Buchi Rotavapor R-100 Rotary Evaporator with Cold Finger Condenser and B-100 Water Bath – Refurbished
The Buchi Rotavapor R-100 Rotary Evaporator is a reliable laboratory solvent evaporation and recovery system designed for distillation, sample concentration, solvent removal, and purification applications. This refurbished configuration from American Instrument Exchange includes the Buchi R-100 rotary evaporator, B-100 heating water bath, and cold finger glassware assembly, providing laboratories with a versatile solution for controlled evaporation under reduced pressure.
The R-100 features adjustable rotation speeds from 20 to 280 rpm, an ergonomic manual lift, and compatibility with evaporation flasks ranging from 50 mL to 4 liters. Its B-100 heating bath provides precise temperature adjustment from 20°C to 95°C, while the cold finger condenser allows solvent vapors to be condensed using an appropriate cooling medium.
Unlike conventional vertical condensers that typically rely on continuously circulating coolant, the cold finger assembly can operate with a suitable cooling medium placed directly into the condenser. This makes the configuration particularly attractive for laboratories seeking a compact evaporation system with flexible cooling requirements.
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange, this Buchi R-100 rotary evaporator provides an economical alternative to purchasing new laboratory evaporation equipment and includes a 90-day warranty.
Key Features
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Buchi Rotavapor R-100 laboratory rotary evaporator
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Includes Buchi B-100 temperature-controlled heating bath
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Cold finger glassware assembly (Buchi Glass Assembly C)
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Cold trap condenser with approximately 500 cm² condensing surface
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Adjustable rotation speed from 20–280 rpm
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Compatible with evaporating flasks from 50–4,000 mL
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Ergonomic manual lift with approximately 145 mm vertical adjustment
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Adjustable evaporation flask immersion angle from 0–35°
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B-100 heating bath temperature range of 20–95°C
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4-liter heating bath capacity
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1,300 W heating element
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Digital heating bath temperature display
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Combi-Clip mechanism for convenient evaporating flask attachment and removal
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Compatible with external laboratory vacuum pumps
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Borosilicate glass components for chemical resistance
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Compact benchtop configuration
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Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
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90-day warranty included
Overview
The Buchi Rotavapor R-100 is a laboratory rotary evaporator designed to remove solvents efficiently through the combined effects of controlled heating, flask rotation, and reduced pressure.
During operation, a sample is placed in an evaporating flask that rotates within the heated water bath. Rotation spreads the liquid across the interior surface of the flask, increasing the available evaporation area and promoting consistent heat transfer.
When connected to an appropriate vacuum pump, the system lowers the pressure above the liquid, allowing solvents to evaporate at temperatures below their normal atmospheric boiling points.
The solvent vapor travels through the vapor duct into the cold finger condenser, where it cools and returns to liquid form. The recovered solvent collects in the receiving flask.
This process is widely used in research laboratories for sample concentration, solvent recovery, purification, and preparation of materials for subsequent analysis.
Common Applications
The Buchi R-100 is suitable for solvent evaporation, concentration of chemical extracts, removal of reaction solvents, preparation of chromatography fractions, pharmaceutical research, organic synthesis, natural products research, and analytical sample preparation.
Additional applications include botanical extraction research, environmental sample preparation, polymer research, and recovery of compatible laboratory solvents.
The cold finger configuration is particularly useful for small- to medium-scale evaporation procedures where a suitable cooling medium is available and a conventional recirculating condenser is not preferred.
Key Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Buchi Labortechnik |
| Model |
Rotavapor R-100 |
| Equipment Type |
Laboratory Rotary Evaporator |
| Condition |
Used / Refurbished |
| Heating Bath |
Buchi B-100 |
| Condenser Type |
Cold Finger / Glass Assembly C |
| Condenser Surface Area |
Approximately 500 cm² |
| Condenser Assembly Reference |
Buchi 040640 |
| Rotation Speed |
20–280 rpm |
| Evaporating Flask Compatibility |
50–4,000 mL |
| Maximum Flask Load |
3 kg |
| Lift Type |
Manual |
| Vertical Lift Adjustment |
Approximately 145 mm |
| Optional Lift Extension |
Additional 115 mm |
| Flask Immersion Angle |
0–35° |
| Heating Bath Capacity |
4 L |
| Heating Bath Temperature Range |
20–95°C |
| Heating Element Output |
1,300 W |
| Heating Bath Power Consumption |
1,700 W Maximum |
| Heating Bath Temperature Adjustment Accuracy |
±1% |
| Heating Bath Dimensions |
11.2"W × 12.8"D × 8.6"H |
| Heating Bath Weight |
Approximately 8.6 lb |
| R-100 Drive Supply |
24V DC |
| R-100 Drive Power Consumption |
30 W |
| Heating Bath Electrical Options |
100–120V or 220–240V, 50/60Hz |
| Approximate System Dimensions |
24.3"W × 19.8"D × 35.4"H, Manufacturer Reference |
| Approximate System Weight |
40–42 lb, Depending on Glassware |
| Vacuum Source |
External Vacuum Pump Required |
| Cooling Medium |
Suitable Cold Finger Cooling Medium |
| Glassware Material |
Borosilicate Glass |
| Warranty |
90 Days |
Specifications are compiled from Buchi manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Overall dimensions and weight may vary with the installed cold finger assembly and accessories. Electrical configuration and included flask sizes should be confirmed for the individual refurbished unit.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The Buchi R-100 is well suited to pharmaceutical research laboratories, biotechnology facilities, analytical chemistry departments, organic chemistry laboratories, academic research institutions, environmental testing facilities, and industrial research laboratories.
Its compact design and straightforward controls make it particularly attractive to laboratories requiring dependable solvent evaporation without the complexity or expense of larger automated evaporation systems.
Cold Finger Condenser and Solvent Recovery
One of the distinguishing features of this Buchi R-100 configuration is its cold finger glassware assembly.
Buchi identifies this condenser as Glass Assembly C, which incorporates a cold trap with approximately 500 cm² of condensing surface.
The cold finger is filled with a suitable cooling medium that absorbs heat from solvent vapors passing through the condenser.
As the vapors cool, they condense and flow into the receiving flask for collection.
Unlike a conventional water-cooled condenser, this configuration does not necessarily require a continuous external coolant circulation system.
The appropriate cooling medium and operating temperature depend on the solvent being evaporated and the required condensation performance.
Cooling capacity is limited by the quantity and temperature of the cooling medium, so periodic replenishment may be necessary during extended operation.
B-100 Heating Water Bath
The included Buchi B-100 heating bath provides controlled heating for rotary evaporation applications.
The bath has a 4-liter capacity and operates over a temperature range of 20–95°C.
Its 1,300 W heating element provides the thermal energy needed to support evaporation, while the digital display allows operators to monitor and adjust the selected bath temperature.
The B-100 accommodates evaporating flasks up to 4 liters, subject to the R-100's mechanical loading limits.
An integrated high-temperature safety cutoff provides additional protection against excessive heating.
The bath can also be operated independently for compatible laboratory heating applications.
Adjustable Rotation Speed
The Buchi R-100 provides adjustable rotation speeds from 20 to 280 rpm.
Flask rotation increases the liquid surface area available for evaporation and promotes uniform heating of the sample.
The appropriate speed depends on flask size, liquid volume, viscosity, and the tendency of the sample to foam or bump.
Lower rotation speeds may be appropriate for selected viscous or foam-sensitive samples, while higher speeds can improve evaporation efficiency for compatible liquids.
The R-100's electronic drive provides consistent rotational movement throughout the selected operating range.
Manual Lift and Flask Positioning
The R-100 incorporates an ergonomic manual lift mechanism that allows the evaporating flask to be raised or lowered relative to the heating bath.
The manufacturer specifies approximately 145 mm of vertical adjustment, with an optional extension available for additional travel.
The flask immersion angle can be adjusted from 0–35° to accommodate different flask sizes and operating conditions.
This flexibility helps operators position the evaporating flask appropriately within the bath.
The manual lift also allows the flask to be removed from the heated water when evaporation is complete or when immediate separation from the heat source is required.
Vacuum-Assisted Evaporation
The Buchi R-100 is designed to operate with an appropriate external laboratory vacuum pump.
Reducing the pressure inside the evaporation system lowers the boiling temperature of many solvents, allowing evaporation at temperatures below their atmospheric boiling points.
This is particularly useful when concentrating heat-sensitive samples or recovering solvents without excessive thermal exposure.
The required vacuum level depends on the solvent, bath temperature, cooling conditions, and desired evaporation rate.
The R-100 is compatible with suitable Buchi vacuum systems and other appropriately selected laboratory vacuum pumps.
An external vacuum pump and vacuum controller should not be assumed included unless specifically identified in the equipment package.
Glassware and Flask Compatibility
The Buchi R-100 accommodates evaporating flasks from 50 mL to 4 liters.
Its borosilicate glass components provide chemical resistance for many routine laboratory solvent applications.
The Combi-Clip mechanism helps secure the evaporating flask and assists with releasing glass joints after operation.
The cold finger assembly includes specialized condenser glassware and supporting components designed for this configuration.
The exact evaporating flask, receiving flask, seals, clamps, and condenser accessories included with the refurbished unit should be confirmed before purchase.
Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange
American Instrument Exchange inspects, tests, and reconditions used laboratory rotary evaporators before shipment.
For the Buchi R-100, relevant testing includes checking the rotation motor, verifying speed adjustment, inspecting the manual lift mechanism, and evaluating the heating bath's temperature control.
The condenser glassware, vapor duct, seals, flask connections, and supporting hardware should also be inspected for damage or wear.
Where an appropriate vacuum source is available, the assembled system can be evaluated for vacuum integrity and proper solvent-path sealing.
The B-100 heating bath should be tested for heating performance, temperature adjustment, and safe operation.
Customers requiring documented vacuum testing, confirmation of specific flask sizes, or additional accessories should discuss these requirements with American Instrument Exchange before purchase.
This refurbished Buchi R-100 includes a 90-day warranty.
Shipping and Installation
The Buchi R-100 is designed for benchtop laboratory installation.
The manufacturer's reference dimensions for a complete R-100 configuration are approximately 24.3 inches wide, 19.8 inches deep, and 35.4 inches high, although the installed cold finger glassware may affect the overall height and footprint.
Installation requires a stable laboratory bench, compatible electrical service, and an appropriate vacuum source.
The cold finger condenser also requires a suitable cooling medium for the intended solvent recovery process.
Glass components should be individually protected during shipping to prevent damage to the condenser, evaporating flask, receiving flask, and vapor duct.
Before operation, users should inspect the assembled glassware, verify vacuum connections, and confirm that the heating bath and cooling arrangement are appropriate for the intended application.
Related Equipment
Laboratories using the Buchi R-100 may also require laboratory vacuum pumps, rotary evaporators, recirculating chillers, laboratory water baths, and vacuum concentrators.
American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished evaporation systems, vacuum pumps, chillers, and related laboratory equipment for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academic, and industrial research facilities.
Buchi R-100 Rotary Evaporator FAQs
What is the Buchi R-100 used for?
The Buchi R-100 is used for solvent evaporation, sample concentration, solvent recovery, distillation, and purification procedures in research and analytical laboratories.
What is included with this refurbished R-100?
This configuration includes the Buchi R-100 rotary evaporator, B-100 heating bath, and cold finger glassware assembly. Individual flask sizes and accessories should be confirmed before purchase.
What is the advantage of the cold finger condenser?
The cold finger condenser allows solvent vapors to be cooled using a suitable cooling medium placed directly into the condenser, reducing dependence on a continuously circulating coolant system.
Does the cold finger condenser require a recirculating chiller?
Not necessarily. The cold finger assembly can operate with a suitable cooling medium, although the cooling arrangement must provide adequate condensation for the solvent and evaporation rate.
What is the rotation speed range?
The R-100 provides adjustable rotation speeds from 20 to 280 rpm.
What is the temperature range of the B-100 heating bath?
The B-100 operates from 20°C to 95°C.
What is the maximum evaporating flask size?
The R-100 accommodates evaporating flasks up to 4 liters, subject to the manufacturer's maximum loading requirements.
Does the R-100 require a vacuum pump?
Yes. An external vacuum pump is required for vacuum-assisted evaporation.
Is a vacuum pump included?
A vacuum pump should not be assumed included unless specifically identified in the refurbished equipment package.
Can the R-100 be used for heat-sensitive samples?
Yes. Vacuum-assisted evaporation allows many solvents to be removed at reduced temperatures, making the R-100 useful for compatible heat-sensitive materials.
Does the refurbished Buchi R-100 include a warranty?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty on refurbished equipment.
