IKA LR-2.ST Modular Laboratory Reactor System with Single-Wall Glass Vessel LR 2.1

Overview

The IKA LR-2.ST is a modular, microprocessor-controlled laboratory reactor system engineered for precision synthesis, kinetic studies, and scalable process development under controlled thermal, mechanical, and atmospheric conditions. Designed around Couette-type mixing principles and optimized for batch-mode chemical reactions, it integrates high-torque stirring, vacuum compatibility, and real-time torque monitoring to support viscosity-sensitive processes — including polymerization, crystallization, emulsification, and heterogeneous catalysis. Its architecture adheres to core engineering tenets of reproducibility, operator safety, and material compatibility: all wetted parts are constructed from borosilicate glass (DIN ISO 3585), chemically resistant FFPM (perfluoroelastomer) seals, PTFE components, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel 1.4571 (AISI 316Ti equivalent). The system operates within a validated temperature envelope (ambient to 230 °C) and vacuum range down to 25 mbar, enabling solvent reflux, reduced-pressure distillation, and moisture-sensitive reactions without inert gas purging.

Key Features

• Modular design supporting rapid reconfiguration for reaction, dispersion, homogenization, or distillation workflows
• EUROSTAR P7 high-torque drive unit with microprocessor-based speed regulation — maintains setpoint accuracy ±1 rpm even under variable load
• Integrated relative torque display for real-time viscosity trend analysis during reaction progression
• Single-wall glass reactor vessel LR 2.1 (500–2000 mL working volume) with five standardized ground-glass ports (3 × NS 29/32, 2 × NS 14/23) for flexible accessory integration
• FFPM sealing system rated for repeated thermal cycling (−20 °C to +230 °C) and broad-spectrum solvent resistance (including chlorinated, aromatic, and polar aprotic solvents)
• Lifting stand with 390 mm vertical travel and mechanical locking mechanism for precise height adjustment and safe vessel handling
• Dual communication interfaces: RS 232 for instrument control via PC software (IKA Labworldsoft), and analog output (0–10 V) for external data acquisition or PLC integration
• Compliance with DIN EN 60529 (IP 42) for protection against solid objects >1 mm and vertically falling water droplets

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LR-2.ST accommodates diverse sample classes — from low-viscosity aqueous solutions to highly viscous polymer melts (up to 150,000 mPa·s) — without compromising mixing efficiency or thermal uniformity. Its borosilicate glass vessel ensures optical clarity for visual reaction monitoring and compatibility with UV-active chemistries. FFPM gaskets meet ASTM D1418 and ISO 1629 classifications for fluorocarbon elastomers, offering superior resistance to swelling and compression set versus standard FKM. The system supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with IKA Labworldsoft v5.x, which provides electronic audit trails, user access levels, and data export in CSV/PDF formats traceable to ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. While not intrinsically rated for explosion-proof environments, the unit may be deployed in Class I, Division 2 areas when installed per NEC Article 500 guidelines and operated below flashpoint thresholds.

Software & Data Management

IKA Labworldsoft serves as the native control and data logging platform, enabling automated parameter ramping (temperature, speed, time), event-triggered actions (e.g., start/stop on torque threshold), and synchronized multi-channel recording (speed, torque, temperature if external probe is connected). All measurement data are timestamped and stored with metadata (user ID, method name, version number), satisfying FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records when configured with digital signatures and role-based permissions. Raw data export supports post-processing in MATLAB, Python (Pandas), or industry-standard statistical packages (JMP, Minitab). The analog output channel permits integration into centralized SCADA or DCS systems for lab-scale process correlation studies.

Applications

• Kinetic profiling of esterification, amidation, and condensation reactions under controlled vacuum and temperature
• Synthesis and scale-up screening of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs)
• Development of pharmaceutical intermediates requiring strict exclusion of atmospheric moisture or oxygen
• Emulsion polymerization with in-situ viscosity tracking to determine gel point onset
• Catalytic hydrogenation trials using suspended noble-metal catalysts with simultaneous gas introduction via side ports
• Thermal degradation studies of thermoplastics and biopolymers under inert or reduced-pressure atmospheres

FAQ

Can the LR-2.ST be used for exothermic reactions requiring active cooling?
Yes — the single-wall glass vessel allows direct contact with external cooling jackets or circulating chillers (e.g., Huber units) via the NS 29/32 side ports; however, for precise ΔT control below ambient, a double-wall vessel (LR 2.2) is recommended.
Is the FFPM seal compatible with hydrofluoric acid (HF) or molten alkali metals?
No — FFPM exhibits limited resistance to HF, hot concentrated alkalis, and alkali metals; alternative sealing materials (e.g., Kalrez® 8010 for HF, or metal C-rings for ultra-high-purity applications) must be evaluated case-by-case with IKA Technical Support.
Does the system support automatic titration or pH-controlled addition?
Not natively — but third-party peristaltic pumps (e.g., Watson-Marlow 323Du) and pH meters with 4–20 mA outputs can be interfaced via the analog input/output terminals for closed-loop dosing protocols.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the EUROSTAR P7 motor?
IKA specifies biannual inspection of carbon brushes and annual recalibration of torque sensing; full service is advised every 3 years or after 10,000 operating hours, whichever occurs first.
Can Labworldsoft data be imported into LIMS platforms?
Yes — exported CSV files contain structured headers compliant with ASTM E1578-22 (Standard Guide for Laboratory Information Management Systems), enabling seamless ingestion into most modern LIMS via API or flat-file ingestion modules.