LAUDA ET 12 S Transparent Bath Circulator

Overview

The LAUDA ET 12 S Transparent Bath Circulator is a precision-engineered temperature control system designed for laboratory applications requiring stable, uniform thermal environments across a wide operating range (20–100 °C). Built upon LAUDA’s ECO platform, this circulator employs a fully electronic PID controller with microprocessor-based regulation to deliver exceptional thermal stability of ±0.01 °C — critical for kinetic studies, calibration procedures, enzymatic assays, and material testing where minor deviations directly impact reproducibility. Its transparent polycarbonate bath enables real-time visual monitoring of sample immersion, circulation dynamics, and bath fluid condition without compromising structural integrity or thermal performance. Unlike conventional water baths, the ET 12 S integrates both internal recirculation and external loop capability via an on-head flow distributor — allowing independent adjustment of flow rates during operation, thereby optimizing heat transfer efficiency for diverse thermal load configurations.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-controlled PID temperature regulation with intuitive monochrome graphical LCD display showing simultaneous setpoint and actual temperature values
• Vario pump with six adjustable performance levels (0–100% flow modulation), delivering up to 22 L/min at 0.6 bar maximum pressure
• Dedicated Tmax safety key enabling user-defined overtemperature cutoff; configurable via menu-driven interface in compliance with IEC 61010-1 Class III requirements
• Integrated cooling coil for active heat dissipation — essential for rapid cooldown or extended high-temperature operation with minimal thermal drift
• Standard USB interface supporting direct connection to PCs for data logging, remote parameter setting, and firmware updates
• Modular expansion capability: optional interface modules include analog (0–10 V / 4–20 mA), digital I/O (dry contact), RS232/RS485, Profibus DP, Ethernet-USB gateway, and Pt100/LiBus for integration into centralized lab automation systems
• Onboard programmable timer with one multi-segment protocol (up to 20 steps), supporting ramp-soak profiles for standardized thermal cycling protocols
• Robust housing and bath construction meeting IP20 ingress protection; polycarbonate bath rated for continuous use up to 100 °C with chemical resistance to common aqueous and mild organic media

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ET 12 S accommodates standard laboratory vessels including glass beakers (up to Ø150 mm), test tube racks, and immersion probes. Its Class III safety rating certifies suitability for use with flammable solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetone) when operated within specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C) and with appropriate ventilation. The device conforms to EN 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety and EN 61326-1:2013 for electromagnetic compatibility. It supports GLP/GMP-aligned workflows through audit-trail-capable software interfaces (when paired with LAUDA’s WinControl or third-party SCADA platforms), and its programmable logic meets foundational requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with validated electronic record systems.

Software & Data Management

Out-of-the-box USB connectivity enables seamless integration with LAUDA’s WinControl software (Windows-based), offering real-time graphing, event-triggered logging, export to CSV/Excel, and automated report generation. All temperature setpoints, ramp rates, soak durations, and alarm thresholds are stored in non-volatile memory. Optional RS485 or Ethernet modules allow integration into LabVIEW, MATLAB, or LIMS environments using Modbus RTU/TCP protocols. Firmware updates preserve calibration constants and retain user-defined programs, ensuring traceability across maintenance cycles.

Applications

• Calibration of thermometers, RTDs, and thermocouples per ASTM E74 and ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
• Thermal stability testing of pharmaceutical formulations under ICH Q5C guidelines
• Viscosity measurement support for rotational rheometers requiring precise thermal conditioning of samples
• Enzyme activity assays requiring tightly controlled incubation temperatures (e.g., ELISA, PCR prep stages)
• Accelerated aging studies of polymers and adhesives per ASTM D3045
• Material testing of coatings, composites, and elastomers under standardized thermal exposure

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended bath fluid volume for optimal thermal uniformity?
The ET 12 S achieves best-in-class temperature homogeneity when filled between 9.5 L and 12.0 L — corresponding to 80–100% of nominal bath capacity.
Can the unit operate continuously at 100 °C without degradation?
Yes, provided ambient temperature remains ≤40 °C and cooling coil is connected to a suitable chiller or tap water supply for heat rejection.
Is external temperature feedback supported?
Yes — via optional Pt100/LiBus module, enabling cascade control using an external probe placed directly in the sample vessel.
Does the device meet ISO 17025 traceability requirements?
When used with NIST-traceable reference thermometers and documented calibration procedures, the ET 12 S serves as a compliant thermal platform for accredited testing laboratories.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Annual verification of temperature accuracy using a calibrated reference thermometer is advised; pump impeller inspection and bath cleaning every 6 months in high-use environments.