IKA RCT 5 digital magnetic stirrer with heating, 20 L, 850 W, 0020002704

Maximum heating power and capacity for demanding syntheses

In chemical synthesis, process engineering product development and demanding sample preparation, the precise and rapid temperature control of large volumes of liquid is a process-critical factor. The IKA RCT 5 digital is designed precisely for these demanding laboratory tasks and redefines the performance class of compact magnetic stirrers. Equipped with a robust, maintenance-free motor drive, the unit effortlessly handles stirring volumes of up to 20 litres (based on water) with a maximum permissible load of an impressive 25 kg. However, the decisive technological leap forward compared with conventional models lies in its extreme heating power of 850 watts. This power guarantees significantly reduced heating times (7.5 K/min for 1 litre of H₂O) even with large-volume batches, which measurably increases efficiency and throughput in day-to-day laboratory work.

Optimised heat transfer through ceramic-coated aluminium

The square base (137 x 137 mm) of the RCT 5 digital cleverly bridges the gap between two worlds, tailored to the specific material requirements. The core of the hotplate consists of a solid aluminium alloy, which ensures unrivalled rapid and uniform heat distribution right to the edges. To protect this thermally excellent base from the rigours of everyday laboratory use, it is sealed with an extremely durable, white ceramic coating. This high-tech surface makes the hotplate significantly more resistant to scratches than conventional metal hotplates and offers excellent chemical resistance against spilled acids, alkalis or aggressive solvents. The pure white colour of the ceramic also makes it much easier to visually monitor colour changes during titrations or complex reactions.

Intelligent stirring: viscosity measurement and programmable sequences

The RCT 5 digital is far more than a simple stirrer; it is an analytical tool. The instrument features integrated viscosity trend measurement. By continuously monitoring the torque, the microprocessor detects changes in the sample’s viscosity in real time – an indispensable feature for the precise determination of the endpoint in polymerisation reactions. The smart multifunction menu also allows for the free programming of complex stirring sequences. Users can define automatic changes in the direction of rotation (interval operation) to mix stubborn samples or two-phase mixtures (emulsions) more homogeneously. The precise timer and countdown function allows reactions to run safely and completely autonomously overnight without manual supervision.

Uncompromising occupational safety and GLP-compliant interfaces

Occupational Health and Safety is a key focus of the RCT 5 digital. The entire user interface and the brilliant LCD display are housed behind a continuous, chemical-resistant and tempered real glass pane, which prevents liquids from penetrating the electronics. An adjustable, independent safety circuit (50 to 370 °C) provides redundant monitoring of the hotplate. The ‘Hot Top’ indicator clearly warns the user of the risk of burns whilst the hotplate is still emitting residual heat after being switched off. An intelligent “Error 5” fault detection system switches the heating off immediately if the PT 1000 temperature sensor (included in the scope of delivery) accidentally slips out of the medium. For certified laboratories (GLP/GMP), the unit offers RS 232 and USB interfaces for seamless, tamper-proof digital documentation of all process parameters via labworldsoft.

Technical details

• Max. stirring volume (H₂O): 20 litres
• Maximum permissible load: 25 kg
• Heating power: 850 W
• Heating rate (1 litre H₂O in H 1500): 7.5 K/min
• Speed range: 50 – 1500 rpm (adjustable in 10 rpm increments)
• Direction of rotation change: Yes, automatic reverse rotation adjustable
• Temperature range (heating plate): Room temperature to 310 °C
• Adjustable safety limit: 50 – 370 °C
• Base (material): Aluminium alloy with white ceramic coating
• Base (dimensions): 137 x 137 mm (square)
• Temperature sensor connection: DIN socket (for PT 1000, ETS-D5, ETS-D6)
• Control accuracy with external PT 1000 sensor: ± 0.5 K
• User interface: Tempered, chemical-resistant glass
• Display: LCD (for setpoint and actual values of speed and temperature)
• Additional functions: Timer (up to 143,940 min), interval operation, viscosity trend measurement
• Safety: ‘Hot Top’ warning indicator, probe detection in the medium (Timeout Error 5)
• Interfaces: USB-B, RS 232 (for software control / firmware updates)
• Suitable stirrer rod length: 20 – 80 mm
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 160 x 85 x 270 mm
• Weight: 2.6 kg
• Protection class (DIN EN 60529): IP 42

Contents

• 1 x IKA RCT 5 digital magnetic stirrer with heating
• 1 x IKA PT 1000.60 temperature probe (stainless steel) for precise control within the medium
• 1 x IKAFLON 30 magnetic stirring bar
• 1 x IKAFLON 40 magnetic stirring bar
• 1 x screwdriver
• 1 x USB A-B cable (for data transfer)

Individual requirements & accessories

The included PT 1000 probe already gives you full control over the temperature of the medium. To position this probe accurately and securely in your reaction vessel, a suitable stand system is essential. We recommend ordering the IKA H 16 V support rod directly, in combination with the H 44 cross sleeve and the H 38 support rod. If you are working with extremely oily, viscous media, you can further optimise your results with special, cross-shaped magnetic stirring rods from our range. Our procurement service will be happy to advise you on GLP-compliant integration into your laboratory software.