IKA RV10 Basic Rotary Evaporator
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | RV10 Basic |
| Capacity | 2 L |
| Ultimate Vacuum | 6.5 hPa |
| Rotational Speed Range | 20–280 rpm |
| Heating Bath Temperature Range | RT to 180 °C |
| Heating Control Accuracy | ±5 K |
| Condenser Surface Area | 1,200 cm² |
| Motor Type | Brushless DC Motor |
| Motor Power Input | 50 W |
| Lift Stroke | 140 mm |
| Dimensions (W × D × H, without glassware) | 530 × 410 × 570 mm |
| Weight (with heating bath, no glassware) | 20 kg |
| IP Rating | IP20 |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 5–40 °C |
Overview
The IKA RV10 Basic Rotary Evaporator is a precision-engineered laboratory system designed for efficient solvent removal, concentration, and gentle purification of heat-sensitive compounds under reduced pressure. Built upon IKA’s decades-long heritage in German-engineered laboratory instrumentation, the RV10 Basic implements core principles of rotary evaporation—namely, simultaneous rotation, controlled heating, and vacuum-assisted vapor phase separation—to maximize surface area exposure, enhance evaporation kinetics, and minimize thermal degradation. Its modular architecture centers on the HB 10 Basic heating bath and a robust brushless DC motor drive, enabling stable rotational motion across a wide speed range while maintaining mechanical longevity and low electromagnetic interference. Unlike integrated vacuum-controlled variants, the RV10 Basic operates with externally regulated vacuum sources—making it especially suitable for labs utilizing centralized vacuum networks or programmable vacuum controllers compliant with ISO 27427 and ASTM E2912 standards for evaporative process validation.
Key Features
- Brushless DC motor with digital RPM display (20–280 rpm), offering maintenance-free operation and high torque consistency at low speeds
- Motor-driven vertical lift mechanism (140 mm stroke) with programmable endpoint detection and automatic safety lift upon power interruption
- Ergonomically optimized design with adjustable head angle (0–45°), facilitating safe glassware handling and alignment with condenser geometry
- HB 10 Basic heating bath (1,300 W) featuring analog temperature control with ±5 K accuracy over RT–180 °C; includes independent safety cutoff circuitry
- Intermittent bidirectional rotation mode for uniform drying of powdered or viscous samples—critical for lyophilization pre-processing and residue homogenization
- Integrated electronic timer for repeatable, unattended operation sequences (e.g., timed distillation cycles)
- Rotary bottle release mechanism to disengage tightly sealed flasks without manual force or risk of breakage
- IP20-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529 for dry, non-hazardous laboratory environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RV10 Basic supports standard 2 L round-bottom flasks (ISO 27427-compliant neck dimensions) and accommodates both vertical and inclined condenser configurations (V, V-C, D, D-C variants)—each offering 1,200 cm² effective cooling surface area. Optional anti-shatter film coating (V-C/D-C) meets DIN 12350-2 recommendations for enhanced operator safety during high-vacuum operations. While the unit itself does not include an integrated vacuum controller, its electromagnetic valve compatibility (RV 10.4001–RV 10.4003) enables seamless integration into GLP/GMP-regulated workflows when paired with vacuum systems validated per USP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for audit-trail-capable process control. The device conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment.
Software & Data Management
The RV10 Basic operates as a standalone hardware platform without embedded firmware or PC connectivity. All operational parameters—including rotation speed, heating bath setpoint, and timer duration—are adjusted manually via front-panel dials and switches. For laboratories requiring traceable process documentation, external data loggers (e.g., certified Pt100 thermocouple interfaces or vacuum transducer recorders) may be deployed in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 calibration protocols. When used alongside IKA’s optional vacuum controllers (e.g., RV 10.4003), full audit trails—including vacuum ramp profiles, temperature deviations, and motor status logs—can be generated and archived for regulatory review.
Applications
- Solvent recovery and concentration of organic extracts in natural product isolation (e.g., phytochemicals, essential oils)
- Gentle removal of volatile solvents (e.g., dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, hexane) from reaction mixtures prior to NMR or MS analysis
- Preparative-scale dehydration of polymer solutions and colloidal suspensions
- Removal of residual solvents from pharmaceutical intermediates under ICH Q5C stability guidelines
- Low-temperature concentration of thermolabile biomolecules (e.g., peptides, oligonucleotides) using chilled coolant circulation
- Standardized evaporation protocols in QC laboratories adhering to AOAC 992.15 and EPA Method 3510C
FAQ
Does the RV10 Basic include a built-in vacuum controller?
No—the RV10 Basic requires an external vacuum source and optional electromagnetic valve modules (RV 10.4001–RV 10.4003) for vacuum regulation.
What condenser configurations are supported?
Vertical (V/V-C) and inclined (D/D-C) glass condensers are available; anti-shatter film options comply with DIN 12350-2 safety standards.
Is the heating bath temperature digitally controlled?
Temperature is set via analog dial with刻度-based readout; accuracy is specified as ±5 K across the RT–180 °C range.
Can the RV10 Basic be integrated into automated lab systems?
Yes—via optional vacuum valve modules and third-party PLC interfaces, provided external signal conditioning meets IEC 61131-3 communication standards.
What is the maximum allowable ambient temperature for continuous operation?
The unit is rated for uninterrupted use at ambient temperatures between 5 °C and 40 °C, per IEC 60068-2-1 and IEC 60068-2-2 environmental testing specifications.

