Behr S1–S4 Kjeldahl Distillation Units (Manual to Fully Automated Series)

Overview

The Behr S1–S4 Kjeldahl Distillation Units are precision-engineered benchtop systems designed for reliable, reproducible nitrogen quantification in accordance with AOAC, ISO 8968, ISO 5983, and ASTM D1122 methodologies. These units implement classical Kjeldahl principle—alkaline distillation of ammonium ions liberated from digested samples—followed by condensation and titrimetric or colorimetric detection. Each model shares the same core thermodynamic architecture: a stainless-steel steam generator, PTFE-coated reaction chamber, integrated condenser with adjustable coolant flow, and vapor-tight sealing mechanism ensuring quantitative ammonia transfer. The S-series is purpose-built as a modular complement to Behr’s digestion modules (e.g., behrotest® KAS), enabling full workflow integration from sample mineralization to distillate collection. While S1 operates via manual start/stop and fixed steam output, S2–S4 progressively integrate programmable logic control (PLC), multi-step sequence automation, and real-time parameter monitoring—without compromising analytical integrity or GLP traceability.

Key Features

• Robust polyurethane-coated steel chassis providing chemical resistance, mechanical stability, and ergonomic footprint (410 × 675 × 410 mm)
• Adjustable steam generation capacity (40–100% of max output), enabling precise thermal control across diverse sample matrices (e.g., dairy, feed, soil, wastewater)
• Dedicated rinse cycle activated pre- and post-distillation to eliminate cross-contamination and maintain baseline accuracy
• Intuitive LCD interface with 11 preloaded methods (S1), scalable to 100 user-defined programs (S2–S4)
• RS232 serial interface compliant with standard laboratory data acquisition protocols; supports bidirectional parameter transfer between unit and host PC
• Independent power supply design (115–230 V~, 50/60 Hz) ensures operational continuity in multi-voltage lab environments
• Steam delivery optimized for ≤3 min/sample distillation time under standard conditions (2 mL 4% boric acid, 40% NaOH addition)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The S1–S4 series accommodates standard Kjeldahl receiving vessels (e.g., 100–250 mL Erlenmeyer flasks) and interfaces seamlessly with Behr’s behrotest® can set KAS digestors. All units meet IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and comply with EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility. Steam purity is validated per ISO 5983 Annex B, confirming absence of volatile interferences during distillation. The ≥99.5% nitrogen recovery rate satisfies AOAC 981.10 and ISO 8968-1 requirements for routine food and agricultural testing. Repeatability of ±0.5% RSD is verified using certified reference materials (e.g., NIST SRM 84g casein) under routine QC conditions.

Software & Data Management

Windows-based behrotest® Control Software (supplied on CD) enables method synchronization across S2–S4 units and central PC storage. Users may export raw distillation logs—including start/stop timestamps, steam duration, power draw, and operator ID—to CSV or PDF for audit-ready reporting. The software supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic signatures when deployed with validated authentication workflows. Audit trails record all parameter modifications, method executions, and system alerts, fulfilling GLP/GMP documentation requirements. No cloud dependency: all data resides locally unless explicitly exported via secure USB or network transfer.

Applications

These systems serve accredited testing laboratories performing nitrogen analysis in compliance-critical sectors: dairy quality control (crude protein in milk powder per ISO 8968-2), animal feed certification (AOAC 984.13), environmental monitoring (TKN in wastewater per EPA 351.2), and pharmaceutical excipient verification (USP ). The S3 and S4 models support extended batch runs (up to 24 samples unattended) with automatic cooldown and standby mode—ideal for high-throughput QA/QC labs operating under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

FAQ

Can the S1–S4 connect to an external titrator?
No—only the S5 model features a dedicated titrator interface; S1–S4 require manual or standalone titration.
Is method validation documentation provided?
Yes—application notes, AOAC/ISO validation summaries, and IQ/OQ templates are included in the behrotest® documentation suite.
What cooling water specifications are required?
Approximately 5 L/min at 10–25°C inlet temperature; tap water or recirculating chiller compatible.
Are spare parts and service support available globally?
Yes—Behr authorized distributors provide 24-month warranty, calibration services, and certified technician dispatch per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.
Does the system support LIMS integration?
Via RS232, raw data export enables middleware ingestion (e.g., LabVantage, STARLIMS); direct HL7 or ASTM E1384 drivers require custom configuration.