Labotery LXS-15 Circulating Chiller

Overview

The Labotery LXS-15 Circulating Chiller is an integrated, water-cooled thermal management system engineered for precision temperature stabilization of laboratory instruments requiring continuous coolant circulation. It operates on the principle of vapor-compression refrigeration enhanced by Hot Gas Bypass (HGB) technology — a continuous modulation method that dynamically adjusts refrigerant flow without compressor cycling. Unlike conventional on/off compressors, HGB enables seamless load-matching across varying heat loads, minimizing thermal overshoot and extending compressor service life. Designed for integration with spectrometers, laser systems, NMR preamplifiers, rotary evaporators, and plasma sources, the LXS-15 maintains stable bath temperatures between 8 °C and 35 °C with ±1 °C stability under steady-state conditions. Its compact footprint, plate-type heat exchanger, and sealed-loop architecture support reliable operation in ambient environments up to 35 °C, making it suitable for ISO 17025-accredited labs and GLP-compliant research workflows.

Key Features

• Hot Gas Bypass refrigeration control ensures continuous, non-cycling compressor operation — eliminating thermal shock, reducing mechanical wear, and improving long-term repeatability.
• PID-based microprocessor controller with backlit LCD interface delivers intuitive parameter setting, real-time monitoring of outlet temperature, flow rate, and system status.
• Dual-circuit capability supports simultaneous internal reservoir recirculation and external instrument cooling via dedicated inlet/outlet ports with quick-connect fittings.
• 6-liter corrosion-resistant reservoir features a sediment-trapping baffle design to isolate particulates and protect pump impellers and heat exchanger plates from abrasion.
• Imported low-noise centrifugal pump provides stable 12.1 L/min flow at up to 4 bar pressure — sufficient to overcome typical head losses in multi-instrument manifolds.
• Eco-conscious refrigeration system uses non-ozone-depleting, low-GWP refrigerant compliant with EN 378-1:2016 and ISO 5149 safety standards.
• Integrated overpressure relief bypass valve automatically diverts flow when external circuit resistance exceeds 4.2 bar, safeguarding connected analytical equipment from hydraulic stress.
• Drain port positioned at reservoir base enables complete fluid exchange without disassembly; compatible exclusively with deionized or distilled water to prevent scaling and biofilm formation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LXS-15 is designed for closed-loop circulation of purified water only — excluding tap water, glycol mixtures, or organic solvents. Its wetted materials (304 stainless steel reservoir, EPDM seals, brass fittings, and PPS pump housing) are chemically inert toward deionized water and exhibit no measurable leachables per USP . The unit meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. While not FDA-listed as a medical device, its construction adheres to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) infrastructure guidelines for auxiliary equipment. Traceable calibration records for temperature sensors (±0.3 °C accuracy at 25 °C) and flow meters (±3% FS) can be provided upon request for audit readiness.

Software & Data Management

The LXS-15 operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded network connectivity or proprietary software suite. All operational parameters are configured locally via the front-panel interface. However, analog 0–10 V and 4–20 mA output signals are available for external data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW, DeltaV, or Siemens Desigo), enabling integration into centralized facility monitoring. Optional RS485 Modbus RTU communication (add-on module) supports remote readout of setpoint, actual temperature, pump status, and fault codes — facilitating compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated SCADA logging infrastructure.

Applications

• Stabilizing optical cavities and diode lasers in spectroscopy and metrology setups where sub-degree thermal drift compromises resolution.
• Providing consistent coolant supply to high-power RF amplifiers and plasma generators used in thin-film deposition and surface analysis.
• Maintaining constant bath temperature during extended DSC, TGA, or rheometry experiments requiring uninterrupted thermal history.
• Cooling condensers in rotary evaporation systems handling heat-sensitive compounds, especially under vacuum conditions where latent heat removal is critical.
• Supporting cryo-stage precooling circuits in electron microscopy sample preparation workflows.

FAQ

Can the LXS-15 be used with ethylene glycol solutions?

No. The system is validated exclusively for deionized or distilled water. Glycol-based coolants may degrade EPDM seals and impair heat transfer efficiency in the plate exchanger.

What is the maximum allowable external circuit pressure drop?

The integrated pressure relief activates at 4.2 bar — therefore, total system head loss (including tubing, valves, and instrument jackets) must remain below 4.0 bar to ensure uninterrupted operation.

Is the temperature sensor traceably calibrated?

Yes. Each unit ships with a factory calibration certificate referencing NIST-traceable standards; optional UKAS-accredited recalibration is available annually.

Does the chiller meet noise emission limits for ISO Class 5 cleanrooms?

At 1.5 m distance, sound pressure level is ≤48 dB(A) — compliant with ISO 14644-4 Annex C for ancillary equipment in controlled environments.

Can multiple instruments be connected in parallel to one LXS-15?

Yes, provided total heat load remains within 3000 W and combined flow resistance stays below 4.0 bar; use balanced manifolds with individual shut-off valves and flow meters for verification.