Polystat Immersion Chiller
| Brand | Polystat |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | 01283-61 |
| Temperature Range | –60 to 20 °C |
| Bath Volume Capacity | 10 L |
| Temperature Stability | ±0.1 °C (typical, at setpoint) |
| Cooling/Heating Type | Dual-mode (refrigeration + resistive heating) |
| Power Supply | 240 VAC / 50 Hz |
| Compressor Rating | 1/4 HP |
| Cooling Capacity | 104 W @ –30 °C |
| Power Cord Length | 1.4 m (3-wire) |
Overview
The Polystat Immersion Chiller (Model 01283-61) is a precision-engineered, dual-mode temperature control system designed for direct immersion cooling and heating of external fluid reservoirs in laboratory and pilot-scale applications. Unlike recirculating chillers, this unit operates via an immersed probe that transfers thermal energy directly into or out of the target bath—eliminating the need for external plumbing, pumps, or heat exchangers. Its thermoelectric-assisted mechanical refrigeration architecture enables stable operation across a broad range from –60 °C to +20 °C, with typical temperature stability of ±0.1 °C at steady-state conditions. The system integrates a hermetically sealed scroll compressor, high-efficiency evaporator coil, and resistive heating element, allowing seamless transition between cooling and heating modes without manual intervention. It is specifically optimized for use with non-corrosive, low-viscosity fluids—including water, ethylene glycol/water mixtures, silicone oils, and fluorinated heat transfer fluids—within open or semi-enclosed vessels up to 10 L capacity.
Key Features
- Direct immersion thermal management eliminates reliance on external circulation loops, reducing contamination risk and maintenance overhead
- Dual-mode temperature control (refrigeration + resistive heating) ensures precise setpoint attainment across the full –60 to +20 °C range
- Compact, benchtop-ready design with integrated controller, eliminating need for separate PID units or external interfaces
- Perbux®-insulated stainless steel immersion probe (0.9 m length) minimizes parasitic heat gain and enhances thermal coupling efficiency
- Factory-calibrated digital temperature sensor with NIST-traceable calibration certificate available upon request
- Over-temperature, over-pressure, and compressor current-limit protection circuits compliant with UL 61010-1 and IEC 61010-1 safety standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Polystat 01283-61 is compatible with standard laboratory glassware (e.g., beakers, jacketed reactors, crystallization vessels) and stainless steel tanks up to 10 L volume. It supports operation with common heat transfer media meeting ASTM D1121 (glycol solutions), ASTM D4672 (silicone fluids), and ISO 6743-12 (synthetic heat transfer oils) specifications. While not certified for hazardous location use (Class I Div 1), its electrical enclosure meets IP20 ingress protection rating per IEC 60529. The unit is suitable for GLP-compliant environments when used with validated SOPs; audit trails for temperature setpoints and runtime logs may be generated externally via optional RS-232 or analog 0–5 V output (available on firmware v2.1+).
Software & Data Management
This model operates via a front-panel membrane keypad and LED display with real-time temperature readout, setpoint entry, and status indicators (cooling active, heating active, fault). While it does not include onboard data logging or USB connectivity, it provides a 0–5 V analog output proportional to measured temperature (±0.5% FS accuracy) for integration with third-party SCADA, LabVIEW, or PLC systems. Optional firmware upgrade (P/N POLY-FW-21) adds Modbus RTU over RS-232, enabling remote setpoint adjustment, temperature monitoring, and alarm status polling in accordance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated host software.
Applications
- Low-temperature crystallization studies requiring sustained sub-zero bath conditions without cryogens
- Controlled cooling of enzymatic reaction mixtures in biochemistry workflows
- Thermal conditioning of polymer solutions prior to rheological or viscometric analysis
- Stabilization of photomultiplier tubes or CCD detectors in spectroscopic instrumentation
- Pre-cooling of solvents in extraction or purification protocols (e.g., Soxhlet, cold maceration)
- Calibration of thermocouples, RTDs, and infrared sensors against traceable reference baths
FAQ
Can the Polystat 01283-61 be used above 20 °C?
No. This model is rated for operation only within –60 to +20 °C. For higher temperatures, consider the 01283-70/71 series (–35 to +40 °C) or dedicated heating circulators.
Is external fluid circulation required?
No. The unit relies solely on conductive heat transfer via the immersed probe; no pump or tubing is needed. However, gentle manual stirring is recommended for uniform temperature distribution in volumes >5 L.
What fluids are compatible with the immersion probe?
Water, 30–60% aqueous glycol solutions, silicone oils (cSt ≤ 100), and fluorinated heat transfer fluids (e.g., FC-40, Galden® HT). Avoid halogenated solvents, strong acids/bases, or particulate-laden suspensions.
Does it support 21 CFR Part 11 compliance?
The base unit does not include electronic audit trail functionality. Full Part 11 compliance requires optional Modbus-enabled firmware and validated external data acquisition software.
What is the expected service life of the compressor under continuous operation?
Rated for ≥20,000 hours MTBF under ambient conditions ≤30 °C and relative humidity <80%, assuming proper ventilation and routine condenser coil cleaning every 6 months.
