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VWR 13271-204 Recirculating Chiller
The VWR 13271-204 Recirculating Chiller is a compact laboratory cooling system designed to provide controlled, closed-loop coolant circulation for analytical instruments, condensers, rotary evaporators, reaction vessels, vacuum systems, and other heat-generating equipment. With an operating temperature range of -10°C to +40°C and temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C, this VWR chiller provides a dedicated source of refrigerated coolant for routine laboratory and process applications.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the VWR 13271-204 combines refrigeration, electronic temperature control, fluid circulation, and a compact footprint in a self-contained system. It can provide a cost-effective alternative to once-through tap-water cooling while giving laboratories greater control over coolant temperature and operating conditions. A 90-day warranty is included.
Key Features
-10°C to +40°C operating temperature range
±0.1°C temperature stability
Designed for external laboratory equipment cooling
Dual displays for simultaneous monitoring of temperature and pressure or flow
Compact and portable configuration
Operates in ambient temperatures up to approximately 35°C
WhisperCool environmental control system designed to reduce operating noise
Closed-loop cooling can reduce facility-water consumption
Suitable for analytical instruments, condensers, rotary evaporators, and process equipment
Used, refurbished, and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Overview
The VWR 13271-204 is a refrigerated recirculating chiller designed to continuously remove heat from externally connected laboratory equipment. Rather than using facility water once and sending it directly to drain, the chiller cools and recirculates a controlled volume of heat-transfer fluid through a closed cooling loop.
This arrangement can provide several advantages for compatible laboratory equipment. Coolant temperature can be controlled independently of variations in facility-water temperature, water consumption can be reduced, and laboratories can select an appropriate heat-transfer fluid for the operating conditions.
The VWR 13271-204 also incorporates large dual displays that allow operators to monitor coolant temperature along with pressure or flow information. Its relatively compact footprint makes it suitable as a dedicated cooling source for individual instruments or processes without requiring the floor space of a larger industrial process chiller.
VWR's WhisperCool environmental control technology adjusts system operation according to cooling demand, helping reduce unnecessary fan noise during lower-load conditions.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
VWR
Model / Catalog Number
13271-204
Equipment Type
Recirculating laboratory chiller
Temperature Range
-10°C to +40°C
Temperature Stability
±0.1°C
Circulation
External closed-loop circulation
Flow Rate
Verify prior to purchase; conflicting specifications appear in existing documentation
Display
Dual temperature and pressure/flow displays
Maximum Ambient Operating Temperature
Approx. 35°C
Exterior Dimensions
14 in. W × 27.6 in. D × 22.6 in. H
Application
External equipment and process cooling
Warranty
90 days
Common Applications
The VWR 13271-204 can provide dedicated coolant circulation for a wide variety of laboratory instruments and processes. Common applications include rotary evaporator condensers, atomic absorption furnaces, ICP instrumentation, laser equipment, plasma systems, vacuum systems, reaction vessels, condenser cooling, and other equipment that generates heat during operation.
A recirculating chiller is particularly useful when equipment must operate for extended periods and requires a consistent supply of coolant. Instead of depending on fluctuations in facility-water temperature and pressure, the chiller provides its own controlled cooling loop.
Closed-loop cooling can also reduce water consumption in laboratories where once-through tap water would otherwise be used continuously.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The VWR 13271-204 is suitable for analytical laboratories, chemistry facilities, pharmaceutical and biotechnology research groups, materials-science laboratories, industrial R&D facilities, quality-control laboratories, academic research departments, and other environments requiring dedicated equipment cooling.
Its relatively compact footprint makes it particularly useful for individual analytical instruments and benchtop processes where a larger central or industrial chiller would provide unnecessary capacity.
Temperature Control & Stability
The VWR 13271-204 provides an operating temperature range from -10°C to +40°C with specified temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C.
This range allows the chiller to supply coolant both below and near typical laboratory ambient temperatures. Maintaining a controlled coolant temperature can help provide more consistent operating conditions for analytical instruments, condensers, and temperature-sensitive laboratory processes.
As with any refrigerated recirculating chiller, the required coolant temperature should be considered together with the thermal load produced by the connected equipment. Available refrigeration capacity generally decreases as coolant temperature drops.
Laboratories should therefore evaluate cooling capacity at their intended operating temperature rather than selecting a chiller based solely on its minimum -10°C temperature specification.
Circulation & Pump Performance
The VWR 13271-204 incorporates an internal circulation pump to move temperature-controlled fluid through externally connected equipment. The system is designed for continuous closed-loop operation and provides simultaneous monitoring of temperature and pressure or flow information.
Because published information associated with this particular AIE unit currently contains conflicting maximum flow specifications, buyers with a critical flow requirement should confirm pump performance with American Instrument Exchange before purchase.
This is particularly important when connecting a chiller to equipment with specific minimum-flow or maximum-pressure requirements.
Actual circulation through an installed system will also depend on tubing diameter and length, fittings, coolant viscosity, operating temperature, elevation differences, and hydraulic resistance within the connected instrument.
Refurbishment & Testing
This used VWR 13271-204 Recirculating Chiller is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange before shipment. Our technicians inspect the refrigeration system, circulation pump, temperature controller, displays, electrical components, controls, fluid connections, and general operating condition.
Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using NIST-traceable probes and data loggers. The refrigeration system is operated to verify cooling and temperature regulation, while pump operation and fluid circulation are evaluated as part of the testing process. Fluid-contact areas are cleaned and inspected before the unit is prepared for shipment.
If your application requires a specific coolant temperature, flow rate, or other operating condition, contact American Instrument Exchange before shipment. When practical, our technicians can incorporate customer-requested conditions into final testing.
A 90-day warranty is included with this refurbished VWR recirculating chiller.
Choosing the Right Recirculating Chiller
When selecting a laboratory recirculating chiller, buyers should consider target coolant temperature, equipment heat load, cooling capacity, required flow, allowable pressure, electrical requirements, and resistance within the external circulation loop.
The VWR 13271-204 is designed for general laboratory heat-removal applications within its -10°C to +40°C operating range. Its compact design can make it an attractive option when a dedicated instrument or process requires controlled cooling but does not justify a much larger process chiller.
The hydraulic requirements of the connected equipment should also be confirmed. Instruments with narrow coolant passages or highly restrictive heat exchangers may require different pump characteristics than systems with large, unrestricted coolant pathways.
American Instrument Exchange can help compare available used and refurbished laboratory chillers based on your target temperature, thermal load, required circulation, and application.
What is the temperature range of the VWR 13271-204?
The VWR 13271-204 has an operating temperature range of approximately -10°C to +40°C, making it suitable for a variety of below-ambient and near-ambient laboratory cooling applications.
How stable is the temperature in the VWR 13271-204?
The VWR 13271-204 is specified for temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C under appropriate operating conditions.
What types of equipment can the VWR 13271-204 cool?
Potential applications include rotary evaporators, condensers, AA furnaces, ICP instruments, vacuum systems, lasers, reaction vessels, plasma equipment, and other laboratory instruments requiring continuous heat removal.
Can the VWR 13271-204 replace tap-water cooling?
In many compatible applications, yes. A recirculating chiller continuously cools and reuses its heat-transfer fluid rather than sending facility water through an instrument and then to drain. This can reduce laboratory water consumption while providing more consistent coolant conditions.
What is the flow rate of the VWR 13271-204?
Existing documentation associated with this particular unit contains conflicting flow specifications. Laboratories with a specific minimum-flow requirement should contact American Instrument Exchange so pump performance can be verified before purchase.
What is the WhisperCool system?
The WhisperCool environmental control system adjusts cooling-system operation according to demand to help reduce unnecessary operating noise. This can be useful when the chiller is installed close to laboratory personnel or analytical workstations.
Is the VWR 13271-204 suitable for subzero cooling?
Yes. Its specified operating range extends to -10°C. Whether it is suitable for a particular subzero application also depends on the thermal load generated by the connected equipment and the chiller's available cooling capacity at the required temperature.
Does this refurbished VWR chiller include a warranty?
Yes. This used VWR 13271-204 Recirculating Chiller is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.
CLICK HEREto see the VWR Recirculating Chiller 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.
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.
