1.0 PURPOSE:
To lay down a procedure for operation and cleaning of KBr Press apparatus.
2.0 SCOPE:
This procedure covers the operation and cleaning of KBr Press apparatus used in Quality Control department of (Company name).
3.0 DEFINITIONS:
Nil.
4.0 RESPONSIBILITY:
4.1 Quality control Chemist shall be responsible to operation and cleaning of KBr Press apparatus and maintain the record.
4.2 Head – Quality Control or designee to ensure compliance.
5.0 PROCEDURE:
5.1 Operating Instructions:
5.1.1 Prepare the standard sample or test sample mixture with dried KBr and transfer it to the KBr die as per the instructions in the individual STP.
5.1.2 Place the assembled die on the cover plate of the cylinder of the press. Move the screw with handle until it touches the plunger.
5.1.3 Apply Vacuum and close the release knob turning clockwise.
5.1.4 Apply pressure using pump handle slowly the pressure starts building and the pressure gauge will show deflection. At about 8 ton pressure, the pressure shall get cut off.
Note: Normal pressure required is 8 to 10 tons. Never exceed 10 ton on the die though the press is capable of giving 15 Ton pressure.
5.1.5 Release pressure and vacuum after five minutes.
5.1.6 Dismantle Top and bottom guides and using extractor ring provided apply pressure from the reverse side to remove the pellet.
5.1.7 Clean all traces of KBr and store the die in desiccator.
Note: For best results use only spectroscopic grade KBr and heat it at 110 ° C in oven before use.
5.1.8 For calibration purpose the pressure gauge shall be calibrated by external agency.
5.1.9 The frequency of calibration shall be after every 180 days.
5.2 Precautions:
5.2.1 All the parts of the die should be kept absolutely clean by removing traces of KBr & Dirt.
5.2.2 Use only soft tissue paper moistened with solvent for cleaning.
5.2.3 Do not exceed 10 tons pressure on the die.
5.2.4 When the die is not going to be used for long time, the Anvil and Plunger should be wrapped aluminum foil after applying grease.
5.2.5 Use only moisture free dry spectroscopic grade KBr. If the above instructions are not followed properly, the die will be permanently damaged.