Small R&D Freeze Dryer

Small R&D Freeze Dryer – QualiRFD™ 6

The QualiRFD™ 6 Small R&D Freeze Dryer is built to replicate production-level freeze-drying performance in a compact, pilot-scale format. It enables accurate parameter development, method refinement, and reliable scale-up by maintaining process conditions aligned with full-scale systems.

Designed for advanced freeze-drying research, QualiRFD™ 6 helps maintain critical product temperature limits and key transition points throughout the cycle. It fits seamlessly into early-stage development, process validation, and scale-up workflows where consistency with production conditions is essential.

The system features a PLC-driven control platform with a dedicated interface for consistent and repeatable operation. It supports cycle programming, recipe storage, real-time data logging, process curve visualization, and detailed reporting—helping labs maintain control, traceability, and process accuracy across R&D activities.

Small R&D Freeze Dryer – QualiRFD™ 6 Applications

Pharmaceutical and Biotech Process Development: The QualiRFD™ 6 provides precise shelf temperature control and stable vacuum conditions essential for sensitive formulations. It is ideal for refining freeze-drying cycles before transitioning to larger manufacturing-scale equipment.

Life Sciences and Specialty Materials: Some samples require extremely low critical temperatures and careful control during pre-freezing and sublimation. QualiRFD™ 6 delivers the control range needed for specialized freeze-drying applications beyond what standard lab units can achieve.

Scale-Up and Process Amplification: This pilot-scale freeze dryer bridges bench research and production by maintaining process characteristics comparable to full-scale systems. It is suitable for scaling up experiments and closely matching production-level parameters.

Uniformity and Process Repeatability: Consistent drying across trays is critical for validating recipes and comparing batches. QualiRFD™ 6 ensures uniform results through its tray and cold-trap design, combined with stable process control, supporting repeatable and reliable R&D outcomes.

Standards Compliance – QualiRFD™ 6

• ISO 13408-3: Provides requirements and guidance for performing lyophilization as an aseptic process, applicable to healthcare products.
• ASTM E3250: Establishes best practices for freeze dryer instrumentation, focusing on accurate product temperature and pressure measurement.
• IEC 61010-1: Covers general safety requirements for electrical laboratory and process-control equipment, ensuring safe operation and compliance.

Small R&D Freeze Dryer – QualiRFD™ 6 Key Features

• Pilot-Scale Design: Engineered to replicate production freeze-dryer performance, enabling accurate parameter optimization and scale-up studies.
• PLC-Based Control System: Ensures consistent, repeatable process execution for reliable batch-to-batch performance.
• Advanced Program Management: Supports recipe storage, real-time process monitoring, curve generation, detailed reporting, alarms, and historical record keeping.
• Optimized Tray Thermal Design: Promotes uniform heat distribution across shelves to improve drying consistency.
• High-Quality Product-Contact Materials: Stainless steel construction with internal components designed for easy cleaning and maintenance.
• GMP-Aligned Control System: Positioned to meet GMP and 21 CFR Part 11-style requirements, with optional remote-control capabilities.
• Optional Advanced Functions: Includes features such as vacuum level control, eutectic point testing, and chamber isolation valves for in-depth process studies.

Theory and Method – QualiRFD™ 6

Freeze drying removes solvents by first freezing the product, then applying a vacuum so ice converts directly to vapor through sublimation. Controlled shelf temperature and chamber pressure manage heat and mass transfer during primary drying, followed by secondary drying to reduce residual moisture under precise conditions.

The QualiRFD™ 6 enables program-driven operation with multi-stage temperature control and recorded cycle curves, allowing R&D teams to analyze runs, compare performance, and fine-tune process setpoints for reliable development results.

Small R&D Freeze Dryer – QualiRFD™ 6 Technical Specification

Specification	QualiRFD™ 6
Freeze drying area	0.3 m²
Cold trap temperature	< -75 °C (no-load)
Vacuum level	≤ 1 Pa (no-load)
Shelf temperature range	-55 to +70 °C (no-load)
Maximum ice capacity	≥ 6 kg/24 h
Number of shelf layers	3 + 1
Material tray size	400 × 270 mm
Shelf spacing	70 mm
Overall power	3 kW
Weight	300 kg
Dimensions (W×D×H)	1033 × 781 × 1580 mm
Loadable materials	3 L/kg
Defrost mode	Electric defrost
Safety devices	Audible alarm, emergency stop switch, overpressure protection
Voltage	Single-phase 3-wire, 220 V (110V is also available)
Optional features (selected)	Vacuum level control; eutectic point testing; chamber isolation valve; PC/mobile remote control; imported vacuum pumps; anti-oil backflow solenoid valve; oil mist filter