Buchi Rotavapor Models: Complete Comparison Guide

Selecting the appropriate rotary evaporator for your laboratory requires careful consideration of technical specifications, operational requirements, throughput needs, and budget constraints. Buchi offers a comprehensive range of Rotavapor models spanning from entry-level manual systems to fully automated industrial-grade equipment. This detailed comparison guide examines the key models in the Buchi Rotavapor lineup, providing technical specifications, feature analysis, and application-specific recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

Buchi Rotavapor Product Line Overview

The Buchi Rotavapor family encompasses several distinct product tiers designed for different laboratory scales and automation requirements:

Entry-Level Models:

• R-100: Manual operation, essential features, educational and small-scale laboratories

Mid-Range Models:

• R-114: Semi-automated, basic electronic control
• R-200/205: Enhanced automation, improved safety features

Advanced Laboratory Models:

• R-210/215: High-performance laboratory systems with automation
• R-300: Premium laboratory model with full automation and Interface integration

Industrial-Grade Models:

• R-220 Pro: Industrial capacity, robust construction, production environments

Detailed Model Specifications

R-100: Entry-Level Essential Performance

The R-100 represents Buchi's entry point for rotary evaporation, offering fundamental functionality with manual controls suitable for educational institutions, small research laboratories, and budget-conscious facilities.

Technical Specifications:

| Parameter | Specification | Details | |-----------|---------------|----------| | Rotation Speed | 20-280 rpm | Manual dial control | | Heating Bath | B-100 heating bath | 20-95°C, water only | | Bath Capacity | 3 liters | Compact footprint | | Temperature Control | Analog dial | ±3°C accuracy | | Flask Capacity | Up to 4 L evaporating flask | 2 L optimal for best results | | Lift Mechanism | Manual handwheel | Simple, reliable operation | | Condenser Type | Diagonal condenser | Standard glass configuration | | Vapor Duct | Fixed angle | Non-adjustable | | Glassware Connections | Ground glass joints | NS 29/32 standard | | Vacuum Interface | Simple hose connection | Requires external control | | Power Requirements | 100-120V or 220-240V | Region-specific | | Dimensions (H×W×D) | 615 × 320 × 515 mm | Compact bench unit | | Weight | Approximately 18 kg | Easily relocated | | Automation | None | Fully manual operation | | Data Logging | None | No documentation capability |

Key Features:

✓ Cost-Effective: Lowest price point in Buchi lineup

✓ Simple Operation: Minimal training required

✓ Modular Design: Compatible with V-100 vacuum pump, F-100/105 chillers

✓ Reliable Construction: Proven mechanical design

✓ Easy Maintenance: Straightforward serviceability

Limitations:

✗ Manual lift mechanism (less convenient)

✗ No temperature programming capability

✗ Limited automation

✗ Water bath only (95°C maximum)

✗ No data documentation

Ideal Applications:

• Educational laboratories and teaching environments
• Low-throughput research applications
• Budget-constrained facilities
• Backup/secondary evaporator role
• Simple routine evaporations

R-220 Pro: Industrial-Grade Performance

The R-220 Pro represents Buchi's industrial-grade rotary evaporator designed for high-throughput production environments, pilot plants, and demanding research applications requiring maximum capacity and durability.

Technical Specifications:

| Parameter | Specification | Details | |-----------|---------------|----------| | Rotation Speed | 10-280 rpm | Electronic control with display | | Heating Bath | B-491 heated bath | Up to 180°C, oil or water | | Bath Capacity | 12 liters | Large thermal mass for stability | | Temperature Control | Digital PID control | ±1°C accuracy | | Flask Capacity | Up to 10 L evaporating flask | 5-7 L optimal capacity | | Evaporation Capacity | Up to 12 L ethanol per hour | High throughput | | Sample Volume | Up to 10 L per batch | Large-scale processing | | Lift Mechanism | Electronic motorized lift | Fully automated positioning | | Lift Range | 0-200 mm | Programmable immersion depth | | Condenser Type | Large-capacity vertical | Maximum cooling efficiency | | Condenser Area | Enhanced surface area | Handles high vapor loads | | Vapor Duct | Heavy-duty construction | Durable for continuous use | | Glassware | Thicker-walled construction | Industrial durability | | Vacuum Interface | Integrated control interface | Automated vacuum management | | Control Interface | LED display with membrane keypad | Industrial control panel | | Safety Features | Multiple interlocks and sensors | Enhanced operator protection | | Power Requirements | 220-240V, dedicated circuit | High power consumption | | Dimensions (H×W×D) | 880 × 650 × 640 mm | Larger footprint | | Weight | Approximately 45 kg | Robust, stationary installation | | Construction | Heavy-duty frame and components | Industrial reliability | | Automation | Process automation capable | Integration with control systems | | Data Logging | Basic process recording | Documentation capability |

Key Features:

✓ Maximum Capacity: Largest flask sizes in standard lineup

✓ High Throughput: 12 L/hour ethanol evaporation rate

✓ Industrial Durability: Robust construction for continuous operation

✓ Enhanced Safety: Multiple safety interlocks and monitoring

✓ Process Control: Suitable for GMP environments

✓ Large Heating Bath: Excellent temperature stability

Advanced Capabilities:

• Programmable immersion depth for process optimization
• High-capacity condenser for demanding applications
• Suitable for 24/7 operation in production environments
• Compatible with automation systems
• Enhanced chemical resistance for aggressive solvents

Ideal Applications:

• Pilot plant and scale-up operations
• High-throughput analytical laboratories
• Production facilities (pharmaceutical, chemical)
• Contract research organizations (CROs)
• Applications requiring large sample volumes
• Continuous or semi-continuous processing

R-300: Premium Laboratory Automation

The R-300 represents the pinnacle of laboratory rotary evaporation technology, offering complete automation, advanced process control, and comprehensive documentation capabilities suitable for regulated environments.

Technical Specifications:

| Parameter | Specification | Details | |-----------|---------------|----------| | Rotation Speed | 10-280 rpm | Precision electronic control | | Speed Accuracy | ±1 rpm | High precision | | Heating Bath | B-300 or B-305 heating bath | Up to 220°C with B-305 | | Temperature Range | 20-95°C (B-300, water) | 20-220°C (B-305, oil) | | Temperature Accuracy | ±0.5°C | Precision control | | Flask Capacity | Up to 5 L evaporating flask | Optimized laboratory scale | | Evaporation Capacity | Up to 6 L ethanol per hour | Excellent throughput | | Lift Mechanism | Electronic motorized lift | Fully automated, programmable | | Lift Range | 0-150 mm continuously variable | Precise positioning | | Immersion Angle | Adjustable 0-90° | Optimizes evaporation | | Condenser Type | Vertical high-performance | Efficient vapor capture | | Vapor Duct | Adjustable angle | Process optimization | | Glassware Connections | Precision ground glass | NS 29/32 standard | | Vacuum Control | Interface I-300 or I-300 Pro | Advanced vacuum management | | Display | Color touchscreen | Intuitive operation | | Control System | Microprocessor-based | Sophisticated automation | | Method Storage | 50+ methods (with I-300 Pro) | Extensive process library | | Process Control | Fully automated operation | Start-to-finish automation | | Safety Features | Comprehensive safety package | Maximum operator protection | | Communication | RS-232, Ethernet (I-300 Pro) | Network integration | | Data Documentation | Comprehensive logging | GLP/GMP compliant | | Power Requirements | 100-240V AC universal | Global compatibility | | Dimensions (H×W×D) | 607 × 429 × 947 mm | Optimized footprint | | Weight | 13-13.5 kg (drive unit) | Manageable installation |

Key Features:

✓ Full Automation: Start-to-finish automated operation

✓ Advanced Vacuum Control: VARIO® technology with solvent-specific programs

✓ Touchscreen Interface: Intuitive color display with graphical interface

✓ Method Library: Store and recall standardized procedures

✓ Process Monitoring: Real-time display of all parameters

✓ Comprehensive Documentation: GLP/GMP compliant data logging

✓ Network Integration: Ethernet connectivity for data management

✓ Safety Interlocks: Multiple automated safety features

Automation Capabilities:

Solvent-Specific Programs: Pre-programmed evaporation profiles optimized for common solvents including:

• Gentle vacuum application to prevent bumping
• Optimized pressure during main evaporation
• Maximum vacuum for final drying
• Automatic completion detection
• Safe shutdown sequence

Anti-Bumping Control: Dynamic adjustment of vacuum and temperature to prevent sample loss:

• Monitors system response continuously
• Detects onset of bumping conditions
• Automatically adjusts parameters
• Resumes optimal conditions when stable

Vapor Management: Intelligent vapor handling protects vacuum system:

• Detects excessive vapor load
• Reduces evaporation rate automatically
• Prevents pump contamination
• Maximizes condenser efficiency

Automated Sequence: Complete hands-free operation:

1. Load sample and select method
2. System automatically sets parameters
3. Applies vacuum gradually
4. Monitors evaporation progress
5. Detects completion automatically
6. Vents system and raises flask
7. Signals completion

Ideal Applications:

• Regulated pharmaceutical laboratories (GMP)
• Quality control laboratories requiring documentation
• Research institutions needing reproducibility
• High-value sample processing
• Applications requiring unattended operation
• Laboratories seeking maximum automation
• Facilities requiring data traceability

Comprehensive Model Comparison

Performance Comparison Table

| Feature | R-100 | R-220 Pro | R-300 | Priority Factor | |---------|-------|-----------|-------|------------------| | Capacity & Throughput ||||| | Max Flask Size | 4 L | 10 L | 5 L | High for production | | Evaporation Rate | ~3 L/hr | ~12 L/hr | ~6 L/hr | Critical for throughput | | Sample Volume | 0.5-2 L optimal | 2-10 L | 0.5-3 L optimal | Match to needs | | Temperature Control ||||| | Max Temperature | 95°C | 180°C | 95°C / 220°C* | Application-dependent | | Accuracy | ±3°C | ±1°C | ±0.5°C | Critical for sensitive samples | | Control Type | Analog | Digital PID | Digital PID | Affects reproducibility | | Automation ||||| | Lift Mechanism | Manual | Motorized | Motorized | Convenience factor | | Vacuum Control | External | Integrated | Advanced (VARIO®) | Process control | | Process Automation | None | Basic | Comprehensive | Efficiency gain | | Method Storage | None | Basic | 50+ methods | Standardization | | Documentation ||||| | Data Logging | None | Basic | Comprehensive | Regulatory requirement | | Network Capability | None | None | Ethernet (Pro) | Integration need | | GLP/GMP Compliance | Limited | Good | Excellent | Regulatory environment | | Operation ||||| | Interface | Analog dials | LED display | Color touchscreen | User preference | | Ease of Use | Simple | Moderate | Intuitive | Training requirement | | Setup Time | 10 min | 15 min | 5 min | Daily efficiency | | Construction ||||| | Build Quality | Standard | Industrial | Premium | Reliability need | | Durability | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Usage intensity | | Maintenance | Easy | Moderate | Easy | Service availability | | Cost Factors ||||| | Initial Cost | $ | $$$ | $$$$ | Budget constraint | | Operating Cost | Low | Moderate | Low | Long-term expense | | Service Cost | Low | Moderate | Moderate | Maintenance budget |

*220°C with B-305 oil bath

Application-Based Selection Matrix

| Laboratory Type | Recommended Model | Key Decision Factors | |----------------|-------------------|----------------------| | Educational Institution | R-100 | Cost, simplicity, reliability | | Academic Research Lab | R-300 | Automation, documentation, versatility | | Analytical Laboratory | R-300 | Reproducibility, data logging, throughput | | QC Laboratory | R-300 | GLP compliance, automation, documentation | | Pharmaceutical R&D | R-300 | Automation, safety, documentation | | Pharmaceutical Production | R-220 Pro | Capacity, durability, GMP capability | | Contract Research (CRO) | R-220 Pro or R-300 | Throughput, documentation, versatility | | Pilot Plant | R-220 Pro | Capacity, industrial construction | | Chemical Production | R-220 Pro | Capacity, continuous operation capability | | Small Biotech Startup | R-100 or R-300 | Budget vs. automation trade-off |

Selection Decision Framework

Step 1: Capacity and Throughput Requirements

Questions to Consider:

1. What is your typical sample volume?

   • <500 mL: R-100 or R-300
   • 500 mL - 3 L: R-300
   • 3 L - 10 L: R-220 Pro

2. How many samples per day?

   • 1-5 samples: Any model
   • 5-20 samples: R-300 (automation advantage)

   • 20 samples: R-220 Pro (capacity advantage)

3. What is your peak evaporation rate requirement?

   • <3 L/hour: R-100
   • 3-6 L/hour: R-300

   • 6 L/hour: R-220 Pro

Step 2: Temperature Requirements

Solvent Boiling Point Considerations:

| Solvent Type | Required Bath Temp | Recommended Model | |--------------|-------------------|-------------------| | Low-boiling (<80°C BP) | <95°C | Any model (water bath) | | Medium-boiling (80-150°C BP) | 95-180°C | R-220 Pro or R-300 with B-305 | | High-boiling (>150°C BP) | 180-220°C | R-300 with B-305 oil bath | | Mixed requirements | Variable | R-300 with B-305 (most versatile) |

Step 3: Automation and Efficiency Needs

Automation Benefits Analysis:

| Factor | Manual (R-100) | Automated (R-300) | Value Consideration | |--------|---------------|------------------|---------------------| | Operator time per run | 30-45 min | 5-10 min | Labor cost savings | | Process reproducibility | ±10-15% | ±2-3% | Result quality | | Training time | 2-4 hours | 1-2 hours | Onboarding efficiency | | Method standardization | Difficult | Easy | Quality system | | Multi-tasking capability | Limited | Excellent | Productivity | | Unattended operation | No | Yes | After-hours capability |

ROI Calculation Example:

For a laboratory running 10 samples/day:

• Time saved per sample: 25 minutes
• Total time saved per day: 250 minutes (4.2 hours)
• Labor cost savings (at $50/hour): $210/day
• Annual savings (250 working days): $52,500
• Automation premium: ~$15,000
• Payback period: ~3.5 months

Step 4: Documentation and Compliance

Regulatory Environment Assessment:

Non-Regulated Research:

• R-100: Adequate if cost is primary concern
• R-300: Better for reproducibility and efficiency

GLP Laboratories:

• R-300: Recommended (comprehensive documentation)
• R-220 Pro: Acceptable with manual logging

GMP Manufacturing:

• R-300: Excellent (full automation and documentation)
• R-220 Pro: Acceptable for production scale
• R-100: Not recommended

FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Compliance:

• R-300 with I-300 Pro: Capable with appropriate configuration
• Other models: Require external documentation systems

Step 5: Budget Considerations

Total Cost of Ownership Analysis:

| Cost Component | R-100 | R-220 Pro | R-300 | Notes | |----------------|-------|-----------|-------|-------| | Initial Purchase ||||| | Base unit | $6,000 | $25,000 | $30,000 | Approximate street pricing | | Glassware set | $1,500 | $3,500 | $2,500 | Standard configuration | | Vacuum pump | $2,000 | $3,500 | $3,500 | V-300 or V-700 | | Chiller | $4,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 | Recirculating chiller | | Accessories | $500 | $1,000 | $2,000 | Various adapters, flasks | | Total Initial | $14,000 | $39,000 | $44,000 | Complete system | | Annual Operating ||||| | Energy consumption | $200 | $800 | $400 | Based on typical use | | Maintenance parts | $300 | $800 | $500 | Seals, tubing, filters | | Service contract | $600 | $2,000 | $1,500 | Optional but recommended | | Total Annual | $1,100 | $3,600 | $2,400 | Recurring costs | | 5-Year TCO | $19,500 | $57,000 | $56,000 | Initial + 5 years operating |

Step 6: Future-Proofing Considerations

Scalability and Flexibility:

R-100:

• Limited upgrade path
• Suitable for stable, well-defined applications
• Good as secondary/backup unit

R-220 Pro:

• Excellent for growing throughput needs
• Can handle increasing sample sizes
• Long service life in production environments

R-300:

• Modular design allows upgrades
• Can add enhanced interfaces and accessories
• Adaptable to changing regulatory requirements
• Software upgradeable

Special Considerations

Safety Features Comparison

| Safety Feature | R-100 | R-220 Pro | R-300 | Importance | |----------------|-------|-----------|-------|------------| | Overheat cutout | Basic | Advanced | Advanced | Critical | | Flask safety clamp | Standard | Heavy-duty | Safety-lock | Critical | | Emergency stop | No | Yes | Yes | Important | | Vacuum safety | Manual | Automated | Intelligent | Important | | Bump protection | Manual | Limited | Automatic | Moderate | | Splash protection | Optional | Standard | Standard | Important | | Electrical safety | Standard | Enhanced | Enhanced | Critical | | Interlock systems | None | Multiple | Multiple | Moderate |

Maintenance Requirements

Routine Maintenance Complexity:

R-100:

• Simplest maintenance (few electronic components)
• User-serviceable for most tasks
• Lower service costs
• Longer intervals between professional service

R-220 Pro:

• Moderate complexity
• Some tasks require professional service
• Higher parts costs due to industrial components
• Recommended annual professional service

R-300:

• Moderate complexity
• Self-diagnostic capabilities simplify troubleshooting
• Software updates require service technician
• Recommended annual calibration and service

Environmental Considerations

Laboratory Space Requirements:

| Model | Bench Space | Clearance | Ventilation | Portability | |-------|------------|-----------|-------------|-------------| | R-100 | 0.3 m² | Standard | Standard | High | | R-220 Pro | 0.6 m² | Enhanced | High | Low | | R-300 | 0.4 m² | Standard | Standard | Moderate |

Energy Efficiency:

• R-100: Most efficient (lower power components)
• R-300: Good efficiency (optimized automation reduces run times)
• R-220 Pro: Higher consumption (larger components, continuous use)

Conclusion and Recommendations

Quick Selection Guide

Choose R-100 if:

• Budget is primary constraint (<$15,000 total system)
• Simple, occasional evaporation needs
• Educational or training applications
• Backup evaporator role
• No automation or documentation requirements

Choose R-220 Pro if:

• Large sample volumes (>3L regularly)
• High throughput requirements (>10L/day)
• Production or pilot plant applications
• Industrial durability needed
• Continuous or extended operation cycles
• Maximum evaporation capacity priority

Choose R-300 if:

• Automation and efficiency priorities
• Documentation and compliance requirements
• Research laboratory with varied applications
• Quality control environment
• Regulated (GLP/GMP) operations
• Maximum flexibility and future-proofing desired
• Budget permits ($40,000-50,000 system)

Final Thoughts

The Buchi Rotavapor lineup offers excellent options across a wide range of laboratory needs and budgets. The R-100 provides cost-effective essential functionality, the R-220 Pro delivers industrial-grade capacity and durability, while the R-300 represents the pinnacle of laboratory automation and control. By carefully assessing your capacity requirements, automation needs, documentation requirements, and budget constraints, you can select the optimal Rotavapor model that will serve your laboratory effectively for years to come.

References:

1. Buchi Labortechnik AG. "Product Specifications: Rotavapor R-100, R-220 Pro, R-300." Buchi.com, 2024. www.buchi.com/products/rotary-evaporators
2. Buchi Labortechnik AG. "Application Guide: Selecting the Right Rotary Evaporator." Technical Documentation, 2024.
3. U.S. Department of Labor. "Laboratory Equipment Safety Standards." OSHA.gov, 29 CFR 1910. www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910

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This comparison guide is based on manufacturer specifications and general industry experience. Specific requirements should be discussed with Buchi representatives or authorized distributors. Pricing information is approximate and subject to regional variation and configuration options.