Julabo FLW20006 Circulating Chiller

Overview

The Julabo FLW20006 is a high-capacity, water-cooled circulating chiller engineered for precision thermal management in demanding laboratory and industrial applications. It operates on the principle of vapor-compression refrigeration using a single-stage hermetic compressor and R404A refrigerant—selected for its proven stability and compatibility with wide-range temperature control systems. Designed to replace conventional tap-water cooling, the FLW20006 delivers consistent, closed-loop temperature regulation from −25 °C to +40 °C with a stability of ±0.5 °C, enabling reliable operation of analytical instruments such as ICP-MS, NMR spectrometers, laser systems, and high-power electrophoresis units. Its integrated architecture eliminates external plumbing complexity while maintaining full compliance with DIN EN 61000-6-3 (EMC) and DIN EN 61000-6-4 emission standards. The unit’s water-cooled condenser design allows deployment in environments where ambient air-cooling is impractical—such as enclosed equipment rooms or heat-sensitive cleanrooms—while minimizing acoustic output (<69 dBA at 1 m) and thermal load on conditioned spaces.

Key Features

• High refrigeration capacity of 20,000 W at 20 °C, scalable across temperature setpoints (e.g., 15 kW at 10 °C, 3 kW at −20 °C)
• Robust stainless-steel reservoir (15–37 L volume range) with integrated level sensor and LED-displayed fluid level indication
• Variable-speed circulation pump delivering up to 80 L/min at adjustable pressure (0.8–6.0 bar), supporting long-loop or high-backpressure applications
• Top-fill port for rapid, spill-free reservoir replenishment without disassembly
• Thermal fluid compatibility with water, ethylene glycol/water mixtures (up to 50% v/v), and JULABO-certified Thermal bath fluids—ensuring corrosion resistance and extended service life
• Maximum return fluid temperature tolerance of ≤80 °C, accommodating exothermic process interfaces or recirculated jacketed reactors
• Standard G1¼″ male threaded pump ports and dual 1″ ID bayonet couplings for secure, leak-resistant connections
• Optional RS232 serial interface and Profibus DP module for integration into centralized building management or SCADA systems

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FLW20006 supports thermally stable operation with non-aggressive aqueous and glycol-based heat transfer media, conforming to ISO 8502-9 for cleanliness of circulating loops and ASTM D1384 for corrosion inhibition in coolant systems. Its construction meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. All electrical components are rated IP20 per IEC 60529. While not intrinsically safe, the unit may be installed in Zone 2 classified areas when operated per manufacturer-specified ventilation and grounding protocols. No hazardous substance declarations (RoHS, REACH) indicate presence of restricted materials beyond allowable thresholds. The R404A refrigerant charge complies with EU F-Gas Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 reporting obligations.

Software & Data Management

The FLW20006 features an embedded microprocessor controller with LED display offering 0.1 °C resolution for both setpoint and actual temperature readouts. Optional digital interfaces support bidirectional communication for remote setpoint adjustment, real-time status polling (temperature, pressure, flow, compressor runtime), and event logging. When integrated with JULABO’s optional LabSoft software or third-party platforms via Modbus RTU (RS232) or Profibus DP, the chiller provides audit-trail-capable data recording aligned with GLP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—including user authentication, electronic signatures, and immutable timestamped logs. Firmware updates are performed via USB or serial connection under controlled change-management procedures.

Applications

• Continuous cooling of high-heat-load instrumentation: ICP-OES/MS plasma torches, X-ray diffractometers, and vacuum pump chillers
• Temperature stabilization of jacketed glass reactors (up to 100 L volume) and pilot-scale bioreactors
• Support for laser-based metrology systems requiring sub-degree thermal drift control over extended duty cycles
• Cooling of semiconductor fabrication tools including wafer bonders and plasma etchers where water-cooled condensation is mandatory
• Integration into HVAC-assisted environmental test chambers requiring auxiliary low-temperature sink capability
• Replacement of municipal water cooling in LEED-certified facilities seeking water-use reduction and closed-loop sustainability metrics

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable inlet temperature of the process fluid returning to the FLW20006?
The unit accepts return fluid temperatures up to 80 °C, provided the setpoint remains within the operational range of −25 to +40 °C and the system is configured with appropriate heat exchanger sizing.
Can the FLW20006 operate continuously under full load?
Yes—it is rated for continuous-duty operation at ambient temperatures between 5 and 40 °C, with mandatory water-cooling supply meeting specified flow and temperature conditions (typically ≤32 °C inlet, ≥2 bar pressure).
Is R404A refrigerant serviceable in the field?
Refrigerant recharge and recovery must be performed by certified technicians using EPA Section 608 or EU F-Gas qualified equipment; the sealed compressor system does not support user-serviceable refrigerant access.
Does the FLW20006 support external temperature feedback control?
Yes—via optional analog input (0–10 V or 4–20 mA) or digital protocol, enabling cascade control using a remote sensor located at the point-of-use rather than at the chiller outlet.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Daily visual inspection of fluid level and leaks; quarterly verification of pump performance and filter integrity; annual calibration of temperature sensors and pressure transducers per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures.