IKA EasySyn 5000 Starter Basic Chemical Synthesis Reactor

Overview

The IKA EasySyn 5000 Starter is a modular, low-pressure glass reactor system engineered for reproducible and scalable chemical synthesis under controlled laboratory conditions. Designed around the principles of process safety, thermal stability, and chemical compatibility, it serves as a foundational platform for organic synthesis, aqueous-phase reactions, catalytic studies, and reaction optimization workflows. Its core architecture integrates a jacketed 5 L borosilicate glass 3.3 vessel with a precision-engineered overhead stirring system, vacuum-tight sealing, and multi-port reactor head configuration—enabling simultaneous integration of temperature probes, condensers, addition funnels, gas inlets, and reflux modules. The system operates across a wide thermal envelope (–50 °C to +200 °C), supported by external circulation thermostats, and maintains integrity under deep vacuum down to 3 mbar—critical for solvent removal, moisture-sensitive reactions, or low-boiling-point compound handling. As a benchtop-scale unit compliant with standard laboratory infrastructure (max. operating altitude: 2000 m, ambient humidity ≤80%, ambient temperature 5–40 °C), it bridges the gap between exploratory lab synthesis and pilot-scale process development.

Key Features

• Ergonomic, height-adjustable support frame with tool-free vessel mounting and DN 150 quick-lock clamping mechanism for rapid reactor assembly and disassembly
• Jacketed 5 L reaction vessel fabricated from DIN ISO 3585-compliant borosilicate glass 3.3—exhibiting high resistance to thermal shock, alkali corrosion, and hydrolytic degradation
• Chemically inert fluid path: PTFE-lined bottom discharge valve with spring-loaded actuation to prevent mechanical stress on glass during valve operation
• Multi-port reactor head featuring one central NS 29/32 joint, two auxiliary NS 29/32 ports, and one NS 14/23 port—supporting flexible accessory integration without adapter compromises
• FEP-coated DN 150 O-ring seal ensuring long-term vacuum integrity and resistance to aggressive reagents including halogenated solvents, strong acids, and oxidizers
• IKA EUROSTAR 60 digital overhead stirrer delivering up to 60 N·cm torque with brushless motor, integrated speed control (0–250 rpm), and keyless chuck for rapid impeller exchange
• PTFE-coated helical impeller optimized for homogeneous mixing across viscosity ranges typical of synthetic intermediates and slurries
• Vacuum-rated mechanical shaft seal rated for continuous operation at ≤3 mbar, minimizing lubricant contamination risk and enabling solvent recovery under reduced pressure

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The EasySyn 5000 Starter accommodates heterogeneous and homogeneous reaction mixtures—including suspensions, emulsions, and gas–liquid systems—within its chemically inert glass/PTFE/FEP wetted path. It supports GLP-aligned experimental documentation when paired with IKA LabWorld software and compatible temperature/vacuum sensors. While not intrinsically rated for explosion-proof environments, its design adheres to fundamental safety provisions outlined in EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) and EN 61000-6-3 (emission), and conforms to CE marking requirements for laboratory equipment under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. All glass components comply with ISO 3585 for borosilicate glass 3.3 dimensional and thermal specifications. The system is routinely deployed in academic research labs, pharmaceutical process chemistry groups, and fine chemical development units where trace metal contamination control and cleanability are essential.

Software & Data Management

When integrated with IKA LabWorld software (optional), the EasySyn 5000 Starter enables synchronized parameter logging—including real-time stirring speed, setpoint vs. actual temperature (via Pt100 probe input), and vacuum level (with optional digital vacuum sensor). LabWorld supports audit-trail-enabled data export in CSV and PDF formats, meeting basic requirements for data integrity under ALCOA+ principles. While the base Starter configuration does not include FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures or role-based access control, these capabilities are available through validated LabWorld configurations used in regulated GMP environments. All IKA controllers and sensors communicate via RS232 or USB, ensuring deterministic timing and minimal latency in closed-loop temperature or agitation control loops.

Applications

• Organometallic synthesis requiring strict exclusion of moisture and oxygen under inert gas blanket or dynamic vacuum
• Grignard, lithiation, and hydride reduction reactions benefiting from precise temperature ramping and exotherm management
• Polymerization initiation studies (e.g., ROP, ATRP) where monomer addition rate, shear history, and thermal profile critically influence molecular weight distribution
• Catalytic hydrogenation screening using Pd/C, Raney Ni, or homogeneous complexes—compatible with H₂ inlet modules and pressure-rated accessories (upgraded variants)
• Crystallization process development, including anti-solvent addition, cooling profiles, and seeding protocols under controlled supersaturation
• Extraction and concentration workflows involving rotary evaporation alternatives—leveraging jacketed heating, vacuum, and condenser integration

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable working pressure for the EasySyn 5000 Starter?
The system is designed for low-pressure operation only; its standard configuration is rated for vacuum service up to 3 mbar absolute and atmospheric pressure (0 bar gauge). Positive pressure operation beyond ambient requires optional pressure-rated accessories and is not supported in the Starter variant.
Can the reactor be used for cryogenic reactions below –30 °C?
Yes—the vessel and seals are qualified for continuous operation down to –50 °C when paired with a compatible low-temperature circulator and appropriate heat transfer fluid (e.g., ethanol/water or specialized silicone oils).
Is the stirring system compatible with viscous reaction media?
The EUROSTAR 60 digital drive provides high starting torque and maintains stable speed across viscosities up to ~50,000 mPa·s when used with appropriate impeller geometry and adequate power coupling—verified per IKA’s internal rheological test protocols.
Are replacement vessels and custom lids available?
Yes—IKA offers multiple vessel options (with/without bottom valves, side ports, or integrated thermowells) and configurable lids with varying joint layouts, all manufactured to identical dimensional and material standards.
Does the system meet ISO/IEC 17025 calibration requirements?
While the reactor itself is not a measuring instrument, temperature sensors, vacuum transducers, and stirrer tachometers used with the system can be individually calibrated per ISO/IEC 17025 by accredited third-party laboratories; IKA provides traceable calibration certificates for factory-installed sensors upon request.