IKA RV 8 V Rotary Evaporator
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | RV 8 V |
| Capacity | 3 L |
| Ultimate Vacuum | 1 mbar |
| Rotation Speed | 5–300 rpm |
| Heating Bath Temperature Range | Ambient to 180 °C |
| Temperature Control Accuracy | ±1 °C |
| Condenser Surface Area | 1500 cm² |
Overview
The IKA RV 8 V Rotary Evaporator is a robust, entry-level benchtop system engineered for reliable solvent removal, concentration, and gentle distillation under reduced pressure. It operates on the fundamental principle of rotary evaporation—combining controlled sample rotation, precise bath heating, and vacuum-assisted vaporization to enhance surface area exposure and lower boiling points. Designed for routine use in chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical process development, natural product isolation, and QC laboratories, the RV 8 V delivers consistent performance without integrated automation or digital vacuum control. Its mechanical architecture prioritizes operational safety, thermal stability, and long-term repeatability in non-GMP and GLP-aligned environments.
Key Features
- Triple-layer vertical condenser with 1500 cm² effective cooling surface area, optimized for high-efficiency vapor condensation across diverse solvent classes (e.g., acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane)
- Digital LED display for both rotation speed (5–300 rpm) and heating bath temperature (ambient to 180 °C), enabling real-time parameter verification and manual fine-tuning
- Manually actuated lift mechanism with 120 mm vertical travel, adjustable endpoint positioning, and ergonomic single-hand operation
- Dual-lock safety system: secondary evaporation flask clamp features red visual indicator when disengaged, preventing accidental detachment during rotation
- Adjustable motor tilt angle for improved flask alignment and balanced rotational dynamics across varying flask geometries and fill levels
- 24 V DC low-voltage motor drive ensures intrinsic electrical safety and stable torque delivery at low speeds (±1 rpm accuracy ≤100 rpm; ±1% above 100 rpm)
- Stainless-steel heating bath with 3 L capacity, 1300 W heating power, and ±1 K temperature regulation—validated per DIN 12878 standards for uniform thermal distribution
- Dedicated flask-release knob for simultaneous secure mounting and rapid demounting of standard ISO-K 29/32 or ISO-K 35/40 evaporating flasks
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RV 8 V accommodates standard IKA RV 10-series glassware, including 50 mL to 3 L round-bottom flasks, vertical condensers, and vapor ducts compliant with DIN ISO 3585 and ASTM E287. Its IP20-rated enclosure meets basic laboratory environmental protection requirements (DIN EN 60529), while its 24 V DC motor and grounded metal chassis support safe operation in humidity up to 80 % RH (5–40 °C ambient). Though not equipped with FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails or automated vacuum regulation, it supports documentation-driven workflows aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and internal SOPs for method validation, calibration records, and equipment logbooks.
Software & Data Management
The RV 8 V operates as a stand-alone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded microprocessor, network interface (RS232/USB), or data logging capability. All operational parameters are set and monitored manually via front-panel controls and displays. Users are responsible for external recording of bath temperature, rotation speed, vacuum level (via external gauge), and run duration in lab notebooks or LIMS-integrated electronic records. For traceability, IKA provides calibration certificates for temperature and speed sensors upon request—traceable to national metrology institutes (e.g., PTB, NIST).
Applications
- Solvent recovery and concentrate preparation in synthetic organic chemistry workflows
- Removal of volatile solvents from heat-sensitive biomolecules (e.g., peptides, oligonucleotides) under mild vacuum conditions
- Batch-scale purification of reaction mixtures prior to HPLC or GC analysis
- Standardized evaporation protocols in pharmaceutical stability studies (ICH Q1–Q5)
- Educational demonstrations of phase equilibria, Raoult’s law, and vacuum thermodynamics in university teaching labs
- Preparative distillation of fragrance compounds and essential oils in food science applications
FAQ
Does the RV 8 V include an integrated vacuum controller or pressure sensor?
No. Vacuum must be supplied and regulated externally using a compatible diaphragm pump and optional vacuum regulator or controller.
Can the RV 8 V accommodate larger than 3 L flasks?
No. The design and lift mechanism are validated only for up to 3 L flasks; exceeding this volume compromises mechanical stability and condensation efficiency.
Is the heating bath compatible with silicone oil or other high-boiling-point heat transfer fluids?
Yes—provided the fluid’s flash point exceeds 180 °C and its viscosity remains within IKA-recommended limits (≤1000 cSt at 20 °C) to ensure uniform convection.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for optimal performance?
Clean condenser surfaces after each use; inspect O-rings and clamps quarterly; calibrate temperature and speed annually or per ISO/IEC 17025 internal schedule.
Is the RV 8 V suitable for use in explosion-proof environments?
No. It lacks ATEX or IECEx certification and must be operated outside classified hazardous zones per local occupational safety regulations.
