Skip to content
LAB EQUIPMENT REPAIRS, INCLUDING ULTRALOW FREEZERS, FRIDGES, CENTRIFUGES AND MORE - Click here for details
LAB EQUIPMENT REPAIRS, INCLUDING ULTRALOW FREEZERS, FRIDGES, CENTRIFUGES AND MORE - Click here for details

VWR 1179MD circulator

Fully Tested & Warrantied*
Brand : VWR
Product Code : SKU 1512EE CIRC
Title: $2200.00

Shipping

All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse

VWR 1179MD Recirculating Chiller

The VWR 1179MD Recirculating Chiller is a high-capacity laboratory cooling system designed for analytical instruments, scientific equipment, and processes requiring reliable closed-loop heat removal. With a -10°C to +40°C operating range, approximately 2,900 W of cooling capacity at 20°C, and a magnetically coupled centrifugal pump capable of circulating approximately 15.5 L/min, the 1179MD provides substantially greater cooling capacity than smaller general-purpose laboratory chillers.

Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the VWR 1179MD is particularly well suited for analytical instrumentation, rotary evaporators, condensers, reaction vessels, vacuum systems, lasers, and other heat-generating equipment. Its closed-loop design can also provide a more consistent and water-efficient alternative to once-through facility-water cooling. A 90-day warranty is included.

Key Features

  • -10°C to +40°C operating temperature range

  • Approximately ±0.1°C temperature stability

  • 2,900 W cooling capacity at 20°C

  • 1,835 W cooling capacity at 10°C

  • 1,100 W cooling capacity at 0°C

  • 1 HP refrigeration compressor

  • Magnetically coupled centrifugal pump

  • Maximum flow approximately 15.5 L/min

  • Maximum pump pressure approximately 10 psi / 0.69 bar

  • 4.1 L / 1.1 gal reservoir

  • Digital LED temperature display

  • Microprocessor-based temperature control

  • PID temperature regulation

  • Digital pressure/flow monitoring

  • 1/2 in. NPT inlet and outlet connections

  • Closed-loop external equipment cooling

  • 208/230 V, 60 Hz operation

  • Used, refurbished, and tested by American Instrument Exchange

  • 90-day warranty included

Overview

The VWR 1179MD is one of the higher-capacity models in VWR's 1100 Series of recirculating chillers. It is designed to continuously remove heat from externally connected laboratory and analytical equipment while maintaining a controlled coolant temperature.

The 1179MD designation is important when evaluating this system. The MD version uses a magnetically coupled centrifugal pump designed to provide relatively high coolant flow at moderate pressure. This differs from the 1179PD, which uses a positive-displacement pump intended for applications requiring substantially higher pressure.

With approximately 2.9 kW of refrigeration capacity at 20°C, the 1179MD can handle considerably larger thermal loads than smaller VWR chillers such as the 1171MD and 1173MD.

A digital control system continuously monitors operating temperature while active fluid circulation transfers heat from connected equipment back to the chiller's refrigeration system.

Key Specifications

Specification Details
Manufacturer VWR
Model 1179MD
Equipment Type Recirculating chiller
Temperature Range -10°C to +40°C
Temperature Stability Approx. ±0.1°C
Compressor 1 HP
Cooling Capacity at 20°C Approx. 2,900 W
Cooling Capacity at 10°C Approx. 1,835 W
Cooling Capacity at 0°C Approx. 1,100 W
Pump Type Magnetically coupled centrifugal
Maximum Flow Rate Approx. 15.5 L/min / 4.1 GPM
Maximum Pump Pressure Approx. 10 psi / 0.69 bar
Reservoir Capacity Approx. 4.1 L / 1.1 gal
Controller Microprocessor / PID
Display Digital LED
Inlet / Outlet Connections 1/2 in. NPT
Exterior Dimensions Approx. 15 in. W × 31 in. D × 23 in. H
Electrical Requirements 208/230 V, 60 Hz
Warranty 90 days

Common Applications

The VWR 1179MD is designed for laboratory equipment requiring continuous liquid cooling and moderate-to-high heat removal. Typical applications include ICP systems, atomic absorption furnaces, lasers, rotary evaporators, condensers, reaction vessels, vacuum systems, plasma and laser etching equipment, and other analytical or process instruments.

Its approximately 2.9 kW cooling capacity at 20°C makes it especially useful for applications that exceed the capabilities of smaller benchtop recirculating chillers.

The 1179MD can also replace once-through facility-water cooling in many compatible applications. Instead of continuously consuming tap water and discharging it to drain, the chiller refrigerates and recirculates a controlled volume of heat-transfer fluid.

This can reduce water consumption while providing more predictable coolant temperature and circulation conditions.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The VWR 1179MD is well suited for analytical laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotechnology facilities, chemistry laboratories, spectroscopy facilities, materials-science groups, semiconductor and electronics laboratories, industrial R&D facilities, quality-control departments, and academic research laboratories.

It is particularly appropriate for laboratories operating heat-generating equipment that requires relatively high coolant flow but does not require the elevated pressure provided by a positive-displacement pump.

Facilities looking to reduce reliance on facility-water cooling may also benefit from installing a dedicated closed-loop chiller such as the 1179MD.

Temperature Control & Stability

The VWR 1179MD operates from approximately -10°C to +40°C with temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C.

Cooling capacity changes significantly with operating temperature. This configuration provides approximately 2,900 W of refrigeration capacity at 20°C, 1,835 W at 10°C, and 1,100 W at 0°C.

This cooling curve is important when determining whether the 1179MD is appropriately sized for a particular application. A process generating a 2 kW heat load may be comfortably within the chiller's capacity around 20°C but exceed the available refrigeration capacity when 0°C coolant is required.

Buyers should therefore compare their equipment's actual heat output with the chiller's available cooling capacity at the intended coolant temperature rather than relying solely on its maximum 2.9 kW rating.

Circulation & Pump Performance

The VWR 1179MD uses a magnetically coupled centrifugal pump capable of delivering approximately 15.5 L/min, or 4.1 GPM, at a maximum pressure of approximately 10 psi.

This pump configuration favors relatively high fluid flow at moderate pressure, making it useful for equipment with reasonably unrestricted cooling circuits.

The MD configuration should not be confused with the VWR 1179PD. The PD version uses a positive-displacement pump designed for applications requiring substantially higher pressure but different flow characteristics.

Actual flow through connected equipment depends on tubing diameter and length, fittings, coolant viscosity, operating temperature, elevation, and restrictions within the instrument's cooling circuit.

Before connecting the 1179MD to sensitive analytical equipment, users should verify the instrument's required coolant flow and maximum allowable inlet pressure.

Refurbishment & Testing

This used VWR 1179MD Recirculating Chiller is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange before shipment. Our technicians inspect the refrigeration system, compressor, centrifugal circulation pump, temperature controller, display, reservoir, condenser, electrical components, safety systems, and external fluid connections.

Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using NIST-traceable probes and data loggers. The refrigeration system is operated for extended periods to evaluate cooling performance, circulation, temperature regulation, controller operation, and overall system stability.

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

If your application requires operation at a particular temperature or has specific flow, pressure, or testing requirements, contact American Instrument Exchange before shipment. When practical, our technicians can incorporate customer-requested operating conditions into final testing.

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

Choosing the Right Recirculating Chiller

The VWR 1179MD is particularly well suited for applications requiring substantial refrigeration capacity combined with relatively high coolant flow.

Its approximately 2.9 kW cooling capacity at 20°C places it toward the upper end of the VWR 1100 Series, while the 15.5 L/min centrifugal pump provides considerably more flow than positive-displacement configurations intended for restrictive, high-pressure cooling circuits.

Choosing between MD and PD models should therefore be based on the requirements of the connected equipment rather than cooling capacity alone. The 1179MD is generally better suited to applications requiring higher flow at moderate pressure, while a positive-displacement model may be preferable for restrictive cooling circuits requiring greater pressure.

Electrical requirements are another important consideration. This 1179MD requires 208/230 V, 60 Hz service and should be matched to appropriate laboratory electrical infrastructure before installation.

American Instrument Exchange can help compare available used and refurbished recirculating chillers based on required coolant temperature, thermal load, flow, pressure, electrical service, and instrument compatibility.

Related Equipment

American Instrument Exchange stocks a range of laboratory circulators, including VWR recirculating chillers, refrigerated/heated circulating baths, immersion circulators, and process temperature-control systems. Laboratories using the VWR 1179MD may also require evaporators and extractors, reactors and fermenters, laboratory water baths, or other refurbished laboratory equipment.

VWR 1179MD Frequently Asked Questions

What is the temperature range of the VWR 1179MD?

The VWR 1179MD operates from approximately -10°C to +40°C with temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C.

How much cooling capacity does the VWR 1179MD provide?

This 1179MD configuration provides approximately 2,900 W of cooling at 20°C, 1,835 W at 10°C, and 1,100 W at 0°C.

What type of pump does the 1179MD use?

The 1179MD uses a magnetically coupled centrifugal pump. The MD designation differentiates it from VWR's PD models, which use positive-displacement pumps.

What is the maximum flow rate of the VWR 1179MD?

The centrifugal pump provides maximum flow of approximately 15.5 L/min, or 4.1 GPM.

What is the maximum pump pressure?

The 1179MD provides maximum pump pressure of approximately 10 psi or 0.69 bar. Applications requiring substantially higher pressure may be better suited to a positive-displacement chiller.

What is the difference between the VWR 1179MD and 1179PD?

Both models provide similar refrigeration capacity, but their pumps are designed for different applications. The 1179MD uses a centrifugal pump for relatively high flow at moderate pressure, while the 1179PD uses a positive-displacement pump for more restrictive cooling circuits requiring higher pressure.

Can the VWR 1179MD replace tap-water cooling?

In many compatible applications, yes. The 1179MD recirculates refrigerated heat-transfer fluid through a closed loop, potentially reducing continuous facility-water consumption while providing more consistent coolant conditions.

Does this refurbished VWR 1179MD include a warranty?

Yes. This used VWR 1179MD is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.

CLICK HERE to see the VWR 1179 MD on our YouTube channel

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.