Laboratory Evaporator Operating and Maintenance Guide
Laboratory evaporators remove solvents from samples for concentration, purification, and solvent recycling. Rotary evaporators are the most common type in chemistry and biochemistry laboratories.
I. Rotary Evaporator Operation
- Setup: Attach a clean, appropriately sized evaporation flask to the vapor duct. Secure with a clip. Do not use cracked or chipped glassware under vacuum.
- Sample Loading: Fill the flask no more than half full to prevent bumping and sample loss. Use a bump trap between the flask and the condenser.
- Rotation: Start flask rotation before applying vacuum. Rotation provides even heating and prevents bumping.
- Vacuum Application: Gradually apply vacuum while monitoring for foaming or bumping. Adjust the vacuum level to achieve gentle, controlled boiling.
- Heating: Set the water bath temperature appropriately for the solvent. The bath temperature should be above the solvent boiling point at the applied vacuum.
- Completion: When evaporation is complete, release the vacuum slowly, stop rotation, and remove the flask.
II. Maintenance
- After Each Use: Clean glassware. Inspect seals and O-rings. Empty and clean the receiving flask.
- Weekly: Clean the condenser. Inspect vacuum tubing for cracks or deterioration. Check the water bath for contamination.
- Monthly: Lubricate rotating joints and seals with appropriate vacuum grease. Clean the water bath and replace the water.
- As Needed: Replace worn seals, O-rings, and gaskets. Descale the water bath if using tap water.
