JULABO ChemTron STRIKE 285 Rotary Evaporator

Overview

The JULABO ChemTron STRIKE 285 Rotary Evaporator is an engineered solution for efficient, reproducible solvent removal, concentration, and purification of heat-sensitive compounds in research, quality control, and pilot-scale synthesis laboratories. Based on the fundamental principle of reduced-pressure distillation—where lowering the system pressure decreases the boiling point of solvents—the STRIKE 285 integrates precise rotational motion, controlled heating, and high-efficiency condensation to maximize evaporation rate while minimizing thermal degradation. Its robust stainless-steel frame, modular glassware compatibility (including standard 5 L round-bottom flasks), and sealed vacuum pathway support operation under stable sub-atmospheric conditions down to ≤10 mbar. Designed and assembled in Germany, the system complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and low-voltage directive conformity.

Key Features

• Motor-driven vertical lift mechanism with programmable endpoint positioning and automatic rise-on-power-loss functionality, ensuring flask safety during unexpected shutdowns.
• Digital PID temperature controller with dual-sensor input: real-time monitoring of both bath medium (oil or water) and vapor line temperature, enabling closed-loop thermal stability within ±0.5 °C.
• Integrated timer and multi-step program mode: users can define up to 9 sequential segments—including rotation speed ramping, temperature profiling, and lift timing—for unattended overnight operation.
• Overtemperature protection circuitry: independent thermal cutoff at 200 °C prevents heater element damage and eliminates risk of oil bath ignition.
• Large-area vertical condenser (1500 cm² cooling surface) with double-jacket design, optimized for high latent-heat recovery across a wide range of solvents—from low-boiling diethyl ether (34.6 °C) to higher-boiling ethylene glycol (197 °C).
• Ergonomic, touch-sensitive control panel with intuitive icon-based navigation and backlighting for low-light environments; data logging capability via optional RS485/Modbus interface.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The STRIKE 285 accommodates standard ISO-K 29/32 and ISO-K 45/50 ground-glass joints, supporting interchangeable evaporating flasks (up to 5 L), receiving flasks (up to 3 L), and specialized condensers (e.g., coil, dimple, or cold-finger types). It is routinely employed in workflows aligned with ASTM E260, USP , and ISO 6425 methodologies for residual solvent analysis, natural product isolation, and polymer fractionation. The system’s vacuum integrity (<0.5 mbar leak rate under static test) satisfies GLP-compliant documentation requirements when paired with validated vacuum controllers and calibrated pressure transducers. All wetted parts are chemically resistant borosilicate glass (DIN ISO 3585) or PTFE-coated stainless steel, ensuring compatibility with acidic, basic, and halogenated solvents.

Software & Data Management

While the STRIKE 285 operates as a standalone instrument, its digital architecture supports integration into centralized lab informatics systems. Through the optional JULABO LabSoft Connect module (firmware v3.2+), users can export timestamped operational logs—including setpoints, actual temperatures, rotation speed, lift position, and alarm events—in CSV format. Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with user-access controls, electronic signatures, and immutable log archiving. Remote monitoring via Ethernet or Wi-Fi is enabled using JULABO’s secure TLS 1.2–encrypted API, allowing QC supervisors to verify run parameters across multiple instruments from a central dashboard.

Applications

• Concentration of natural extract fractions (e.g., botanical tinctures, essential oils) without terpene loss.
• Removal of volatile reaction by-products (e.g., THF, dichloromethane) following Grignard or Suzuki couplings.
• Preparative-scale solvent exchange in peptide synthesis workflows prior to lyophilization.
• High-throughput sample preparation for GC-MS or LC-MS analysis, where consistent residue volume and minimal analyte decomposition are critical.
• Teaching laboratories requiring fail-safe operation for undergraduate organic chemistry instruction.

FAQ

What vacuum level is recommended for optimal performance with the STRIKE 285?

For most common solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol), a working pressure between 10–50 mbar delivers balanced evaporation rate and condensation efficiency. Lower pressures (<5 mbar) may be used for high-boiling-point solvents but require enhanced cooling capacity.
Can the STRIKE 285 be used with dry ice/acetone condenser traps?

Yes—the system’s vapor outlet is compatible with external cold traps rated for −78 °C. However, internal condenser performance remains sufficient for >95% solvent recovery under standard configurations.
Is calibration certificate included with shipment?

A factory-issued temperature and rotation speed verification report is provided. Full ISO/IEC 17025 calibration by an accredited third-party lab is available as an optional service.
How is maintenance access designed for long-term reliability?

All electrical connections use quick-disconnect terminals; the motor housing and bath heater assembly are field-replaceable without soldering or specialized tools. JULABO provides 10-year spare parts availability for all mechanical and electronic subassemblies.