Tianfeng TF-HX-5A Low-Temperature Constant Temperature Bath

Overview

The Tianfeng TF-HX-5A Low-Temperature Constant Temperature Bath is a precision-engineered thermal control instrument designed for stable, repeatable temperature regulation across demanding laboratory applications. Utilizing a closed-cycle refrigeration system with an air-cooled hermetic compressor, the unit achieves rapid cooling from ambient to –10 °C while maintaining high thermal stability up to 99 °C via integrated resistive heating. Its dual-circulation architecture—comprising both internal recirculation for bath homogeneity and external pumping capability—enables precise temperature transfer to auxiliary equipment such as rotary evaporators, viscometers, electrophoresis systems, cryogenic medical devices (e.g., cooling caps or hypothermia blankets), and vacuum pump chillers (including diffusion, ion, and molecular pumps). The bath’s stainless steel construction ensures chemical resistance and long-term durability in corrosive or high-humidity environments typical of analytical chemistry, biophysics, and materials characterization labs.

Key Features

• High-precision digital PID temperature control with 0.1 °C display resolution and ±0.2 °C operational stability over time
• Microprocessor-based intelligent controller with intuitive touch-sensitive soft keys and real-time parameter feedback
• Dual-mode circulation: internal recirculation for uniform bath temperature distribution; external circulation for remote thermal conditioning of secondary apparatus
• Air-cooled, hermetically sealed refrigeration system using high-efficiency imported compressors—designed for low noise, minimal vibration, and extended service life
• Robust stainless steel inner tank and outer housing—resistant to corrosion, easy to clean, and compliant with laboratory hygiene standards
• Comprehensive safety suite including over-temperature cutoff, compressor overheat protection, and current-limiting circuitry
• Programmable functions: delayed start, timed shutdown, deviation alarm, and differential temperature alert
• Optimized heat exchange design featuring an enhanced evaporator geometry for faster cooldown and improved spatial temperature uniformity

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TF-HX-5A accommodates standard laboratory vessels up to 5 L volume within its 185 × 140 × 110 mm working chamber. It supports aqueous, ethylene glycol–water, and silicone oil-based heat transfer fluids—enabling operation across its full –10 °C to 99 °C range without fluid phase transition concerns. The unit meets mechanical and electrical safety requirements per IEC 61010-1:2010 and is engineered for integration into quality-controlled workflows adhering to ISO/IEC 17025, ASTM E2761 (Standard Guide for Laboratory Temperature Control Devices), and USP Analytical Instrument Qualification protocols. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its logging-capable firmware architecture allows configuration for electronic record integrity when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software under GxP environments.

Software & Data Management

The TF-HX-5A operates via embedded firmware with no proprietary PC software dependency. All setpoints, real-time temperature values, alarm statuses, and runtime diagnostics are accessible through its front-panel LCD interface. For laboratories requiring traceable thermal records, the device features RS232 serial output (optional USB-to-serial adapter) supporting ASCII-formatted streaming of temperature readings at user-defined intervals (1–60 s). When interfaced with compliant laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or validated data loggers, it supports audit-trail generation, user-access logging, and timestamped event reporting—facilitating alignment with GLP/GMP documentation practices and regulatory inspections.

Applications

• Calibration of thermometers, RTDs, and thermocouples against NIST-traceable references
• Thermal conditioning of samples prior to rheological, viscometric, or DSC analysis
• Cooling support for high-vacuum systems, including cryo-pumps and electron microscopy stages
• Temperature-controlled reaction baths for synthetic organic chemistry and polymerization studies
• Stabilization of optical components, laser diodes, and photodetectors during performance testing
• Biological sample preservation at sub-ambient temperatures during electrophoresis or chromatography preparation
• Material property evaluation—including coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and thermal conductivity measurements—under controlled thermal gradients

FAQ

What is the minimum operating temperature of the TF-HX-5A?

The unit achieves a stable minimum setpoint of –10 °C using its integrated air-cooled refrigeration system.
Can the TF-HX-5A be used with flammable solvents?

No. The bath is designed for use with non-flammable heat transfer media only—such as water, 30% ethylene glycol/water mixtures, or silicone oils meeting ASTM D1384 specifications.
Does the external circulation port support pressure-rated connections?

Yes—the dual-port manifold accepts standard 10 mm OD silicone or fluoropolymer tubing with secure barbed fittings; maximum recommended flow rate is 12 L/min at ≤0.2 MPa backpressure.
Is calibration certificate included with shipment?

A factory-as-tested verification report (including temperature uniformity and stability data at three setpoints) is supplied. NIST-traceable calibration certification is available upon request with additional lead time and fee.
How often does the refrigerant require servicing?

Under normal laboratory use, the sealed refrigeration circuit requires no scheduled maintenance or refrigerant replenishment for ≥8 years, assuming ambient conditions remain within 15–32 °C and relative humidity stays below 80% non-condensing.