The Numbers That Matter on a 20 Liter Rotovap
Flask capacities first, because this is where the two builds at this size actually differ. The evaporating flask is 20 L and the receiving flask is 10 L. The ECO build pairs the same 20 L evaporating flask with a receiving flask twice that size. On a long run this machine needs emptying more often. That is a real trade. Rotation is 0 to 120 rpm under digital step-less regulation, with the set temperature range running 0 to 99 degrees Celsius. Maximum vacuum is minus 29.8 inHg. The condenser is a main plus auxiliary vertical double helix, which is where the short vapour path comes from. Vacuum and condenser connections are both 10 mm, or 3/8 in barb. The bath is 304 stainless, Teflon coated for corrosion resistance, measuring 17.7 by 9.8 in. Lifting is electric with a 190 mm stroke, which is 7.5 in. The machine stands 49 by 24 by 83 in and weighs 155 lbs, and it rolls on locking casters. Heater draw peaks at 25 A.
When an ETL Certified Rotovap Is Not Optional
The certification is why this machine costs more than the ECO at the same flask size. It is worth knowing when that earns the difference. ETL listing means a recognised third party has tested the unit against the applicable North American safety standard. For a hobby bench nobody asks. For a licensed facility, an insurer or an inspector may well ask. Uncertified electrical equipment in a solvent room is the kind of thing that stops an inspection. If any of those parties has a say in your build, the certified unit is the only one of the two that answers them. Power is 220 to 240V, 60 Hz, single phase. Total power consumption is 4.1 kW. Warranty is one year on mechanical parts and excludes the glassware.
Key Features
- ETL certified: Third party tested, which is what an inspector or insurer asks for.
- 20 L evaporating, 10 L receiving: Half the receiving capacity of the ECO at the same flask size.
- 0 to 120 rpm, step-less: Digital regulation rather than fixed speed increments.
- Teflon coated 304 stainless bath: 17.7 by 9.8 in, coated for corrosion resistance.
- Electric lift, 190 mm stroke: Which is 7.5 in of travel, rather than a manual lift.
- Double helix condenser: Main plus auxiliary vertical, for a shorter vapour path.
- Locking casters: It rolls, and it stays put once positioned.
- One year warranty: On mechanical parts; the glassware is excluded.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | NRE-20L |
| Brand | BVV, Neocision line |
| Model | 20L Solvent Pro Series Rotary Evaporator |
| Evaporating flask | 20 L |
| Receiving flask | 10 L |
| Glass material | GG-17 high borosilicate |
| Water bath material | 304 stainless steel, Teflon coated |
| Water bath size | 17.7 x 9.8 in |
| Power | 220 to 240V, 60 Hz, single phase |
| Total power consumption | 4.1 kW |
| Heater max current draw | 25 A |
| Rotation speed | 0 to 120 rpm, digital step-less regulation |
| Set temperature | 0 to 99 C, or 0 to 210 F |
| Optimum ambient temperature | 5 to 25 C, or 41 to 77 F |
| Maximum vacuum pressure | Minus 29.8 inHg |
| Vacuum connection | 10 mm, or 3/8 in barb |
| Condenser connection | 10 mm, or 3/8 in barb |
| Condenser style | Main plus auxiliary vertical double helix |
| Lifting function | Electric, 190 mm or 7.5 in stroke |
| Dimensions | 49 x 24 x 83 in |
| Weight | 155 lbs |
| Mobility | Locking casters |
| Certification | ETL |
| Warranty | One year on mechanical parts, excluding glassware |
BVV inspect every unit for broken glass or parts before it ships.
Glassware safety: BVV are not responsible for glassware failure. Glass has to be inspected before and after every use, because it can develop imperfections or damage through normal use, mishandling and thermal stress. If anything is found on inspection, do not use that piece.