ROT-X-TRACT-L Liquid/Liquid Extraction System Model 13308 Instruction Manual

Importance of the topic

Liquid–liquid extraction under controlled conditions is a cornerstone in environmental and analytical laboratories. Reproducible sample concentration with high solvent recovery (>90%) reduces waste, lowers operating costs, and preserves analyte integrity, including semi-volatile compounds.

Objectives and overview

This document describes the design, installation, safety measures, operation, and maintenance of the ROT-X-TRACT-L Model 13308, an eight-position liquid/liquid extraction system. It aims to guide users through setup, method development, and routine use to achieve consistent, high-throughput sample processing.

Methodology and instrumentation

The ROT-X-TRACT-L employs a thermostatted stainless steel water bath, a parallel condenser water manifold, and rotary support for eight extraction units. Key features include:

• Temperature-controlled water bath (up to 92 °C) with heating element power modulation.
• Condenser manifold delivering 1–2.5 L/min cooling water per unit.
• Optional Type-Z positive-pressure purge to prevent ignition of flammable vapors.
• Glassware sets (GS3357, GS3358, GS3352, GS3362) comprising KD or RB flasks, extractor bodies, Allihn condensers, and concentrator tubes.

Main results and discussion

Under optimized conditions (bath at 92 °C, condenser water <10 °C, 2500 mL/min total flow), the system concentrates 1 L aqueous samples with 300–400 mL dichloromethane in 24 h runs. The spring-supported cover disk and adjustable clips ensure minimal drag and secure glassware. The built-in water-flow protection circuit halts heating during cooling failures, preventing dry-boil and sample loss.

Benefits and practical applications

The ROT-X-TRACT-L system delivers:

• High throughput: eight simultaneous extractions reduce turnaround time.
• Reproducibility: uniform heating and consistent solvent recovery.
• Safety: grounded design, high-temperature cut-off, and optional purge for flammable solvents.
• Flexibility: compatible with tap, distilled, or deionized water baths; optional dry-bead heating.

Future trends and potential applications

Advances may include:

• Automated endpoint detection with temperature ramping to improve near-dryness precision.
• Integration with chiller units and laboratory information management systems.
• Expanded use of inert-gas purging for ultra-trace and explosive samples.
• Miniaturized or modular designs for field-portable extraction systems.

Conclusion

The ROT-X-TRACT-L Model 13308 provides a robust, user-friendly solution for parallel liquid/liquid extraction. Its combination of efficient solvent recovery, safety interlocks, and modular glassware makes it well suited for environmental, food, pharmaceutical, and QA/QC laboratories.

Instrumentation

The core components include:

• ROT-X-TRACT-L Model 13308 eight-position heating and extraction stand.
• Water/power control box with regulator, filter, flow meter, and low-flow protection circuit.
• Stainless steel water bath and support rod assembly.
• Glassware sets GS3357, GS3358, GS3352, GS3362 for KD/RB flasks and Hershberg-Wolfe extractors.
• Optional Type-Z positive-pressure purge assembly (gauge, tubing, filter).