IKA RC 2 lite recirculating chiller, compact laboratory chiller, 0025006624

The IKA RC 2 lite recirculating chiller offers a highly efficient, space-saving and environmentally friendly system solution for the precise temperature control and reliable recooling of laboratory equipment. As a compact chiller with a modern laboratory design, this unit is specifically designed to meet the continuous cooling requirements of smaller rotary evaporators, reflux coolers or analytical systems. In demanding thermal separation processes or the removal of process heat, a constant cooling capacity is the primary criterion for achieving stable condensation rates and conserving valuable raw water resources whilst minimising material wear.

Thermodynamic efficiency and cutting-edge refrigeration technology

The process engineering heart of the IKA RC 2 lite is based on a closed cooling circuit with a remarkable cooling capacity of up to 400 watts (at a medium temperature of 20 degrees Celsius). With a flexible operating temperature range from -10 degrees Celsius up to room temperature, the chiller covers all common routine cooling applications in everyday laboratory work. A pioneering feature in terms of materials science and environmental sustainability is the use of the natural and F-gas-compliant refrigerant R290 (propane). Thanks to its extremely low global warming potential (GWP=3), the system drastically minimises the global CO₂ footprint of laboratory operations and meets the highest environmental standards without compromising performance.

High-performance fluid mechanics and compact system architecture

The mechatronic design is uncompromisingly optimised for a minimal footprint (benchtop design) whilst delivering maximum hydraulic performance. The integrated, high-quality pressure pump delivers a maximum flow rate of 18 litres per minute at a maximum delivery pressure of 0.3 bar. This fluid mechanics characteristic curve guarantees a rapid, uniform flow through the connected components and effortlessly overcomes the flow resistance of delicate laboratory glassware. The internal bath tank’s minimal fill volume of just 1 litre enables extremely short thermal response times, whilst the maximum tank volume of 3.5 litres ensures high temperature stability during continuous operation.

Intuitive media management and uncompromising safety

The RC 2 lite’s user interface is designed with ergonomics in mind and allows for intuitive control of the setpoint temperature. A large, high-contrast LED display shows the current actual temperature and important operating statuses in real time. To ensure optimal and material-friendly media management, the housing features a clearly visible sight glass for continuous monitoring of the fill level, as well as an easily accessible filling opening on the top. The safety-oriented system architecture includes integrated dry-run protection, a visual and audible alarm should limit values be exceeded, and a fine-mesh, easy-to-clean air filter system to ensure consistently high condenser efficiency.

Technical details

Thermoregulation & Performance Data

• Cooling function: Circulating cooler / chiller in a closed circuit
• Operating temperature range: -10 to room temperature (RT)
• 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): 110 W
• Temperature stability in accordance with DIN 12876: ± 0.5 K
• Refrigerant: R290 (natural refrigerant, GWP=3)
• Refrigerant charge: approx. 21 g

Fluid mechanics & pump specifications

• Pump type: Pressure pump
• Max. flow rate (free flow): 18 l/min
• Max. delivery pressure: 0.3 bar
• Minimum bath volume: 1.0 litres
• Max. bath volume: 3.5 litres
• Hose connections: NW 8 (hose connectors included)

Construction, materials & geometry

• Housing material: Powder-coated steel and robust plastic composite
• Overall dimensions (W x H x D): approx. 225 x 375 x 410 mm
• Net weight (excluding temperature-control fluid): approx. 23.5 kg
• Protection class according to DIN EN 60529: IP 21
• Permissible ambient temperature: 5 to 32 degrees Celsius

Electronics, displays & safety

• Display: Large, high-contrast LED display
• Operation: Ergonomic membrane keypad
• Safety systems: Integrated dry-run protection, visual/audible fault alarm, overload protection for the compressor
• Mains supply: 230 V / 50/60 Hz

Scope of delivery

• 1 x IKA RC 2 lite circulation cooler base unit (MPN: 0025006624)
• 2 x hose connectors for 8 mm inner diameter hoses
• 1 x robust mains lead
• 1 x operating instructions

Important note: Suitable temperature-control fluids (e.g. water-glycol mixtures) and vacuum-resistant connecting hoses are not included as standard and must be ordered separately according to the specific application. Operation with pure H₂O is only recommended at operating temperatures above 5 degrees Celsius to reliably prevent the heat exchanger from freezing.

Customised requirements & accessories

To ensure the IKA RC 2 lite integrates seamlessly into your existing system infrastructure, we offer a comprehensive range of original components. For leak-free media transport, our portfolio includes highly flexible, thermally insulated NBR or silicone hoses, complete with matching hose clamps. To ensure safe operation at low temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius, we recommend using original IKA cooling fluids (such as Labotherm), which reliably prevent the fluid circuit from freezing. For connection to rotary evaporators from other manufacturers, we also offer an extensive range of threaded adaptors and Y-distributors. Please use our technical procurement service to configure your cooling system.