IKA RV 10 basic V-C Rotary Evaporator

Overview

The IKA RV 10 basic V-C Rotary Evaporator is a compact, vertically oriented benchtop system engineered for efficient, reproducible solvent removal and compound concentration under reduced pressure. Based on the principle of vacuum-assisted rotary distillation—where sample rotation increases surface area while controlled heating and condensation enable selective volatilization—the RV 10 basic V-C delivers laboratory-grade performance in an entry-level configuration. Its design integrates core engineering elements common to high-reliability rotary evaporators: a dual-medium (water/oil) heating bath with ergonomic handle and adjustable safety temperature cutoff, a vertically aligned condenser assembly maximizing gravitational reflux efficiency, and a motorized lift mechanism with programmable endpoint positioning. Unlike modular or retrofit systems, the RV 10 basic V-C is factory-integrated with standardized glassware (RV 10.10 vertical anti-shatter coated condenser) and HB 10 heating bath, ensuring mechanical compatibility, thermal stability, and consistent vacuum integrity across operational cycles.

Key Features

• Motorized vertical lift with automatic rise-on-power-failure function to prevent bumping or thermal degradation of samples
• Dual-mode heating bath (HB 10) compatible with water and silicone oil media, supporting temperature control from ambient to 180 °C with ±5 °C accuracy
• Vertically oriented condenser (RV 10.10) featuring 1500 cm² effective cooling surface area and optional anti-explosion film coating per DIN EN 15650
• Smooth-start motor drive enabling gentle acceleration and deceleration; reversible rotation (clockwise/counter-clockwise) for optimized film formation across diverse viscosities
• Programmable timer (0–999 min) and digital speed control (20–280 rpm) with real-time display
• Integrated safety architecture: dry-run protection, adjustable descent limit switch, bath temperature lockout, and overtemperature cut-off circuit
• Ergonomic bath handle and dedicated flask ejection knob for safe, one-handed operation under vacuum conditions

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RV 10 basic V-C accommodates standard 3 L round-bottom flasks (ISO 2768-mK tolerance) and is compatible with common organic solvents (e.g., acetone, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, methanol), aqueous buffers, and low-to-medium viscosity extracts. Its sealed glass train meets ISO 3585 specifications for borosilicate 3.3 glass. The system supports GLP-compliant workflows through traceable parameter logging (when paired with optional IKA Labworldsoft software), and its electrical design conforms to IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment safety. Optional anti-shatter film complies with DIN EN 15650 Class 1 impact resistance requirements, enhancing containment during vacuum collapse or thermal shock events.

Software & Data Management

While the RV 10 basic V-C operates as a standalone instrument with local digital controls, it is fully compatible with IKA Labworldsoft v4.x via RS232 interface. This enables remote parameter setting (rotation speed, bath temperature, timer), real-time data acquisition (temperature, rpm, elapsed time), and export of CSV-formatted logs for audit trails. When deployed in regulated environments, Labworldsoft supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant user access control, electronic signatures, and audit trail generation—facilitating alignment with FDA, EMA, and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements.

Applications

• Routine solvent removal in synthetic organic chemistry labs (e.g., post-reaction workup of Grignard, Suzuki, or esterification reactions)
• Concentration of natural product extracts (e.g., plant alkaloids, essential oils) without thermal decomposition
• Lyophilization pre-concentration steps where precise residual solvent control is required
• QC/QA sample preparation for HPLC or GC analysis, including cleaning of extraction cartridges and SPE eluates
• Teaching laboratories requiring robust, intuitive instrumentation for undergraduate distillation methodology training

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended flask size for the RV 10 basic V-C?

The system is rated for 3 L round-bottom flasks with ISO-standard neck dimensions (e.g., 50/40 joint). Larger vessels may compromise vacuum stability and rotational balance.
Can the heating bath be used with both water and oil simultaneously?

No—the HB 10 bath is designed for single-medium operation. Water is suitable up to 100 °C; silicone oil extends the range to 180 °C. Media must be selected prior to heating and never mixed.
Is the anti-explosion film applied to all glass components or only the condenser?

The standard RV 10.10 kit includes film-coated condenser tubing only. Optional film coating is available for receiving flasks and other accessories upon request.
Does the RV 10 basic V-C support external vacuum controller integration?

Yes—it features a 0–10 V analog input for closed-loop vacuum regulation when connected to compatible IKA Vacstar or Vacuubrand controllers.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?

IKA recommends biannual inspection of O-rings, vacuum hose integrity, and lift mechanism lubrication; annual calibration verification of bath temperature sensor against NIST-traceable reference.