RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Use Of The Capacitance Manometer Gauge in Vacuum Freeze-Drying JF PDA Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology JO PDA J Pharm Sci Technol FD Parenteral Drug Association (PDA) SP 473 OP 483 VO 34 IS 6 A1 J. Grant Armstrong YR 1980 UL http://journal.pda.org/content/34/6/473.abstract AB This paper discusses the effect of pressure on the lyophilization, or vacuum freeze-drying. process, and the various types of vacuum gauges typically used for such pressure measurements. Location of the gauge on the process system, sterilization procedures, potential chemical contaminants, measurement dependence on gas composition, and other unique requirements of the freezedrying process on vacuum gauges are outlined. Of particular significance for freezedrying. the capacitance manometer gauge is discussed in greater detail, including theory of operation, construction, accuracy, and operation and calibration procedures. A comparison study is made of a capacitance manometer, a Hg McLeod gauge, and a thermocouple gauge on a commercial lyophilization system. When operated and calibrated properly, the capacitance manometer provides the accurate, repeatable pressure measurements that are prerequisite to successful lyophilization.