Organomation N-EVAP Series Nitrogen Evaporator

Overview

The Organomation N-EVAP Series Nitrogen Evaporator is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for gentle, reproducible, and parallel solvent evaporation in sample preparation workflows. It operates on the principle of inert gas-assisted surface evaporation—introducing a controlled stream of nitrogen (or compressed air) across the surface of heated liquid samples to accelerate solvent removal without thermal degradation. Unlike rotary evaporation—which subjects samples to vacuum-induced boiling and potential bumping—the N-EVAP system maintains ambient pressure and applies low-velocity, temperature-stabilized gas flow over individual vessels, minimizing analyte loss, oxidation, and cross-contamination. Its water bath heating architecture ensures uniform thermal distribution and eliminates hot spots common in dry-block or infrared systems. This design makes it especially suitable for thermally labile compounds encountered in pharmaceutical QC, environmental residue analysis, clinical toxicology, and food safety testing.

Key Features

• Modular configuration supporting both 12-position and 24-position sample formats for scalable throughput
• Adjustable, rotating sample rack enabling front-access operation and ergonomic tube handling
• Stainless steel and PTFE-coated components resistant to organic solvents and mild acids; optional acid-resistant coating available for aggressive matrices
• Integrated needle valve-controlled gas manifold with calibrated flow meter (0–10 L/min), allowing precise per-channel gas regulation
• Low gas consumption profile: typical nitrogen usage at ~330 mL/min per sample under standard operating conditions
• Programmable digital temperature controller with real-time display and ±2 °C stability across the 0–80 °C range
• Water bath reservoir with overflow protection and corrosion-resistant housing for long-term reliability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The N-EVAP accommodates a broad range of vessel geometries—including round-bottom test tubes, conical centrifuge tubes (up to 29 mm outer diameter), culture tubes, and small-volume vials—without requiring adapters. Its open-platform design supports direct integration into existing lab workflows alongside autosamplers, LC-MS prep stations, or solid-phase extraction (SPE) manifolds. The system complies with general laboratory safety standards for electrical equipment (UL/CSA listed) and meets material compatibility requirements outlined in ASTM D5845 (Standard Practice for Solvent Evaporation in Environmental Analysis). While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant as a standalone device, its operation can be documented within validated LIMS or ELN environments to support GLP/GMP traceability when paired with audit-trail-enabled software interfaces.

Software & Data Management

The N-EVAP Series operates via an embedded microprocessor-based controller with tactile keypad and LED display—designed for simplicity, robustness, and minimal maintenance. No proprietary software is required for basic operation; however, temperature setpoints, runtime, and gas flow parameters are manually recorded per batch for SOP adherence. For laboratories implementing electronic recordkeeping, the instrument’s analog temperature output (0–5 V or 4–20 mA optional) allows connection to data loggers or SCADA systems. Full validation documentation—including IQ/OQ protocols, calibration certificates, and materials-of-construction reports—is supplied with each unit to facilitate internal qualification and regulatory audits.

Applications

• Residue analysis: Pesticide, herbicide, and veterinary drug quantification in food, soil, and water per EPA Method 525.3 and EN 15662
• Pharmaceutical development: API purification, stability study sample prep, and residual solvent removal prior to HPLC or GC analysis
• Clinical research: Steroid, vitamin D, and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) sample cleanup prior to LC-MS/MS
• Environmental testing: PAHs, PCBs, and dioxin fractionation following EPA Methods 8270 and 1613
• Forensic toxicology: Blood and urine extract concentration before immunoassay or mass spectrometric detection
• Academic and method development labs requiring reproducible, low-cost evaporation alternatives to rotary evaporators

FAQ

Can the N-EVAP be used with solvents other than those commonly employed in LC-MS sample prep?
Yes—it is compatible with methanol, acetonitrile, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, hexane, and most volatile organic solvents. Avoid use with highly viscous or high-boiling-point solvents (e.g., DMSO, glycerol) unless diluted to <10% concentration.
Is the water bath temperature range truly 0–80 °C as stated? What about the “0–800°C” figure in some sources?
The correct operational range is 0–80 °C. The value “0–800°C” appears to be a typographical error in certain third-party listings and is physically incompatible with water bath technology.
Does Organomation provide factory calibration and certification?
Each unit ships with a NIST-traceable temperature calibration certificate and a materials compliance statement. Optional annual recalibration services are available through authorized service centers.
Can I integrate the N-EVAP into an automated sample preparation line?
While the base model lacks native Ethernet or USB control, its analog outputs and mechanical relay triggers enable integration with PLC-based automation platforms using custom interface modules.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Routine cleaning of the water bath and gas dispersion needles with isopropanol; periodic inspection of O-rings and tubing for wear; descaling every 6 months in hard-water environments.