LAUDA WKL 230 Recirculating Chiller

Brand : Lauda

Product Code : SKU 1506D CIRC

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LAUDA WKL 230 Recirculating Chiller

The LAUDA WKL 230 Recirculating Chiller is a compact benchtop laboratory cooling system designed to provide reliable closed-loop temperature control for analytical instruments, research equipment, condensers, and other heat-generating laboratory devices. With an operating temperature range of approximately -10°C to +40°C, 230 W of cooling capacity at +20°C, a 6 L reservoir, and circulation flow up to approximately 8 L/min, the WKL 230 provides a practical cooling solution for moderate laboratory heat loads.

Designed as part of LAUDA's WKL series of water circulation coolers, the WKL 230 extends below 0°C while maintaining a particularly compact footprint. Its self-contained refrigeration system allows laboratories to replace once-through tap-water cooling with a reusable closed-loop coolant supply that provides more consistent temperature conditions.

Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this LAUDA WKL 230 is inspected and tested for reliable refrigeration, circulation, temperature control, and overall operation. A 90-day warranty is included.

Key Features

-10°C to +40°C working temperature range
230 W cooling capacity at +20°C
Approximately 8 L/min maximum pump flow
Approximately 0.15 bar maximum pump pressure
6 L reservoir
Compact benchtop configuration
Refrigerated recirculating chiller
Designed for closed-loop external cooling
Bright LED temperature display
Displays setpoint and actual temperature
Simple three-button control interface
Submersible circulation pump
Low-liquid-level shutdown
Air-cooled refrigeration system
Suitable for continuous laboratory cooling
Can reduce dependence on tap-water cooling
Used, refurbished, and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Overview

The LAUDA WKL 230 is a compact refrigerated recirculating chiller designed primarily to supply cooled fluid to compatible external laboratory equipment.

Coolant is pumped from the WKL 230 through the connected instrument or process, where it absorbs heat. The warmed fluid returns to the chiller's 6 L reservoir and refrigeration system, where the accumulated heat is removed before the coolant is recirculated.

This closed-loop design provides a reusable cooling source and can eliminate the need to continuously consume and discharge laboratory tap water.

The WKL 230 was specifically designed as a compact benchtop member of LAUDA's WKL family. Its ability to operate to approximately -10°C distinguishes it from cooling systems intended only for operation near or above ambient temperature.

A simple three-button control system and LED display provide straightforward operation while allowing users to monitor both setpoint and actual coolant temperature.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	LAUDA
Model	WKL 230
Equipment Type	Refrigerated recirculating chiller
Temperature Range	Approx. -10°C to +40°C
Cooling Capacity at +20°C	230 W / 0.23 kW
Maximum Pump Flow	Approx. 8 L/min
Maximum Pump Pressure	Approx. 0.15 bar
Reservoir Capacity	Approx. 6 L
Temperature Control	Electronic
Display	LED
Refrigeration	Integrated, air-cooled
Circulation	Closed-loop external circulation
Pump Type	Submersible
Low-Liquid Protection	Yes
Approximate Width	200 mm / 7.9 in.
Approximate Depth	350 mm / 13.8 in.
Approximate Height	500 mm / 19.7 in.
Electrical Requirements	Verify individual unit nameplate
Warranty	90 days

Common Applications

The LAUDA WKL 230 can support a wide range of laboratory applications requiring continuous removal of moderate heat loads. Typical applications include analytical instrument cooling, condenser cooling, rotary evaporation, distillation systems, small reaction systems, vacuum equipment, optical equipment, laboratory heat exchangers, and other devices designed for external liquid cooling.

Its ability to operate below 0°C also makes the WKL 230 useful when conventional facility water cannot provide sufficiently cold coolant.

For laboratory equipment that would otherwise use continuously flowing tap water, the WKL 230 provides a closed-loop alternative. Coolant is reused rather than discharged after a single pass, potentially reducing both water consumption and wastewater generation.

The controlled coolant temperature can also provide more consistent operating conditions than facility water, which may fluctuate with season, building demand, and incoming water temperature.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The LAUDA WKL 230 is well suited for chemistry laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotechnology facilities, analytical laboratories, materials-science groups, quality-control departments, industrial R&D laboratories, teaching laboratories, and academic research environments.

Its small footprint makes it particularly useful in laboratories where bench or floor space is limited.

The WKL 230 is also a practical option for dedicating a separate cooling system to an individual analytical instrument or experimental setup rather than relying on a larger centralized cooling-water system.

Cooling Performance & Temperature Control

The LAUDA WKL 230 operates across an approximately -10°C to +40°C temperature range and provides approximately 230 W of cooling capacity at +20°C.

This 230 W rating is equivalent to approximately 785 BTU/hr of heat-removal capacity.

Cooling capacity should always be considered in relation to the actual heat generated by the connected equipment. The WKL 230 is a compact laboratory chiller intended for relatively modest heat loads rather than large reactors or high-capacity process applications.

Available refrigeration capacity also changes with coolant temperature. As the operating temperature moves farther below ambient, the refrigeration system generally has less capacity available to remove continuous process heat.

For this reason, an application requiring operation near -10°C should be evaluated based on both target temperature and heat load rather than the 230 W rating at +20°C alone.

The LED interface allows the operator to monitor setpoint and actual temperature, while the electronic controller automatically regulates refrigeration to maintain the desired coolant conditions.

Circulation & Pump Performance

The LAUDA WKL 230 provides maximum circulation flow of approximately 8 L/min and maximum pump pressure of approximately 0.15 bar.

The WKL 230 uses a submersible pump design. This arrangement eliminates the need for a conventional pump-shaft seal, reducing one potential source of leakage and maintenance.

The pump is designed to continuously circulate coolant through compatible external equipment and return it to the chiller.

Actual delivered flow will depend on the complete external circuit. Tubing diameter and length, fittings, elevation, coolant viscosity, operating temperature, and restrictions within the connected equipment can all reduce flow below the nominal maximum.

The relatively modest 0.15 bar maximum pressure is an important consideration. The WKL 230 is best matched with equipment having relatively low hydraulic resistance rather than instruments requiring a high-pressure coolant supply.

Customers with specific minimum flow or pressure requirements are encouraged to provide those specifications before purchase so American Instrument Exchange can evaluate compatibility with the intended equipment.

Refurbishment & Testing

This used LAUDA WKL 230 Recirculating Chiller is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange before shipment. Our technicians inspect the refrigeration system, compressor, condenser, circulation pump, reservoir, temperature controller, LED display, fluid connections, electrical components, housing, and associated safety systems.

Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using NIST-traceable probes and data loggers. The WKL 230 is operated under simulated laboratory conditions to evaluate temperature pull-down, refrigeration performance, circulation, temperature regulation, controller operation, and overall system reliability.

The reservoir and accessible fluid-contact components are cleaned and inspected before shipment.

Customers requiring the WKL 230 for a particular instrument or experimental process are encouraged to provide the desired coolant temperature, approximate heat load, minimum flow requirement, and coolant type. When practical, American Instrument Exchange can incorporate customer-requested operating conditions into final testing.

A 90-day warranty is included with this refurbished LAUDA recirculating chiller.

Choosing the Right Recirculating Chiller

The LAUDA WKL 230 is particularly well suited for laboratories that need a compact dedicated chiller for moderate cooling loads.

Its approximately 230 W cooling capacity makes it appropriate for smaller analytical instruments, condensers, and experimental systems rather than high-heat-load process equipment.

The -10°C minimum operating temperature is another important advantage. It allows the WKL 230 to provide subzero coolant without relying on ice, dry ice, or sufficiently cold facility water.

Pump requirements should also be considered carefully. The approximately 8 L/min maximum flow is useful for many laboratory applications, but the relatively low 0.15 bar maximum pressure means the WKL 230 is best used with circulation loops that do not impose excessive hydraulic resistance.

For higher heat loads, lower operating temperatures, or restrictive circulation circuits, a larger LAUDA chiller with greater refrigeration capacity or pump pressure may be more appropriate.

American Instrument Exchange can help compare available used and refurbished recirculating chillers based on temperature, cooling capacity, pump performance, reservoir volume, electrical requirements, and intended application.

Related Equipment

American Instrument Exchange stocks a range of laboratory circulators, including LAUDA recirculating chillers, refrigerated/heated circulators, immersion coolers, and process temperature-control systems. Laboratories considering the LAUDA WKL 230 may also want to compare available laboratory water baths, reactors and fermenters, evaporators and extractors, and other refurbished laboratory equipment.

LAUDA WKL 230 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the temperature range of the LAUDA WKL 230?

The WKL 230 operates from approximately -10°C to +40°C. Historical LAUDA documentation specifically describes the model as capable of operation down to -9.9°C.

How much cooling capacity does the WKL 230 provide?

The LAUDA WKL 230 provides approximately 230 W, or 0.23 kW, of cooling capacity at +20°C. This is equivalent to approximately 785 BTU/hr.

What is the reservoir capacity?

The WKL 230 has an approximately 6 L coolant reservoir.

What is the maximum pump flow?

Maximum circulation flow is approximately 8 L/min.

What is the maximum pump pressure?

The WKL 230 provides maximum pump pressure of approximately 0.15 bar.

Can the WKL 230 replace tap-water cooling?

For compatible equipment with heat loads and circulation requirements within its capabilities, yes. The closed-loop system continuously reuses coolant rather than consuming and discharging tap water.

Can the WKL 230 operate below freezing?

Yes. The chiller can operate down to approximately -10°C when used with an appropriate heat-transfer fluid.

Is the LAUDA WKL 230 suitable for high-pressure cooling circuits?

Its maximum pump pressure is approximately 0.15 bar, so it is better suited to relatively unrestricted cooling circuits. Equipment with restrictive internal passages may require a higher-pressure chiller.

What does the LED display show?

The WKL 230's display allows the operator to monitor both the selected setpoint and actual coolant temperature.

Does this refurbished LAUDA WKL 230 include a warranty?

Yes. This used LAUDA WKL 230 is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.

Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment

Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications

At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.

Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential

Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:

• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features

Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.

Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.

Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment

1. Initial Visual Inspection

• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged

2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing

• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions

3. Testing and Performance Verification

• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type

4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing

• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance

5. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable

6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery

Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.

Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.

Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.

Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?

• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience

Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol

Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:

1. Initial Intake & Inspection

• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement

2. Cleaning and Decontamination

• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters

3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair

• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies

4. Functional System Testing

• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability

5. Testing and Performance Verification

• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles

6. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification

7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection

Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.

Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.

Warranty Information

All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,

Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”

Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.

Return & Cancellation Policy

American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.

Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.

Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.

Ongoing and Extended Support Options

American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.

For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.

For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.

How do you test and recondition the equipment?

Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.

How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?

We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.

Return and order cancellation policy

American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.

Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?

Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.

How does your price matching policy work?

We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?

Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.

1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.

Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?

Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.

Sku 1506d circ Open