NINOS NAK-2K Heating Plate by AS ONE

Overview

The NINOS NAK-2K Heating Plate, engineered and manufactured by AS ONE Corporation in Japan, is a precision laboratory heating platform designed for consistent thermal performance in analytical, synthetic, and quality control workflows. Utilizing closed-loop PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, the unit delivers stable thermal output across its full operating range of ambient +10°C to 350°C. The heating surface consists of a 250 × 250 mm anodized aluminum plate with a durable ceramic coating—providing high thermal conductivity, uniform heat distribution, chemical resistance, and long-term dimensional stability under repeated thermal cycling. Unlike open-coil or silicone-heated alternatives, the NAK-2K integrates a solid-state resistive heating element beneath the plate, minimizing hot-spot formation and enabling reproducible heating profiles essential for method validation and regulatory compliance.

Key Features

• PID-based digital temperature controller with real-time setpoint adjustment and ±1°C typical stability at steady state (measured per internal sensor under controlled lab conditions: 25°C ambient, no airflow, no load)
• Integrated safety lamp on front panel—automatically illuminates when surface temperature drops to ≤55°C, providing visual confirmation that the plate is safe to handle
• Ceramic-coated aluminum top plate offering superior corrosion resistance against common solvents, acids, and bases encountered in wet chemistry and sample preparation
• Rugged, compact housing with non-slip rubber feet and recessed control interface—designed for benchtop integration in ISO 17025-accredited labs and GMP environments
• Compliance with RoHS 2 Directive (EU) 2015/863, ensuring restricted substance management aligned with global environmental and occupational health standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The NAK-2K supports broad compatibility with standard laboratory vessels including glass beakers, stainless steel reaction flasks, PTFE-lined containers, and ceramic crucibles. Its flat, inert surface prevents cross-contamination and facilitates easy cleaning between runs. While not classified as a Class I medical device or process-critical instrument per FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the unit is routinely deployed in GLP-compliant laboratories for tasks such as solvent evaporation, reagent drying, pre-heating of calibration standards, and controlled thermal conditioning prior to HPLC or titration analysis. Temperature uniformity data—referenced at 200°C under ISO 17025-defined test conditions (25°C ambient, still air, no load)—is documented in AS ONE’s technical validation report (TR-NAK2K-2023), supporting traceable method development per USP Analytical Instrument Qualification guidelines.

Software & Data Management

The NAK-2K operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument without embedded firmware logging or USB/Ethernet connectivity. Temperature setpoints and status indicators are managed via front-panel push-button controls and LED display. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, optional external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300 series) may be interfaced using the unit’s analog 0–5 V output signal (available upon request with accessory kit). All operational parameters—including power-on duration, maximum achieved temperature, and safety lamp activation history—are manually recorded in lab notebooks per ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) during routine use.

Applications

• Controlled evaporation of organic solvents in sample concentration protocols (e.g., EPA Method 525.3, ASTM D7087)
• Pre-heating of volumetric flasks and pipette tips to minimize thermal contraction errors during quantitative transfer
• Drying of filter papers and gravimetric precipitates in inorganic analysis (e.g., APHA Standard Methods 2540B)
• Thermal equilibration of reference standards prior to pH, conductivity, or viscosity measurements
• Supporting role in ASTM E2931-22 (Standard Practice for Thermal Analysis of Polymers) as auxiliary heating stage for sample conditioning

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended continuous operating temperature?
The NAK-2K is rated for continuous operation up to 350°C. Sustained use above 300°C may accelerate aging of the ceramic coating; periodic visual inspection for microcracking is advised.
Does the unit include a calibration certificate?
AS ONE provides factory calibration verification data with each unit. Full ISO/IEC 17025 calibration certificates are available through authorized third-party metrology providers upon request.
Can the NAK-2K be used in fume hoods?
Yes—its sealed electronics and low-outgassing surface make it suitable for installation in Type B2 or ducted Class II biosafety cabinets and general-purpose fume hoods, provided voltage supply meets local electrical codes.
Is the ceramic coating resistant to hydrofluoric acid (HF)?
No. While highly resistant to HCl, HNO₃, and NaOH solutions, the ceramic layer is not HF-compatible. Use PTFE-coated trays or quartz inserts when handling HF-containing mixtures.
How is temperature uniformity verified during qualification?
Per AS ONE TR-NAK2K-2023, uniformity is assessed using nine-point grid mapping (IEC 60584-2 thermocouples) at three setpoints (100°C, 200°C, 300°C); deviation across the surface remains ≤±3.5°C at 200°C under standardized test conditions.