Grant Optima TC120 Circulating Water Bath

Overview

The Grant Optima TC120 Circulating Water Bath is a precision-engineered, entry-level temperature control system designed for reliable, stable thermal management in academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial laboratory environments. Operating on the principle of forced convection via an integrated high-flow circulation pump, the TC120 maintains consistent temperature distribution across external bath vessels or connected peripheral equipment—including viscometers, spectrophotometer cells, reaction blocks, and environmental test chambers. Its operational range spans from −20 °C to +100 °C, with full refrigeration capability requiring integration with an external chiller unit (e.g., Grant PCU series). The device complies with DIN 12876 Class I specifications for temperature stability and uniformity, ensuring traceable performance under ISO/IEC 17025-aligned quality systems. As part of the broader Optima platform, the TC120 delivers repeatable thermal control without reliance on proprietary software—making it suitable for GLP-compliant workflows where auditability and instrument transparency are prioritized.

Key Features

• Intelligent Control Optimization (ICO) algorithm with adaptive PID tuning for rapid thermal equilibration and minimal overshoot
• Dual-mode operation: standalone benchtop use or remote integration via USB/RS232 for centralized lab automation
• Four-user-definable temperature presets (one active setpoint + three recallable values) for multi-step protocols
• Two-point user calibration function enabling offset correction at two independent temperatures—critical for applications demanding traceable accuracy per ISO 17025 requirements
• Integrated circulation pump delivering up to 16 L/min flow rate and 210 mbar pressure, supporting extended fluid loops up to 10 m in length
• Comprehensive safety architecture: fixed over-temperature cutoff, floating low-level sensor, dual-stage audible/visual alarm system with configurable thresholds
• Ergonomic rotary control knob and dual-function buttons for intuitive navigation—no menu diving required for routine adjustments
• Robust stainless-steel chassis (standard) with corrosion-resistant finish; optional insulated lid kits available to minimize evaporation and cross-contamination

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TC120 is compatible with Grant’s full line of ST-series (stainless steel) and P-series (polypropylene) immersion baths—ranging from 5 L to 38 L capacity—with standardized port geometry and thermal interface design. It supports external temperature monitoring using optional TXPEP (platinum resistance) or TXSEP (surface probe) sensors, enabling closed-loop validation against reference standards. All units are CE-marked and conform to EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) and EN 61000-6-3 (emissions). For regulated environments, the TC120 meets foundational requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 readiness when paired with Labwise™ software (sold separately), offering electronic signature support, audit trail logging, and user-access controls. It is routinely deployed in QC labs performing ASTM D2196 (viscosity), USP (aseptic compounding support), and ISO 8573-1 (compressed air testing) thermal conditioning steps.

Software & Data Management

While fully functional in standalone mode, the TC120 integrates seamlessly with Grant’s Labwise™ PC software suite (v4.0+), enabling remote parameter configuration, real-time data logging (up to 10 Hz sampling), and automated report generation in PDF or CSV formats. The software supports up to 100-step programmable sequences—including ramp/soak profiles—and provides timestamped event logs for temperature excursions, alarm triggers, and calibration actions. All data files include embedded metadata (instrument ID, operator login, ambient conditions) to satisfy ALCOA+ principles. USB and RS232 interfaces allow direct connection to LIMS or ELN platforms without middleware. No cloud dependency or subscription model is required—data remains locally stored and exportable for internal QA review or regulatory submission.

Applications

• Enzyme kinetics studies requiring precise thermal stabilization between 4 °C and 45 °C
• Calibration of thermistors, RTDs, and infrared thermometers against NIST-traceable references
• Thermal preconditioning of polymer samples prior to tensile or rheological testing (ASTM D638, ISO 527)
• Cell culture incubator pre-equilibration and media warming in biologics development
• Support of dissolution testing apparatus (USP Apparatus I/II) via jacketed vessel temperature control
• Long-duration stability testing per ICH Q1A(R2), including accelerated conditions at 40 °C/75% RH simulation support

FAQ

Does the TC120 include a built-in refrigeration system?
No. The TC120 provides heating and circulation only. Refrigeration down to −20 °C requires connection to an external chiller (e.g., Grant PCU-10 or PCU-20) via standard 6/11 mm quick-connect fittings.

Can the TC120 maintain temperature stability during extended unattended operation?
Yes. With its ±0.05 °C stability (DIN 12876 @ 70 °C), robust thermal mass design, and redundant safety circuits, the TC120 is validated for continuous 72-hour operation under load—provided ambient conditions remain within 18–28 °C and relative humidity stays below 80%.

Is user calibration traceable to national standards?
Yes. The two-point calibration function allows users to apply certified reference values (e.g., from a Fluke 724 or similar metrology-grade source) at any two temperatures within the operating range. Calibration coefficients are stored non-volatilely and appear in Labwise™ audit trails.

What bath sizes are supported without modification?
All Grant ST (stainless steel) and P (polypropylene) baths—from ST5 (5 L) to ST38 (38 L) and P5 (5 L) to P18 (18 L)—are mechanically and hydraulically compatible out-of-the-box, with no adapter kits required.

How is firmware updated?
Firmware updates are delivered via USB stick using Grant’s official update utility. No internet connection or online account is needed—ensuring compliance with air-gapped network policies common in regulated facilities.