Gatan Turbo pumping station (SOP)

The pumping station is used to: a) store the cryo holders while not in use b) warm up the cold holders and pump-off the frost and c) regenerate the zeolite desiccant in the cryo holders.

Overview of the Gatan pumping station (left) and the smart heater control (right)

Removing and inserting a holder from the station

Close Valve V2 (Turn to the right).
Open valve V3 (counter clockwise) until the holder storage is vented.
Remove holder in the upright position, so the pin is properly aligned on the exit hole. OR remove plug.
Seal the opening at the pumping station with the plug OR insert the holder.
Close valves V3 and V1.
Open valve V2 slowly until the vacuum recovers. The penning gauge should reach below 2*10-5 Torr.
Open valve V1 very slowly. The top part will be pumped out and the penning gauge should reach below 2*10-5 Torr.

Common errors

LED display is red (failure): Fast venting in the pump area occurred. Station needs to be switched off and on again with the main power button in the back. Ensure next time that all valves are closed or open valve slower.