Modular device for cooling laboratory samples

Initial situation:

Power supply, condenser, compressor, control valve, thermally insulated piping, counter flow heat exchanger and vaporizer with mounting are screwed to a baseplate and fixed in a metal casing, i.e. a classical mounting method involving numerous bolted connections.

Task:

• compact dimensions
• closed compressor cooling system
• vibration insulated
• sound insulated
• controlled circulation of cooling air
• low weight
• simple, economical assembly and disassembly for servicing purposes

Successful realisation:

• the cooling elements were completely rearranged
• In the EPP base, the recesses for the mounting of the components and the channels for the air circulation were already incorporated
• The elements of the cooling circuit were simply inserted into the EPP base
• the compressor was secured to a metal holding plate with bolts and plug-in elements
• the EPP-base also serves as a solder fixture 
• the fans were inserted into the recesses designed for them and electrically connected via plug-in connectors
• the EPP cover was put in place and the cables were accomodated in the channels by form-locking, without excess ends
• the complete cooling unit was then inserted into a metal casing and fixed in place with a holding plate

Advantages:

• the system is insulated for sound and vibration
• access for servicing is quicker and easier
• simple assembly
• reduced assembly costs
• specifically-routed air circulation and cooling, making it possible to reduce the rotation speed of the fans
• good impact elasticity (c. 30% according to Din 53512)
• good thermally insulating properties (important for the cooling plate, where temperatures are around 0°C)
• low weight (420g)
• 60% fewer mechanical parts
• 90% fewer bolted connections
• 70% saving on assembly costs