IKA RC 2 control recirculating chiller, highly efficient laboratory chiller with wireless controller, 0004173000

The IKA RC 2 control recirculating chiller represents a highly advanced, premium mechatronic system solution for the precise temperature control and extremely consistent cooling of sophisticated laboratory equipment and industrial processes. As the flagship model of the compact IKA chiller series, this system offers an unrivalled combination of energy efficiency, dynamic cooling capacity and digital connectivity. In sensitive applications such as the cooling of rotary evaporators, highly sensitive spectrometers, calorimeters or process engineering laboratory reactors, temperature-stable removal of process heat is the primary criterion for guaranteeing reproducible synthesis and measurement results in a way that is gentle on the material and ensures process reliability.

Intelligent thermoregulation and highly efficient refrigeration technology

The process engineering foundation of the RC 2 control is based on intelligent, demand-driven refrigeration cycle kinetics. Equipped with a speed-controlled compressor, the system dynamically adjusts its actual cooling capacity of up to 400 watts (at a medium temperature of 20 degrees Celsius) to the actual cooling requirements of the connected load. This transient adjustment noticeably reduces both energy consumption and waste heat in the laboratory. With an extended operating temperature range from –20 degrees Celsius to +40 degrees Celsius and outstanding temperature stability of ±0.05 K, the chiller meets the most demanding thermodynamic specifications. The natural refrigerant propane R290 (GWP=3) is used as a forward-looking solution; it meets the strictest environmental regulations and sustainably reduces the ecological footprint of laboratory operations.

Flexible media management with a detachable wireless controller (WiCo)

An outstanding mechatronic unique selling point of this ‘control’ variant is the innovative wireless controller (WiCo). The ergonomic control panel can be detached from the base unit in a single simple step. Via a reliable wireless connection, all relevant parameters – such as setpoint temperatures, pump speeds and safety limits – can be controlled remotely from a distance of up to 10 metres. This offers an invaluable advantage for health and safety: the chiller itself can be positioned to save space under a table or within enclosed laboratory units, whilst operation and visual process monitoring can be carried out conveniently, gently on the material and without risk from outside – for example, directly at the enclosed fume cupboard.

High-performance fluid mechanics and precise external control

The hydraulic system architecture is defined by a high-quality, speed-controlled pressure and suction pump. With a maximum flow rate of 21 litres per minute and a maximum delivery pressure of 0.5 bar (suction pressure max. 0.3 bar), the chiller delivers excellent flow dynamics even in complex and delicate experimental set-ups. Via the integrated connection for an external PT1000 temperature sensor, temperature control can be carried out directly in the target medium of the reactor or evaporator, thereby eliminating thermodynamic dead times. Modern USB and RS232 interfaces are available for seamless digitalisation and integration into higher-level laboratory software (such as labworldsoft ®), enabling comprehensive documentation and automated test profiles.

Technical details

Thermoregulation & Performance Data

• Cooling function: Circulating cooler / chiller with controlled cooling circuit
• Operating temperature range: -20 to +40 degrees Celsius
• Cooling capacity at 20 degrees Celsius (medium): 400 W
• Cooling capacity at 10 degrees Celsius (medium): 350 W
• Cooling capacity at 0 degrees Celsius (medium): 250 W
• Cooling capacity at -10 degrees Celsius (medium): 150 W
• Cooling capacity at -20 degrees Celsius (medium): 50 W
• Temperature stability in accordance with DIN 12876: +/- 0.05 K
• Refrigerant: R290 (natural, halogen-free, F-gas compliant)
• Refrigerant charge: approx. 21 g

Fluid mechanics & pump specifications

• Pump type: Adjustable pressure and suction pump
• Max. flow rate (free flow): 21 l/min
• Max. discharge pressure: 0.5 bar
• Max. suction pressure: 0.3 bar
• Minimum bath volume: 1.4 litres
• Max. bath volume: 4.0 litres
• Hose connections: M16x1 external thread (hose fittings included)

Construction, materials & geometry

• Housing material: Powder-coated stainless steel and robust composite plastic
• Overall dimensions (W x D x H): approx. 220 x 475 x 525 mm
• Net weight (empty): approx. 24.5 kg
• Protection class according to DIN EN 60529: IP 21
• Permissible ambient temperature: 5 to 32 degrees Celsius

Electronics, interfaces & safety

• Controller type: Detachable wireless controller (WiCo) with TFT display
• Interfaces: USB-B, RS232, DIN socket 12878 for external PT1000 sensor
• Safety systems: Integrated dry-run protection, visual/audible fault alarm, adjustable safety circuit, level sight glass
• Mains supply: 230 V / 50/60 Hz

Scope of supply

• 1 x IKA RC 2 control circulation chiller base unit (MPN: 0004173000)
• 1 x IKA Wireless Controller (WiCo) including integrated lithium-ion battery
• 2 x hose connectors for 8 mm internal hose diameter
• 2 x hose connectors for 12 mm internal hose diameter
• 1 x USB cable (A to B)
• 1 x Sturdy mains lead
• 1 x User manual / Quality certificate

Customised requirements & accessories

To ensure the IKA RC 2 control delivers maximum performance, we stock a comprehensive range of connection components and consumables. For leak-free media transfer at low temperatures, we recommend highly flexible, thermally insulated NBR or silicone hoses, including sturdy hose clamps. For highly efficient external temperature control directly within your application, we offer precise stainless steel temperature sensors (PT 1000.60). For low-temperature operation below 5 degrees Celsius, the use of genuine IKA cryogenic fluids (such as Labotherm) is essential to reliably prevent the internal heat exchanger from freezing. Please use our technical procurement service to configure your automated distillation or cooling system.