TurboVap (Site Requirements)

Importance of the Topic

The correct preparation of a laboratory for the installation of sample concentration and evaporation equipment like the TurboVap is critical to ensure operator safety, compliance with environmental regulations and reliable analytical performance. Proper site setup minimizes exposure to harmful solvent vapors, prevents equipment damage and supports consistent, high-throughput sample processing.

Objectives and Overview

This document defines the physical, electrical and utility requirements needed for a seamless installation of the TurboVap system. It aims to guide laboratory managers and technical staff through the essential steps to prepare the fume hood or bench area, secure gas and power connections, and verify environmental conditions before equipment arrival.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Preparation steps are based on manufacturer specifications and best practices for solvent-handling instrumentation. Key instrumentation details include:

• TurboVap system with integrated water bath and solvent exhaust outlet
• 3.8 m exhaust hose, 50.8 mm inner diameter
• Gas inlet tubing, 3 m length, 4 mm inner diameter
• Optional pressure regulator and supply connection set (P/N 352281SP and P/N 353480SP)

Main Findings and Discussion

Site requirements are summarized as follows:

• Ventilation: Exhaust capacity ≥ 1 m3/min (35.3 ft3/min), either via fume hood or dedicated ducting
• Clearances: Minimum 30 mm front clearance; overall system footprint 400 × 400 × 390 mm (lid closed), height 590 mm (lid open)
• Weight support: System weighs 17 kg empty, up to 29 kg when filled; total shipping weight 20 kg
• Environmental conditions: Operating temperature 18–32 °C; relative humidity 20–90 % (non-condensing)
• Electrical: Single grounded outlet, 100–127 V or 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 1000 VA
• Gas supply: Inert gas recommended (nitrogen preferred); minimum pressure 4 bar (0.4 MPa), full-flow at 6 bar; maximum 9 bar; flow rates vary by manifold positions (up to 200 L/min for 48 positions at 6 bar)
• External safety: Fire protection as per local unattended-equipment regulations

Benefits and Practical Applications

Adhering to these requirements ensures:

• Safe removal of solvent vapors, protecting personnel and environment
• Optimal performance and reproducibility of evaporation procedures
• Reduced downtime during installation and commissioning
• Simplified maintenance and compliance with laboratory safety standards

Future Trends and Opportunities

Laboratories can enhance solvent evaporation setups by integrating:

• Automated solvent monitoring and ventilation control
• Remote status alerts and IoT-enabled performance logging
• Advanced inert-gas management systems for explosion-prone solvents
• Modular footprints to fit evolving lab layouts and throughput demands

Conclusion

Proper site preparation according to the TurboVap requirements document is fundamental for a smooth installation, reliable operation and safe handling of volatile solvents. Early coordination with facility managers and adherence to these specifications will expedite commissioning and support long-term analytical productivity.

References

• Biotage. Site Requirements TurboVap. UI345.v1, 2017.