VWR 329689H01 Programming manual

VWR Flammable Materials Storage
Refrigerator
Installation and Operation
329689H01 • Revision B • February 2019

IMPORTANT Read this instruction manual. Failure to follow the instructions in this manual can result in 
damage to the unit, injury to operating personnel, and poor equipment performance.
CAUTION All internal adjustments and maintenance must be performed by qualified service personnel.
Material in this manual is for informational purposes only. The contents and the product it describes are 
subject to change without notice. VWR makes no representations or warranties with respect to this manual.
In no event shall VWR be held liable for any damages, direct or incidental, arising from or related to the use of
this manual.
© 2019 VWR Inc. All rights reserved.
For your future reference and when contacting the factory, have the following information readily available.
It will be found on the dataplate attached to your unit.
Model Number:
Serial Number:
The following information, if available, is helpful for contacting the factory.
Date Purchased:
Purchase order number:
Source of Purchase:
(manufacturer or specific agent/representative organization)

Contents
Models......................................................................... 1
Safety Information........................................................ 2
Alert Signals ............................................................. 2
Intended Use ............................................................... 3
Unpacking and Inspection............................................ 4
Visible Loss or Damage............................................ 4
Concealed Loss or Damage ..................................... 4
Operating Standards.................................................... 5
Unit Specifications.................................................... 5
Installation.................................................................... 6
Selecting a Location................................................. 6
Leveling the Unit....................................................... 6
Shelves .................................................................... 6
Install External probe in Thermowell.......................... 6
Electrical Connection................................................ 7
Operation..................................................................... 8
Initial Startup ............................................................ 8
Temperature Control ................................................ 8
Temperature Display ................................................ 8
Material Compatibility ............................................... 8
Maintenance ................................................................ 9
Cabinet Cleaning...................................................... 9
Condenser ............................................................... 9
Troubleshooting........................................................... 10
End of Life Care ........................................................... 11

Warranty ...................................................................... 12

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator Models | 1
Models
The table below shows the unit covered in this operation and
installation manual by model number.
Refrigerator
50FREEVWA

2 | Safety Information VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Safety Information
Your satisfaction and safety are important to VWR and a
complete understanding of this unit is necessary to attain
these objectives.
As the user of this product, it is your responsibility to
understand its proper function and operational
characteristics. This instruction manual should be thoroughly
read and all operators given adequate training before
attempting to place this unit in service. Awareness of the
stated cautions and warnings, and compliance with
recommended operating parameters – together with
maintenance requirements – are important for safe and
satisfactory operation. The unit should be used for its
intended application; alterations or modifications will void the
Warranty.
This product is not intended, nor can it be used, as a sterile or
patient connected device. In addition, this product is not
designed for use in Class I, II or III locations as defined by the
US National Electrical Code, unless otherwise noted.
Alert Signals
ON
OFF
Safety Alert: Important operating instructions.
To reduce the risk of injury or poor performance
of the unit. Read the user manual before putting
the equipment into operation.
WARNING: Indicates an immediately hazardous
situation, which if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates an immediately hazardous
situation, which if not avoided, may result in
minor to moderate injury.
WARNING: Avoid contact with cold refrigerator
surfaces potential for cold burns or skin sticking
to cold surfaces.
WARNING: Use of this symbol involves risk of
electric shock.
Do not modify or use power supplies other than
OEM equipment. Connection of the power
supply may require a properly grounded
receptacle. Potential for electrical shock or
equipment damage exists if precautions are not
followed.
Note: Notes alert you to pertinent facts and conditions.
DANGER RISK OF CHILD ENTRAPMENT 
Before you throw away your old refrigerator:
• Take off doors.
• Leave the shelves in the place so that
children may not easily climb inside.
If the equipment is used in a manner not
specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator Intended Use | 3
Intended Use
The Flammable Materials Storage(FMS) refrigerator described
in this manual is for use in the storage of flammable inventory/
samples. This model have been listed to the appropriate
standards.
This product is intended for use in research for the storage of
samples or inventory in the following temperature ranges:
Refrigerators 33.8°F to 53.6°F (+1°C to +12°C)
This is not considered medical devices and have therefore not
been registered with a medical device regulatory body (e.g.
FDA): that is, it has not been evaluated for the storage of
samples for diagnostic use or for samples to be re-introduced
to the body.
Note: When storing corrosive materials, refer to the
instruction below. Any damage which occurs due to storage
of corrosives materials in a non-corrosive resistant model will
not be covered under warranty claims.
To store corrosive materials, use the appropriate units
following the instructions below:
• Only use models rated as Corrosion Resistant.
• Corrosion Resistant does not mean Corrosion Proof –
Care in storage is still required.
• Store only corrosive reagents/samples which truly need
reduced temperature storage.
• Flammable corrosive materials require Flammable
Materials Storage labeled for the storage of corrosives
• Containers must be wiped clean of moisture and
chemical residue before being introduced into the unit
and upon return from use.
• Containers must be sealed with either vinyl tape or
Parafilm®.
• Reagents/samples which release HX (X= F, Cl, Br, I) on
contact with moisture (e.g. Acyl halides, Organosilyl
halides etc.) are particularly damaging to metals.
• Volatile amines will react with HX depositing salts which
will lead to corrosion of metal surfaces.
• Volatile organic acids can exacerbate metal surfaces
already compromised, be sure these are securely sealed.
• Refrigerated compartments are cool or cold areas but
they are not to dry seal your reagents and samples.
• Bleach solutions release chlorine gas which can react
with other volatiles in the cooling chamber or directly
attacks metal surfaces.
• Periodically clean the interiors, clean up spills or leaking
containers.
• Failure to take precautionary actions may lead to damage
not covered by warranty claims.
Parafilm® is a registered trademark of Bemis Company,
Oshkosh, WI.

4 | Unpacking and Inspection VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Unpacking and Inspection
Save all packing material if unit is received damaged. This
merchandise was carefully packed and thoroughly inspected
before leaving our factory.
Responsibility for its safe delivery is assumed by the carrier
upon acceptance of the shipment; therefore, claims for loss
or damage sustained in transit must be made upon the carrier
by the recipient as follows:
Visible Loss or Damage
Note any external evidence of loss or damage on the freight
bill, or express receipt, and have it signed by the carrier’s
agent. Failure to adequately describe such external evidence
of loss or damage may result in the carrier’s refusing to honor
your damage claim. The form required to file such a claim will
be supplied by the carrier.
Concealed Loss or
Damage
Concealed loss or damage refers to loss or damage, which
does not become apparent until the merchandise has been
unpacked and inspected. If either occur, make a written
request for the carrier’s agent within 15 days of the delivery
date; then file a claim with the carrier since the damage is the
carrier’s responsibility.
If you follow the above instructions carefully, we will guarantee
our support of your claim to be compensated for loss from
concealed damage.
DO NOT – FOR ANY REASON – RETURN THIS UNIT
WITHOUT FIRST OBTAINING AUTHORIZATION.

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator Operating Standards | 5
Operating Standards
The units described in this manual are classified for use as
stationary equipment in a Pollution Degree 21and Over
voltage Category II environment.
This unit is designed to operate under the following
environmental conditions:
• Indoor use
• Altitude up to 6512 feet (2000 m)
• Maximum relative humidity 80%, non-condensing
• Temperatures: 59°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C)
• Main supply voltage fluctuations should not exceed by
±10% of the nominal voltage.
Unit Specifications
1. Refer to IEC 6641
50FREEVWA
Size 50 cu.ft
Exterior Dimensions
(H x W x D)
77.25" x 52" x 34.25" 
(196.2 x 132.1 x 87 cm)
Interior Dimensions
(H x W x D)
59" x 45.75" x 26.5" 
(149.8 x 116.2 x 67.3 cm)
Shelves 8 Adjustable Shelves
Electrical Data 115 V/60 Hz, 9.1 Amps
Plug Type NEMA 5-15P
Shipping Weight 420 lbs (190.5 kg)

6 | Installation VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Installation
Selecting a Location
Choose a location for the refrigerator that will provide at least
3" inches of clearance between the cabinet and any adjacent
vertical surface at the sides and rear. 12" inches of clearance
is required above the grille.
Appropriate electrical power must be available. Locate the
refrigerator within eight feet of the power outlet so that no
extension cord is required.
Leveling the Unit
The refrigerator must be level in order to provide adequate
condensate drainage as well as proper door alignment and
operation. The refrigerator should be in its final operating
location and set so that it is firmly positioned on the floor.
There are 4 leveling legs – 1 for each corner. These legs are
packed in the accessory carton from which they must be
removed and installed onto the cabinet. In order to install the
legs, carefully tip the cabinet rearward and add (4) two inch
blocks underneath and simply screw the threaded leg studs
into the case bottom front leg holes. Repeat this procedure by
tilting the cabinet in the opposite direction and install the
remaining legs. Make sure that the legs are tightened
extremely well or the entire unit will sway or rock with each
opening or closing of the doors, possibly causing damage to
the case bottom. Level the cabinet front to rear and side-to-
side using the corner leveling screws located at the bottom of
the legs.
Shelves
Shipped inside each cabinet are shelves packed in plastic and
a bag of shelf supports. Two different types of shelf supports
are used. Refer to Figure 1 for installation. Shelf spacing is
adjustable to suit user requirements. Replacement shelves
are available individually for the Laboratory Refrigerators.
Figure 1. Shelf Support
Install External probe in
Thermowell
An external temperature monitoring device can be added to
the thermowell beside the display thermowell mounted on top
of the unit. See Figure 2 for location of the thermowell.
Figure 2. Thermowell location
The size of the sensor must be less than 0.3" diameter to fit
inside the thermowell.
Requirements to install the external probe:
• Glycol mixture (50-50% solution of glycerine & water)
• Permagum as required
• Cable clamp

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator Installation | 7
To install the external probe in thermowell:
1. Add 2 - 3 ml of glycol solution in thermowell.
2. Insert the sensor in thermowell as shown in Figure 3 and
seal the opening with permagum.
Figure 3. Inserting sensor in thermowell
3. Place the external monitoring device on top/side as per
your convenience.
4. Secure the excess wire using a cable clamp as shown in
Figure 4.
Figure 4. Securing excess wire
Electrical Connection
Determine the total amount of current(A) presently being used
by other apparatus connected to the circuit that will be used
by this refrigerator. It is critical that this added current demand
and other equipment on this circuit not exceed the rating of
the fuse or circuit breaker in use.
The frequency and nominal voltage requirements for the unit
are specified on the dataplate, which is located on the
interiors upper left side. Only plug the unit into a power source
that meets these requirements. Low line voltage is often the
cause of service complaints. With the unit running, check that
the line voltage is within ±10% of that specified on the data
plate.
The power cord of this instrument is equipped with a 3-prong
(grounding) plug (NEMA 5-15P). This plug mates with a
standard three prong (grounding) wall receptacle (NEMA 
5-15R) to minimize the potential of an electrical shock hazard.
The customer should have the wall receptacle and circuit
checked by a qualified electrician to verify the receptacle is
properly grounded and is connected to a minimum 15 Amps
service.
Do not use a two-prong adapter plug.
Where a two-prong wall receptacle is encountered, it is your
responsibility and obligation to have it replaced with a
properly grounded 3-prong receptacle.
CAUTION: Be sure that the power supply is the
same voltage that is specified on the refrigerator’s
data plate.
WARNING: For personal safety this unit must be
properly grounded.
CAUTION: Do not use an extension cord. Use of
an ungrounded cord or an overloaded circuit
VOIDS the compressor warranty.
WARNING: Do not under any circumstances cut
or remove the third (ground) prong from the
power cord.

8 | Operation VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Operation
Initial Startup
Turn power ON and verify that the condenser fan is running.
This model has a condenser fan located on the condensing
unit on top of the cabinet.
Temperature Control
The thermostat is factory set to provide an interior
temperature of 38°F (4°C). To adjust the interior temperature,
there is a hole in the top of the case to allow access the
adjustment screw. For operation above an altitude of 3000 ft.,
have the thermostat adjusted by a technician. Refer Figure 5
below.
Temperature Display
Interior temperature is indicated in degrees C by the solar
powered LCD display mounted in the header panel.
Figure 5. Temperature Adjustment Instructions-
Model 50FREEVWA FMS Refrigerator
Material Compatibility
The interior cabinet of this unit is constructed of anodized
aluminum. Care must be taken when determining which
chemicals may be stored in the refrigerator sections and
which type of storage materials should be employed.
ABS Plastic deteriorates when exposed to, but not limited to,
the following:
• Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
•Aromatic Hydrocarbons
• Fully and Partially Halogenated Hydrocarbons
• Alcohols Monohydric
• Phenols
•Ketones
•Esters
•Ethers
• Organic Acids (concentrates and dilute)
• Concentrated Oxidizing Acids
This information is taken from Plastics Edition 8
Thermoplastics and Thermosets published by D.A.T.A. and
The International Plastics Selector, Inc.
Cordura Companies
9889 Willow Creek Road 
P.O. Box 26637
San Diego, California 92126
Aluminum Alloys are susceptible to corrosion when exposed
to but not limited to most inorganic acids, bases and salts
with a pH outside of their passive range of pH 4 to 9. It is also
important to recognize that the compatibility of aluminum
alloys with mixtures of organic compounds cannot be
predicted from their compatibility with each of the
compounds. For example, some aluminum alloys are
corroded severely in mixtures of carbon tetrachloride and
methyl alcohol, even though they are resistant to each
compound alone. This information is taken from Corrosion
and Corrosion Protection Handbook Second Edition 
Published by 
Marcel Dekker, Inc.
270 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10016
WARNING: If the unit is tilted in excess of 30
degrees, do not apply electrical power for a
minimum of 12 hours.

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator Maintenance | 9
Maintenance
Cabinet Cleaning
The cabinet interior should be cleaned frequently. Any spilled
liquid should be wiped off immediately since stains resulting
from some spills could be permanent if not quickly removed.
The most convenient time to clean the interior is after
defrosting.
The exterior of the cabinet should be cleaned occasionally. 
A mild detergent and lukewarm water or solution of
bicarbonate of soda (1 tablespoon per gallon of water) is
recommended for cleaning the interior and exterior of the
cabinet. All surfaces should be rinsed and thoroughly dried.
Condenser
The condenser coil is located behind the header panel. This
should be cleaned at least once a year. Disconnect the
refrigerator’s electrical power. Remove the header panel and
vacuum the condenser coil to remove any dirt build-up that
may have accumulated there.
CAUTION: When servicing the unit, disconnect
it from the electrical power source.
CAUTION: Do not use any type of abrasive such
as steel wool or fluids, such as gasoline,
Naphtha or paint thinner, that could be harmful
to plastic materials, door gasket and/or painted
surfaces for cleaning.
CAUTION: Never clean around the condensers
with your fingers. Some surfaces are sharp.

10 | Troubleshooting VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Troubleshooting
This table is intended to assist in resolving user-correctable Refrigerator problems by relating symptoms to their likely causes.
If services beyond the scope of this table is required, contact your nearest VWR Service Office.
Symptom Probable Cause Action
Does Not Run Unit Unplugged
Blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
Plug in Unit
Check fuse or circuit breaker at breaker box
Runs Continuously Frost build up on refrigeration coils. Defrost unit
Clicking Sound The compressor is equipped with a thermal
protector. This device shuts off the
compressor when it becomes too hot. A
clicking sound occurring about every 30
seconds indicates this protector is working
Disconnect power. Allow refrigeration system
time to equalize, then try again. If problem
persists, call for service
Insufficient Cooling Thermostat set too high
Condenser coil dirty
Unit frosted
Reduce thermostat setting
Clean condenser coil with a vacuum cleaner
Defrost unit

VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator End of Life Care | 11
End of Life Care
Be sure to follow local regulations when disposing of an old
unit. Some suggestions are listed below:
1. Remove items and defrost unit. Be sure to clean up any
biological safety hazards.
2. Remove the cabinet door to help prevent entrapment
inside of a unit.
3. Have a certified technician remove the refrigerant and
compressor, then drain the compressor and oil from the
system. Dispose of components following local
regulations.

12 | Warranty VWR Flammable Materials Storage Refrigerator
Warranty
Domestic Warranty • 24 Months Parts and Labor
International Warranty • 24 Months Full Warranty Parts
During the first twenty four (24) months from shipment, VWR Inc, through its authorized Dealer or service organizations, will at
its option and expense repair or replace any part found to be non-conforming in material or workmanship. VWR Inc reserves the
right to use replacement parts, which are used or reconditioned. Replacement or repaired parts will be warranted for only the
unexpired portion of the original warranty.
This warranty does not apply to damage caused by (i) accident, misuse, fire, flood or acts of God; (ii) failure to properly install,
operate or maintain the products in accordance with the printed instructions provided, (iii) causes external to the products such
as, but not limited to, power failure or electrical power surges, (iv) improper storage and handling of the products, (v) use of the
products in combination with equipment or software not supplied by VWR; or (vi) installation, maintenance, repair, service,
relocation or alteration of the products by any person other than VWR or its authorized representative. To obtain proper
warranty service, you must contact the nearest authorized service center or Dealer. VWR, Inc’s own shipping records showing
date of shipment shall be conclusive in establishing the warranty period. At VWR’s option, all nonconforming parts must be
returned to VWR postage paid and replacement parts are shipped FOB VWR’s location.
Limitation of Liability:
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER WRITTEN, ORAL, OR IMPLIED. NO
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE SHALL APPLY. VWR DOES NOT
WARRANT THAT THE PRODUCTS ARE ERROR-FREE OR WILL ACCOMPLISH ANY PARTICULAR RESULT.
VWR SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT IMITATION,
DAMAGES TO LOST PROFITS OR LOSS OF PRODUCTS

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE:
VWR International products are backed by a global technical support team ready to support your applications. We offer cold
storage accessories, including remote alarms, temperature recorders, and validation services. Visit www.vwr.com or Call:
Countries Services
North America [phone]
India toll free 1800 22 8374
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China [phone], [phone]
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Germany international [phone]
Germany national toll free 0800 1 536 376
Italy [phone]
Netherlands [phone]
Nordic/Baltic/CIS countries [phone]
Russia [phone]
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Switzerland [phone]
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Other Asian Countries [phone]
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VWR Corporate Headquarters
Radnor Corporate Center
Building One, Suite 200
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA
P.O. Box 6660
United States
www.vwr.com

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© 2019 VWR Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of VWR and 
its subsidiaries unless otherwise specified. 329689H01 0219