CUBE Oil Pump FAQ

Why are there particles in the oil?

Particles in the oil come from the food that you are freeze drying.  These particles are the reason the oil must be changed periodically.

Can I let the vacuum pump sit with oil for extended periods?

As you run food batches, water enters the oil.  If you are not planning to run food for a few weeks it is best practice to drain the oil and replace it with new oil so that internal parts do not rust.  This can cause the pump life span to diminish.

What is the “smoke” coming out of the oil mist filter?

It is standard with all oil vacuum pumps to exhaust oil mist.  This especially happens in the beginning minutes of the oil pump being turned on before lower levels of vacuum are achieved in the chamber.

If the door does not seal correctly, more oil mist will exhaust from the pump.

Why is there oil pooling on top of the oil mist filter?

As the oil mist pad becomes saturated it does not allow the oil to drain out of the pad anymore and needs to be washed.  See the instructions on cleaning this pad.

Can I change the oil mist filter to something else that reduces the mist?

Yes you can use any standard 30mm oil mist filter of your choosing.

Why is my oil discolored?

Particulates from the food enter the oil and begin to discolor the oil.  This will continue to happen until you change the oil.

Why is there oil in the vacuum chamber?

There is a check valve in the vacuum pump to prevent this, but the hose has a manual valve to also prevent this oil from entering the chamber.  Follow the instructions on the CUBE screen during batches to make sure this valve gets opened and closed at the appropriate times.