JULABO FK30-SL High-Precision Temperature Calibration Bath

Overview

The JULABO FK30-SL High-Precision Temperature Calibration Bath is an ISO/IEC 17025-aligned thermal reference standard engineered for metrological traceability in calibration laboratories, quality control departments, and accredited testing facilities. It operates on the principle of forced-convection liquid temperature stabilization using a closed-loop circulation system with integrated refrigeration and heating—enabling continuous, bidirectional thermal control from −30 °C to +200 °C without manual intervention. Its core architecture complies with DIN 12876-1 Class III (FL) requirements for fluid-based calibration baths used in high-accuracy thermometry applications. The bath employs a precision-machined overflow cylinder design that minimizes vertical thermal gradients and ensures spatial uniformity ≤ ±0.01 °C across the active calibration zone—critical for validating resistance thermometers (RTDs), thermocouples, liquid-in-glass thermometers, and digital probes against national standards.

Key Features

• VFD + LCD dual-display interface showing real-time bath temperature, setpoint, and external reference sensor value simultaneously—enhancing operator situational awareness during multi-sensor calibration routines.
• Intelligent ICC (Intelligent Control Concept) algorithm with auto-tuning capability dynamically optimizes PID parameters based on thermal load, fluid viscosity, and ambient conditions—reducing overshoot and stabilizing temperature within <15 minutes after step changes.
• TCF (Temperature Control Function) technology actively compensates for heat loss at extreme setpoints, maintaining ±0.005 °C resolution and ±0.01 °C short-term stability even at +200 °C or −30 °C.
• ATC3 (Advanced Three-Point Calibration) allows user-defined offset correction at three independent temperatures—supporting traceable adjustment of internal sensor drift without requiring factory recalibration.
• SmartPump variable-speed circulation system automatically modulates flow rate (22–26 L/min) and pressure (0.4–0.7 bar) in response to bath fluid viscosity shifts—ensuring consistent thermal homogeneity across the full operating range.
• Integrated safety architecture includes dual-stage overtemperature cutoff, low-bath-fluid-level detection, audible/visual alarms, and fail-safe shutdown—fully compliant with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment.
• RS232 serial interface enables remote control, data logging, and integration into LIMS or automated calibration workflows; optional analog I/O module supports 0–10 V or 4–20 mA process feedback loops.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FK30-SL accommodates immersion depths up to 17 cm via its 12 cm-diameter cylindrical opening, supporting simultaneous calibration of up to seven sensors using the included stainless-steel multi-hole bath cover. It is compatible with silicone oil, water-glycol mixtures, and other non-corrosive calibration fluids meeting ASTM E77 and ISO 17025 Annex C specifications. All units are supplied with CE marking and conform to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems. Optional DKD-accredited calibration certificates (per DKD-R 5–4) and CNAS-recognized calibration reports from the China National Institute of Metrology (NIM) are available upon request—providing documented traceability to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) or BIPM reference standards.

Software & Data Management

While the FK30-SL operates autonomously via its front-panel interface, its RS232 port supports seamless integration with JULABO’s optional LabSoft software or third-party SCADA platforms. Data export is formatted as ASCII CSV files containing timestamped bath temperature, setpoint, pump status, and alarm events—facilitating audit-ready records compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with validated electronic signature modules). Internal memory logs up to 10,000 measurement points with configurable sampling intervals (1–60 seconds). All calibration programs—including 6×60-step ramp/soak sequences—are stored non-volatilely and support password-protected access levels for GLP/GMP environments.

Applications

• Primary and secondary calibration of contact temperature sensors in pharmaceutical manufacturing (compliant with EU GMP Annex 15 and USP ).
• Verification of thermal performance in environmental chambers, autoclaves, and stability incubators per ISO 14644 and ICH Q5C guidelines.
• Validation of thermocouple wire calibration furnaces and dry-well calibrators through intercomparison protocols.
• Research-grade thermophysical property measurements requiring stable thermal boundary conditions (e.g., viscosity, density, thermal conductivity studies).
• Accredited metrology labs performing ISO/IEC 17025 scope expansions for temperature instrument calibration.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable immersion depth for sensors in the FK30-SL bath?
The effective calibration zone extends 17 cm below the bath surface, accommodating most industrial RTDs and thermocouples. For optimal uniformity, sensors should be positioned centrally and fully submerged at least 15 cm.
Does the FK30-SL support external temperature feedback control?
Yes—it features a dedicated Pt100 input channel enabling direct connection of a reference probe placed adjacent to the device-under-test, allowing closed-loop control based on actual measurement location rather than bath sump temperature.
Can the unit operate continuously at +200 °C without degradation?
When filled with appropriate high-temperature silicone oil (e.g., Dow Corning 200 Fluid, 50 cSt), the FK30-SL maintains thermal stability and mechanical integrity over extended operation—validated per DIN 12876-1 Class III FL requirements for fluid longevity and seal compatibility.
Is the RS232 interface compatible with modern Windows/Linux systems?
Yes—standard TTL-level RS232 communication is supported via USB-to-serial adapters; driver-free operation is confirmed with Windows 10/11 and Ubuntu LTS kernels using standard ttyUSB device enumeration.
What documentation is included with shipment?
Each unit ships with CE Declaration of Conformity, DIN EN ISO 9001 certificate, factory verification report (including stability and uniformity test data), user manual, and safety instructions—in English and German. Optional DKD or NIM calibration certificates require separate ordering and lead-time planning.