Reactor systems
Reactor systems enable controlled chemical synthesis on a laboratory scale. LT Laborhandel stocks IKA laboratory reactors from the LR series, featuring vacuum and temperature control, as well as the new EasySyn synthesis reactors with EUROSTAR stirrers in a range of volume sizes. Our service team will be happy to advise you on the most suitable configuration.
IKA LR 1000 control system, laboratory reactor, vacuum, 1000 ml, 0025001991
Scale-up and thermodynamic process control In demanding chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical formulation development and cosmetic polymer processing, the precise reproducibility of thermodynamic and rheological parameters is absolutely essential. The IKA LR 1000 control system is a highly integrated, modular reactor platform that physically simulates the fluid dynamic and thermal behaviour of large-scale industrial production plants on a 1,000-millilitre scale. The system consists of a processor-controlled base station with integrated heating, a borosilicate glass reactor suitable for high vacuum, and high-precision sensor technology. The direct thermal coupling of the heating plate to the reactor base enables a substantial energy input, which heats the medium to precisely defined process temperatures of up to 120 °C. This allows complex endothermic reactions to be carried out or high-molecular-weight resins to be melted under strictly controlled laboratory conditions. Rheology and wall-near mixing kinetics The processing of non-Newtonian, structurally viscous fluids requires specialised mechanical energy input. The system is factory-fitted with the IKA LR 1000.10 anchor stirrer. This stirring element, manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, induces immense radial and tangential shear stresses in the medium. The integrated PEEK scrapers continuously abrade the inner wall of the reactor vessel. This kinematics mechanically breaks down the highly insulating thermal boundary layer (hotspots) on the heated glass wall and maximises the convective heat transfer coefficient in matrices with a dynamic viscosity of up to 100,000 mPa·s. To ensure the gentle discharge of these viscous gels and pastes, the reactor vessel (LR 1000.3) included in the set features a dead-space-free bottom drain valve at the lowest point of the vessel. Metrological data acquisition and pH integration The key difference from the “basic” version lies in the metrological superiority of the “control” infrastructure. The base station features a multilingual TFT display which not only controls the rotation speed (10 to 150 rpm) and the heating power, but also acts as a central hub for chemical sensor technology. The system allows the direct connection of pH electrodes for in-situ monitoring of acid-base reactions. The temperature at the core of the medium is simultaneously recorded by the supplied PT 100.30 sensor. An integrated weighing algorithm also continuously measures changes in the torque trend of the stirring mechanism, enabling highly precise, indirect real-time analysis of increases in viscosity (for example, during polymerisation processes). Vacuum architecture and digital system integration Control of the reactor atmosphere is essential for the bubble-free degassing of emulsions or for moisture-sensitive reactions. The system is designed for hermetically sealed vacuum operation. Standard-threaded ports (NS 14 and NS 29) in the lid allow for the gas-tight insertion of sensors and the connection of vacuum pumps or inert gas lines. For certified laboratories (GLP/GMP), the “control” system offers seamless digital traceability. The integrated USB and RS-232 interfaces allow the entire reactor to be connected to a PC in a tamper-proof manner. Using the IKA labworldsoft software, complex temperature and speed ramps can be programmed, and all metrological measurement data (temperature, pH value, torque) can be archived with precise time stamps for official QM audits. Technical details Maximum working volume: 1000 ml Max. operating temperature of the product: 120 °C Viscosity limit: 100,000 mPa·s Rotational speed range: 10 – 150 rpm Torque trend measurement: Integrated for rheological monitoring Temperature measurement: Integrated (including PT 100.30 sensor) pH measurement: Connection for external pH electrode provided (BNC) Vacuum compatibility: System is approved for vacuum operation Product discharge: Via a bottom-mounted drain valve (LR 1000.3) Display: High-resolution TFT display for process visualisation Materials (in contact with the medium): Borosilicate glass 3.3, stainless steel 1.4404, PEEK, PTFE, FFPM Interfaces: USB, RS 232 (compatible with IKA labworldsoft) Permissible ambient temperature: 5 – 40 °C Protection class (according to DIN EN 60529): IP 21 Scope of delivery 1 x IKA LR 1000 control base station 1 x IKA LR 1000.3 laboratory reactor vessel (with bottom drain valve) 1 x IKA LR 1000.10 anchor stirrer (with PEEK scrapers) 1 x IKA PT 100.30 temperature probe 1 x sensor cable (for pH and temperature) 1 x USB cable for data logging 1 x Detailed operating instructions Customised requirements & accessories The LR 1000 control system is supplied as a fully functional complete package. However, to upgrade it to a fully automated synthesis unit, we recommend the following process-related additions: To record acid-base titrations, a separate pH electrode with a BNC connector is required. For bubble-free dispersion under high vacuum, you will also require the LR 1000.41 shaft holder in combination with a T 25 digital LR drive. Please contact our procurement service at any time regarding the complex software integration (IKA labworldsoft) and the fluid dynamics configuration of your specific reactor.
IKA LR 1000.61 Probe holder, for LR 1000, 0004664400
Thermodynamic system integration and absolute hermetic sealing In chemical reaction engineering and the control of high-viscosity polymerisation processes, the precise in-situ measurement of the reaction temperature is crucial for process reliability and kinetics. In order to insert a metrological temperature sensor (such as the PT 100.30) directly into the core of the reaction medium, the physical barrier of the reactor must be breached. The IKA LR 1000.61 sensor holder acts as a static bridge element, connecting this sensor system in an absolutely gas-tight manner to the standard-threaded ports of the LR 1000 reactor lid. The geometrically precise seal fits ensure that the vacuum is not compromised during high-speed degassing of viscous matrices. At the same time, the uncontrolled inflow of atmospheric oxygen during moisture-sensitive reactions (under an inert gas atmosphere) is physically and completely prevented. Metrological Z-axis calibration To ensure representative thermodynamic mapping of the reactor, the sensor’s measuring tip must not remain within the thermal boundary layer of the temperature-controlled reactor wall or in a fluid dynamic dead zone. The design of the LR 1000.61 mounting allows for stepless adjustment of the axial immersion depth (Z-axis) of the inserted sensor. The user can position the sensor with millimetre precision within the fluid core, where the mixing kinetics are highest due to the agitators. The mechanical clamping mechanism then permanently secures the sensor’s stainless steel shaft, preventing axial displacement caused by hydrostatic pressure or the suction generated by the agitator. Mechanical vibration damping and structural integrity High-viscosity, structurally viscous media generate massive tangential flow resistance and high-frequency vibrations when large anchor agitators rotate. These hydrodynamic loads transmit lateral bending moments to the long, thin shaft of the temperature sensor. The LR 1000.61 mounting fixture rigidly secures the sensor in place and absorbs these lateral shear forces. This protects the sensitive platinum resistance structure (PT 100) inside the sensor from microscopic cable breaks or mechanical vibrations that could cause it to lose calibration. All components of the mounting that come into contact with the medium are made from highly chemically resistant materials to withstand corrosive solvent vapours at temperatures of up to 120 °C over the long term. Technical details Product type: Probe holder / Mechanical sensor adapter Process engineering function: Gas-tight integration and static fixation Metrological benefit: Stepless adjustment of the axial immersion depth Vibration mechanics: Absorbs lateral hydrodynamic flow forces Compatibility (reactor): Exclusively suitable for IKA LR 1000 lid systems Compatibility (sensor): Designed for slim probes (such as PT 100.30) Vacuum compatibility: Guarantees absolute system hermeticity during evacuation Thermodynamic resistance: Designed for reactor temperatures up to 120 °C Installation: Form-fit mounting in the standard-threaded ports of the reactor lid Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.61 probe holder (Important note: The temperature probe and the LR 1000 reactor vessel are not included in the scope of delivery!) Custom requirements & accessories The LR 1000.61 holder is a purely mechanical locking component. To enable thermodynamic monitoring within the reactor, the use of the appropriate IKA PT 100.30 temperature probe is essential. This probe is guided precisely through the holder and connected to the IKA LR 1000 base station to control the heating power in real time based on the metrological in-situ data. Please contact our specialist procurement service at any time for a thermodynamically and mechanically fault-free configuration of your reactor sensor system.
IKA LR-2.ST Starvisc 200 laboratory reactor, #0020020603
IKA LR-2.ST Starvisc 200 laboratory reactor, #0020020603
IKA HABITAT photo (cell), photobioreactor control unit, 0010007553
Photobiological kinetics and spectral emission In the cultivation of photoautotrophic organisms (such as microalgae, cyanobacteria or plant suspension cultures), the application of the exact amount of photonic energy is the limiting metabolic factor. The IKA HABITAT photo (cell) bioreactor is metrologically designed for the high-precision manipulation of these light-driven kinetics. The system controls dedicated LED panels that surround the glass reactor. These emitters deliver a defined amount of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). The automation software enables the precise programming of circadian rhythms (day-night cycles) as well as the stepless modulation of light intensity. This photonic control optimises electron transport in the cells’ photosystems and maximises the thermodynamic efficiency of biomass or secondary metabolite production without triggering a lethal photooxidative stress response (photoinhibition). Rheology and the limitation of hydromechanical shear forces Cell cultures, particularly eukaryotic or filamentous microalgae, do not possess a rigid cell wall structure like classical bacteria and are extremely sensitive to mechanical stress. The HABITAT photo (cell) is designed from a fluid mechanics perspective for absolute low-shear operation. Driven by the control unit, highly specialised mixing tools (such as marine impellers) convert kinetic rotational energy into a gentle, high-volume axial flow. This three-dimensional vortex generation prevents the gravitational sedimentation of the cells within the reactor and ensures homogeneous illumination of all particles (avoiding self-shading), whilst the hydrodynamic shear forces are kept strictly below the critical threshold for physical cell rupture (cell lysis). Thermodynamic automation and sensor metrology Maintaining biological integrity requires continuous monitoring of the physico-chemical environment. The HABITAT photo Tower acts as a cybernetic centre. Integrated mass flow controllers (MFCs) dispense gases (specifically CO₂ as an inorganic carbon source, as well as air/O₂) into the medium with the highest volumetric precision in order to adjust the mass transfer coefficient (kLa) to the metabolic requirements of the culture. The high-resolution sensor system measures parameters such as pH and dissolved oxygen (DO). Using complex PID algorithms, the system immediately compensates for thermodynamic fluctuations or pH shifts via automated acid/base titration or adjustment of the gas flow rates, thereby guaranteeing seamless metrological reproducibility of the bioprocess under the strictest GLP/GMP requirements. Technical details Product type: Bioprocess control unit / Photobioreactor tower (cell culture) Photobiological function: Control of external LED panels (PAR emission) Fluid mechanics: Optimised for low-shear axial mixing Gas supply system: Integrated mass flow controllers (MFC) for precise gas mixtures Sensor metrology: Connections for pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, level/foam Cybernetics: Automated PID control for temperature, pH and DO cascades Data integrity: Seamless process logging and audit trail capability System hermeticity: Ensures axial leak-tightness and containment for sterile cultures Scope of supply 1 x IKA HABITAT photo (cell) control tower (Control Unit) (Important note: The specific autoclavable glass vessels, sensors, LED panels, stirrer motors and the essential recirculating chillers for temperature control are highly modular and are not included with this basic control unit!) Individual requirements & accessories The HABITAT photo (cell) control unit is the metrological ‘brain’ of the system, but requires the physical infrastructure to establish a functioning bioprocess. The selection of the correct double-jacketed glass vessel (scalable from 0.5 to 10 litres) and the corresponding LED illumination cylinder must be precisely tailored to the thermodynamic and optical requirements of your culture. To compensate for thermal energy (exothermic reactions from the LEDs and metabolism), the integration of a high-precision cryostat is essential. For the complex, process-engineering configuration of your individual photobioreactor setup, please be sure to contact our specialist procurement service.
IKA LR 1000.1 laboratory reactor vessel, vacuum reactor vessel, 1000 ml, 0003602000
Thermodynamic process control at the demanding laboratory scale In chemical process engineering, pharmaceutical formulation development and cosmetic synthesis, the precise scale-up of reactions is a highly critical physical challenge. The IKA LR 1000.1 laboratory reactor vessel, as a modular core component of the LR 1000 basic and control systems, is designed precisely for this task. With a usable volume of 1000 millilitres, the vessel enables the precise simulation of industrial mixing and dispersion processes. The thermodynamic design of the vessel allows for a continuous maximum operating temperature of the product of up to 120 °C. Thanks to the direct thermal coupling with the base unit’s heating element, thermal energy is transferred absolutely homogeneously into the reaction medium. This prevents localised overheating (hotspots), which could lead to the denaturation of thermolabile active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or to the uncontrolled boiling of solvents. Fluid mechanics for extremely high-viscosity media Conventional beakers or Erlenmeyer flasks immediately reach their physical limits when processing viscous ointments, highly concentrated polymer solutions or resins. The cylindrical LR 1000.1 vessel is fluid-dynamically optimised for processing media with a dynamic viscosity of up to 100,000 mPa·s. When combined with the appropriate IKA anchor stirrers (such as the LR 1000.11) or high-performance T 25 ULTRA-TURRAX dispersers, this vessel generates immense hydrodynamic shear forces. The wall-following agitation prevents viscous product residues from adhering to the vessel walls, guarantees continuous mass transfer and ensures the physical stability of complex, multiphase emulsions and suspensions. Hermetic isolation and absolute vacuum compatibility A key feature for demanding syntheses is complete control over the atmosphere inside the reactor. The LR 1000.1 is designed for highly sealed operation under vacuum. This is an essential process requirement for the bubble-free degassing of viscous gels or for carrying out moisture-sensitive reactions under inert protective gases (such as argon or nitrogen). The solid reactor lid is equipped with standardised ground-joint ports (3 x NS 14 and 1 x NS 29) for this purpose. These precision-ground ports allow for the absolutely gas-tight insertion of PT 100 temperature sensors, pH electrodes, drip funnels for the precise dosing of reactants, or reflux condensers for the condensation of volatile solvents. The vacuum valve (NS 14), which is already integrated into the lid, enables the direct, controlled evacuation of the system. Material integrity for GMP-regulated environments To rule out cross-contamination and ensure complete chemical resistance to aggressive acids, strong alkalis and organic solvents, all components in contact with the process medium are made from materials of the highest industrial grade. The transparent reactor vessel is made from temperature-cycling-resistant borosilicate glass 3.3, which enables continuous visual monitoring of phase transitions or colour changes during the process. The metallic components, such as sensor feed-throughs and screw connections, are made from high-quality AISI 316L stainless steel, whilst PTFE and extremely durable FPM elastomers serve as sealing materials. The entire reactor vessel can be completely dismantled and cleaned thermally or chemically for decontamination in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. Technical details Maximum working volume: 1000 ml Max. operating temperature of the product: 120 °C Fluid dynamics design: For viscosities up to 100,000 mPa·s (system-dependent) Vacuum compatibility: Designed for vacuum operation and degassing processes Reactor vessel material: Borosilicate glass 3.3 (highly transparent, chemically resistant) Material (metals in contact with the medium): AISI 316L stainless steel (material no. 1.4404) Seal material: FPM (fluorinated rubber) and PTFE Lid connections (standard ground joints): 3 x NS 14, 1 x NS 29 Vacuum integration: Includes NS 14 vacuum tap for direct evacuation Compatible drive systems: IKA LR 1000 basic base and LR 1000 control base Permissible ambient temperature: 5 – 40 °C Hygiene: Can be completely dismantled for thorough cleaning Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.1 laboratory reactor vessel (1000 ml, borosilicate glass) 1 x reactor lid with FPM seals 2 x NS 14 glass stoppers (including clamps) 1 x NS 29 glass stopper (including fixing clamp) 1 x NS 14 vacuum tap (Important note: The IKA base unit, sensors and stirring and dispersing tools are not included in the scope of delivery!) Customised requirements & accessories The LR 1000.1 vessel is the reaction vessel itself and must be coupled with the LR 1000 basic base or control base heating unit. For mechanical drive, you will also require the appropriate IKA anchor stirrer (e.g. model LR 1000.11 in stainless steel or LR 1000.10 with PEEK scrapers for media that adhere strongly to the vessel walls). If you wish to use the vessel in conjunction with an ULTRA-TURRAX T 25 for high-shear dispersion, we would be happy to advise you on the appropriate shaft mounting. Please feel free to contact our procurement service, which specialises in process engineering, at any time for a bespoke configuration of your reactor system.
IKA EasySyn 500 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113433
IKA EasySyn 500 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113433
IKA LR 1000.11 anchor stirrer, stainless steel, for LR 1000, 0004663000
Macroscopic mixing and near-wall kinetics In the process engineering formulation of highly viscous, pasty or structurally viscous media (such as gels, dense emulsions or polymer suspensions), conventional axial agitators reach their physical limits. In viscous fluids, they merely create local flow cavities, whilst the remainder of the sample matrix stagnates against the reactor wall. The IKA LR 1000.11 anchor stirrer is geometrically designed to precisely match the cylindrical dimensions of the LR 1000 laboratory reactor. Thanks to its U-shaped, wall-proximate design, the stirrer engages with the medium throughout the entire reactor volume. The rotation of the anchor primarily induces tangential and radial flow fields. These shear stresses break down the fluid’s viscosity along the shear gradient, forcing the material near the wall into mass transfer and virtually eliminating fluid-mechanical dead zones. Thermodynamic convection in viscous matrices Even without the use of direct physical wall scrapers (as in the LR 1000.10 model), the geometry of the LR 1000.11 massively improves the thermodynamic efficiency of the reactor system. The rotation close to the wall generates microscopic turbulence in the thermal boundary layer between the reactor wall and the medium. This constant physical exchange of molecular layers continuously draws the fluid, heated by the heating block, into the cooler reactor core. This significantly increases the convective heat transfer coefficient (k-value), drastically minimises temperature gradients within the 1000-ml volume and proactively protects thermolabile analytes from local denaturation. Absolute chemical inertness thanks to a single-material design An outstanding analytical advantage of the LR 1000.11 is the complete absence of polymer components or elastomers. The entire stirrer – from the drive shaft to the anchor blades – is manufactured from solid, corrosion-resistant AISI 316L stainless steel (material number 1.4404). This molybdenum-alloyed austenitic steel offers unrivalled chemical inertness. The anchor stirrer can be used without hesitation in highly aggressive media, concentrated organic solvents, strong acids or at extreme pH values, where stirring elements containing PEEK or PTFE components would be chemically attacked or could swell. GLP-compliant sterilisation and hygiene The absence of wear-prone wiper lips or complex mechanical joints makes the LR 1000.11 a highly hygienic piece of equipment. The smooth, electropolished stainless steel surfaces offer no microscopic surfaces for bacterial biofilms or stubborn chemical residues to adhere to. To ensure strict compliance with GLP/GMP hygiene guidelines, the stirring element can be thermally sterilised in an autoclave at 121 °C (or higher) an unlimited number of times, or thoroughly decontaminated in aggressive ultrasonic baths. Technical details Product type: Anchor stirrer (without scraper) Fluid dynamics design: For highly viscous, laminar and paste-like media Design principle: Rotation close to the wall to generate tangential flows Thermodynamic advantage: Promotion of convective heat transfer within the reactor Compatibility: Exclusively for IKA LR 1000 laboratory reactor systems Material: Solid AISI 316L stainless steel (material no. 1.4404) Chemical resistance: Complete resistance to organic solvents and aggressive acids Wear parts: None (no polymers used whatsoever) Max. permissible operating temperature: 120 °C (limited by the reactor system) Hygiene: Fully autoclavable and chemically sterilisable Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.11 anchor stirrer (stainless steel) (Important note: The IKA LR 1000 reactor vessel and the base station are not included in the scope of delivery!) Customised requirements & accessories The LR 1000.11 anchor stirrer is the mechanical mixing element and must be operated in conjunction with an IKA LR 1000.1 or LR 1000.3 reactor vessel. If you require even more thorough thermodynamic mixing of the boundary layer when working with extremely sticky resins or those prone to scorching, we recommend switching to the LR 1000.10 model with active PEEK scrapers. Please contact our procurement service at any time for the rheologically correct design of your reaction vessels.
IKA LR 1000.64 pH electrode for the LR 1000 system, BNC, 0004663300
Potentiometric in-situ analysis in complex matrices In chemical process control and pharmaceutical synthesis, the pH value is a critical thermodynamic and kinetic control parameter. The traditional method of taking samples for external pH determination distorts the metrological result due to temperature drop and oxidation, and compromises the reactor’s hermetic seal. The IKA LR 1000.64 pH electrode enables continuous, potentiometric in-situ measurement directly within the active process space. At its electrochemical core is an ion-selective glass membrane. As soon as this is immersed in the aqueous or partially aqueous medium, a galvanic interface potential is generated through the exchange of hydrogen ions (protons). The potential difference between this measuring half-cell and an internal reference system (Ag/AgCl) is recorded as a voltage signal and converted into the exact pH value by the connected transmitter using the Nernst equation. Diaphragm mechanics in highly viscous fluids Measurement in highly structurally viscous, pasty or particle-laden media – such as those typically processed in the LR 1000 reactor – poses a major physical challenge for conventional pH probes. Polymers or resins clog the diaphragm, blocking the essential electrical ion exchange between the reference electrolyte and the reaction medium and leading to significant measurement errors (drift). The LR 1000.64 electrode is geometrically and mechanically engineered specifically for these harsh rheological environments. The specific design of the fluid interface minimises the tendency to clog and guarantees a stable, noise-free signal flow even with extremely viscous polymers or emulsions. System integration and thermal compensation To maintain the reaction chamber under vacuum or inert gas during measurement, the electrode is inserted gas-tight into the lid of the LR 1000 reactor vessel via a standard ground joint. The electrical signal is transmitted via a standardised, heavily shielded BNC connector. As the galvanic potential in the Nernst equation is subject to a strict thermodynamic temperature dependence, the pH value must be continuously corrected by calculation. In the IKA LR 1000 control system, the raw signal from the LR 1000.64 electrode is coupled in real time with the in-situ data from the PT 100 temperature sensor to generate an absolutely temperature-compensated (ATC) and metrologically accurate pH output. Seamless GLP data acquisition The combination of the LR 1000.64 electrode and the IKA LR 1000 control system transforms the reactor into a self-contained analytical station. Acid-base titrations or pH-induced phase transitions can be recorded seamlessly. Using the IKA labworldsoft laboratory software, pH curves can be logged in synchronisation with torque and temperature trends in a tamper-proof manner. For certified laboratories subject to strict GLP or GMP guidelines, this is a fundamental prerequisite for successful QM audits. Technical details Product type: Potentiometric pH electrode Measuring principle: Ion-selective glass membrane with reference system Rheological suitability: Optimised for highly viscous, pasty and particulate-laden media Electrical connection: Shielded BNC connector Compatibility: IKA LR 1000 control base station (or external pH metres) Thermodynamic correction: Requires external temperature compensation (ATC) within the system Mechanical integration: Insertion via standard threaded ports in the reactor lid Chemical resistance: High resistance of the glass shaft to solvents Contents 1 x IKA LR 1000.64 pH electrode (incl. BNC cable) (Important note: Standard ground adaptor, reactor vessel and transmitter are not included in the scope of delivery!) Individual requirements & accessories The pH electrode is a sensor only. To convert the millivolt signal into a readable pH value, you must use the IKA LR 1000 control base station (the ‘basic’ version does not include a transmitter) or a separate, high-impedance pH meter. To anchor the electrode in the reactor lid in a vacuum-tight manner, you will also need to obtain suitable standard-threaded sealing adaptors. Please contact our procurement service at any time for metrologically accurate calibration (buffer solutions) and mechanical configuration.
IKA MV 1 solenoid valve for cooling water control, 0020003763
Thermodynamic control loops and exothermic compensation In chemical reaction engineering and the synthesis of high-molecular-weight polymers, absolute control over the reaction temperature is of critical importance. Particularly in the case of exothermic reactions, in which massive amounts of thermal energy are released at the molecular level, the system must cool down immediately to prevent thermodynamic runaway of the reactor. The IKA MV 1 solenoid valve is the fluid-mechanical actuator for this cooling process. Integrated into the cooling water circuit of a laboratory reactor, it acts as an electronic switch for the fluid. If the reaction medium exceeds the programmed setpoint temperature at the temperature sensor, the valve receives an electrical control pulse, opens the flow path and floods the cooling jacket or the system’s internal reflux cooler with temperature-controlled cooling water, thereby immediately maximising convective heat exchange. Electromagnetic Actuation and Fluid Mechanics The physical operating principle of the MV 1 is based on electromagnetic kinematics. When de-energised, a mechanical spring holds the valve piston (armature) in a completely sealed position against the valve seat. This safety principle (normally closed) ensures that, in the event of a power failure, the cooling water circuit is blocked and the laboratory infrastructure is not flooded. When current is applied to the integrated copper coil, it induces a strong magnetic field. The resulting Lorentz force pulls the metallic armature into the coil against the static spring pressure, opening the flow cross-section in fractions of a millisecond. These extremely short switching times allow the higher-level PID controller of the IKA reactor system to regulate the cooling water flow rate at a high frequency in a clocked manner, thereby eliminating thermal oscillations. Pressure stability and prevention of hydrodynamic shocks The switching of incompressible fluids (such as water) in pressurised piping systems inevitably generates massive hydrodynamic pressure peaks (known as pressure surges or water hammer) when the valve closes abruptly. The internal flow architecture of the IKA MV 1 solenoid valve is physically designed to cushion the closing kinetics of the armature in such a way as to minimise these shock waves in the fluid. This reliably protects the sensitive borosilicate glass coolers and the elastomeric hose connections in the reactor assembly from mechanical destruction caused by burst pressure. Metrological system integration The valve does not operate independently, but acts as the precise final element in a complex metrological control loop. It is connected electrically directly to the corresponding relay or control outputs of IKA temperature controllers or reactor base stations (such as the LR 1000 control). This integration transforms the laboratory reactor from a purely heated vessel into a fully automated, bidirectionally temperature-controlled (heating and cooling) thermodynamic system. Technical details Product type: Electromagnetic valve (solenoid valve) Process function: Fluid-mechanical cooling water control Operating principle: Electromagnetic actuation via copper coil Safety design: Normally closed (NC) Thermodynamic benefit: Precise compensation of exothermic reactions Fluid mechanics: Optimised to prevent hydrodynamic pressure surges (water hammer) System integration: Direct control via IKA base stations or temperature controllers Power supply: Supplied via the connected IKA control unit Media compatibility: Designed for aqueous cooling media in piping systems Contents of delivery 1 x IKA MV 1 solenoid valve (Important note: IKA control units, cooling water hoses and reactor infrastructure are not included in the scope of delivery!) Individual requirements & accessories The IKA MV 1 solenoid valve is a purely fluid-mechanical actuator and will not function without a higher-level PID controller. To automate the cooling circuit, the valve must be connected to the appropriate measurement and control technology (e.g. a contact thermometer, a base station or a thermostat with a cooling water relay). Pressure-resistant silicone or EPDM hoses and hose clamps are also required for the mechanical connection to the domestic water supply and the reactor cooler. Please contact our procurement service at any time for the thermodynamically correct design of your cooling systems.
IKA LR-2.ST Laboratory Reactor – ‘The Compact Power’, #0020013294
IKA LR-2.ST Laboratory Reactor – ‘The Compact Power’, #0020013294
IKA EasySyn 1000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113435
IKA EasySyn 1000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113435
IKA EasySyn 500 Advanced Synthesis Reactor, #0020113434
IKA EasySyn 500 Advanced Synthesis Reactor, #0020113434
IKA LR 1000.41 Shaft holder for T 25 disperser, 0004664300
Kinematic coupling and high-shear integration In the demanding formulation development of nanoparticles, ultra-fine cosmetic emulsions or pharmaceutical suspensions, macroscopic mixing using conventional anchor stirrers is often insufficient from a process engineering perspective. To break down the smallest primary particles or droplets, the localised, intense application of shear forces via rotor-stator systems is absolutely essential. The IKA LR 1000.41 shaft mount is the critical mechanical interface for the positive-lock, secure integration of high-speed dispersing drives – specifically the IKA T 25 digital LR – into the closed LR 1000 laboratory reactor system. This adapter component enables the physical transformation of the reactor from a simple stirred vessel into a thermodynamically controlled high-shear homogeniser. Vibration mechanics and resonance suppression The drive of an IKA T 25 disperser generates enormous kinetic energy at rotational speeds of up to 25,000 revolutions per minute. Even with perfectly balanced dispersing tools, the turbulent flow dynamics in the reactor medium inevitably give rise to high-frequency lateral vibrations. The LR 1000.41 shaft mount is geometrically and statically engineered to precisely absorb these mechanical vibrations. It guarantees the absolute axial alignment (centring) of the dispersing tool within the reactor vessel. This rigid mechanical fixation is of essential importance, as any eccentricity or imbalance would immediately cause mechanical failure of the sensitive FFPM mechanical seals on the vacuum dispersing tools (such as the KD-LR) under hydrostatic pressure. Process flexibility and scale-up The design of the shaft mount allows for a modular and highly reproducible workflow. It enables the process engineer to lower the heavy 800-watt drive motor absolutely vertically and without tension onto the reactor’s standard-threaded lid and lock it in place mechanically. This enables complex multi-step syntheses to be carried out within the same batch: for example, a polymer can first be melted and homogenised under vacuum using an anchor stirrer, and then – following a smooth mechanical changeover to the dispersion drive via the LR 1000.41 mount – be mixed with active ingredients under high-shear conditions. Technical details Product type: Mechanical shaft coupling / motor adapter Kinematic function: Axial alignment and vibration-free mounting of high-performance drives Compatible drive: Designed for the IKA T 25 digital LR disperser Compatible reactor system: IKA LR 1000 basic and LR 1000 control Mechanical property: Absorbs lateral vibrations at speeds of up to 25,000 rpm Compatible tools: Ensures the integrity of S 25 KD-LR vacuum dispersing tools Material: Torsion-resistant industrial metals for maximum mechanical strength Installation: Tool-free attachment to the laboratory reactor lid system Contents of delivery 1 x IKA LR 1000.41 shaft mount (Important note: The IKA LR 1000 reactor vessel, the T 25 dispersing drive and the dispersing tools are not included in the scope of delivery!) Custom requirements & accessories The shaft holder is purely a connecting element. To initiate the physical dispersion process in the reactor, you must have the IKA T 25 digital LR drive (item no. 0020008820) and a vacuum-tight rotor-stator tool from the KD-LR series (e.g. S 25 KD - LR - 25 G). Please contact our procurement service at any time for a statically and kinematically correct configuration of your modular reaction system.
IKA LR 1000.65 pH electrode holder, for LR 1000, 0004663400
Hermetic System Integration and Vacuum Architecture In the chemical process control of complex polymerisations or during the synthesis of high-viscosity emulsions, precise control of the reactor atmosphere is a fundamental thermodynamic prerequisite. The insertion of an analytical pH electrode (such as the IKA LR 1000.64) must under no circumstances compromise the physical isolation of the reaction chamber. The IKA LR 1000.65 pH probe holder acts as a high-precision mechanical adapter to couple the sensor absolutely gas-tight to the standard-threaded lid of the LR 1000 laboratory reactor. The precisely engineered fits and sealing elements of the holder prevent the ingress of atmospheric oxygen during moisture-sensitive reactions carried out under inert gas and ensure that the system vacuum is maintained without interruption during high-speed degassing of viscous media. Mechanical stabilisation against rheological lateral forces In addition to providing a thermodynamic seal, the holder fulfils a vital static protective function. Highly viscous, non-Newtonian fluids, in combination with the rotation of heavy anchor stirrers, generate immense tangential and radial flow vectors. These hydrodynamic shear forces exert massive lateral (sideways) pressure on the fragile glass shaft of the pH electrode. The LR 1000.65 holder rigidly secures the electrode in its axial position and completely absorbs the resulting bending moments and mechanical vibrations. This resonance suppression physically prevents catastrophic glass breakage within the reactor, which would inevitably lead to the physical and chemical destruction of the entire batch. Metrological reproducibility and material integrity For a metrologically error-free in-situ measurement, the ion-selective membrane of the electrode must remain continuously and precisely within the reactor’s designated fluid-dynamic turbulence zone. The holder allows the immersion depth (Z-axis) to be adjusted with millimetre precision and permanently locks the sensor in place against the hydrostatic buoyancy or suction caused by the agitator. To maintain structural integrity even at the maximum temperatures of 120 °C prevailing in the LR 1000 and to withstand corrosive solvent vapours, all components of the mounting that come into contact with the medium are manufactured from highly chemically inert industrial materials. Technical details Product type: Probe holder / Mechanical sensor adapter Process function: Hermetic sealing and static fixation Vibration mechanics: Absorbs lateral bending moments and hydrodynamic shear forces Compatibility (reactor): Exclusively compatible with IKA LR 1000 lid systems Compatibility (sensor): Designed for the IKA LR 1000.64 pH electrode (or 12 mm standard shanks) Vacuum compatibility: Ensures the system remains hermetically sealed during evacuation Thermodynamic resistance: Designed for reactor temperatures up to 120 °C Installation: Form-fit mounting in the standard-threaded ports of the reactor lid Adjustability: Allows for stepless adjustment of the axial immersion depth Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.65 pH probe holder (Important note: The pH electrode, temperature sensors and the LR 1000 reactor vessel are not included in the scope of delivery!) Custom requirements & accessories The probe holder is a purely mechanical bridge component. For analytical operation, it absolutely requires the corresponding IKA LR 1000.64 pH electrode (item no. 0004663300). Continuous metrological recording of the potentials also requires the IKA LR 1000 control base station, as the basic model does not have the necessary electrical sensor infrastructure. Please contact our procurement service at any time for the thermodynamically and statically correct configuration of the sensor system in the reactor lid.
IKA LR-2.ST Laboratory Reactor – the Versatile, #0020013293
IKA LR-2.ST Laboratory Reactor – the Versatile, #0020013293
IKA EasySyn 5000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113442
IKA EasySyn 5000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113442
IKA Holder MV 1 Mount for measuring vessels, 0020019816
Kinematic fixation and axial alignment In instrumental rheology and the high-precision torque measurement of structurally viscous fluids, the mechanical stability of the measuring vessel is a fundamental metrological requirement. The IKA Holder MV 1 acts as a highly rigid mechanical bridge element for securing specific measuring vessels (MV) within the process setup. When agitators or measuring bodies rotate in highly viscous matrices, enormous torsional forces arise which tend to force the entire vessel into solid-body rotation. The MV 1 holder completely blocks this torque through a rigid form-fit. It guarantees absolute axial alignment (centring) between the drive’s axis of rotation and the geometric centre of the measuring vessel. Any minimal eccentricity would inevitably generate asymmetrical shear gradients in the fluid and severely compromise the reproducibility of the viscosity data. Vibration mechanics and resonance suppression High rotational speeds in viscous or heterogeneous media generate high-frequency lateral vibrations due to uneven flow resistance. The geometric design of the IKA Holder MV 1 is statically engineered precisely to absorb these mechanical vibrations and prevent them from being transmitted to the stand system. This effective resonance suppression physically eliminates noise signals in the sensitive torque transducers of the connected stirrers or rheometers. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the rheological measurement curves is thereby significantly optimised. Material integrity and ergonomics in everyday laboratory use To withstand high mechanical stresses over the long term and prevent torsion under load, the mount is manufactured from solid, industrial-grade metal alloys. All surfaces are protected against the effects of aggressive solvents, acid vapours and alkalis by means of special surface treatment processes. The design enables the user to clamp and release the vessels quickly and reproducibly, which massively accelerates throughput during serial measurement runs in a regulated quality management environment, without compromising mechanical positioning accuracy. Technical details Product type: Mechanical vessel holder (receptacle) Kinematic function: Fixation against torsional forces and rotation Metrological benefit: Ensures the exact axial alignment of the measuring vessel Vibration control: Absorbs lateral vibrations to stabilise measurement signals Compatibility: IKA MV 1 series measuring vessels Material: Torsion-resistant, chemical-resistant metal alloy Clamping mechanism: Quick and centred clamping without tools Installation: For mounting on standard laboratory stands or IKA system set-ups Contents 1 x IKA Holder MV 1 (holder) (Important note: Stand materials, measuring vessels, and stirring and measuring drives are not included in the scope of delivery!) Individual requirements & accessories The IKA Holder MV 1 is a purely mechanical fixing element. To carry out a reliable rheological measurement, you must use the corresponding measuring vessel and a torque-measuring stirrer or viscometer from IKA. For completely vibration-free installation, we also recommend a solid double-cross-sleeve system and a heavy-duty H-frame stand. Please feel free to contact our specialist procurement service at any time for a structurally sound configuration of your measurement setup.
IKA Synthesis Reactor, EasySyn 5000 Advanced, 0020113443
The IKA EasySyn 5000 Advanced is a state-of-the-art synthesis reactor system designed for efficient, safe and reproducible chemical syntheses in the laboratory. With a reaction volume of up to 5 litres, the system is ideally suited for the true-to-scale transfer from research to production. The system comprises all necessary components, such as the reactor, thermostat, stirring system and control unit – fully integrated and ready for immediate use. Thanks to its modular design, EasySyn can be flexibly adapted to different synthesis requirements. The digital control system ensures precise monitoring and control of temperature, stirring speed and process parameters. Safety features such as an emergency stop function, over-temperature protection and a robust double-jacket construction offer maximum operational safety. Key features: Complete system for chemical syntheses up to 5 l Double-jacketed reactor for precise temperature control Includes stirrer, thermostat and control system Digital process control with real-time display Modularly expandable (e.g. for condensation, distillation, sampling) Suitable for research, process development and scale-up High level of safety thanks to over-temperature and over-pressure protection Easy to operate and quick to clean Technical data (extract): Reaction volume: max. 5,000 ml Temperature range: –80 °C to +200 °C (depending on thermostat) Max. stirring speed: up to 2,000 rpm (depending on model) Materials: borosilicate glass 3.3, PTFE, stainless steel Modular design, GLP-compliant Dimensions (W × H × D): approx. 1,200 × 800 × 600 mm Weight: depends on the system Scope of supply: 5,000 ml reactor vessel (double-walled) Reactor stand & safety frame Stirrer & drive unit Thermostat connections Digital control and operating unit Complete accessory pack for immediate use The IKA EasySyn 5000 Advanced is the complete solution for chemical synthesis at pilot and laboratory scale – flexible, safe and ideal for research, development and scale-up.
IKA LR 1000.70 Lid Holder, for the LR 1000 system, 0025003123
Statics and centre of gravity displacement in the workflow In chemical reaction engineering, handling the fully equipped reactor lid during sampling, vessel cleaning or batch changeover poses a significant mechanical risk. The lid of the IKA LR 1000 system acts as a central metrological hub and is heavily laden with instruments: anchor stirrers, flow breakers, pH electrodes and temperature sensors are integrated in a gas-tight manner via standard ground joints. If this assembly is dismantled, the centre of gravity shifts extremely unfavourably due to the stirrers and sensors protruding downwards. The IKA LR 1000.70 lid holder is a structurally highly rigid support stand that compensates for precisely this kinetic instability. The solid base plate and the vertical cantilever arm are physically engineered to absorb the high torque of the asymmetrically loaded lid (including the mounted motorised drive) in a way that prevents tipping and eliminates vibration. Fracture prevention and metrological integrity Placing a loaded reactor lid on standard laboratory worktops inevitably leads to significant mechanical damage. The fragile, ion-selective glass membranes of the pH electrodes or the long stainless-steel shafts of the PT-100 sensors would immediately fracture or undergo plastic deformation (bending moment) under the dead weight of the heavy stainless-steel reactor lid. The LR 1000.70 holder secures the lid at a defined Z-height, ensuring that all instruments protruding into the medium are held completely contact-free and suspended in the air. This static protection maintains the system calibration of the probes and prevents catastrophic sensor failures. Contamination prevention and GLP ergonomics In addition to providing mechanical protection, the lid holder fulfils a vital analytical hygiene function. Stirring elements, to which residues of highly viscous polymers or emulsions may still adhere after synthesis, must not come into physical contact with the working environment. Suspending them freely in the lid holder prevents contamination (carry-over) of the work surface with aggressive or toxic media. At the same time, it ensures that freshly autoclaved instruments do not pick up dust or microbial contaminants from the laboratory bench before the next process step, which is essential for compliance with strict GLP/GMP guidelines. Technical details Product type: Mechanical lid holder / storage rack Static function: Tilt-proof securing of asymmetrically loaded reactor lids Kinematics: Compensation for high bending moments through an optimised centre of gravity Mechanical protection: Prevents glass fractures in pH electrodes and sensor bending Hygiene: Ensures contact-free storage of contaminated or sterile stirring elements Compatibility: Exclusively compatible with IKA LR 1000 lid systems (basic and control) Material: Solid, torsion-resistant and chemical-resistant industrial metal Installation: Self-contained, stand-alone system for the laboratory workstation Contents of delivery 1 x IKA LR 1000.70 lid holder (stand) (Important note: Reactor lids, stir bars, sensors and the laboratory reactor itself are not included in the scope of delivery!) Individual requirements & accessories The LR 1000.70 lid holder is purely an infrastructural addition to the laboratory workstation and functions exclusively in conjunction with an existing IKA LR 1000 reactor system. For high-throughput laboratories that operate several reactor vessels (LR 1000.1 or LR 1000.3) in alternating operation on a base station, this stand is absolutely essential for safely storing the sensor-equipped lid during batch changes. Please feel free to contact our procurement service at any time regarding the ergonomic optimisation of your process systems.
IKA LR 1000.20 Flow Breaker, for LR 1000, 0004663200
Fluid mechanics and the elimination of the vortex effect In chemical reactor technology, the rotation of a centrally positioned agitator – particularly in the case of Newtonian fluids or media with low to medium viscosity – inevitably leads to the formation of a strong tangential flow. The entire fluid begins to rotate as a rigid body with the agitator (solid-body rotation). The physical consequence is the formation of a deep, central vortex (vortex effect), through which atmospheric oxygen is inadvertently drawn into the medium, whilst the actual macroscopic mixing comes to a standstill. The IKA LR 1000.20 flow breaker (baffle) is the essential process engineering component required to counteract this flow phenomenon. Acting as a static obstacle within the reaction chamber, it blocks the laminar tangential flow and forces the photon and mass flows into highly turbulent, axial and radial vectors. This drastically increases the local Reynolds number, maximises the shear gradients and guarantees an absolutely homogeneous, bubble-free phase distribution within the 1000-ml reactor. In-situ thermodynamic measurement in the turbulent core Precise chemical synthesis requires exact thermodynamic monitoring of the reaction temperature directly at the core of the medium, far removed from the thermal boundary layers of the heated reactor wall. The LR 1000.20 flow disruptor fulfils a highly intelligent dual function in this regard: it not only acts as a mechanical disruptor, but is also designed as a hollow protective sleeve. It is designed to accommodate IKA temperature sensors (such as the PT 100.30) directly and centrally. This integration ensures that the temperature is measured precisely within the high-turbulence zone generated by the flow breaker, thereby reducing thermal lags (delays) in the control of the heating output to an absolute minimum. Material integrity and hermetic standard-ground integration To ensure that the atmosphere inside the reactor (vacuum or inert gas) is not compromised, the flow breaker is integrated gas-tight into the lid of the LR 1000 laboratory reactor via a precision-ground standard ground joint. All surfaces of the component that come into contact with the process medium are made of highly corrosion-resistant AISI 316L stainless steel (material number 1.4404). This chemical inertness allows for continuous use in aggressive solvents or acids. The dead-space-free, electropolished, single-material design also prevents the adhesion of microbiological biofilms and enables complete thermal sterilisation in an autoclave in accordance with the strictest GLP guidelines. Technical details Product type: Flow breaker (baffle) with sensor mount Fluid dynamic function: Disruption of laminar tangential flows and vortices Thermodynamic benefit: Drastic increase in mixing kinetics and heat exchange Specific feature: Hollow shaft for the integration of temperature sensors (e.g. PT 100) Compatibility: IKA LR 1000 laboratory reactor systems Material: Solid AISI 316L stainless steel (material no. 1.4404) Installation: Gas-tight integration via standard-threaded ports in the reactor lid Chemical resistance: Complete resistance to organic solvents Vacuum compatibility: Maintains system integrity through precise fits Hygiene: Fully autoclavable and chemically sterilisable Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.20 flow breaker (stainless steel) (Important note: The IKA LR 1000 reactor vessel, temperature sensors and the base station are not included in the scope of delivery!) Individual requirements & accessories The flow breaker only realises its full potential when coupled with a measuring instrument. To utilise the component’s dual function, you will need the appropriate IKA PT 100.30 temperature probe, which is inserted precisely into the shaft of the breaker. When processing extremely high-viscosity pastes with the anchor agitator (LR 1000.10), the flow breaker is often not physically necessary and may interfere; it is primarily designed for low- to medium-viscosity fluids in combination with propeller or dissolver agitators. Please contact our procurement service for a configuration that is free from fluid-dynamic errors.
IKA EasySyn 2000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113438
IKA EasySyn 2000 Starter synthesis reactor, #0020113438
IKA LR-2.ST laboratory reactor – the high-performer, #0020013291
IKA LR-2.ST laboratory reactor – the high-performer, #0020013291
IKA EasySyn 2000 Advanced Synthesis Reactor, #0020113440
IKA EasySyn 2000 Advanced Synthesis Reactor, #0020113440
IKA LR 1000.40 Shaft coupling, FFKM, vacuum, for LR 1000, 0025001950
Polymer physics and dynamic system sealing In chemical reaction engineering under extreme environmental conditions – such as with highly aggressive solvents, strong acids or complex syntheses under high vacuum – the physical implementation of rotating tool shafts within the enclosed reaction chamber represents the most critical aspect of system hermeticity. Conventional O-rings made of FKM or EPDM swell due to solvent intercalation, lose their molecular spring force or undergo chemical degradation. The IKA LR 1000.40 shaft housing is therefore fitted with highly specialised dynamic sealing elements made of FFKM (perfluoroelastomer). This high-performance elastomer combines the absolute chemical inertness and thermal stability of PTFE (Teflon) with the viscoelastic, self-sealing memory behaviour of conventional rubbers. This material architecture guarantees that the reactor system remains absolutely vacuum-tight and leak-free, even when processing highly corrosive media and under constant mechanical friction from the rotating shaft. Kinematic alignment and tribology In addition to thermodynamic insulation, the shaft mounting fulfils a critical static function. Highly viscous, structurally viscous media generate enormous radial and tangential flow resistances during the rotation of large agitators. These transmit massive lateral shear forces (bending moments) to the stainless steel shaft. The LR 1000.40 mount acts as a rigid mechanical bridge element. It secures the shaft in perfect alignment (coaxially) along the Z-axis and absorbs the hydrodynamic vibrations. This resonance suppression is tribologically essential: any eccentricity or imbalance in the agitator would otherwise mechanically wear down the sensitive FFKM sealing lips under constant vacuum pressure and immediately destroy the hermetic barrier. Thermodynamic load capacity in the reactor setup The shaft mounting is precisely engineered to match the thermodynamic performance spectrum of the IKA LR 1000 system. The solid stainless steel components and the FFKM seals withstand the standardised maximum temperatures of 120 °C in continuous operation without plastic deformation or loss of seal integrity. Assembly is achieved via a positive-lock fit and is completely gas-tight, directly onto the standardised feed-throughs (standard ground joint) of the reactor lid, which enables safe operation under inert protective gas atmospheres to prevent the oxidation of moisture-sensitive polymerisations. Technical details Product type: Mechanical shaft coupling / stirrer adapter Process function: Dynamic, gas-tight shaft seal Seal material: FFKM (perfluoroelastomer) Mechanical housing: Solid, chemical-resistant stainless steel Chemical resistance: Maximum resistance to highly aggressive solvents, acids and alkalis Vacuum compatibility: Guarantees absolute system hermeticity during high-speed evacuation Tribology: Abrasion-resistant sealing lips for continuous shaft rotation Thermodynamic capacity: Designed for reactor temperatures up to 120 °C Compatibility: Exclusively compatible with IKA LR 1000 lid systems Scope of supply 1 x IKA LR 1000.40 shaft coupling (including FFKM sealing elements) (Important note: Stirring shafts, sensors and the LR 1000 reactor vessel are not included in the scope of delivery!) Custom requirements & accessories The FFKM shaft coupling is a process-related wear and bridging component. Although FFKM exhibits extreme chemical and mechanical resistance, even these dynamic seals are subject to a protracted tribological wear process under constant friction. For facilities operating continuously 24/7 under high vacuum, we recommend metrologically testing the system’s leak-tightness as part of GLP maintenance intervals. Please contact our specialist procurement service at any time for assistance with configuring your reactor setup and sourcing FFKM replacement seals.