Test of microwave absorption and Cleaning of PTFE vessel

Below are described the instructions to be followed to test, if PTFE vessel and cover absorb excessively the microwaves.

Place the dried rotor body in the microwave and distribute the parts to be tested.
For this purpose you can use the vessels without protection shield or cover.
The parts to be tested must be washed and dried, so that no acid residues may be located on the parts.

Start the following microwave program, depending on the vessels number.
45 seconds 600 W (for 10 up to 16 vessels)
45 seconds 450 W (for 6 or less vessels)
Once concluded the run, check immediately the temperature with the hands (it would be better with thin gloves) or possibly via the IR control. A rough evaluation of the temperature, such as cold/slightly warm/really warm/hot is enough.

Danger of burns! Each single vessel can be very hot.
In a microwave program should be generally used, whenever possible, as more similar vessels as possible. Vessels warmer than the hand temperatures (37°C) should be cleaned. Especially in case of hot vessels, a NOx load can be noted on a vessel.

The discolored container has been particularly affected by a high weighing. This can be significantly reduced by following an optimized application.

Cleaning of PTFE vessel

Graphite or grease residues on all PTFE vessels can be cleaned with organic solvents (e.g.alcohol). It is recommended to clean the surface with a paper towel. The vessels can be cleaned in a laboratory dishwasher.

An almost complete decontamination can be reached by a cleaning procedure with HNO3 65 %. A maximum cleaning temperature of 180°C is enough for this purpose. The steaming out of vessels with Milestone TraceCLEAN is easier and more efficient.

Rinse thoroughly the vessels previously cleaned with deionized water and place them at least for 3 hours in a drying oven (if possible ventilated) at 160°C maximum 180°C.
PTFE vessels should be placed with the opening facing up
PTFE covers should be placed with the bottom side facing up

After vessel cooling to room temperature, the test for microwave absorption should be repeated. Should the vessels significantly absorb microwave, this would mean they are strongly contaminated and the cleaning should be repeated.

Cleaning of the cover
The cover should be cleaned only with clear water.

Cleaning of protection shield
The protection shield should be cleaned only with clear water and should be dried before the use.