Julabo SRC3 Circulating Chiller
| Origin | Germany |
|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 450 W at 10 °C |
| Temperature Range | −20 °C to +20 °C |
| Temperature Control Accuracy | ±2 °C |
| Bath Volume | 3 L |
| Pump Flow Rate | 10 L/min |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 206 × 401 × 540 mm |
| Net Weight | 25 kg |
| Power Supply | 230 V, 50 Hz |
| Noise Level | Low-Noise Operation |
| Display | Digital LED |
Overview
The Julabo SRC3 Circulating Chiller is a compact, high-efficiency refrigerated recirculation system engineered for precise temperature control in laboratory applications requiring stable coolant delivery. Based on vapor-compression refrigeration technology with an integrated centrifugal pump and stainless-steel reservoir, the SRC3 maintains consistent thermal conditions across connected equipment—particularly suited for simultaneous operation with two rotary evaporators or other heat-exchange-dependent instruments such as condensers, reflux setups, or jacketed reactors. Its −20 °C to +20 °C operating range supports both cryogenic solvent trapping and ambient-controlled distillation workflows, while the 450 W cooling capacity at 10 °C ensures sufficient thermal load dissipation under typical lab-scale evaporation conditions. Designed for European mains compatibility (230 V, 50 Hz), the unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards, and features a sealed refrigerant circuit using environmentally compliant R-134a.
Key Features
- Digital PID temperature controller with intuitive LED display for real-time setpoint and bath temperature readout
- Stainless-steel 3-liter reservoir with corrosion-resistant internal coating and level indicator
- Low-noise centrifugal pump delivering up to 10 L/min flow rate with adjustable pressure regulation
- Compact footprint (206 × 401 × 540 mm) optimized for benchtop integration without compromising thermal performance
- Thermal insulation and vibration-dampened compressor mount minimizing heat transfer and mechanical transmission
- Overtemperature, low-level, and dry-run protection circuits ensuring operational safety and equipment longevity
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SRC3 is compatible with standard ¼″–⅜″ (6–10 mm) silicone or fluoropolymer tubing used in rotary evaporation and condenser cooling loops. It does not contact samples directly and is therefore applicable across pharmaceutical, chemical, and academic research settings where indirect cooling is required. The unit meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. While not classified as a medical device or GMP-critical system, its temperature stability and repeatability support GLP-aligned documentation practices; audit-ready calibration logs can be maintained manually per internal SOPs. No direct compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 is claimed, as the device lacks electronic record or signature functionality.
Software & Data Management
The SRC3 operates as a standalone analog/digital hybrid system with no embedded firmware-based data logging or remote interface capability. Temperature setpoints and actual bath readings are displayed locally via the LED panel only. For laboratories requiring traceable thermal records, external data acquisition is recommended—e.g., using a calibrated PT100 probe interfaced with a USB DAQ system and validated software (such as LabVIEW or MATLAB). All user-accessible controls are front-panel based; no configuration files, firmware updates, or network connectivity are provided. Maintenance history and calibration verification must be documented manually per institutional quality management protocols.
Applications
- Cooling of rotary evaporator condensers in parallel or sequential multi-sample workflows
- Temperature stabilization of reaction jackets during exothermic or cryogenic synthesis
- Support for solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifolds requiring chilled elution solvents or cold trap integration
- Condenser cooling in fractional distillation or Soxhlet extraction systems
- Benchtop thermal conditioning for HPLC column ovens or autosampler chillers (when paired with external heat exchangers)
- General-purpose recirculated cooling for spectrophotometer Peltier elements or laser diode mounts
FAQ
Can the SRC3 cool below −20 °C?
No. The minimum operational temperature is −20 °C, limited by refrigerant thermodynamics and compressor design. Sub-ambient operation beyond this point requires cascade or cryogenic chillers.
Is the reservoir compatible with organic solvents like acetone or dichloromethane?
The stainless-steel bath is chemically resistant to most common laboratory solvents; however, prolonged exposure to halogenated or highly acidic media is not recommended without verifying compatibility with Julabo’s chemical resistance chart.
Does the SRC3 include a built-in filtration system for coolant solutions?
No. The unit does not incorporate inline particulate or chemical filtration. Users must ensure coolant purity—deionized water or aqueous glycol mixtures are advised; regular maintenance includes visual inspection and periodic bath flushing.
What is the expected service interval for compressor oil and refrigerant?
The sealed refrigeration system requires no routine oil changes. Under normal laboratory use (8 hrs/day, 5 days/week), Julabo recommends preventive maintenance—including leak check, pump inspection, and sensor verification—every 24 months by authorized service personnel.
Can multiple SRC3 units be daisy-chained for higher cooling capacity?
No. The SRC3 is not designed for parallel or series hydraulic coupling. Increased thermal load demands should be addressed by selecting a higher-capacity model (e.g., Julabo F25 or SL Series) rather than cascading units.
