MENTS MD200-2A Dry-Block Nitrogen Evaporator

Overview

The MENTS MD200-2A Dry-Block Nitrogen Evaporator is a precision-engineered sample concentration system designed for reproducible, oxygen-free solvent removal in analytical laboratories. It operates on the principle of controlled nitrogen gas impingement onto heated sample surfaces—leveraging convective heat transfer and inert gas displacement to accelerate evaporation while minimizing thermal degradation and oxidation of thermolabile analytes. Unlike water-bath evaporators, the MD200-2A employs a solid aluminum heating block with high thermal conductivity and low thermal inertia, enabling rapid temperature equilibration and exceptional spatial uniformity across all 24 sample positions. Its microprocessor-based PID temperature control system ensures stable setpoint maintenance across the full operating range (ambient +5°C to 160°C), with calibrated accuracy traceable to NIST-traceable references. The instrument is engineered for integration into regulated workflows compliant with GLP and GMP environments, supporting audit-ready operation when paired with validated software protocols.

Key Features

• Dual independent aluminum heating modules (2 × 12-position blocks), each with isolated temperature control and real-time digital display
• 24 individually adjustable stainless-steel gas needles—each fitted with a dedicated flow-regulating valve aligned vertically with its corresponding well for intuitive, tool-free adjustment
• Mechanically robust vertical lift mechanism with dual-position safety lock pin, ensuring repeatable height positioning and long-term mechanical stability
• High-resolution 0.1°C digital temperature readout with user-accessible calibration offset function for routine metrological verification
• Programmable timer (1–99 h 59 min) with audible end-of-run alert and automatic power-down safeguard
• Front-panel LED indicators for heater status, timer active state, and gas flow confirmation
• Integrated overtemperature cut-off and short-circuit protection circuits meeting IEC 61010-1 safety standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MD200-2A accommodates standard conical-bottom and round-bottom tubes via interchangeable 12-position aluminum blocks (BK15–BK21), supporting tube diameters from 10 mm to 20 mm. Its dry-block architecture eliminates water contamination risks and enables precise thermal coupling with glass, polypropylene, and borosilicate vials. The system complies with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for equipment qualification, and its temperature performance meets ASTM E2234-22 criteria for laboratory evaporator validation. When operated within specified gas pressure limits (≤0.1 MPa), it satisfies OSHA PEL guidelines for workplace nitrogen exposure. Optional IQ/OQ documentation packages are available for laboratories requiring formal installation and operational qualification under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 frameworks.

Software & Data Management

While the MD200-2A operates as a standalone benchtop unit with no embedded connectivity, its analog-friendly design supports external data logging via 0–5 V or 4–20 mA process outputs (available upon request). Temperature and timer values are retained in non-volatile memory during power interruption. For fully traceable workflows, third-party USB or RS-232 data loggers may be interfaced using standardized Modbus RTU protocol (custom firmware option). All configuration parameters—including calibration offsets, timer presets, and temperature setpoints—are stored without volatile battery backup, ensuring integrity across power cycles. Audit trails generated by connected systems comply with ALCOA+ principles when implemented per laboratory SOPs.

Applications

• Pesticide residue analysis: Concentration of extracts from fruits, vegetables, cereals, and plant tissues prior to GC-ECD or LC-MS/MS quantification
• Environmental monitoring: Pre-concentration of trace organics (e.g., PAHs, PCBs, chlorinated pesticides) in drinking water, groundwater, and wastewater matrices per EPA Methods 508.1, 525.3, and 8081B
• Clinical and pharmaceutical research: Sample cleanup for steroid hormone profiling, therapeutic drug monitoring, and metabolite identification workflows
• Food and beverage safety: Residue testing in dairy products, alcoholic beverages, and infant formula in accordance with ISO 17025-accredited methods
• Natural product isolation: Gentle concentration of bioactive fractions following column chromatography or SPE elution steps

FAQ

Is the MD200-2A compatible with corrosive solvents such as DCM or chloroform?
Yes—the gas needles are constructed from electropolished 316 stainless steel, and the aluminum heating block is anodized to resist mild chemical exposure. However, prolonged contact with strong acids or halogenated solvents at elevated temperatures (>100°C) is not recommended without periodic surface inspection.
Can I use the instrument under a fume hood?
Yes. The MD200-2A generates no internal exhaust and is rated for Class II A2 biosafety cabinet-compatible operation. Ensure nitrogen supply lines are secured and vented appropriately per local lab safety policy.
What validation documentation is provided with the unit?
Each shipment includes a Factory Calibration Certificate (traceable to national standards), Electrical Safety Test Report (IEC 61010-1), and a complete set of mechanical drawings and CE Declaration of Conformity. IQ/OQ templates are supplied in editable PDF format.
Are replacement modules available for custom tube formats?
Standard BK-series modules cover common diameters (10–20 mm). Custom-machined blocks for non-standard geometries (e.g., square wells, deep-well plates) can be fabricated upon submission of dimensional specifications and minimum order quantity agreement.
Does the system support remote start/stop or network monitoring?
Not natively—but optional analog/digital I/O expansion modules enable integration with LabVantage, STARLIMS, or custom SCADA platforms via dry-contact relay or Modbus TCP gateways (consult engineering support for interface schematics).