ChemTron STRIKE Univ Rotary Evaporator System

Overview

The ChemTron STRIKE Univ Rotary Evaporator System is an engineered solution for solvent removal, concentration, and purification in research laboratories, quality control environments, and pilot-scale synthesis workflows. Based on the fundamental principle of reduced-pressure distillation—where lowering system pressure decreases the boiling point of solvents—the STRIKE Univ enables gentle, efficient evaporation of thermally sensitive compounds without decomposition. Designed and manufactured in Italy under JULABO-Chemtron’s stringent quality protocols, the system integrates a high-precision oil or water bath, a digitally controlled rotating flask drive, and a large-surface-area condenser optimized for rapid vapor recondensation. Its modular architecture supports multiple configurations—including tilt, vertical lift, vertical drop, and dry-ice-compatible condensation modes—ensuring adaptability across diverse sample matrices and process requirements.

Key Features

• Intelligent programmable operation with built-in timer and multi-step evaporation profiles, enabling unattended batch processing.
• Motorized vertical lift mechanism with 13 cm travel range, position-hold functionality, and adjustable stop points for precise flask positioning during loading, evaporation, and collection phases.
• PTFE- and carbon fiber-reinforced sealing system ensures long-term vacuum integrity and chemical resistance against aggressive solvents including chlorinated hydrocarbons and strong acids.
• 4.3-inch full-color LCD touchscreen interface with intuitive navigation, real-time parameter monitoring (vapor temperature, coolant temperature, bath temperature, rotation speed, vacuum level), and password-protected user settings.
• Dual-mode heating bath: 5 L capacity with PTFE-coated stainless steel interior; stable at ±0.2 °C over full range (RT+5 to 180 °C with oil, RT+5 to 85 °C with water); 1400 W heating power with overheat protection and automatic shutdown.
• Configurable condenser geometry: 1500 cm² effective cooling surface area; available in inclined, vertical ascending, vertical descending, and dry-ice compatible variants to match volatility and throughput demands.
• Integrated safety architecture: automatic flask elevation upon power failure, thermal cut-off at preset limits, real-time steam and coolant temperature surveillance, and optional removable safety shield for operator protection during operation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The STRIKE Univ accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types—from aqueous extracts and organic reaction mixtures to polymer solutions and natural product isolates—across flask volumes from 50 mL to 2000 mL. Its ISO-standard ground-glass joints (ISO 297 and ISO 220) ensure interchangeability with globally sourced glassware. The system meets essential laboratory safety and performance benchmarks, including IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety and EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility. When integrated with validated vacuum controllers and data-logging peripherals, it supports GLP-compliant documentation workflows. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its digital interface and event logging capabilities provide a foundation for audit-trail implementation in regulated environments when paired with appropriate software validation packages.

Software & Data Management

The STRIKE Univ operates via embedded firmware with no external PC dependency. All operational parameters—including ramp rates, hold times, rotation profiles, and temperature setpoints—are stored locally in non-volatile memory. The touchscreen logs timestamped events such as start/stop commands, alarm triggers (e.g., overheating, vacuum loss), and manual interventions. Optional RS-485 or USB interfaces enable connection to third-party lab information management systems (LIMS) or SCADA platforms for centralized monitoring. For traceability-critical applications, users may integrate certified vacuum controllers (e.g., VACUU·SELECT® series) and temperature probes that generate CSV-exportable logs compatible with FDA-aligned electronic record retention practices.

Applications

• Routine solvent removal in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry labs.
• Concentration of natural product extracts prior to HPLC or GC analysis.
• Purification of heat-labile biomolecules, including peptides and nucleic acid derivatives.
• Removal of low-boiling solvents (e.g., diethyl ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate) under mild vacuum conditions.
• Scale-up support in process development labs requiring reproducible, controllable evaporation kinetics.
• Environmental sample preparation involving volatile organic compound (VOC) isolation from aqueous matrices.

FAQ

What vacuum level is required for optimal performance?
The STRIKE Univ achieves ultimate vacuum down to 399.9 Pa (3 mmHg). For most common solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol), operation between 100–200 Pa delivers efficient evaporation while minimizing bumping risk.
Can the system be used with corrosive solvents?
Yes—its PTFE/carbon fiber sealing system and optional resin-coated glassware (M4/M6 configurations) provide enhanced resistance to halogenated solvents, concentrated acids, and basic reagents.
Is remote monitoring supported?
The base unit does not include Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity, but analog/digital I/O ports allow integration with building automation or central lab monitoring systems via industrial protocols.
What maintenance is recommended?
Routine inspection of ground-glass joints, periodic replacement of PTFE seals (every 12–18 months under continuous use), and annual calibration of bath temperature sensors are advised per manufacturer guidelines.
Does the system comply with GMP requirements?
As supplied, the STRIKE Univ meets general laboratory equipment standards; however, formal GMP compliance requires site-specific qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), documented change control, and integration with validated data capture tools.