Single Plate Classic MICROVAP Evaporator

Importance of the Topic

In modern analytical laboratories, efficient and reproducible sample concentration is essential for high-throughput workflows and sensitive downstream analyses. Compact evaporators that integrate gentle heating with inert gas blowdown allow precise solvent removal from low-volume samples in microplates or tubes, conserving valuable bench space and preserving sample integrity.

Objectives and Study Overview

The aim of this application note is to present the Single Plate Classic MICROVAP evaporator (Cat# 11801-Classic), highlighting its design features, performance characteristics and adaptability for drying 96-well microplates or tube formats under controlled conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The MicroVap system couples a digitally controlled dry block heater with a nitrogen gas manifold to concentrate samples by solvent evaporation. Key methodological aspects include:

• Block Heating: Uniform temperature distribution from 40 to 130 °C, maintained within ±2 °C to protect thermally sensitive analytes.
• Nitrogen Blowdown: Stainless steel needles deliver continuous, evenly dispersed gas flow to each well or tube position at 20–30 psi.
• Plate Compatibility: Accommodates standard and deep-well 96-well plates, with optional conversion to 15- or 24-tube formats.
• Flow Control: Adjustable flow meter (0–25 LPM) minimizes gas consumption while ensuring efficient evaporation.

Instrumentation Used

• Evaporator Model: Single Plate Classic MICROVAP (Cat# 11801-Classic)
• Dry Block Heater Base common to single, 24- and 15-position models
• Optional Accessories:
  
  • 220 V wiring harness
  • Positive-pressure purge enclosure (Z-Purge)
  • Acid-resistant coating for housing and needles
  • Conversion kit for tube formats

Main Results and Discussion

Testing demonstrates rapid and uniform solvent removal across all 96 positions without cross-contamination or hot spots. The interchangeable block design simplifies transition between plate and tube drying, reducing downtime. Precise digital temperature control preserves analytes prone to degradation, and the nitrogen manifold ensures reproducible flow rates for consistent evaporation kinetics.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Space Efficiency: Compact footprint (10 × 12.5 × 17 in) frees bench or hood space.
• High Throughput: Processes up to 96 samples simultaneously, increasing productivity.
• Gentle Operation: Controlled heating and inert gas protect thermo-labile compounds.
• Versatility: Easy conversion between microplates and various tube formats.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include integration with automated liquid-handling systems for end-to-end sample prep, adoption of alternative inert gases to tailor solvent compatibility, and incorporation of real-time monitoring via IoT connectivity to track evaporation progress and maintenance needs.

Conclusion

The Single Plate Classic MICROVAP delivers a robust, space-saving solution for reliable solvent evaporation in microplates and tubes. Its combination of precise temperature control, uniform gas distribution and modular design supports diverse laboratory workflows, enhancing throughput and data quality.