LAUDA Proline PV15C Enhanced Temperature Circulator

Overview

The LAUDA Proline PV15C Enhanced Temperature Circulator is a high-precision, dual-mode (heating/cooling) thermal management system engineered for demanding laboratory and industrial applications requiring exceptional temperature uniformity, long-term stability, and dynamic thermal response. Based on LAUDA’s proven Proline platform, the PV15C employs a closed-loop circulation architecture with integrated refrigeration and electric heating elements, enabling precise control across an exceptionally wide operational range—from cryogenic conditions at −30 °C up to high-temperature operation at 300 °C. Its design follows the bridge-type configuration optimized for external bath integration, supporting both pressure-driven and suction-assisted flow paths—making it suitable for deep-bath setups exceeding 320 mm in depth. The unit features a robust stainless-steel reservoir, corrosion-resistant fluid pathways, and intelligent power adaptation that dynamically modulates heating output to prevent grid load fluctuations during rapid ramping or sustained high-power operation.

Key Features

• Ultra-stable temperature control with ±0.01 K stability over time—validated per ISO/IEC 17025 traceable calibration protocols
• 150-segment programmable temperature/time profile capability with real-time graphical visualization via the detachable Command controller
• LAUDA Vario variable-speed pump with 8 adjustable pressure levels—enabling precise flow rate tuning (up to 25 L/min at 0.48 bar) for optimal heat transfer across diverse bath geometries and viscosities
• Dual safety architecture: float-based low-level detection with audible alarm + user-configurable overtemperature cutoff (adjustable setpoint)
• Modular controller options: Master controller for fixed-parameter workflows; Command controller with backlit graphical LCD, USB data export, and intuitive menu navigation
• Integrated cooling coil standard—compatible with external chillers or tap-water cooling for extended low-temperature operation down to −30 °C
• Ergonomic mounting bracket system accommodating bath widths from 310 to 550 mm, with side-mounted quick-connect pump ports and integrated carrying handles

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PV15C is compatible with water, silicone oils, glycol/water mixtures, and other LAUDA-certified heat transfer fluids—ensuring chemical compatibility and thermal stability across its full operating range. It meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. For regulated environments, the Command controller supports audit-trail-enabled operation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with LAUDA’s optional software suite (ThermoSoft Pro). All units are manufactured in Germany under ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems and conform to relevant sections of ASTM E2501 (Standard Guide for Calibration of Thermal Analysis Instruments) and DIN EN 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards).

Software & Data Management

The Command controller provides local data logging with timestamped temperature, flow rate, and setpoint values stored internally (up to 30 days at 1-min intervals). Raw data exports via USB to CSV format enable post-processing in MATLAB, Python, or LIMS-integrated platforms. Optional ThermoSoft Pro software extends functionality with remote monitoring (Ethernet/Wi-Fi), multi-unit synchronization, GLP-compliant electronic signatures, and automated report generation—including deviation alerts and calibration history tracking. All firmware updates are delivered via secure HTTPS and digitally signed to maintain integrity in GxP-regulated laboratories.

Applications

The PV15C serves as a core thermal control module in analytical instrumentation (e.g., viscometers like LAUDA PVS/iVisc, DSC cells, FTIR sample compartments), material testing (polymer curing studies, rheological characterization), biopharmaceutical process development (cell culture incubator pre-conditioning, buffer temperature equilibration), and reaction calorimetry. Its wide temperature span and high stability make it particularly suited for viscosity measurements per ISO 3219 and ASTM D445, where bath-induced thermal gradients directly impact shear-rate accuracy. In R&D labs, it enables reproducible thermal cycling for accelerated aging tests, while its external circulation capability supports jacketed reactors, condenser cooling loops, and custom-built test rigs.

FAQ

What is the minimum external bath volume supported by the PV15C?

The PV15C is designed for use with baths ranging from 15 L to 80 L. For optimal thermal inertia and stability, LAUDA recommends a minimum bath volume of 20 L when operating above 200 °C.
Can the PV15C operate without an external chiller below 0 °C?

No—the PV15C requires either a recirculating chiller or tap-water cooling connected to its integrated coil to achieve temperatures below 0 °C. Its compressor-based refrigeration system alone maintains down to −30 °C only when combined with auxiliary cooling.
Is the Command controller compatible with third-party SCADA systems?

Yes—via Modbus TCP/IP (standard on Ethernet-enabled models) or RS485 (optional interface), enabling integration into LabVIEW, Ignition, or Siemens SIMATIC environments for centralized thermal fleet management.
Does the PV15C support GLP-compliant calibration documentation?

Yes—LAUDA provides factory calibration certificates traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) and offers on-site IQ/OQ validation packages aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and EU Annex 15 guidelines.
How is pump flow rate adjusted for high-viscosity media?

The LAUDA Vario pump allows manual or automatic adjustment across 8 discrete pressure levels. For silicone oils above 1000 cSt, users select higher-pressure settings (Levels 6–8) to maintain target flow rates without cavitation or thermal lag.