IKA HBC 10 control Heating Circulator

Overview

The IKA HBC 10 control is a precision-engineered heating circulator designed for stable, reproducible thermal control in laboratory applications requiring external temperature regulation of reactors, jacketed vessels, or analytical instrumentation. Based on forced convection via a high-efficiency pressure/suction pump and optimized heat exchange through an integrated large-area heating coil, the system delivers uniform thermal energy transfer to both internal bath media (water, silicone oil, or other compatible heat-transfer fluids) and externally connected equipment. Its core architecture complies with DIN 12876 Safety Class III (FL), indicating suitability for flammable liquids up to flash point 60 °C, and incorporates dual PT100 working sensors plus a redundant PT1000 safety sensor—ensuring fail-safe operation under GLP/GMP-aligned workflows. The unit operates continuously at 100% duty cycle within ambient conditions of 5–40 °C and relative humidity ≤80%, meeting IP21 ingress protection per DIN EN 60529.

Key Features

• Stainless steel bath tank with 8–11 L usable volume and 150 mm minimum depth, engineered for mechanical durability and thermal insulation
• High-resolution 4.3-inch color TFT display showing real-time values for bath temperature, pump speed, fill level, and configurable safety limit
• Intuitive rotary knob + push-button interface supporting multi-language menu navigation (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese)
• Wireless WiCo controller enabling remote operation up to 10 m (30 ft), ideal for use inside fume hoods or behind safety barriers
• Adjustable pressure/suction pump with flow range up to 26 L/min at 0 bar backpressure; max pressure 0.7 bar, max suction 0.4 bar
• Dual-sensor architecture: primary PT100 for process control (±0.1 K accuracy), secondary PT1000 for independent safety cutoff (adjustable 0–260 °C)
• Front-mounted drain valve with M16×1 thread (NW 8) for safe, hose-connected fluid evacuation—eliminating operator contact with hot media
• Electronic timer (0–99 h 59 min), visual/audible alarms for overtemperature, low-level, and sensor fault conditions
• Comprehensive connectivity: RS232 and USB ports for integration with labworldsoft® software; firmware updates via IKA’s official support portal

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HBC 10 control supports a wide range of heat-transfer media—including deionized water, glycol-water mixtures, mineral oils, and silicone oils—within its operational range of 10–200 °C (extended to 250 °C per optional configuration). It is certified to DIN 12876 Class III (FL) for use with flammable liquids, and conforms to IEC/EN 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory environments. Its design enables seamless integration into ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs and FDA-regulated facilities where audit trails and instrument qualification are required. Optional calibration routines support traceable verification against NIST-traceable standards. The unit meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1 and carries CE marking for conformity with EU directives.

Software & Data Management

Through RS232 or USB interfaces, the HBC 10 control integrates natively with IKA’s labworldsoft® platform—enabling remote parameter setting, real-time data logging, event-triggered recording, and automated report generation. All temperature setpoints, pump speeds, safety thresholds, and alarm states are fully programmable and stored with timestamped audit trails compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used with validated software configurations. Firmware updates preserve historical calibration records and maintain backward compatibility with existing lab informatics systems. No proprietary drivers are required; standard CDC ACM-class USB communication ensures plug-and-play interoperability across Windows, macOS, and Linux hosts.

Applications

• Temperature control of jacketed glass reactors during synthesis, crystallization, or polymerization
• Thermal conditioning of viscometers, densitometers, and refractometers requiring stable external baths
• Calibration of temperature-sensitive sensors and transducers under controlled thermal gradients
• Accelerated stability testing per ICH Q1A(R2) guidelines using programmable ramp/soak profiles
• Supporting ASTM D2857 (FTIR spectroscopy), ISO 3104 (kinematic viscosity), and USP compounding environment validation
• Integration into automated reaction screening platforms via digital command protocols

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable bath temperature for continuous operation?
The rated continuous operating range is 10–200 °C; extended operation up to 250 °C is supported but requires confirmation of fluid compatibility and adherence to reduced duty-cycle recommendations.
Does the device support external temperature feedback control?
Yes—via optional external PT100 sensor input, enabling closed-loop control of reactor jackets or process lines independent of bath temperature.
Is the HBC 10 control suitable for GMP environments?
When operated with labworldsoft® in validated mode and configured with electronic signature, audit trail, and alarm logging, it satisfies key elements of FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 for computerized system validation.
Can the pump direction be reversed for suction-only applications?
No—the integrated pressure/suction pump is unidirectional but offers fully adjustable flow rate and pressure output across its specified operating envelope.
How is calibration traceability ensured?
The unit includes built-in calibration adjustment functions for both PT100 and PT1000 sensors, and supports documentation of as-found/as-left data aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.5 requirements.