IKA RV 10 digital V Starter Solution Rotary Evaporator

Overview

The IKA RV 10 digital V Starter Solution is a fully integrated, entry-level rotary evaporator system engineered for precision solvent removal, concentration, and gentle sample recovery in academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial R&D laboratories. Based on IKA’s long-standing expertise in rotational evaporation technology, this system implements the fundamental principle of reduced-pressure distillation: by rotating the sample flask under controlled vacuum and regulated heating, the effective surface area for evaporation increases while the boiling point of solvents is lowered—enabling efficient, low-temperature separation without thermal degradation. The RV 10 digital V Starter Solution combines a vertically oriented condensation assembly, a universal oil/water heating bath, motorized lift with fail-safe elevation logic, and digital interface architecture—all housed in a compact, IP20-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529. Designed for reproducibility and operational safety, it delivers performance metrics typically associated with higher-tier systems, including rapid thermal response (optimized 3 L bath volume), high-efficiency condensation (1500 cm² vertical glass condenser), and robust process control across diverse organic and aqueous matrices.

Key Features

• Motorized vertical lift with automatic upward movement during power failure—prevents overheating and bumping during unattended operation
• Independent safety temperature circuit with user-defined upper limit, decoupled from main bath setpoint
• Dry-run protection and adjustable descent end-point to prevent mechanical overtravel or flask collision
• Smooth-start rotation with bidirectional capability (clockwise/counter-clockwise) and programmable timer (0–999 min)
• Ergonomic bath handle design and dedicated flask ejection knob for safe, fatigue-free handling of heavy or hot vessels
• IR interface for wireless control of heating bath parameters directly from the main unit; RS232 port enables full remote operation via IKA Labworldsoft software
• Optional anti-shatter coated glassware available for enhanced personnel and equipment protection in high-risk environments
• Universal heating bath compatible with both water and silicone oil media, supporting temperature operation up to 180 °C with ±1 K stability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RV 10 digital V Starter Solution accommodates standard ISO-K 29/32 and ISO-K 24/29 ground-glass joints and supports flasks up to 4 L capacity. Its vertical condenser geometry and large condensation surface ensure high recovery yields for low- to medium-volatility solvents (e.g., dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, hexane) and thermally sensitive compounds (e.g., natural extracts, polymer precursors, API intermediates). The system meets general laboratory safety requirements per DIN EN 61010-1 and electromagnetic compatibility standards (EN 61326-1). While not intrinsically rated for hazardous area use, optional coated glassware and configurable safety limits support alignment with internal GLP/GMP documentation practices. Vacuum performance (9 mbar ultimate pressure, achieved with included VAC STAR lite pump) satisfies typical ASTM E2782 and USP method prerequisites for residual solvent determination workflows.

Software & Data Management

Control and monitoring are enabled through two complementary interfaces: an intuitive front-panel digital display with real-time feedback on rotation speed, bath temperature, and timer status; and the IKA Labworldsoft platform (Windows-based) via RS232 connection. Labworldsoft supports parameter logging, sequence programming (e.g., ramp-and-hold temperature profiles synchronized with rotation and lift), and export of timestamped CSV data files. Audit trail functionality—including operator ID tagging and change history—is available when deployed within validated IT infrastructures adhering to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements (with appropriate system configuration and user access controls). All firmware updates are distributed through IKA’s official support portal and require manual installation to maintain traceability.

Applications

• Concentration of natural product extracts in phytochemistry and nutraceutical development
• Removal of reaction solvents following Grignard, Suzuki, or esterification syntheses
• Preparative purification of small-molecule APIs prior to crystallization or lyophilization
• Essential oil isolation from botanical matrices using low-temperature vacuum distillation
• Sample preparation for GC-MS, HPLC, and NMR analysis where solvent residue must be minimized
• Teaching laboratory demonstrations of phase equilibria, vapor pressure depression, and mass transfer principles

FAQ

What vacuum level is required for efficient evaporation of ethanol at 40 °C?
At 40 °C, ethanol’s vapor pressure is ~130 mbar; therefore, a vacuum better than 50 mbar (ideally ≤20 mbar) is recommended for stable, bump-free evaporation. The included VAC STAR lite achieves 9 mbar, ensuring reliable performance.
Can the heating bath operate with silicone oil at 180 °C continuously?
Yes—the bath is rated for continuous operation up to 180 °C with appropriate thermal fluid (e.g., IKA HM200 oil), provided ambient conditions remain within 5–40 °C and relative humidity ≤80 %.
Is the RS232 interface galvanically isolated?
No—RS232 communication is standard unisolated serial; for electrically noisy environments, use optical USB-RS232 adapters or shielded cabling per EN 61000-6-3.
Does the system support external vacuum control via analog signal?
No—vacuum regulation is manual via built-in vacuum controller; closed-loop pressure control requires integration with third-party vacuum controllers (e.g., Vacuubrand VRD) via external relay triggers.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the lifting mechanism?
Lubrication of the lift rail and inspection of belt tension are advised every 12 months or after 1,000 operating cycles, as documented in the IKA Maintenance Logbook (Order No. 305200).