Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR Review

Let’s Dive into Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is a compact and cost-effective solution for applications requiring precise temperature control in closed-loop systems. This unit from Polyscience Corporation offers a temperature range of 5° above ambient to 70°C with a stability of ±0.2°C. It is engineered with stainless steel, PVC, brass, and nylon wetted parts to ensure compatibility with a variety of fluids.

My need for a heated recirculator arose from the desire to conduct consistent materials testing in my workshop. The fluctuating ambient temperatures were introducing unacceptable variables. I needed a reliable way to maintain a stable temperature in a small, closed-loop system.

Upon unboxing the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR, I was immediately struck by its compact size and robust construction. The unit felt solid, and the materials appeared to be of high quality. The layout was straightforward, indicating a focus on ease of use.

I considered the Julabo F4 and the Thermo Scientific A25 recirculating chillers, but ultimately chose the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR due to its lower cost and smaller footprint. The simpler design also appealed to me, as I valued reliability over advanced features that I didn’t necessarily need. I hoped this would be an affordable workhorse.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The unit seemed well-built and met my basic requirements, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions. Would it maintain the advertised temperature stability?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR in my workshop to maintain a consistent temperature for a small reactor vessel used in polymer synthesis. The workshop environment is prone to significant temperature swings, especially during the spring and fall months. The recirculator was connected to the reactor via silicone tubing, creating a closed-loop system.

The unit’s performance was satisfactory under these conditions, despite a slightly dusty environment. Getting used to the controls was simple as there are very few adjustments. The initial setup took approximately 30 minutes.

The only real issue I encountered during the first use was the unit’s tendency to overshoot the set temperature slightly before stabilizing. This required a bit of patience and fine-tuning. I also noted that the external surfaces of the recirculator became quite warm during extended operation at higher temperatures.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use, the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR has proven to be a reliable, although not flawless, performer. There have been no signs of significant wear and tear. Regular inspection of the fluid level in the reservoir is necessary.

Cleaning the exterior surfaces is a breeze with a damp cloth. Internally, I periodically flush the system with distilled water to prevent the buildup of contaminants. The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR has generally met my expectations.

Compared to my previous experience with a less precise water bath, the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR offers a significant improvement in temperature control. It doesn’t quite reach the level of a high-end chiller, but it’s adequate for my applications. The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR certainly is a cost-effective solution.

Breaking Down the Features of Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR

Specifications

• Electrical: 120V, 60Hz, 7A. This specification dictates the power requirements. Be sure you have the correct voltage available.
• Temperature Range: 5° above ambient to 70°C. This range covers a broad spectrum of applications. It may limit extremely low-temperature procedures.
• Stability: ±0.2°C. This is a critical specification for temperature-sensitive processes. It indicates the consistency of temperature maintenance.
• Heater: 750W. The heater power determines how quickly the unit can reach the setpoint temperature. More power translates to faster heating.
• Flow Rate: 6.3 L/min. The flow rate influences heat transfer efficiency. It determines how quickly heat is removed from or added to the external system.
• Exterior Dimensions: 24.1W x 20D x 20.3H cm (9¹/2 x 8 x 8″). The compact size is ideal for space-constrained laboratories or workshops. It fits easily on a benchtop.
• Pump Inlet and Outlet: 1.3 cm (¹/2“) NPT. The standard NPT fittings allow for easy connection to external systems. Adapters may be needed for different tubing sizes.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR’s ability to perform its primary function: maintaining a stable temperature in a closed-loop system. A wider temperature range allows for greater versatility, while better stability ensures more consistent results.

Performance & Functionality

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR generally performs its job effectively, providing reliable temperature control within its specified range. However, the initial temperature overshoot can be a slight annoyance. The unit requires minimal intervention once it reaches the setpoint.

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR’s strengths lie in its ease of use and compact design. The straightforward controls make it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise. Its weakness is the somewhat limited temperature range.

Overall, the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR mostly meets my expectations. For its price point, it delivers a decent level of performance. I was expecting perfection, but the results were more than satisfactory.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR appears to be solid. The materials used seem durable. The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR‘s weight is manageable.

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is exceptionally user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR should last for many years. Regular cleaning and fluid replacement are essential.

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is relatively easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are readily available from Polyscience Corporation and its distributors.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR comes with a standard power cord and a basic instruction manual. There are no included accessories beyond that. No real modifications are possible.

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is compatible with various types of tubing and fittings, as long as they are compatible with the 1/2″ NPT connections. You can use different fluids depending on the application. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and material compatibility guidelines.

Pros and Cons of Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR

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Who Should Buy Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR?

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is perfect for: laboratories, workshops, and small-scale manufacturing operations that require precise temperature control within a limited range and on a budget. It is also suitable for educational institutions. Users looking for an easy-to-use and reliable heated recirculator will appreciate the simplicity of this unit.

This product isn’t ideal for those working with extremely temperature-sensitive materials. It’s also not suitable for applications requiring temperatures below ambient. Individuals needing advanced programming capabilities should also consider other options.

A must-have accessory is high-quality silicone tubing with appropriate fittings. A digital thermometer can be useful for verifying the accuracy of the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR.

Conclusion on Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR

The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR is a solid, reliable, and cost-effective solution for basic temperature control needs. It’s a great option for those who prioritize simplicity and affordability over advanced features and extreme precision.

The price is definitely justified. The Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR fills a specific niche.

I would personally recommend the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR to anyone looking for a basic, budget-friendly heated recirculator for closed-loop systems. If your temperature requirements fall within its range, and you don’t need a lot of bells and whistles, this unit is a great choice. Don’t hesitate, give the Polyscience Corporation Heated Recirculator, Model 1104 040300-VWR a try today!