TurboVap (Site Requirements)

Importance of the Topic

The TurboVap system is widely used for solvent evaporation in chemical and pharmaceutical laboratories. Ensuring that the installation site meets all ventilation, space, electrical and gas supply requirements is essential for safe operation, reliable performance and regulatory compliance.

Objectives and Overview of the Document

This document provides a comprehensive checklist for preparing a laboratory to receive a TurboVap unit. It outlines the necessary environmental conditions, infrastructure connections and user responsibilities to guarantee a successful installation and familiarization process.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The TurboVap system is a benchtop solvent evaporation instrument featuring:

• A rear exhaust outlet for solvent vapor removal
• An integrated water bath and lid assembly
• A gas manifold with nozzle positions to support up to 48 samples

Installation recommendations are based on manufacturer guidelines and standard laboratory safety practices.

Main Findings and Discussion

Key site requirements include:

• Ventilation: A fume hood or exhaust system capable of 1 m3/min flow. Supplied exhaust hose is 3.8 m long with 50.8 mm inner diameter.
• Space and Load Capacity: Package weight 20 kg; unit weighs 17 kg empty, 29 kg full. Footprint 400 × 400 × 390 mm; clearance of 30 mm at front; lid open height 590 mm.
• Environmental Conditions: Operating temperature 18–32 °C; humidity 20–90 % RH (non-condensing).
• Electrical Supply: 100–127 V or 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 1000 VA on a grounded circuit.
• Gas Supply: Inert gas (nitrogen recommended) at 4–9 bar. Minimum 4 bar for basic performance, 6 bar for full-flow capability, 9 bar maximum. Flow rates vary by manifold positions (up to 200 L/min total).
• Fire Protection: External safeguards per local regulations for unattended equipment.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to these requirements ensures:

• Safe removal of hazardous solvent vapors
• Stable and reproducible evaporation conditions
• Minimized downtime during installation and commissioning
• Compliance with laboratory safety and quality standards

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging developments may include:

• Integration of real-time monitoring for exhaust flow and gas pressure
• Compact or modular designs to fit constrained lab spaces
• Automated diagnostics and remote support for faster troubleshooting
• Adaptation to alternative gas sources and improved energy efficiency

Conclusion

A meticulous approach to site preparation, covering ventilation, mechanical support, environmental conditions, power and gas connections, is critical for a seamless TurboVap installation. Following these guidelines enables laboratories to achieve optimal performance and maintain safety standards.

Reference

Biotage. Site Requirements TurboVap, 2017.