IKA LR-2.ST the Versatile Modular Laboratory Reactor System

Overview

The IKA LR-2.ST the Versatile is a fully modular, benchtop-scale laboratory reactor system engineered for precise execution, optimization, and scale-up of chemical synthesis, catalytic reactions, polymerization, emulsification, and high-viscosity mixing processes under controlled temperature, pressure, and agitation conditions. Its core architecture integrates a robust vertical lift stand, a high-torque EUROSTAR 100 control-type stirrer with bidirectional rotation capability, and a chemically resistant reaction vessel assembly sealed with perfluoroelastomer (FFPM) gaskets—enabling reliable operation across aggressive solvents, elevated temperatures up to +230 °C, and deep vacuum down to 25 mbar absolute. Unlike fixed-format reactors, the LR-2.ST’s open-port design (featuring five standardized ground-glass joints: three NS 29/32 and two NS 14/23) permits simultaneous integration of ancillary modules—including ULTRA-TURRAX® high-shear dispersers, Pt100 temperature probes, reflux condensers, addition funnels, gas inlet/outlet lines, and pH or conductivity sensors—without compromising structural integrity or process containment. This modularity supports both batch and semi-batch workflows compliant with GLP documentation requirements and facilitates method transfer to pilot-scale systems.

Key Features

• Modular port architecture enabling concurrent attachment of up to five process accessories via standardized NS ground-glass joints
• FFPM (perfluoroelastomer) sealing system certified for broad chemical resistance—including halogenated solvents, strong acids/bases, and peroxides—at temperatures up to +230 °C
• Microprocessor-controlled EUROSTAR 100 stirrer delivering stable rotational speed (8–290 rpm) under variable load, with real-time torque monitoring and trend logging
• Integrated WiCo wireless controller allowing full parameter adjustment and safety interlock monitoring from outside fume hoods—eliminating cable clutter and enhancing operator ergonomics
• Lift stand with 390 mm vertical travel and mechanical safety lock, supporting rapid vessel access and reproducible positioning for consistent heat transfer and probe immersion depth
• Borosilicate glass 3.3 reactor vessel (2 L nominal, 500–2000 mL operational range) with 1.4571 stainless steel support frame and PTFE-coated hardware for corrosion resilience

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LR-2.ST accommodates heterogeneous, viscous, and gas-evolving reaction mixtures across organic, inorganic, and pharmaceutical synthesis domains. Its wetted materials—borosilicate glass 3.3, FFPM, PTFE, and 1.4571 stainless steel—are selected per ISO 15223-1 and USP guidelines for extractables and leachables profiling. The system meets CE marking requirements under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. Vacuum performance (25 mbar absolute) complies with ASTM E2910-13 for residual gas analysis readiness. For regulated environments, optional data export (via RS232/USB) supports audit trails aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated third-party LIMS or ELN platforms.

Software & Data Management

While the LR-2.ST operates natively via its embedded microcontroller and WiCo interface, it supports ASCII-formatted serial output (RS232 or USB virtual COM port) for external acquisition of time-stamped torque, speed, and temperature values at user-defined intervals (1–60 s). Raw data streams integrate directly into MATLAB, Python (pySerial), LabVIEW, or commercial SCADA systems. Optional IKA Labworldsoft™ software (v5.0+) provides graphical visualization, comparative run overlays, and CSV/PDF report generation—fully traceable with electronic signatures and change logs meeting ALCOA+ principles. All firmware updates are digitally signed and delivered via IKA’s secure customer portal.

Applications

• Kinetic studies of exothermic Grignard or lithiation reactions under inert atmosphere and controlled addition rates
• Development of nanoparticle dispersions using integrated ULTRA-TURRAX® dispersion tools and real-time viscosity feedback
• Hydrogenation screening with H₂ pressure regulation (up to 6 bar) and inline gas flow metering
• Thermal degradation profiling of polymers under vacuum-assisted devolatilization
• Multi-step cascade syntheses requiring sequential reagent dosing, temperature ramping, and phase separation monitoring
• QC testing of adhesive formulations where torque-derived rheological profiles correlate with final cure strength

FAQ

Is the LR-2.ST compatible with corrosive reagents such as oleum or anhydrous HF?
The standard FFPM/PTFE/glass configuration resists most mineral acids and organic solvents, but anhydrous HF requires custom Hastelloy C-276 wetted parts and is not supported out-of-the-box.
Can the system be operated under nitrogen purge without vacuum capability?
Yes—the reactor head includes dedicated gas inlet and outlet ports; inert gas purging is routine and fully configurable via external mass flow controllers.
Does the WiCo controller retain settings after power loss?
Yes—non-volatile memory preserves speed setpoints, direction, and safety thresholds; however, real-time torque history is volatile unless externally logged.
What calibration documentation is provided?
Each unit ships with factory calibration certificates for torque (±2% FS), speed (±1 rpm), and temperature (±0.5 °C at 100 °C), traceable to DKD-accredited standards.
Is remote maintenance or firmware update possible over network?
No—firmware updates require local USB connection and authenticated credentials via IKA’s offline update utility; no internet-facing services are implemented for cybersecurity compliance.