IKA RC 2 basic, recirculating cooler, 400 W cooling capacity, -20 °C, 0004171000

Thermodynamic compression refrigeration machine and isochoric heat sink

The condensation of solvent vapours in rotary evaporators or temperature control in double-walled reactors requires a constant, thermodynamically stable heat sink to dissipate the exothermic heat generated. The IKA RC 2 basic operates as a high-performance recirculating chiller with a microprocessor-controlled compression refrigeration unit. At an ambient temperature of 20 °C, the system generates a substantial cooling capacity of 400 watts and cools the circulating temperature-control medium down to -20 °C. Unlike unregulated mains water circuits, the RC 2 basic completely eliminates the hydrological fluctuations typical of domestic water networks. The cybernetic PID control algorithm modulates the cooling system in real time and guarantees metrological temperature stability of ± 0.1 K, which completely stabilises the vapour pressure of the condensing fluids in the vacuum setup.

Fluid mechanics and PEEK pressure-suction kinematics

The hydrodynamic peripherals of the RC 2 basic are designed for maximum process flexibility. At the heart of the fluidics is a generously dimensioned pressure and suction pump made from highly chemically resistant polyetheretherketone (PEEK). This pump generates a maximum flow rate of 15 litres per minute and a delivery pressure of 0.3 bar. The key physical function of this pressure-suction principle is the ability not only to control the temperature of closed systems (such as the cooling coils of rotary evaporators), but also to actively draw the medium back from external open baths. This physically prevents hydrodynamic overflow in asymmetrical peripheral systems. The internal, highly insulated stainless steel storage tank (up to 4.0 litres in volume) acts as a thermal buffer to smooth out kinetic load fluctuations from the external consumer.

System stability and energy efficiency

The architectural integration of the RC 2 basic into the laboratory infrastructure is designed for minimal space requirements and maximum continuous load. The heat exchangers (microchannel condensers) are thermodynamically optimised to minimise energy consumption. An easily accessible, mechanical stainless-steel mesh filter protects the condenser from particulate blockages (dust) originating from the laboratory environment, thereby maintaining thermodynamic efficiency in the long term. Parameter control is carried out via a high-contrast LED display, which shows the current temperature readings in real time.

Technical Details

Thermodynamics & Refrigeration Technology

• Operating temperature range: -20 °C to room temperature
• Cooling capacity (at 20 °C): 400 W
• Cooling capacity (at 0 °C): 350 W
• Cooling capacity (at -20 °C): 140 W
• Refrigeration technology: Compression refrigeration machine
• Refrigerant: R134a (charge defined metrologically)

Metrology & control technology

• Temperature controller: PID microprocessor
• Temperature stability (in accordance with DIN 12876): ± 0.1 K
• Temperature display: Digital LED display
• Setting and display resolution: 0.1 K

Fluid Mechanics & Pump Kinematics

• Pump principle: Pressure and suction pump
• Pump material (in contact with the fluid): PEEK (polyetheretherketone)
• Max. flow rate (pressure side): 15 l/min
• Max. discharge pressure: 0.3 bar
• Max. suction head: 0.2 bar
• Pump connections (inlet/outlet): M16x1 external thread

System infrastructure & dimensions

• Bath volume (minimum / maximum): 1.4 litres / 4.0 litres
• Material of the inner chamber / bath: Stainless steel
• System dimensions (W x H x D): 220 x 475 x 525 mm
• Machine weight: approx. 29.5 kg
• Level indicator: Visual indicator on the front of the housing

Safety & environmental conditions

• Safety feature: Visual and audible warning signals at critical fill level
• Permissible ambient temperature range: 5 – 32 °C
• Permissible relative humidity: max. 80 %
• Protection class (to DIN EN 60529): IP 21

Electrical & Connectivity

• Voltage / Frequency: 230 V / 50/60 Hz
• Power consumption: max. 300 W (depending on the thermal load)
• Data interfaces: USB and RS 232 (for labworldsoft®integration)

Contents of delivery

• 1 x IKA RC 2 basic recirculating chiller
• 2 x olive fittings (hose connections for DN 8)
• 1 x power cable for cooling units
• 1 x USB cable (A-B)

Important note: Thermally insulated pump hoses (to prevent thermodynamic losses and condensation), an external temperature-control medium and heat transfer oils are essential for correct operation and are not included in the scope of delivery.

Customised requirements & accessories

The RC 2 basic generates significant thermal gradients. To transfer this cooling capacity to the external reactor or rotary evaporator without loss, the use of uninsulated silicone hoses is thermodynamically prohibited (significant loss of cooling capacity and condensation on the outer surface). You must obtain highly insulated IKA temperature-control hoses (M16x1). To prevent algae growth or corrosion within the closed PEEK/stainless steel system, we recommend using specific heat transfer fluids (such as IKA H.F.) instead of pure demineralised water. Please contact our procurement service at any time for the fluid dynamics- and thermodynamics-correct configuration of your cooling circuit.