MULTIVAP Nitrogen Evaporation System Models 11364 &11300 Instruction Manual

Importance of the Topic

High-throughput nitrogen evaporation is a cornerstone of modern analytical sample preparation. It enables rapid, uniform concentration of biological, environmental, and chemical samples with high reproducibility. By processing up to 100 samples in parallel, laboratories can accelerate workflows in pharmaceutical, environmental, and food-safety testing.

Objectives and Overview

This manual details the MULTIVAP™ nitrogen evaporation system (Models 11364 & 11300). It describes system components, installation, safety features, and operational procedures designed to deliver controlled and reproducible sample concentration across 64 or 100 positions.

Instrumentation Used

• MULTIVAP™ nitrogen evaporation manifold (64 or 100 position)
• OA-HEAT water bath with digital temperature controller (1100 W, optional 240 V)
• Digital timer controller and momentary time switch
• Flow meter assembly (0–30 LPM standard, 0–100 LPM optional)
• 19 ga stainless steel needles or Pasteur pipet adapters
• Test tube racks for 10–30 mm diameter tubes
• Optional Type-Z positive pressure purge assembly

Methodology

Place the unit on a stable bench or in a fume hood. Fill the bath to ~12 mm below the rim with water (distilled or de-ionized recommended). Connect an inert gas source at 5–30 psig and install SS tubes, manifold, and spring assemblies. Attach needles or pipet adapters to luer fittings. Position needle tips ~6 mm above sample surfaces. Use the digital controller to set bath temperature (up to 100 °C) and configure timed or manual gas/heat control modes. In manual mode, adjust the flow meter and open needle valves until a small dimple appears on each sample. For timed operations, program On Delay (preheat), Off Delay (automatic shutdown), or fixed-duration cycles for non-dryness endpoints.

Main Results and Discussion

• Evaporation rate is dominated by gas flow rate (~92% influence); needle gauge dictates required per-position flow.
• Temperature stability within ±2 °C has minor impact (<8%) on drying times.
• 19 ga needles perform efficiently at ≥0.3 LPM per position; higher flows accelerate evaporation but require greater needle-to-sample distance to avoid splashing.
• Type-Z purge maintains 0.1 in H₂O positive pressure, preventing ingress of flammable vapors and enhancing safety.
• Timed preheat and automatic shutdown allow unattended operation with consistent endpoints.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Parallel processing of up to 100 samples reduces hands-on time.
• Digital temperature and timer controls ensure reproducibility.
• Safety options (PTFE coating, Type-Z purge) enable handling of flammable or corrosive solvents.
• Flexible accommodation of tubes, vials, and centrifuge containers.
• Integration with automated workflows and laboratory scheduling.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and networked remote monitoring will streamline data tracking. Advanced feedback control based on real-time evaporation metrics could optimize gas flow and temperature dynamically. Sustainable features such as inert gas recycling and energy-efficient heating elements will reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Robotics-enabled sample handling promises fully automated end-to-end preparation.

Conclusion

The MULTIVAP™ nitrogen evaporation system offers a robust, scalable solution for reproducible, high-throughput sample concentration. Precise temperature and gas flow controls, combined with safety and timing options, address diverse laboratory requirements and support both manual and unattended operations.

Reference

No external literature references were provided in the original manual.