Tianfeng TF-HX-5A Precision Refrigerated/Heated Circulating Bath

Overview

The Tianfeng TF-HX-5A Precision Refrigerated/Heated Circulating Bath is a compact, microprocessor-controlled constant-temperature source engineered for laboratory applications requiring precise thermal regulation across both sub-ambient and elevated temperature ranges. Utilizing a hermetically sealed air-cooled compressor and an optimized evaporator design based on large-volume refrigeration principles, the unit delivers rapid cooling response and uniform temperature distribution within its 5-liter stainless-steel bath chamber. Its dual-mode thermal control—capable of stable operation from −10 °C to 99 °C with ±0.1 °C stability—makes it suitable not only for conventional oil or water bath immersion experiments but also as an external temperature source via internal recirculation. Unlike passive heating baths, the TF-HX-5A integrates active refrigeration, enabling controlled low-temperature protocols essential in polymer characterization, enzyme kinetics, crystallization studies, and cold-chain validation workflows.

Key Features

• Integrated refrigeration and heating system with high-efficiency air-cooled hermetic compressor (imported core)
• Microprocessor-based PID temperature controller with digital LED display for real-time monitoring of setpoint and actual bath temperature
• Stainless-steel inner tank resistant to corrosion and thermal shock, ensuring long-term integrity in organic solvent or aqueous environments
• Touch-sensitive soft-key interface with intuitive menu navigation, eliminating mechanical wear and improving operational reliability
• Programmable functions including delayed start, timed shutdown, and adjustable alarm thresholds for over-temperature and differential-temperature conditions
• Compact footprint (430 × 285 × 575 mm) designed for benchtop integration in space-constrained analytical laboratories
• Internal circulation loop enables consistent thermal homogeneity without external plumbing requirements

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TF-HX-5A accommodates a wide range of sample containers—including glass beakers, reaction flasks, viscometer sleeves, and electrophoresis tanks—within its 5 L working volume. Its temperature range supports common laboratory media such as silicone oil (for high-temp stability), ethylene glycol/water mixtures (for sub-zero operation), and deionized water (for general-purpose use). The unit complies with ISO 9001:2000 quality management standards throughout design, production, and testing phases. While not certified to UL/CSA or CE for North American/EU regulatory markets, its electrical architecture adheres to IEC 61010-1 safety principles for laboratory equipment. For GLP/GMP-aligned environments, the device supports audit-ready documentation through manual log entries; future firmware upgrades may enable optional timestamped event logging compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.

Software & Data Management

The TF-HX-5A operates via embedded firmware without proprietary PC software dependency. All operational parameters—including setpoint, current temperature, elapsed time, and alarm status—are accessible through the front-panel LED interface. Data export is not natively supported; however, analog output (0–5 V or 4–20 mA) can be integrated via optional I/O modules for connection to SCADA systems or centralized lab data acquisition platforms. Users performing routine calibration verification may record temperature readings manually at defined intervals using NIST-traceable reference thermometers. The instrument’s thermal stability (±0.1 °C) meets ASTM E1137/E1137M specifications for laboratory temperature uniformity testing when used with appropriate probe placement per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.

Applications

• Thermal conditioning of samples prior to rheological, spectroscopic, or chromatographic analysis
• Temperature-controlled solubility and phase-transition studies in pharmaceutical formulation development
• Stabilization of sensitive biological reagents during electrophoresis or ELISA incubation
• External cooling source for rotary evaporators, vacuum pumps, and cryo-microscopy accessories
• Calibration support for temperature probes, thermocouples, and digital thermometers in metrology labs
• Controlled-rate heating/cooling cycles in polymer processing and material science testing

FAQ

Is the TF-HX-5A suitable for use with silicone oil or other high-boiling-point heat transfer fluids?

Yes—the stainless-steel bath chamber and sealed circulation path are chemically compatible with common silicone oils, mineral oils, and glycol-water mixtures up to 99 °C.
Does this model support external circulation to auxiliary equipment?

No—the TF-HX-5A is configured for internal circulation only. For external fluid routing, consider the TF-HX-5B variant with dual inlet/outlet ports.
What maintenance is required for long-term compressor reliability?

Annual inspection of condenser coil cleanliness and refrigerant pressure verification by qualified service personnel is recommended. No user-serviceable refrigerant components exist.
Can temperature data be logged automatically?

Not natively. Continuous data logging requires integration with third-party DAQ hardware via optional analog output modules.
Is the unit compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records?

The base configuration does not include audit trail, electronic signature, or secure login functionality. These capabilities would require custom firmware development and validation under GxP protocols.