How do you freeze dry for taxidermy?

Freeze drying uses a process called lyophilization to gently freeze the specimen, and extract the water in the form of vapour using a high-pressure vacuum. The vapour collects on a condenser, turns back into ice and is removed. A gradual temperature rise extracts all remaining ‘bound’ moisture from the specimen.

How much does it cost to run freeze dryer?

Your freeze dryer will cost an estimated $1.25-$2.80 a day, depending on power costs in your area. At peak, the large freeze dryer draws about 16 amps, but on the average about 10 amps (1500 watts) of power per hour.

How long does freeze dried taxidermy last?

Something as small as a mouse typically takes 30-45 days. A small 5-7 lb dog or cat may take 6 months or more. Larger animals weighing 50 lbs or more usually stay in a machine for 9 months or longer.

Why are freeze dry machines used in taxidermy?

Freeze dry machines are most efficient when “drying” frozen material, rather than initially freezing the material, then drying it. The important factor in pre-freezing any type of specimen is that the specimen is completely frozen throughout. The Drying Stage

Which is the correct temperature for taxidermy to solidify?

When frozen, various taxidermy specimens will totally solidify at different temperatures. The temperature of complete solidification is the taxidermy specimens eutectic (pronounced yu-tek-tic) temperature.

What should the temperature be in a freeze dry machine?

Generally this temperature should be as 0 degrees F. and then raised even higher after a period of time. Using these figures as guidelines, the taxidermist using the freeze dry machine should determine at what temperature his work is most successful. Some factors to consider when analyzing proper processing temperatures include:

Is it good to have a freeze dryer at home?

A home freeze dryer is perfect for any lifestyle. A freeze dryer allows you to keep your home-grown fruits and vegetables fresh for years and years. Freeze drying at home is the very best way to preserve your garden harvest. It truly is the gardener’s best friend.