Parts of the Rotary Evaporator

(A) Evaporation Flask/Round Bottomed Flask: contains the liquid that is to be

evaporated. It is attached to an axle that rotates the flask.
- The flask is connected to the rotary drive by the vapour duct.
- This creates a thin layer of solvent mixture on the sides of the flask that will
evaporate more quickly.
- the surface area is larger than normal which increases the evaporation rate
significantly.
The level of the liquid in the flask should not exceed 2/3 of the volume
(B) Heating Bath:
- filled with distilled water, which is heated and begins the evaporation
process.
- Distilled water should be used in the heating bath to minimize the scale
build up in the bath which coats the thermistor and heating coils.
It is very difficult to remove and reduces the efficiency of the bath. In
addition, regular
tap water will promote the growth of spectacularly
disgusting algae colonies, particularly during the summer months.
(C) Condenser Coil: As the solvent begins to evaporate, the glass case
surrounding the coil will begin to fill up with vapor. The condenser coil will
help to condense the vapor back into liquid to avoid dangerous pressure
buildups.
(D) Water Hose: Attached to an external water source, the water hose runs
cool water through the condenser coil (D) and keeps it cool enough to allow
the vapor to condense