The FYRA for End of Primary Drying Detection is a specialized package designed to optimize vacuum drying applications, particularly in freeze-drying and vacuum ovens. This solution helps operators accurately detect when most of the residual water or solvents have been removed, marking the end of primary drying in a vacuum drying process.

How It Works:

The FYRA End of Primary Drying package relies on two key sensors—Pirani and Capacitance Manometer (DCP Quantum)—to detect the end of primary drying by measuring pressure and water vapor content in real-time.

Step 1: Clean Process Documentation and Baseline Setup

• Before product drying, the system is characterized with an empty and refrigerated setup.
• The freeze dryer is operated under typical conditions, and the Pirani and capacitance manometers are used to establish a baseline pressure difference (ΔP) when the system is dry and stable.
• The Pirani sensor detects higher pressure due to the water vapor content in the chamber, while the Capacitance Manometer (DCP Quantum) tracks the absolute pressure.
• This ΔP value serves as an indicator for the end of primary drying as the product sublimates and water vapor decreases.

Step 2: Drying with Product

• During primary drying, the sublimation process produces high levels of water vapor, which is detected by the Pirani sensor.
• As the drying progresses, the sublimation rate decreases, and the pressure readings from both sensors approach the established ΔP value. This indicates that primary drying is complete.

Key Components:

• FYRA Controller: Central controller for managing the vacuum process and sensor data.
• Convection-enhanced Pirani Sensor (Lesker 275): Measures pressures from 0.1 mT to 1000 Torr, ideal for vacuum systems.
• DCP Quantum Gauge: DuoSense Capacitive Piezo Vacuum Sensor, gas-independent, with a measurement range of 0.01 to 1000 Torr.
• KF25 Manual Purge Valve: Allows purging and flushing the system to ensure accurate pressure readings free from trapped vapors.
• Plumbing Components: Includes KF25-T connections, KF16-25 adapter, clamps, and O-rings to facilitate the setup.

Key Features:

• Precise End of Drying Detection: Helps determine when the primary drying phase ends, ensuring efficient drying.
• Calibration: The FYRA system is pre-calibrated under actual vacuum conditions and can be further customized with NIST-traceable documentation.
• Remote Control and Monitoring: The FYRA controller features a rich remote command line interface that allows full remote monitoring and control from any computer via USB.
• Accurate Pressure Measurement: Dual-sensor setup offers precise measurements and monitoring of the vacuum system during drying.

Applications:

• Freeze-Drying: Essential for determining when the product has been lyophilized and most of the water or solvents have been removed.
• Vacuum Oven Drying: Monitors drying processes to detect the completion of primary drying.
• Vacuum Process Control: Suitable for any vacuum drying or freeze-drying system requiring accurate, real-time monitoring.

Technical Specifications:

• Control Range: 1 × 10⁻² – 1 × 10² Torr
• Measurement Accuracy Range: 5E-4 to 1000 Torr
• Sensor Type: 536 KF25
• Dimensions: 1.7” H x 3.52” W x 5.35” Deep

The FYRA for End of Primary Drying Detection is an invaluable tool for improving the efficiency and accuracy of vacuum drying processes, ensuring optimal product quality and precise drying results.