Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120-115 Vacuum Concentrator with VLP120 Vacuum Pump – Refurbished
The Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120-115 Vacuum Concentrator with Thermo Savant VLP120 Vacuum Pump is a versatile centrifugal vacuum concentration system designed for solvent evaporation, sample concentration, and drying in molecular biology, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and analytical laboratories. Combining centrifugal force, controlled heating, and high-vacuum performance, this configuration provides an efficient solution for processing valuable biological and chemical samples.
This refurbished SpeedVac system from American Instrument Exchange includes the Thermo Scientific Savant SPD120-115 concentrator and a Thermo Savant VLP120 vacuum pump. The combination provides the primary components required for centrifugal vacuum concentration while allowing laboratories to select a suitable vapor trap and other accessories for their specific solvent applications.
The SPD120 uses centrifugal force to help prevent sample bumping and foaming during evaporation, while its adjustable heating system promotes efficient solvent removal. The VLP120 rotary vane vacuum pump supplies the reduced pressure needed for concentration and supports applications requiring deeper vacuum levels than those typically achieved with basic diaphragm pumps.
This listing includes the SPD120-115 concentrator and VLP120 vacuum pump. A refrigerated vapor trap is not included. Rotor inclusion and configuration should be confirmed before purchase.
American Instrument Exchange professionally inspects, refurbishes, and tests used laboratory equipment before shipment. This refurbished SpeedVac configuration includes a 90-day warranty.
Key Features
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Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120-115 vacuum concentrator
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Includes Thermo Savant VLP120 high-vacuum rotary vane pump
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Refrigerated vapor trap not included
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Centrifugal vacuum evaporation for biological and analytical samples
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Compatible with aqueous solutions and selected non-aggressive organic solvents
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Adjustable chamber heating from ambient to 80°C
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Typical concentrator rotor speed of approximately 1,630 RPM at 60 Hz
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Three user-modifiable operating programs
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Independent heating and run timers
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Digital display for operating parameters
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Automatic and manual operating modes
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Preheat function for accelerated sample processing
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Automatic vacuum bleed valve
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PTFE-coated aluminum chamber for chemical resistance and easy cleaning
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Glass safety lid with lid-lock indicator
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Compact 13"W × 18"D × 14"H concentrator footprint
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Standard 115V, 60 Hz concentrator electrical configuration
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Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
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90-day warranty included
Overview of the Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120
The Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120 is designed to remove solvents from biological and chemical samples using a combination of vacuum, centrifugal force, and controlled heating.
During operation, samples rotate within the vacuum chamber while the external VLP120 pump reduces chamber pressure. Lowering the pressure promotes solvent evaporation at temperatures below those required under normal atmospheric conditions.
Centrifugal force helps keep samples at the bottom of their containers, reducing the risk of sample loss caused by sudden boiling, bumping, or foaming.
The SPD120 also incorporates controlled chamber heating to counteract evaporative cooling, which can otherwise slow the concentration process.
Unlike conventional evaporation systems that rely primarily on heat, the SpeedVac approach is particularly useful for processing small sample volumes and valuable biological materials where sample recovery is important.
The SPD120 features a modular design that allows the concentrator to be paired with different vacuum pumps, vapor traps, and accessories according to laboratory requirements.
With the included VLP120 vacuum pump, this refurbished configuration is particularly attractive for laboratories seeking a high-vacuum concentration system without purchasing the pump separately.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120 is used extensively in molecular biology, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical development, and biotechnology laboratories.
Common applications include concentrating DNA and RNA samples, drying PCR products, removing solvents after purification procedures, preparing protein and peptide samples, concentrating HPLC fractions, processing pharmaceutical compounds, drying natural product extracts, and preparing samples for mass spectrometry.
The instrument is also useful in metabolomics, proteomics, and other analytical workflows where researchers need to reduce solvent volume or recover concentrated sample material.
The SPD120 is designed for use with water and selected non-aggressive organic solvents, including methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and acetonitrile, subject to the manufacturer's compatibility requirements.
Because evaporation performance depends on solvent composition, vacuum level, heating temperature, and sample volume, laboratories should select operating conditions appropriate for their specific applications.
The included VLP120 pump also makes this configuration suitable for laboratories that require a deeper vacuum for selected drying procedures, provided that appropriate vapor trapping and solvent-handling accessories are installed.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The SPD120-115 with VLP120 vacuum pump is well suited for molecular biology laboratories, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical research facilities, genomics and proteomics laboratories, analytical chemistry laboratories, academic research institutions, and contract research organizations.
It is particularly useful for laboratories processing multiple small-volume samples or performing repetitive solvent evaporation procedures.
The separate pump configuration provides flexibility in positioning the vacuum equipment and selecting an appropriate refrigerated vapor trap for the laboratory's applications.
For laboratories replacing an existing SpeedVac system or expanding sample preparation capabilities, this refurbished combination provides the concentrator and high-vacuum pump together while allowing additional accessories to be selected according to the intended workload.
Key Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Thermo Scientific / Savant |
| Concentrator Model |
SpeedVac SPD120 |
| Concentrator Catalog Number |
SPD120-115 |
| Included Vacuum Pump |
Thermo Savant VLP120 |
| Pump Catalog Configuration |
VLP120-115 |
| Condition |
Used / Refurbished |
| Equipment Type |
Centrifugal Vacuum Concentrator with External Pump |
| Configuration |
SPD120 Concentrator + VLP120 Vacuum Pump |
| Refrigerated Vapor Trap |
Not Included |
| Rotor |
Confirm Included Rotor and Capacity |
| Typical Concentrator Rotor Speed |
Approximately 1,630 RPM at 60 Hz |
| Heating Temperature Range |
Ambient or 35°C to 80°C |
| Temperature Adjustment |
5°C Increments |
| Heating Timer |
1 Minute to 9 Hours 59 Minutes, or Continuous |
| Run Timer |
1 Minute to 9 Hours 59 Minutes, or Continuous in Manual Mode |
| User-Defined Programs |
3 Modifiable Programs |
| Operating Modes |
Automatic and Manual |
| Vacuum Bleed Valve |
Automatic |
| Vacuum Source |
Included VLP120 External Pump |
| Pump Type |
Oil-Sealed Rotary Vane |
| Nominal Pump Displacement |
Approximately 97 L/min at 50 Hz |
| Manufacturer Pump Ultimate Vacuum |
Approximately 1.5 mTorr |
| Pump Electrical Requirements |
115V, 50/60 Hz |
| Vacuum Ramp Control |
Not Included |
| Vacuum Level Control |
Not Included |
| Chamber Material |
PTFE-Coated Aluminum |
| Chamber Seal |
Silicone Rubber |
| Vacuum Fittings |
Polypropylene |
| Lid |
Glass Safety Cover |
| Lid-Lock Indicator |
Yes |
| Concentrator Dimensions |
13"W × 18"D × 14"H |
| Concentrator Weight |
Approximately 57 lb |
| Concentrator Electrical Requirements |
115V, 60 Hz, 6 A |
| Concentrator Plug Configuration |
NEMA 5-15P |
| Additional Ventilation Clearance |
Approximately 3" on All Sides |
| Warranty |
90 Days |
Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature, distributor technical references, and American Instrument Exchange product information. Pump ultimate vacuum is a manufacturer-rated pump specification, not a guaranteed operating vacuum at the concentrator chamber. Rotor capacity depends on the installed rotor. A refrigerated vapor trap is not included.
Included Thermo Savant VLP120 Vacuum Pump
This refurbished SpeedVac configuration includes a Thermo Savant VLP120 high-vacuum rotary vane pump.
The VLP120 is designed to provide the reduced pressure required for laboratory vacuum applications, including centrifugal concentration and selected drying procedures.
Unlike oil-free diaphragm pumps commonly used for basic aqueous evaporation, the VLP120 uses an oil-sealed rotary vane mechanism capable of achieving substantially deeper vacuum levels under appropriate operating conditions.
The manufacturer's specified ultimate vacuum is approximately 1.5 mTorr, although actual vacuum performance at the SpeedVac chamber depends on system configuration, solvent vapor load, tubing, seals, vapor trapping, and operating conditions.
The VLP120-115 is designed for 115V electrical service and has a nominal pumping displacement of approximately 97 liters per minute at 50 Hz.
Because the pump uses an oil-sealed mechanism, routine maintenance includes checking pump oil condition and replacing oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
An appropriate refrigerated vapor trap is particularly important when using an oil-sealed pump with solvent evaporation equipment. The trap captures solvent vapors before they reach the pump, helping reduce oil contamination and protect internal components.
The VLP120 is included with this refurbished system, but a refrigerated vapor trap and additional solvent-handling accessories are not included unless specifically stated.
Centrifugal Vacuum Concentration Technology
The Thermo Scientific SpeedVac SPD120 uses three complementary processes to achieve efficient sample concentration: centrifugal force, reduced pressure, and controlled heating.
The included VLP120 pump lowers the pressure within the chamber, allowing solvents to evaporate at reduced temperatures. This is particularly useful for biological samples that may be affected by prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures.
Centrifugal force helps retain sample material within the containers during evaporation, reducing losses caused by bumping or foaming.
Controlled chamber heating helps maintain evaporation efficiency as the samples cool during solvent removal.
Together, these functions allow laboratories to concentrate small sample volumes more efficiently than conventional open-container evaporation methods.
The SPD120's PTFE-coated chamber provides chemical resistance and facilitates cleaning after routine laboratory use.
Temperature Control and Programmable Operation
The SPD120 provides adjustable chamber heating from ambient conditions to 80°C, with selectable heating temperatures from 35°C to 80°C in 5°C increments.
The heating system helps accelerate solvent evaporation by compensating for the cooling effect that occurs as liquid evaporates under vacuum.
The instrument features independent timers for heating and run duration, allowing laboratories to establish operating parameters appropriate for different sample types.
Three user-modifiable programs can be stored for frequently performed procedures, reducing the need to manually re-enter settings during repetitive laboratory workflows.
The digital control panel provides access to automatic and manual operation, heating controls, and run parameters.
An automatic vacuum bleed valve assists with controlled venting at the end of a concentration cycle.
These features make the SPD120 suitable for laboratories seeking repeatable sample preparation procedures without requiring a more complex automated evaporation system.
Vapor Trap Requirements and Solvent Handling
Although this refurbished system includes the VLP120 vacuum pump, a refrigerated vapor trap is not included.
A vapor trap is installed between the SpeedVac concentrator and vacuum pump to capture evaporated solvents before they reach the pump.
This is particularly important when using an oil-sealed rotary vane pump because solvent vapor can contaminate the pump oil and affect vacuum performance.
A suitable trap helps protect the pump, reduces solvent carryover, and supports dependable operation during repeated concentration cycles.
Thermo Scientific offers refrigerated vapor traps designed for SpeedVac systems, including ultra-low-temperature models for applications requiring efficient solvent capture.
The appropriate trap should be selected according to solvent composition, vapor load, desired operating vacuum, and laboratory safety requirements.
The SPD120 and VLP120 should not be operated for solvent evaporation without an appropriate vapor-handling arrangement.
Customers assembling a complete system should confirm trap compatibility, tubing requirements, pump maintenance needs, and any additional chemical trapping or exhaust provisions before installation.
Rotor Compatibility and Sample Capacity
The SPD120 supports interchangeable rotor configurations designed for different sample containers and laboratory applications.
Depending on the selected rotor, the concentrator can accommodate microcentrifuge tubes, small sample vials, and other compatible laboratory vessels.
For example, the Thermo Scientific RH40-11 rotor provides capacity for 40 × 1.5 mL tubes and is commonly associated with SPD120 system configurations.
Actual sample capacity depends on the rotor installed, and rotor selection should account for tube dimensions, sample volume, solvent compatibility, and manufacturer operating limits.
The rotor supplied with this particular refurbished unit has not been specified. Customers should verify whether a rotor is included and confirm its model, capacity, and condition before purchase.
Additional compatible rotors may be available separately through American Instrument Exchange.
Refurbishment and Testing
American Instrument Exchange technicians inspect and evaluate refurbished SpeedVac concentrators and vacuum pumps before shipment to verify proper mechanical and electrical operation.
Testing of the SPD120 includes evaluation of the control panel, heating system, rotation mechanism, lid-lock components, automatic vacuum bleed function, and general operating condition.
The chamber, glass lid, seals, and vacuum connections are inspected for wear, damage, and signs of chemical exposure.
The included VLP120 vacuum pump is evaluated for proper startup, motor operation, vacuum generation, and general mechanical condition. Pump oil condition and accessible connections are also inspected as part of the refurbishment process.
The concentrator and pump are prepared for shipment after cleaning and testing.
Because this listing does not include a refrigerated vapor trap, final system performance depends on the customer's installation of appropriate vapor-handling equipment.
This refurbished Thermo Scientific SPD120-115 with VLP120 vacuum pump includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Shipping and Installation
The Thermo Scientific SPD120-115 measures approximately 13 inches wide × 18 inches deep × 14 inches high and weighs approximately 57 pounds.
The included VLP120 vacuum pump requires additional installation space and an appropriate electrical connection.
The SPD120 operates on 115V, 60 Hz electrical service and requires approximately 6 amps. The VLP120-115 also operates on 115V electrical service.
The concentrator should be installed on a stable, level laboratory bench with adequate ventilation clearance.
The vacuum pump should be positioned according to the manufacturer's requirements, allowing access for oil inspection, routine maintenance, ventilation, and exhaust management.
An appropriate refrigerated vapor trap should be installed between the concentrator and vacuum pump before solvent evaporation procedures are performed.
American Instrument Exchange prepares refurbished laboratory equipment for secure shipment, with appropriate protection for the concentrator's glass lid, chamber, controls, and mechanical components, as well as the vacuum pump.
Related Laboratory Equipment
American Instrument Exchange offers a broad selection of used and refurbished laboratory centrifuges, including centrifugal vacuum concentrators, microcentrifuges, refrigerated benchtop centrifuges, and high-speed laboratory centrifuges.
Laboratories assembling a complete SpeedVac system may also be interested in laboratory vacuum pumps and compatible vapor collection equipment.
Additional equipment commonly used in molecular biology and sample preparation laboratories includes laboratory freezers, laboratory incubators, and biosafety cabinets.
Service and Support
American Instrument Exchange provides diagnostic evaluation, preventative maintenance, and repair support for vacuum concentrators, vacuum pumps, and other laboratory equipment.
For a Thermo Scientific SpeedVac SPD120, service evaluation may include the drive motor, heating elements, temperature controls, chamber seals, lid-lock mechanism, vacuum connections, and electronic controls.
For the included VLP120 vacuum pump, service considerations include pump oil condition, motor performance, seals, vacuum performance, and routine preventative maintenance.
Our technicians can help laboratories evaluate existing equipment and determine whether repair or replacement with another refurbished concentrator is the more economical solution.
Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120-115 with VLP120 Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment is included with this refurbished SpeedVac system?
This configuration includes the Thermo Scientific Savant SpeedVac SPD120-115 vacuum concentrator and a Thermo Savant VLP120 vacuum pump. A refrigerated vapor trap is not included. Rotor inclusion should be confirmed before purchase.
Does this SPD120-115 include a vacuum pump?
Yes. This refurbished configuration includes a separate Thermo Savant VLP120 oil-sealed rotary vane vacuum pump.
Is a refrigerated vapor trap included?
No. A refrigerated vapor trap is not included. An appropriate trap should be installed between the concentrator and vacuum pump to protect the pump from solvent vapors.
What is the advantage of the VLP120 vacuum pump?
The VLP120 is a high-vacuum rotary vane pump capable of achieving deeper vacuum levels than many standard diaphragm pumps. This can be advantageous for selected solvent drying and concentration procedures when the system is configured appropriately.
Is the VLP120 an oil-free pump?
No. The VLP120 is an oil-sealed rotary vane pump. It requires appropriate pump oil and routine maintenance according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Can the SPD120 be operated with the VLP120 without a vapor trap?
Although the pump can generate vacuum, solvent evaporation should not be performed without an appropriate vapor-handling arrangement. A refrigerated vapor trap is recommended to capture solvent vapors and protect the oil-sealed pump.
Does this SpeedVac include a rotor?
Rotor inclusion has not been confirmed for this particular unit. Customers should verify the supplied rotor and accessories with American Instrument Exchange before purchase.
What is the maximum heating temperature of the SPD120?
The SPD120 provides selectable chamber heating up to 80°C. The heating system helps compensate for evaporative cooling and improve solvent removal efficiency.
What solvents can the SPD120 process?
The SPD120 is designed for water and selected non-aggressive organic solvents, including methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and acetonitrile. Solvent compatibility and vacuum system requirements should be verified before use.
Can the SPD120 be used for DNA and RNA concentration?
Yes. The SPD120 is commonly used for concentrating DNA, RNA, PCR products, and other molecular biology samples following extraction or purification.
What is the difference between the SPD120 and DNA130?
The SPD120 is a modular vacuum concentrator that requires an external vacuum source. This refurbished configuration includes the VLP120 high-vacuum pump. The DNA130 incorporates its own oil-free vacuum pump and is primarily designed for aqueous nucleic acid sample preparation.
What electrical service is required?
The SPD120-115 operates on 115V, 60 Hz electrical service and draws approximately 6 amps. The included VLP120-115 pump also requires 115V electrical service and a separate suitable power connection.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific SpeedVac SPD120 with VLP120 pump?
A refurbished SPD120 with an included VLP120 vacuum pump provides a flexible centrifugal concentration platform at a lower acquisition cost than purchasing comparable new equipment.
The combination is particularly attractive for laboratories seeking a modular high-vacuum system while retaining the ability to select vapor traps and other accessories suited to their specific applications.
This refurbished configuration includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
