FRYKA ULK 402 Compact Circulating Chiller
| Brand | FRYKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | ULK 402 |
| Cooling Type | Air-Cooled |
| Temperature Range | −10 °C to +40 °C |
| Temperature Stability | ±1 °C |
| Refrigeration Capacity | 380 W @ 30 °C / 270 W @ 10 °C |
| Circulation Flow Rate | 4 L/min |
| Maximum Head Pressure | 1.5 mWS |
| Reservoir Volume | 4 L |
| Pump Pressure | 0.15 bar |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 26 × 37 × 40.5 cm |
| Weight | 18.2 kg |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | +12 °C to +30 °C |
| Power Supply | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Max. Current Draw | 1.5 A |
Overview
The FRYKA ULK 402 is a compact, air-cooled circulating chiller engineered for precision temperature control in laboratory and analytical instrumentation applications. Designed and manufactured in Germany, it operates on a closed-loop refrigeration cycle utilizing R134a or equivalent low-GWP refrigerant, delivering stable thermal management for spectrophotometers, rotary evaporators, ICP-MS coolant loops, laser sources, and other heat-sensitive equipment requiring continuous cooling between −10 °C and +40 °C. Its integrated hermetic compressor, high-efficiency finned-tube condenser, and microprocessor-controlled expansion valve ensure consistent performance under variable thermal loads. The unit’s all-in-one architecture eliminates the need for external condensate drainage or water supply infrastructure, making it ideal for benchtop deployment in ISO 17025-accredited labs, QC facilities, and university research environments where space, reliability, and regulatory traceability are critical.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-based PID temperature controller with LED display for real-time setpoint and actual bath temperature monitoring
- Integrated float-level switch with visual front-panel level indicator and dual-stage audible/visual low/high fluid level alarm
- Hermetically sealed, ultra-low-noise air-cooling system — no routine oil changes or refrigerant servicing required during normal operation
- Stainless steel reservoir with 3/4″ BSP fill port and integrated air bleed valve for rapid system priming and degassing
- Adjustable pressure-regulated circulation pump (0.15 bar max) supporting flow rates up to 4 L/min at 1.5 mWS head — compatible with standard 6–10 mm ID tubing and universal quick-connect fittings
- Robust polyurethane foam-lined shipping crate ensures transit integrity; CE-marked per EN 61000-6-3 (EMC) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ULK 402 supports aqueous and water-glycol (up to 30% v/v) coolants only. It is not rated for organic solvents, oils, or corrosive heat-transfer fluids. Its design conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EN 60335-1 requirements for household and similar electrical appliances. While the chiller itself does not perform sample analysis, its stable thermal output enables compliance with method-specific temperature tolerances defined in ASTM E29, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 7.2.2 (equipment verification), and USP Analytical Instrument Qualification protocols when used as ancillary support hardware. Routine operational checks (e.g., temperature stability verification per SOP-LAB-CH-001) are recommended prior to GxP-critical runs.
Software & Data Management
The ULK 402 operates as a standalone analog-controlled instrument without digital communication interfaces (e.g., RS-232, USB, or Ethernet). All operational parameters — including setpoint, measured temperature, pump status, and alarm conditions — are accessible via the front-panel LED interface. For laboratories implementing 21 CFR Part 11-compliant workflows, manual log entries (date, time, setpoint, observed bath temperature, coolant level, and operator ID) must be recorded in bound lab notebooks or validated electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems. Optional third-party data loggers with thermistor probes can be deployed externally to capture time-stamped temperature profiles for audit readiness.
Applications
- Continuous cooling of HPLC column ovens and detector cells to maintain retention time reproducibility
- Thermal stabilization of FTIR interferometers and CCD detectors to minimize dark current drift
- Heat extraction from vacuum pump motor housings and cold traps in rotary evaporation systems
- Temperature regulation of electrophoresis power supplies and gel documentation chambers
- Support cooling for benchtop NMR shim heaters and cryogen-free magnet cooling circuits
- Environmental simulation pre-conditioning in materials testing per ISO 291 and ASTM D618
FAQ
What coolant types are approved for use with the ULK 402?
Only deionized water or water-propylene glycol mixtures (≤30% v/v) are permitted. Ethylene glycol, ethanol, acetone, mineral oil, or silicone-based fluids will damage seals and void warranty.
Can the ULK 402 operate continuously at −10 °C ambient temperature?
No. The unit requires an ambient environment between +12 °C and +30 °C per specification. Operation outside this range may impair condenser efficiency and trigger thermal shutdown.
Is the reservoir volume user-serviceable?
Yes. The 4 L stainless steel tank is accessible via the top-fill port; coolant replacement and system flushing follow manufacturer-recommended procedures outlined in the technical manual (Ref. ULK-402-IM-EN Rev. 3.1).
Does the ULK 402 support remote start/stop or analog setpoint input?
No. It lacks external control inputs or relay outputs. All operation is local via the front panel.
How often should the air filter be inspected?
Monthly inspection is advised in typical lab environments; cleaning frequency increases in dusty or high-particulate settings. A clogged filter reduces airflow and elevates compressor discharge temperature, triggering fault codes.
