IKA RC 2 Basic Cooling Circulator

Overview

The IKA RC 2 Basic Cooling Circulator is a compact, high-reliability temperature control system engineered for precise thermal management in laboratory-scale applications requiring stable refrigeration and heating capabilities. Utilizing a closed-loop vapor-compression refrigeration cycle combined with resistive heating elements, the RC 2 Basic maintains tight thermal regulation across its operational range of –20 °C to +40 °C. Its core design principle centers on thermodynamic stability and fluidic consistency—achieving ±0.1 K temperature stability at –10 °C under standard ambient conditions (23 °C, 50% RH), making it suitable for applications where thermal drift must remain within sub-kelvin tolerances over extended durations. The unit operates exclusively in internal circulation mode, eliminating external plumbing complexity while retaining sufficient cooling capacity (400 W at –10 °C) to support jacketed reactors, condensers, or analytical instrument cooling interfaces.

Key Features

• Integrated dual-mode temperature control: simultaneous refrigeration and heating via PID-regulated compressor and heater assembly
• PEEK (polyether ether ketone) wetted pump components ensure chemical resistance against common organic solvents, aqueous buffers, and glycol–water mixtures
• Continuously variable pump speed control enables fine-tuned adjustment of flow pressure and volumetric throughput—critical for matching thermal load dynamics in non-standard bath geometries
• 4 L vacuum-insulated stainless-steel bath reservoir with optimized thermal mass distribution minimizes gradient formation and enhances response time
• Dual-access fluid handling: top-mounted funnel fill port allows spill-free liquid introduction; bottom-mounted drain valve facilitates complete, residue-free fluid exchange
• Front-panel removable cover grants unobstructed access to axial cooling fan and condenser coil—enabling routine dust removal without disassembly of internal refrigeration components

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RC 2 Basic accommodates a broad spectrum of heat-transfer fluids, including deionized water, 30–50% ethylene glycol/water blends, silicone oils (up to 100 cSt), and low-volatility synthetic heat-transfer media. Its PEEK pump housing and stainless-steel bath construction comply with ISO 8573-1:2010 (compressed air purity classes) for cleanroom-adjacent use and meet general requirements for GLP-compliant thermal conditioning systems. While not certified to UL/CSA or IEC 61010-1 as a standalone safety-certified device, its electrical architecture adheres to EN 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity standards). No built-in audit trail or electronic signature functionality is provided; therefore, integration into 21 CFR Part 11–governed workflows requires external data logging and user authentication layers.

Software & Data Management

The RC 2 Basic operates via an analog front-panel interface with mechanical dials for setpoint selection and pump speed adjustment—no digital display, no USB/Ethernet connectivity, and no embedded firmware. All operational parameters are manually configured and retained only during active power supply; no volatile memory or configuration storage is implemented. Consequently, the device does not generate timestamped logs, export datasets, or support remote monitoring protocols. Users intending to document thermal profiles must employ external calibrated temperature probes connected to independent data acquisition systems (e.g., National Instruments DAQ, Keysight 34972A) synchronized with process timers.

Applications

• Thermal stabilization of rotary evaporators, particularly during low-boiling-point solvent recovery below 0 °C
• Cooling of NMR probe preamplifiers and cryogen-free magnet shims requiring stable sub-zero bath temperatures
• Temperature-controlled reaction monitoring in small-scale batch synthesis (≤500 mL) using jacketed glass vessels
• Calibration reference baths for thermometer and RTD verification per ASTM E74–22 procedures
• Supporting chilled mirror hygrometers and dew point analyzers requiring constant-temperature condensation surfaces
• Pre-cooling of HPLC autosampler trays and column ovens prior to method startup sequences

FAQ

Does the RC 2 Basic support external recirculation loops?
No—it is designed exclusively for internal bath circulation. For external loop operation, consider the IKA RC 3 or RC 6 series models.
What is the minimum recommended fluid volume for stable thermal performance?
2.5 L of compatible heat-transfer fluid is required to achieve rated cooling capacity and stability specifications.
Can the unit maintain –20 °C continuously under full load?
Yes, provided ambient temperature remains ≤25 °C and relative humidity <60%; sustained operation at minimum temperature reduces compressor duty cycle efficiency but remains within design envelope.
Is the bath reservoir compatible with acetone or chlorinated solvents?
No—acetone, methylene chloride, and other aggressive halogenated or ketonic solvents degrade PEEK seals and compromise pump integrity. Consult IKA’s Chemical Compatibility Guide before selecting working fluids.
How often should the condenser fan be cleaned?
Every 3 months under continuous operation; more frequently in dusty or particulate-rich environments. Visual inspection is recommended prior to each quarterly maintenance interval.