TAITEC DTU-1BN / DTU-2BN Dry-Block Nitrogen Evaporator
| Brand | TAITEC |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | DTU-1BN / DTU-2BN |
| Heating Method | Dry-block heating |
| Temperature Range | Ambient +5°C to 110°C (DTU-1BN) |
| Temperature Stability | ±0.1°C or better |
| Block Compatibility | Aluminum heating blocks for tubes Ø12–35 mm, microcentrifuge tubes (0.5/1.5/2.0 mL), conical tubes (15/50 mL), flat-bottom microplates, and microscope slides |
| Heating Power | 100 W |
| Compliance | Designed for GLP-compliant laboratories |
Overview
The TAITEC DTU-1BN and DTU-2BN are precision-engineered dry-block nitrogen evaporators designed for reproducible, low-temperature solvent removal in analytical, biochemical, and pharmaceutical laboratories. Unlike water-bath-based concentrators, these units employ a thermally stable aluminum heating block coupled with directed nitrogen gas flow to accelerate evaporation while minimizing thermal degradation of heat-sensitive analytes. The DTU-1BN operates up to 110°C and is optimized for molecular biology applications—including DNA/RNA denaturation, enzymatic reactions, and hydrolysis of carbohydrates, proteins, and fatty acids. The DTU-2BN extends the upper temperature limit to 200°C, supporting broader organic synthesis workflows and high-boiling-point solvent removal (e.g., DMSO, DMF, ethylene glycol). Both models achieve ±0.1°C temperature stability—comparable to calibrated water baths—ensuring consistent thermal input across all sample positions and enabling method transfer between instruments.
Key Features
- Precision dry-block heating architecture with PID-controlled temperature regulation and real-time feedback via integrated platinum resistance thermometer (PT100)
- Modular aluminum block design: interchangeable blocks accommodate tubes from Ø12 mm to Ø35 mm, including 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes; 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes; 96-well flat-bottom microplates; and standard microscope slides
- Low-profile, deep-well block geometry (≥65 mm depth) ensures full immersion of tall vessels and minimizes convective heat loss
- Gas delivery system supports nitrogen or compressed air (external supply required); nozzle height is adjustable per position using ergonomic clamping fixtures to maintain consistent gas-to-surface distance
- Front-panel digital interface with dual-line LCD display, programmable ramp-soak profiles, and auto-shutdown timer
- 100 W heating power enables rapid thermal equilibration (<15 min to reach 100°C) without excessive energy draw or ambient heat emission
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The DTU series accommodates heterogeneous vessel formats without requiring platform recalibration. Standard configurations support common labware: 1.5 mL and 2.0 mL Eppendorf-style tubes, polypropylene conical centrifuge tubes (15 mL and 50 mL), PCR strips, and glass capillaries. Optional accessory blocks extend compatibility to custom diameters (Ø16.5 mm, Ø18 mm, Ø21 mm, Ø24 mm, Ø25 mm, Ø30 mm, Ø35 mm) and specialized substrates such as quartz cuvettes or borosilicate vials. All aluminum blocks undergo anodization for corrosion resistance and thermal uniformity. Units comply with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and are suitable for use in environments adhering to ISO/IEC 17025, USP , and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated software and audit-trail-enabled data loggers.
Software & Data Management
While the DTU-1BN/DTU-2BN operate as standalone instruments, they integrate seamlessly into regulated workflows via optional RS-232 or USB interfaces. When connected to TAITEC’s LogView Pro software (v3.2+), users gain access to time-stamped temperature logging, multi-channel profile synchronization, electronic signature support, and export to CSV or PDF for audit-ready reporting. The software enforces ALCOA+ principles—ensuring data is Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, and Available—making it suitable for GMP/GLP environments where instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and periodic performance verification are mandatory.
Applications
- Concentration of biological extracts prior to LC-MS, GC-MS, or ELISA analysis
- Removal of volatile solvents following solid-phase extraction (SPE) or liquid-liquid extraction (LLE)
- Preparative drying of nucleic acid pellets post-ethanol precipitation
- Controlled dehydration of lipid samples for gravimetric analysis
- Thermal conditioning of standards and reference materials under defined kinetic profiles
- Parallel processing of environmental water samples for pesticide residue testing (per EPA Method 525.3)
FAQ
Is nitrogen gas included with the instrument?
No. A regulated external nitrogen supply (0.1–0.3 MPa, oil-free, dew point ≤ −40°C) is required. TAITEC recommends integration with a dedicated lab-grade nitrogen generator or cylinder manifold.
Can I use the DTU-1BN for temperatures above 110°C?
No. Exceeding the specified maximum temperature voids calibration validity and may compromise block integrity or sensor accuracy. For elevated-temperature applications, select the DTU-2BN model.
Are calibration certificates provided?
Factory calibration certificates (traceable to JCSS standards) are available upon request. Users must perform periodic in-house verification using NIST-traceable thermometers per SOP requirements.
What maintenance is required?
Annual inspection of heater contacts, cleaning of block grooves with non-abrasive tools, and verification of gas nozzle alignment are recommended. No lubrication or consumable replacement is required under normal operation.
Is the unit compatible with fume hoods?
Yes. Its compact footprint (W200 × D260 × H220 mm) and absence of water reservoirs make it suitable for installation inside Class II biosafety cabinets or chemical fume hoods when configured with appropriate exhaust-rated gas manifolds.
