Compact Thermo-Chiller From the Hef Series Takes Up Little Space but Delivers Plenty of Power

Precise and assured temperature control and stability is indispensable for process stability in many cases. In medicine and pharmaceutics in particular, or in the electronics and semiconductor industry, there is a whole range of applications that place high demands in this area – and it doesn’t end there, because cooling and temperature control often have to take place directly near the heat source or in the direct vicinity of the employees. With the HEF series, SMC has therefore developed a particularly compact thermo-chiller in Peltier style, which also scores points for its high temperature stability, improved temperature controllability and low-noise operation. In addition, operators benefit from quick and convenient maintenance thanks to both easy cleaning and effortless replacement of the dust filter.

Whether it’s for microscope cooling plates, the cooling of sample preparation machines or glass heat exchangers in the medical/pharmaceutical sector on the one hand, or, on the other, the cooling of diode lasers, optical cameras or voltage supply devices in the electronics and semiconductor industry: These kinds of special cases require thermo-chillers that can be placed directly next to the employee or the heat source and do not cause any restrictions – either in terms of performance, space requirements or due to noise development. With the HEF series, SMC has developed a thermo-chiller that optimally meets these requirements. Because of its particularly compact design and low weight, it can be easily installed on workbenches and at the same time boasts high performance indicators – from temperature stability to cooling capacity and heating capacity. What’s more, thanks to the refrigerant-free Peltier style and the low-noise construction, it is gentle on the environment in two different ways.

Economical in space – but not in performance

With dimensions of just H210 x B130 x D150 mm and a weight of only 3.5 kg, there are hardly any space restrictions for the HEF series during installation – even on work benches, the space requirement is hardly noticeable. Thanks to the clear display and easy-to-adjust control panel, as well as the level indicator for the circulation medium directly on the front, operators always have an Seite 2 von 4 overview and can adjust settings in no time at all. Meanwhile, the temperature stability of 0.1 °C ensures high constancy in the set temperature range of 10 to 60 °C. In addition, the series scores points for its outstanding temperature control: The HEF series needs just 41 s to reduce the temperature by 10 °C, 86 % less time than the predecessor model, which needed 294 s to do so. Overall, operators benefit from a cooling capacity of 220 W and a heating capacity of up to 500 W (tap water in each case).

Good for the environment and low-maintenance

Controlling the fan speed at low load and reducing vibrations due to few moving parts allows for quiet operation that is as low as 37 dB in the lowest range. Even at full load, the noise level does not rise above 58 dB – which is about the volume of a normal conversation. The HEF series thus prevents disturbance due to disruptive noise development and can therefore be used problem-free in quiet environments.

The coolant-free Peltier style offers a choice of circulation medium, with either tap water or aqueous ethylene glycol solution (max. 20 % or less), allowing for particularly environmentally friendly operation. As the materials in contact with the mediums (stainless steel, resin, ceramics, carbon and various types of rubber) are free of aluminium and copper, there is also no contamination by metal ions, which again has a positive impact on the environment.

The easy-to-reach dust filter at the front is integrated directly into the front panel grille and is easy to both remove and install. In addition, dust, foreign bodies and other dirt particles can easily be cleared and disposed of with a brush or hoover. All this makes maintenance very simple and quick, ensuring reliable operation with high process stability.