EYELA CA-1320 Circulating Chiller

Overview

The EYELA CA-1320 Circulating Chiller is a compact, air-cooled refrigeration system engineered for precise temperature control in laboratory applications requiring stable, continuous coolant supply. Designed around a closed-loop circulation architecture, it utilizes R407C refrigerant and an optimized hermetic compressor to deliver reliable cooling performance across a wide operating range of −20°C to +20°C. Its core function is to maintain consistent thermal conditions for heat-sensitive equipment—including rotary evaporators, condensers, spectrophotometer cells, and reaction jackets—by circulating chilled fluid through external circuits. The unit employs ON-OFF compressor control with integrated thermal feedback, ensuring stable setpoint maintenance within ±2°C under varying load conditions. With a 13 L stainless steel (SUS304) reservoir and a maximum flow rate of 16 L/min at 9.5 m head, the CA-1320 supports simultaneous operation of multiple instruments—commonly two rotary evaporators—without performance compromise. Its vertical footprint (570 mm height) allows under-bench installation, addressing spatial constraints typical in modern analytical and synthetic laboratories.

Key Features

• Space-efficient design: 460 × 430 × 570 mm dimensions enable placement beneath standard laboratory benches, optimizing floor and benchtop real estate.
• Flip-up control panel: Intuitive touch-key interface with 0.1°C display resolution remains accessible without requiring overhead reach or repositioning.
• Integrated liquid level indicator: Transparent sight gauge permits real-time visual monitoring of reservoir fill level and circulation status without opening the tank lid.
• Comprehensive safety architecture: Includes leakage and overload protection, compressor high-pressure cut-off, built-in thermal overload relays for both compressor and circulation pump, and self-diagnostic temperature controller functionality.
• Durable fluid path components: Nickel-plated copper cooling coils and SUS304 reservoir ensure long-term corrosion resistance against common aqueous and mild organic coolants.
• Standardized fluid connections: Dual 10.5 mm OD quick-connect ports (inlet and outlet) facilitate rapid, leak-resistant coupling to external equipment using industry-standard silicone or reinforced PVC tubing.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CA-1320 is compatible with water, water–glycol mixtures (up to 30% v/v), and other non-corrosive, low-viscosity heat-transfer fluids suitable for laboratory-scale recirculation. It is not intended for use with flammable solvents, strong acids/bases, or particulate-laden media. While the unit itself carries CE marking per applicable EU directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD), it does not include intrinsic safety certifications for hazardous environments. Its mechanical construction and control logic align with general-purpose laboratory equipment requirements under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited facility guidelines, particularly where thermal stability of supporting instrumentation must be documented. No built-in audit trail or electronic signature capability is provided; therefore, it is not compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for regulated GxP workflows unless paired with externally validated data logging systems.

Software & Data Management

The CA-1320 operates as a standalone analog-controlled chiller with no embedded microprocessor-based data logging, remote communication interfaces (e.g., RS-232, Ethernet, or USB), or PC connectivity. All parameter setting and status monitoring occur locally via the front-panel digital display and tactile keys. Temperature correction offset can be manually entered to compensate for sensor drift or system-specific thermal lag. For integration into automated or GLP-compliant environments, third-party data acquisition systems may be connected via optional analog voltage output modules (not included) or external PT100 probes placed in the circulation loop. Users are responsible for establishing traceable calibration procedures per internal SOPs or ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4.

Applications

• Cooling of rotary evaporators (supports dual-unit operation at 10°C setpoint)
• Temperature stabilization of reflux condensers and cold traps
• Thermal management of UV-Vis and FTIR spectrophotometer sample compartments
• Controlled cooling of jacketed reactors during exothermic synthesis
• Support for HPLC column ovens and detector cooling blocks
• General-purpose benchtop chilling for calorimetry, viscometry, and electrophoresis apparatus

FAQ

What is the minimum ambient temperature for safe operation?
The unit is rated for ambient temperatures between 10°C and 35°C. Operation below 10°C may impair compressor oil viscosity and refrigerant phase behavior, risking reduced efficiency or shutdown.
Can the CA-1320 be used with ethylene glycol solutions?
Yes—up to 30% (v/v) aqueous ethylene glycol solutions are compatible. Higher concentrations increase viscosity and reduce heat transfer efficiency; consult EYELA’s technical bulletin TB-CA1320-02 for viscosity vs. flow rate curves.
Is the reservoir drain valve accessible without disassembly?
Yes—a bottom-mounted brass drain valve with PTFE-sealed thread allows full reservoir emptying while the unit remains upright and installed.
Does the unit support external temperature feedback control?
No. The CA-1320 uses only its internal bath sensor for temperature regulation and lacks input terminals for external probe integration.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Inspect air intake filters monthly; clean with compressed air. Verify refrigerant charge and compressor performance annually via authorized EYELA service centers. Replace circulation pump seals every 36 months under continuous operation.