SSI America 90-2581 REV B manual Self-Flushand Seal Life

1.1.4 Self-Flush and Seal Life

It is recommended that the Self Flush feature be used to improve seal life in a number of applications. In particular, (as stated above) if pumping Buffers, Acids/Bases or any inorganic solution near saturation, the pump should utilize the Self Flush feature. With every piston stroke, an extremely thin film of solution is pulled back past the seal. If this zone is dry (without use of Self Flush), then crystals will form with continuous operation, which will ultimately damage the seal.

Another application where Self Flush is highly recommended is when pumping Tetrahydrofuran (a.k.a. THR, Diethylene Oxide) or other volatile solvents such as acetone (Note: THF and most solvents are compatible only with all-Stainless Steel systems. THF will attack PEEK). Volatile solvents will dry rapidly behind the seal (without the use of Self Flush), which will dry and degrade the seal.

IPA, Methanol, 20% IPA/water mix or 20% Methanol/water mix are good choices for the flush solution. Consult the factory for specific recommendations.

1-4