is a benchtop laboratory freeze dryer engineered for reproducible lyophilization of biological, pharmaceutical, and analytical samples under controlled low-temperature vacuum conditions. It operates on the fundamental principle of sublimation—removing water from frozen samples by direct phase transition from solid ice to vapor, bypassing the liquid phase. This preserves structural integrity, enzymatic activity, and thermal-labile compounds far more effectively than conventional air or oven drying. Designed for routine use in academic research labs, QC/QA facilities, and small-scale process development, the CleanVac 12 integrates a dual-compressor refrigeration system, high-accuracy Pirani vacuum monitoring, and microprocessor-based process logic to deliver consistent primary drying performance across diverse sample matrices.
Key Features
- Dual 0.75 HP hermetic compressors provide rapid condenser cooldown to ≤ –85 °C, enabling efficient ice capture during extended drying cycles.
- Transparent cylindrical drying chamber (Ø310 × 300 mm) constructed from optical-grade acrylic allows real-time visual monitoring without compromising vacuum integrity.
- Pirani vacuum gauge with semi-logarithmic display (range: 5 × 10⁻³ to 760 torr; resolution: 0.5 per decade) ensures reliable pressure tracking across both rough and high-vacuum regimes.
- Removable front panel grants unobstructed access to vacuum pump and refrigeration components, simplifying preventive maintenance and service interventions.
- Integrated Pt100 temperature sensors monitor both chamber and condenser temperatures (–85 to +40 °C, ±1 °C accuracy), feeding data to the central controller for closed-loop regulation.
- Intelligent end-point detection algorithm automatically pauses the vacuum pump hourly, measures pressure rise over 60 seconds, and compares delta-P against user-defined thresholds to determine drying completion.
- Heated shelf assembly compatible with standard Petri dishes supports secondary drying acceleration via controlled conductive heating, enhancing residual moisture removal efficiency.
- Backlit LCD interface displays real-time vacuum level, chamber/condenser temperatures, elapsed time, and system status—enabling full operational transparency without external software.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CleanVac 12 accommodates a broad spectrum of sample formats—including vials (up to 20 mm diameter), Petri dishes, scintillation vials, and custom trays—within its 12-liter maximum load capacity. Its design conforms to general laboratory safety standards for electrical insulation (IEC 61010-1), mechanical stability, and refrigerant containment (R404A/R507 compliant systems). While not pre-certified for GMP or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 environments, the instrument’s deterministic control logic, audit-ready parameter logging (via optional RS232/USB export), and stable thermal-vacuum profiles support alignment with GLP documentation requirements when integrated into validated workflows.
Software & Data Management
The unit operates autonomously via an embedded microcontroller with non-volatile memory storing up to 10 user-defined drying protocols. All operational parameters—including vacuum setpoints, shelf temperature ramps, hold durations, and end-point criteria—are configurable through the front-panel interface. Real-time data (pressure, temperatures, time) are continuously displayed but not internally archived beyond active session runtime. For traceable recordkeeping, optional serial or USB connectivity enables export of timestamped CSV logs compatible with LIMS integration or post-process analysis in Excel or Python-based QA tools. No proprietary software installation is required for basic operation.
Applications
- Stabilization of monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, and recombinant proteins for long-term storage and transport.
- Preparation of reference standards and calibration materials in environmental and clinical chemistry laboratories.
- Drying of microbial cultures, tissue homogenates, and plant extracts while retaining viability or bioactivity.
- Processing of forensic evidence samples where morphological preservation is critical for microscopy or spectroscopic analysis.
- Method development for lyophilization cycle optimization prior to scale-up on production-grade equipment.
FAQ
What is the maximum batch volume the CleanVac 12 can handle?
The system supports up to 12 liters of frozen aqueous material—equivalent to approximately 1.5 kg of ice—assuming optimal chamber loading and uniform heat transfer.
Does the CleanVac 12 include a built-in vacuum pump?
Yes, it integrates a two-stage oil-sealed rotary vane vacuum pump rated for ultimate pressure < 5 × 10⁻³ torr, with service access facilitated by the removable front panel.
Can the heated shelf be used during primary drying?
No—the heated shelf is intended exclusively for secondary drying stages, following complete ice sublimation, to reduce bound moisture content without risking melt-back.
Is remote monitoring or control supported?
The base configuration offers only local LCD interface operation; however, analog voltage outputs (0–10 V) and digital serial ports enable third-party SCADA or PLC integration for facility-wide monitoring.
What refrigerants are used in the dual-compressor system?
The system employs R404A and/or R507 blends, selected for their thermodynamic compatibility with ultra-low condenser temperatures and compliance with current regional environmental regulations for laboratory equipment.
