Can I use a heating-only circulator to control close to ambient temperature?
It is possible, but not recommended for consistency. A refrigerated circulator is preferable. Controlling fluid temperature close to varying ambient temperatures requires a consistent source of cooling, preferably refrigeration, in order to have the controller work properly. A tap water cooling coil in a heating circulator reservoir usually does not provide enough dependable cooling. The cooling must overcome external conditions such as fluctuating room temperature or internal conditions such as friction heating of the bath fluid caused by the mechanical action of the pump. Friction heating from the pump and fluid, plus transfer of heat from the motor to the pump impeller can cause the bath fluid to gradually rise 3 – 15°C over time. Depending on the type of pump, the temperature rise, even without the heater on, is sometimes much more. That is why PolyScience heating circulators are rated at the low end of their temperature range as ambient +5°C. Because of the temperature variability
Related Questions
- Why does an external probe used with a PolyScience programmable circulator give better temperature control at the remote application point?
- Why does the bath heat up above the ambient temperature when the circulator is not switched on?
- Can I use a heating-only circulator to control close to ambient temperature?
