When a rotary evaporator encounters an issue, it's important to identify the problem and take appropriate actions based on the following troubleshooting guide. This table provides common problems, their potential causes, and recommended solutions.
Problem | Cause Analysis | Response Countermeasure
Vacuum Cannot Be Pumped
- Solvent in the container, limited by saturated vapor pressure
- Vacuum pump capacity has decreased
- Leaks in vacuum tubes, joints, or gauge
- Perform an air-tightness test: Close all valves and pipelines, and observe the vacuum gauge for 1 minute. If the needle doesn't move, the system is airtight.
- Reassemble glass components, clean the ground joints, apply vacuum grease, and tighten flanges.
- Replace damaged seals if necessary.
Debris in Discharge Valve or Pressure Control Valve
- Clean the valves thoroughly.
Glass Breakage
- Replace or repair the broken glass parts.
Bath Not Heating
- No display on the bath pot
- "OUT" or "ON" green indicator not lit on the temperature controller
- Check power supply (220V)
- Replace the heating coil or solid-state relay if needed.
- If the set temperature is lower than actual but the indicator is not lit, consider replacing the temperature controller.
- If "OVER" or "000" appears on the controller, check probe wiring or replace the probe.
Bath Temperature Too High
- If the temperature is higher than set point and the "OUT" or "ON" light remains on (within 1-2°C is normal), consider replacing the controller.
Controller Indicator Is Off But Heating Continues
- This may indicate a faulty solid-state relay or relay board. Replace as needed.
Digital Bath Temperature Is Much Lower Than Actual
- This could be due to a faulty probe or temperature controller. Replace either component as required.
Motor Does Not Turn
- No power to the control box or digital display
- Check fuse or confirm power supply issues
- If the indicator is on but there’s no power, check internal plug connections and reseat them.
- If "1, 2" is abnormal, replace the circuit board or electric control box.
Inverter Displays "OU"
- This may be due to high-frequency interference. Ground the device or move it to a different location.
Inverter Protection Function Activated
- Refer to the inverter manual, page 33, for specific troubleshooting steps.
Motor Speed Issues
- Check for open circuits in the speed measuring generator coil. Use a multimeter to measure resistance between pins 1 and 2 of the seven-pin plug (should be around 400Ω).
- If the generator is disconnected, replace the coil or reset the trip point.
- If there is a short circuit between the coil and housing, loosen the motor rear cover to fix the issue.
- If the magnetic ring isn’t turning, tighten the M5 nut.
- If the magnetic ring is broken, replace it.
Motor Overheating
- A temperature rise (ΔT = case temp - room temp) of ≤ 40°C is normal.
- If ΔT > 40°C, take the following steps:
1. Reduce the agitating paddle load.
2. Adjust the speed to medium level.
3. Avoid rotational resonance points.
4. Check for mechanical resistance and lubricate moving parts.
Flat Display Unit Flashes (Indicates Motor Current Overload)
- Follow countermeasures outlined in step 2 above.
This guide is designed to help you quickly identify and resolve common issues with your rotary evaporator. Always refer to the manufacturer's manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Regular maintenance and proper handling can significantly extend the life of your equipment and ensure accurate results in your experiments.
Huai 'an Bst Trade Co., LTD , https://www.bstoral.com