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Thermo Scientific Savant RVT5105 Ultra-Low Temperature Refrigerated Vapor Trap – Used and Refurbished
The Thermo Scientific Savant RVT5105 Refrigerated Vapor Trap is a high-performance laboratory cold trap designed to capture solvent vapors during vacuum concentration and evaporation procedures. With an ultra-low operating temperature of approximately -105°C and a 4-liter collection capacity, the RVT5105 helps protect vacuum pumps from solvent contamination while supporting efficient sample concentration workflows.
Designed for use with compatible Thermo Savant SpeedVac concentrators and other suitable vacuum evaporation systems, the RVT5105 uses a dual-compressor refrigeration system to achieve substantially lower temperatures than conventional -50°C vapor traps. This makes it particularly useful for applications involving highly volatile organic solvents, including acetone, hexane, methylene chloride, and chloroform, subject to the manufacturer's chemical compatibility guidance.
The RVT5105 features an illuminated temperature display, a stainless steel collection chamber, and a drain port for handling collected condensate. Its mechanical refrigeration system eliminates the routine need for dry ice or liquid nitrogen as a cooling source.
This Thermo Savant RVT5105, AIE inventory number 5454C, is available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.
Important: The glass condensation flask is not included with this particular unit. Customers should obtain a compatible flask and verify all necessary collection accessories before operation.
Refrigerated trapping temperature down to approximately -105°C
4-liter solvent collection capacity
Dual-compressor refrigeration system
Two 1/3 HP compressors in the manufacturer's standard configuration
Manufacturer-specified cooldown to -105°C in less than 40 minutes under suitable conditions
Designed for compatible SpeedVac vacuum concentrators
Captures solvent vapors before they reach the vacuum pump
Suitable for a broad range of compatible organic solvents
Illuminated temperature display with endpoint indication
Stainless steel collection chamber and drain port
Mechanical refrigeration without routine dry ice replenishment
115V electrical configuration listed by AIE
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Glass condensation flask not included with AIE inventory unit 5454C
Overview
Vacuum concentrators remove solvents from laboratory samples under reduced pressure. During this process, solvent vapors leave the concentrator and travel through the vacuum system toward the pump.
If these vapors reach an oil-sealed vacuum pump, they can contaminate the pump oil, impair performance, and increase maintenance requirements.
The Thermo Savant RVT5105 is designed to condense compatible solvent vapors before they reach the vacuum pump.
Its refrigeration system reaches temperatures as low as approximately -105°C, providing substantially colder trapping conditions than conventional -50°C refrigerated vapor traps.
The RVT5105 is especially useful for laboratories processing volatile solvents that may not be captured efficiently at warmer trap temperatures.
Common Applications
The Thermo Savant RVT5105 is used for solvent vapor recovery during SpeedVac concentration, vacuum evaporation, pharmaceutical sample preparation, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, metabolomics, proteomics, chemical research, and other laboratory procedures requiring cold trapping of solvent vapors.
It is particularly useful when a laboratory needs to protect vacuum pumps during repeated concentration procedures involving compatible organic solvents.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific / Savant
Model
RVT5105
AIE Inventory Number
5454C
Equipment Type
Ultra-Low-Temperature Refrigerated Vapor Trap
Temperature Range
Ambient to Approximately -105°C
Collection Capacity
4 Liters
Refrigeration System
Dual-Compressor, HCFC-Free
Compressors
Two 1/3 HP Compressors
Manufacturer Cooldown Specification
Less Than 40 Minutes to -105°C
Temperature Indication
Illuminated Temperature Graph with Endpoint Indication
Collection Chamber
Stainless Steel
Drain Port
Stainless Steel with Corrosion-Resistant Nylon Valve
Manufacturer Exterior Dimensions
24"W × 24"D × 18.3"H
Manufacturer Net Weight
150 lb (68 kg)
Electrical Configuration Listed by AIE
115V, 50/60Hz
Manufacturer 115V Rating
115 VAC, 60 Hz, 13 A
Manufacturer 230V Rating
230 VAC, 50 Hz, 7 A
Standard Glass Flask
GCF400
Standard Flask Cap
FC400
Glass Condensation Flask Included
No
Vacuum Pump Included
No
SpeedVac Concentrator Included
No
Condition
Used / Refurbished
Warranty
90 Days
Specifications are based on Thermo Scientific documentation and AIE's listing for inventory unit 5454C. The manufacturer's dimensions differ from those currently shown on AIE's page. Electrical ratings and installed accessories should be verified on the individual unit.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The RVT5105 is well suited to pharmaceutical research laboratories, biotechnology facilities, analytical chemistry departments, molecular biology laboratories, academic research institutions, environmental testing facilities, and laboratories using SpeedVac vacuum concentrators.
Its ultra-low trapping temperature is especially useful for laboratories processing volatile organic solvents that require colder condensation conditions than conventional refrigerated vapor traps provide.
Ultra-Low-Temperature Trapping at -105°C
The defining feature of the RVT5105 is its ability to reach temperatures as low as approximately -105°C.
At this temperature, the trap can condense a broader range of solvent vapors than conventional -50°C systems.
This is particularly important for solvents with relatively high vapor pressures, which may be difficult to capture efficiently at warmer temperatures.
The actual trapping efficiency depends on solvent composition, vacuum level, vapor flow, sample load, and operating conditions.
The -105°C rating is a manufacturer-specified operating temperature rather than a guarantee of complete solvent capture in every application.
Dual-Compressor Refrigeration System
The RVT5105 uses two 1/3 HP compressors in its standard refrigeration configuration.
The dual-compressor system provides the cooling capacity needed to achieve ultra-low trapping temperatures.
Thermo Scientific specifies a cooldown time of less than 40 minutes to -105°C under appropriate operating conditions.
This allows laboratories to prepare the trap for solvent concentration procedures without using dry ice or liquid nitrogen as the primary cooling source.
Actual cooldown performance may vary with ambient temperature, equipment condition, and operating conditions.
4-Liter Solvent Collection Capacity
The RVT5105 provides a 4-liter collection capacity.
This supports repeated vacuum concentration procedures and laboratories processing multiple sample batches.
The collection system is designed to capture condensed solvent vapors before they enter the vacuum pump.
Operators should monitor collected solvent volume and empty the collection system as required.
The 4-liter capacity describes the collection volume and should not be confused with the instrument's solvent processing rate.
Volatile Organic Solvent Applications
The RVT5105 is designed for use with a broad range of compatible solvents.
Thermo Scientific identifies applications involving highly volatile solvents such as acetone, hexane, methylene chloride, and chloroform, along with other organic solvents and aqueous mixtures.
Its lower operating temperature can improve trapping of solvents that are more difficult to condense at -50°C.
However, solvent compatibility should always be confirmed against the manufacturer's instructions, particularly for aggressive chemicals, mixed solvent systems, and high vapor loads.
Vacuum Pump Protection
The RVT5105 is installed between the vacuum concentrator and the vacuum pump.
As solvent vapor leaves the concentrator, it passes through the refrigerated trapping system, where compatible vapors condense.
This reduces the amount of solvent reaching the pump.
By limiting solvent contamination, the trap can help maintain vacuum pump performance and reduce the frequency of oil changes or other solvent-related maintenance.
The RVT5105 does not generate vacuum independently and requires an appropriate external vacuum pump.
Temperature Display and Endpoint Indication
The RVT5105 includes an illuminated temperature display with endpoint indication.
This allows operators to monitor the refrigeration system as it approaches its operating temperature.
The display provides a convenient visual indication of the trap's cooling status before starting a vacuum concentration procedure.
For laboratories requiring documented temperature verification, the trap's actual performance can be checked using appropriate independent measurement equipment.
Stainless Steel Collection System
The RVT5105 incorporates a stainless steel collection chamber and drain port.
The manufacturer's standard configuration includes a removable glass condensation flask used to collect condensed solvents.
A corrosion-resistant nylon drain valve supports removal of collected liquid from the appropriate collection components.
The stainless steel construction is intended for laboratory solvent-trapping applications, but operators should still verify compatibility with the chemicals being processed.
Glass Condensation Flask Not Included
AIE explicitly states that the glass condensation flask is not included with inventory unit 5454C.
The RVT5105 normally uses a compatible glass collection flask, identified by Thermo Scientific as the GCF400, along with the appropriate flask cap and associated components.
Customers should confirm which collection accessories are present and obtain the missing components before attempting to operate the system.
The instrument should not be used with improvised glassware or unsuitable vacuum connections.
RVT5105 vs. RVT400 and RVT450
The Thermo Savant RVT5105 is designed for substantially colder operation than the RVT400 and RVT450 refrigerated vapor traps.
The RVT400 and RVT450 operate at approximately -50°C, while the RVT5105 reaches approximately -105°C.
All three provide a nominal 4-liter collection capacity, but the RVT5105 uses a more substantial refrigeration system to achieve its lower temperature.
Laboratories processing more volatile solvents may benefit from the RVT5105, while applications involving less volatile solvents may be adequately served by a -50°C trap.
The appropriate model depends on solvent properties, vacuum conditions, and required trapping performance.
Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange
American Instrument Exchange inspects, tests, and reconditions used laboratory equipment before shipment.
For the Thermo Savant RVT5105, relevant testing includes evaluation of both refrigeration compressors, verification of cooling performance, inspection of the temperature display, and examination of the electrical and mechanical components.
The unit can be tested through an extended cooldown cycle to evaluate its ability to approach the manufacturer's -105°C operating specification.
The stainless steel collection chamber, drain valve, and available connections should also be inspected for condition and functionality.
Customers requiring a documented cooldown test, temperature log, or confirmation of specific accessory compatibility should discuss those requirements with AIE before purchase.
The refurbished RVT5105 includes a 90-day warranty.
Shipping and Installation
The RVT5105 is a substantial laboratory refrigeration instrument measuring approximately 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 18.3 inches high.
Its manufacturer-listed weight is approximately 150 lb, making appropriate lifting and handling equipment important during installation.
The trap should be placed on a stable, level laboratory surface with adequate ventilation around the refrigeration system.
Electrical requirements should be verified against the rating plate on AIE inventory unit 5454C. The manufacturer's 115V configuration is rated at 13 A and may require a suitably rated dedicated circuit depending on laboratory electrical conditions.
Before operation, the collection flask and associated connections must be correctly installed, and the refrigeration system should be allowed to reach the required trapping temperature.
American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished vapor traps, vacuum concentrators, vacuum pumps, and other laboratory equipment for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and industrial research facilities.
Thermo Savant RVT5105 FAQs
What is the Thermo Savant RVT5105 used for?
The RVT5105 is an ultra-low-temperature refrigerated vapor trap used to capture compatible solvent vapors during vacuum concentration and evaporation procedures.
What temperature does the RVT5105 reach?
The manufacturer specifies a minimum operating temperature of approximately -105°C.
What is the solvent collection capacity?
The RVT5105 has a 4-liter collection capacity.
Does the RVT5105 require dry ice?
No. Its dual-compressor refrigeration system eliminates the routine need for dry ice or liquid nitrogen as a cooling source.
Can it be used with SpeedVac concentrators?
Yes. The RVT5105 is designed for use with compatible Thermo Savant SpeedVac concentrators and other suitable vacuum evaporation systems.
Is the glass condensation flask included?
No. AIE inventory unit 5454C is offered without the glass condensation flask. Customers should obtain a compatible flask and verify the other necessary collection accessories.
What is the difference between the RVT5105 and RVT400?
The RVT5105 reaches approximately -105°C, while the RVT400 operates at approximately -50°C. Both have a nominal 4-liter collection capacity.
What are the electrical requirements?
AIE lists a 115V unit. The manufacturer's 115V configuration is rated at 60 Hz and 13 A. The installed unit's rating plate should be checked before connection.
Does the RVT5105 include a vacuum pump?
No. The RVT5105 is a refrigerated vapor trap and requires a separate compatible vacuum pump.
Does the refurbished RVT5105 include a warranty?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange 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.
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.
