LAUDA Microcool Compact Circulating Chiller

Overview

The LAUDA Microcool Compact Circulating Chiller is a high-precision, benchtop- or floor-standing temperature control system engineered for stable, continuous heat removal in demanding laboratory applications. Based on vapor-compression refrigeration with optimized R-410A refrigerant circuitry and integrated PID-controlled electronic expansion valve regulation, the Microcool delivers consistent thermal management across its full operating range of –10 °C to +50 °C. Designed and manufactured in Lauda-Königshofen, Germany, it complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC), IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and EN 61010-1 (safety) standards — ensuring suitability for GLP, ISO/IEC 17025, and FDA-regulated environments where traceable, repeatable cooling performance is critical.

Key Features

• Robust stainless-steel reservoir (7 L capacity) with transparent level window and funnel-shaped fill port for rapid, spill-free fluid replenishment
• Magnetically coupled circulation pump delivering up to 35 L/min at 1.3 bar pressure — eliminating seal wear and minimizing maintenance
• Front-accessible condenser grille panel requiring no tools for cleaning or service access
• Large backlit LED display with membrane keypad interface supporting intuitive parameter navigation and real-time monitoring of setpoint, actual temperature, flow rate, and system status
• Programmable auto-start timer and scheduled shutdown function for unattended operation during overnight or weekend runs
• Standard RS232 communication interface (with optional USB or Ethernet modules available) enabling integration into LabVantage, LabWare, or custom SCADA systems
• Factory-installed alarm contactor module providing dry-contact outputs for external interlocks (e.g., rotary evaporator shutdown upon overtemperature)
• Overflow port and pressure-relief valve integrated into reservoir design for fail-safe operation under thermal expansion conditions
• Optional adjustable bypass valve (standard on MC600, MC1200, and MC1200W variants) for precise flow regulation to match instrument-specific hydraulic resistance

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Microcool is compatible with standard heat-transfer fluids including deionized water, 30–50% aqueous glycol solutions, and LAUDA-certified Therminol LT. It supports direct connection to analytical instruments requiring stable coolant supply — such as HPLC column ovens, FTIR spectrometers, laser sources, and vacuum pumps — without risk of condensation or thermal shock. All units are CE-marked and conform to EN 14511 (refrigerating appliances), EN 60335-2-89 (safety for refrigerating appliances), and meet requirements for inclusion in 21 CFR Part 11–compliant workflows when paired with LAUDA’s optional audit-trail-enabled software package. Device firmware supports timestamped event logging (power cycles, alarms, temperature deviations) for regulatory documentation.

Software & Data Management

While the Microcool operates autonomously via its embedded controller, optional LAUDA WinControl software (v5.2+) enables remote configuration, real-time data streaming, and export of CSV-formatted temperature/time logs with millisecond resolution. The RS232 interface supports Modbus RTU protocol for bidirectional command execution (e.g., setpoint change, pump start/stop, alarm reset). When deployed in networked lab infrastructures, units can be assigned static IP addresses via optional Ethernet adapter, allowing centralized monitoring through LAUDA’s WebControl dashboard — fully compliant with IT security policies requiring TLS 1.2+ encryption and role-based user authentication.

Applications

• Cooling of rotary evaporators (e.g., Büchi R-300, IKA RV 10) to maintain condenser efficiency at low bath temperatures
• Thermal stabilization of distillation columns and cold traps in fractional distillation setups
• Supply of chilled coolant to analytical instrumentation including UV-Vis spectrophotometers, GC injectors, and mass spectrometer ion sources
• Temperature control of laser diodes, photomultiplier tubes, and CCD detectors requiring sub-ambient stabilization
• Integration into automated synthesis platforms where precise exotherm management is required during catalytic reactions

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable ambient temperature for continuous operation?
The Microcool is rated for continuous duty at ambient temperatures up to 30 °C (86 °F); derating applies above this threshold per IEC 60034-1 Annex D.
Can the unit operate with ethylene glycol/water mixtures?
Yes — up to 50% v/v ethylene glycol is supported; viscosity limits require flow rate reduction below 25 L/min above 40% concentration.
Is the reservoir pressurized during operation?
No — the system operates at atmospheric pressure; the 1.3 bar pump pressure refers to differential head, not sealed reservoir pressure.
Does the Microcool support external temperature feedback control?
Yes — optional PT100 input allows cascade control using an external sensor placed at the process point, improving thermal accuracy beyond bath-level measurement.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Condenser cleaning every 3 months in standard lab environments; refrigerant charge verification every 24 months by certified technician; pump inspection annually.