IKA HB digital heating bath, 4 litres, water/oil, 180 °C, 0020016334

Thermodynamic heat transfer and dual matrix compatibility

In preparative distillation and thermal sample preparation, the precise and loss-free transfer of thermal energy into reaction vessels is essential. The IKA HB digital is designed as a universal thermodynamic heating bath that allows the physical application of two fundamentally different heat transfer media: water and thermal silicone oils. The monolithic heating bath is manufactured from high-alloy, corrosion-resistant stainless steel (AISI 304). A ring heating element integrated into the base transfers thermal energy through the stainless steel matrix directly into the liquid medium with a massive heating power of 1350 watts. Controlled by a microprocessor-based control system, the system heats aqueous media to up to 100 °C and, thanks to the seamless switch to high-boiling-point silicone oils, enables a maximum operating temperature of 180 °C – a condition that is physically essential for the distillation of low-volatility solvents under high vacuum.

Flow mechanics of the piston geometry and dead volume minimisation

The architectural geometry of the 4-litre volume is precisely calibrated, from a process engineering perspective, to meet the fluid dynamics requirements of rotary evaporators (such as the IKA RV series). The elliptical tank shape, optimised for low-point performance, conforms to the contour of rotating evaporator flasks (up to 3 litres in volume). This design-driven minimisation of thermodynamic dead volume (less unused fluid in the peripheral areas) drastically reduces the specific heat capacity of the bath that needs to be utilised. This results in significantly steeper heating rates (isochoric heat flux) and faster thermal equilibrium of the system, which massively reduces energy consumption during continuous operation.

System cybernetics and mechanical health and safety

The use of thermal oils at 180 °C poses enormous occupational health risks (thermal injuries). The HB digital is equipped with a hardware-based, continuously adjustable safety circuit. This independent sensor monitors the maximum temperature and, should it be exceeded, immediately cuts off the power supply via the hardware (preventing the oils from reaching their flash point). The cybernetic LCD interface features an electronic lock function (key lock), which physically prevents accidental manipulation of the target temperature caused by swiping movements or vibrations during the distillation process. To safely remove the thermodynamically saturated, hot fluids after the batch process, the chassis is fitted with two thermally decoupled, ergonomic carrying handles that enable safe transport without contact with walls.

Technical details

Thermodynamics & Heating Technology

• Heating power / heat transfer: 1350 W
• Operating temperature range: Room temperature to 180 °C
• Dual compatibility: Approved for demineralised water and thermal silicone oils
• Heating bath material: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel (grade 1.4301 / AISI 304)
• Heating element design: Integrated ring heater in the bottom of the bath

Metrology & Control Technology

• Control: Microprocessor control (PID)
• Setting and display resolution: 1 K
• User interface: High-contrast LCD display for setpoint and actual values
• Control accuracy: ± 1 K (depending on the medium)

Geometry & Dimensions

• Total volume of the inner chamber: 4.0 litres
• Optimised flask size (rotary evaporator): standard up to 1 litre (maximum 3 litres)
• System dimensions (W x H x D): 330 x 190 x 325 mm
• Weight (unloaded): 3.0 kg

Safety & Environmental Conditions

• Independent safety circuit: Continuously adjustable from 50 to 210 °C
• Operational safety: Integrated lock function (key lock)
• Tamper protection: Thermally decoupled carrying handles in the chassis
• Permissible ambient temperature range: 5 – 40 °C
• Permissible relative humidity: max. 80%
• Protection class (to DIN EN 60529): IP 21

Electrical & Connectivity

• Voltage / Frequency: 200 – 240 V / 50/60 Hz
• Power consumption: max. 1350 W

Contents of delivery

• 1 x IKA HB digital heating bath
• 1 x IT equipment mains cable (Schuko)

(Important note: Thermal fluids, silicone oils or protective polycarbonate covers are not included!)

Individual requirements & accessories

The HB digital is the core thermodynamic module for rotary evaporator systems. If you are distilling solvents with high boiling points, water is physically insufficient as a heat transfer medium (limited to a maximum of 100 °C). In this case, you must obtain temperature-stable IKA thermal fluid (silicone oil) with a flash point well above your operating temperature. To minimise water evaporation losses during long-term distillations and to increase energy efficiency, we recommend using the appropriate IKA protective hood (HB 10.1). Please contact our procurement service at any time for thermodynamically correct calculations of cooling and heating circuits.