ZiQi DC-12W 12-Position Water Bath Nitrogen Evaporator

Overview

The ZiQi DC-12W is a precision-engineered 12-position water bath nitrogen evaporator designed for reproducible, low-temperature solvent removal in analytical laboratories. It operates on the principle of gentle inert gas displacement—introducing controlled streams of high-purity nitrogen directly above the liquid surface of heated samples to accelerate solvent evaporation while minimizing thermal degradation and oxidation. Unlike rotary evaporation, which subjects samples to vacuum-induced boiling and potential bumping, the DC-12W maintains sample integrity through non-vacuum, low-velocity gas flow over thermally stabilized aqueous media. Its water bath architecture ensures uniform thermal distribution across all 12 positions, eliminating hot spots and supporting consistent evaporation kinetics critical for quantitative applications such as LC-MS sample preparation, clinical hormone assays, pharmaceutical stability testing, and environmental residue analysis.

Key Features

• Stable water bath heating system with ±0.1 °C temperature control accuracy across the full 0–100 °C operating range, enabling precise method transfer and inter-laboratory reproducibility.
• Individually adjustable stainless steel gas needles (150 mm standard length), each fitted with independent on/off valves to prevent cross-contamination and optimize nitrogen consumption per sample.
• Height-adjustable gas manifold accommodates varying tube geometries—including standard 16 mm OD test tubes—with optional custom bore diameters available upon request.
• Dual digital LED display showing real-time setpoint/actual temperature and countdown timer, supporting unattended operation with programmable endpoint signaling.
• Integrated over-temperature safety cutoff and self-diagnostic fault detection system compliant with IEC 61010-1 electrical safety standards for laboratory equipment.
• Modular aluminum alloy frame with corrosion-resistant finish; compatible with fume hood integration for handling volatile or toxic solvents (e.g., chloroform, hexane, acetonitrile).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DC-12W supports routine use with glass, borosilicate, and polypropylene vials up to 16 mm outer diameter. Custom tube holders are available for alternative formats including 10 mm, 13 mm, and 20 mm OD configurations. All wetted components meet USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The instrument conforms to ISO/IEC 17025-relevant environmental controls when operated within calibrated laboratory conditions. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its digital interface supports audit-ready documentation when integrated with validated LIMS or ELN systems that enforce electronic signature and change control protocols.

Software & Data Management

The DC-12W operates via embedded firmware without external PC dependency. All operational parameters—including target temperature, dwell time, and gas valve states—are retained in non-volatile memory following power cycles. Temperature logging is not natively supported; however, analog voltage outputs (0–5 V) are available at the rear panel for connection to external data acquisition systems (DAQ) or PLC-based monitoring networks. For GLP/GMP environments, users may deploy third-party validation packages to establish IQ/OQ documentation, including temperature mapping studies and gas flow calibration verification against NIST-traceable mass flow meters.

Applications

• Preparative concentration of biological extracts prior to HPLC or GC-MS injection.
• Residue analysis workflows under EPA Method 525.3 and EU 2023/1115 regulatory frameworks.
• High-throughput drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic (DMPK) sample cleanup in contract research organizations (CROs).
• Standardized evaporation of calibration standards and QC reference materials in clinical chemistry labs.
• Controlled desolvation of nanoparticle suspensions and liposomal formulations during formulation development.

FAQ

Is the DC-12W suitable for use with flammable solvents?
Yes—when installed inside a certified fume hood with appropriate ventilation rates (≥100 fpm face velocity) and grounded gas supply lines, the unit safely handles low-flashpoint solvents including acetone, methanol, and ethyl acetate.
Can the temperature sensor be calibrated independently?
The PT100 RTD sensor is factory-calibrated to ±0.1 °C at 40 °C and 80 °C points; field recalibration requires a traceable dry-block calibrator and firmware access credentials provided under service agreement.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Monthly inspection of water bath level, periodic descaling using 5% citric acid solution, and annual verification of gas needle alignment and valve actuation torque are recommended per the manufacturer’s maintenance log template.
Does the unit support external temperature probes for sample-level monitoring?
No—the system relies on bath temperature feedback only; direct sample temperature measurement requires insertion of a separate probe into individual vessels, which may interfere with gas flow geometry.
Are replacement parts like gas manifolds or heating elements available separately?
Yes—ZiQi provides genuine spare parts with documented lot traceability, including heater assemblies (P/N ZQ-HTR-12W), gas distribution blocks (P/N ZQ-GDB-12), and PID controller modules (P/N ZQ-PCB-DC12).