The stable operation of Guangdong LabCompanion TS2 (two-chamber type) and TS3 (three-chamber type) series thermal shock test chambers relies on standardized maintenance. Combining the structural commonalities of the two equipment series and the differences such as the exclusive damper assembly of TS3, this document sorts out the core maintenance essentials and provides practical operation guidelines.
I. Daily Maintenance: Mandatory Items After Daily/Each Test
Applicable to both series, the core of daily maintenance is to identify basic hazards, which shall be completed after daily/each test as follows:
1. Cleaning and Environment Arrangement: Cut off the power after the test; wait for the chamber to return to normal temperature, then wipe the inner tank (SUS304 material) and outer shell with a dry soft cloth; ensure the ventilation and heat dissipation ports are unobstructed, reserve a heat dissipation space of ≥30cm around the equipment, and avoid debris accumulation.
2. Basic Status Check: Inspect that the door sealing gasket is intact and undamaged; confirm that the sample rack/basket (TS2) and test rack (TS3) are free of looseness and deformation, and the pneumatic moving mechanism of TS2 operates smoothly; check that the line connections are firm and undamaged, and the refrigeration pipeline has no abnormal frosting or leakage traces.
3. Preliminary Consumable Inspection: Check if the air filter is clogged, and promptly blow it clean with compressed air or rinse it with clean water and dry it; additionally clean the observation window glass for TS3 to ensure clear visibility.
II. Regular Maintenance: Cycle-Based Precise Maintenance (Summary in Table)
Maintenance Cycle
Core Items
Differences Between TS2/TS3
Weekly
1. Clean the air filter (replace every 3 months); 2. Clean the heat sink of the refrigeration condenser; 3. Check the operation status of core mechanisms
TS2: Check that the air pressure of the pneumatic moving mechanism is stable without abnormal noise; TS3: Check that the damper assembly switches smoothly and the gasket does not fall off
Monthly
1. Check that the terminals of the heating element are firm and free of oxidation; 2. Test over-temperature, overload, leakage and other protection functions; 3. Check the status of transmission/ventilation components
TS2: Check the lubrication of the basket guide rail; apply high-temperature grease if stuck; TS3: Check that the circulating fan has no abnormal noise and clean the dust on the blades
Quarterly
1. Professionally inspect the refrigeration system and test the refrigerant pressure; 2. Check the lubricating oil level of the compressor; 3. Calibrate the temperature control accuracy; 4. Inspect the sealing components
TS3: Disassemble and inspect the gasket of the damper assembly; replace it promptly if aged or worn
III. Special Maintenance for Core Components
1. Refrigeration System Maintenance (Common to TS2 and TS3): Avoid frequent start-stop of the refrigeration system (wait for ≥5 minutes after shutdown before restarting); run for 30 minutes every month during long-term shutdown to prevent compressor seizure; regularly check pipeline joints for leakage with soapy water, and prohibit starting the compressor without sufficient refrigerant.
2. Control System Maintenance (Common to TS2 and TS3): Clean the control panel to prevent liquid ingress; check that the PLC/sensor wiring is firm and clean the probe; back up test programs regularly, and verify the connection of remote communication lines (if any).
3. Exclusive Mechanism Maintenance (Differences): TS2: Maintain the pneumatic moving mechanism, check that the cylinder/solenoid valve has no air leakage, and inspect the drive motor windings annually for insulation; TS3: Check the air pressure of the damper drive cylinder every six months, clean the guide rail and apply lubricating grease, and replace aged seals.
IV. Fault Prevention and Emergency Handling
1. Prevention Points: Do not overload the equipment; samples shall be dry and non-corrosive; avoid long-term continuous operation at extreme temperatures; cut off the power, prevent dust and keep the environment dry and ventilated during long-term shutdown.
2. Emergency Principles: Immediately press the emergency stop button and cut off the power in case of abnormality; do not force restart; simply check the filter/condenser/sealing gasket; contact the official LabCompanion after-sales service if the problem cannot be solved, and prohibit non-professional personnel from disassembling core components.
V. Maintenance Records and Notes
Establish a maintenance ledger to record the date, items, problems and handling results; must cut off the power to prevent electric shock during maintenance; use compliant consumables, and contact the official for inspection and calibration annually to ensure compliance with national and military standards.
Summary: The core of maintenance for both equipment is "daily hazard prevention, regular core maintenance, and exclusive differentiation". Standardized operation can ensure stable operation, accurate testing, extend service life and reduce operation and maintenance costs.