Used VWR 1190S 13-Liter Refrigerated Circulator by PolyScience

Extra-Low-Temperature Refrigerated/Heated Circulating Bath | 13L Reservoir | HIGH/LOW Pump Speed Selection | 115V Power | Used Laboratory Equipment

When Room Temperature Isn't Low Enough, Your Cooling Equipment Matters.

Not every experiment can take place at room temperature. Some chemical reactions require subzero conditions. Certain analytical instruments generate heat that must be removed continuously. Other research procedures depend on stable thermal environments to produce consistent, repeatable results.

When temperature becomes a critical experimental variable, your laboratory needs more than a conventional water bath.

The used VWR Model 1190S 13-Liter Refrigerated Circulator, manufactured by PolyScience, is designed for laboratory applications requiring controlled heating, refrigeration, and fluid circulation.

Combining a generous 13-liter reservoir with integrated refrigeration, temperature regulation, and a selectable two-speed circulation pump, the VWR 1190S provides a versatile temperature-control platform for chemical laboratories, pharmaceutical research, analytical testing, materials science, and industrial R&D.

Unlike basic non-refrigerated circulating baths, the 1190S was designed for extra-low-temperature operation. Historical VWR specifications describe cooling capability down to approximately -40°C and heating capability up to 150°C, making the model particularly interesting for laboratories working across a broad temperature range.

This specific used unit is equipped with a rear-mounted HIGH/LOW pump speed selector and operates using standard 115V input power.

Available from HiTechTrader, supplying scientific and laboratory equipment since 1982.

More Than a Refrigerated Bath: One System, Multiple Temperature-Control Workflows

One of the advantages of a refrigerated circulating bath is its ability to serve different roles within a laboratory.

The VWR 1190S can be used as a temperature-controlled reservoir for suitable immersed samples or configured to circulate compatible thermal fluid through external equipment.

This versatility makes it an attractive option for laboratories supporting multiple research projects without wanting a separate temperature-control system for every workstation.

Workflow 1: Direct Temperature Control Inside the 13-Liter Bath

For laboratory procedures involving sample containers, test vessels, or calibration items, the bath reservoir can provide a controlled-temperature environment when the materials and sample geometry are suitable.

Circulation helps distribute thermal energy throughout the bath fluid, reducing the temperature differences that may develop in a non-circulating reservoir.

Potential applications include:

• Low-temperature sample conditioning and preparation.
• Temperature-dependent materials testing.
• Laboratory thermal stability studies.
• Compatible viscosity and fluid-property experiments.
• Calibration and temperature verification workflows.
• Chemical research requiring controlled bath conditions.

The 13-liter reservoir provides more room than smaller circulating baths, although actual usable working space depends on the internal dimensions, fluid level, and items being immersed.

Workflow 2: External Fluid Circulation for Laboratory Equipment

The VWR 1190S is also designed for circulation applications where temperature-controlled fluid is pumped through external laboratory equipment.

By connecting compatible tubing and equipment to the appropriate circulation ports, laboratories can potentially use the circulator to transfer heat between the refrigerated bath and an external thermal load.

Common applications for appropriately configured refrigerated circulators include:

• Laboratory reactor temperature-control loops.
• Rotary evaporator condenser cooling.
• Distillation condenser temperature support.
• Analytical instrument cooling.
• Jacketed laboratory vessel temperature management.
• Compatible process-development equipment.

External equipment compatibility depends on the required flow rate, pump pressure, tubing, fluid type, thermal load, and connection configuration.

Building a temperature-controlled chemical reaction setup? Explore HiTechTrader's laboratory reactor inventory and Parr Instruments equipment.

Five Reasons the VWR 1190S Is Worth Considering

1. Extra-Low-Temperature Refrigeration for Demanding Applications

Cooling laboratory samples a few degrees below ambient temperature is one task. Maintaining a carefully controlled subzero environment is another.

The VWR 1190S belongs to VWR's extra-low-temperature refrigerated circulator family and was designed to support applications that require substantially colder operating conditions than ordinary laboratory water baths.

Historical manufacturer literature identifies a nominal working temperature range extending from approximately -40°C to +150°C.

This broad published range is useful for laboratories conducting:

• Low-temperature chemical reactions.
• Controlled cooling of experimental samples.
• Materials testing across different temperatures.
• Temperature-sensitive analytical procedures.
• Cold fluid circulation for compatible external equipment.
• Research involving repeated heating and cooling cycles.

Actual achievable temperatures depend on the unit's present condition, circulating fluid, ambient conditions, heat load, and equipment configuration.

Important: Published model capabilities do not establish the tested temperature range or current performance of this used unit. Confirm operating condition and temperature requirements before purchase.

2. HIGH and LOW Pump Settings for Different Circulation Needs

Not every laboratory temperature-control application requires the same circulation rate.

A relatively small thermal load or direct-bath application may benefit from a different pump setting than an external loop moving fluid through tubing, equipment fittings, and a heat exchanger.

This VWR 1190S features a HIGH/LOW pump speed selector located on the rear of the unit, giving operators two available circulation settings.

Historical VWR documentation describes the standard 1190S pump as a two-speed simplex pump, with nominal flow rates of approximately 9 and 15 liters per minute under manufacturer-specified conditions.

Why Two Pump Speeds Matter

• Application Flexibility: Select between two circulation settings based on the thermal-control setup.
• External Equipment Support: The higher setting may be useful for compatible circulation loops with greater flow requirements.
• Bath Applications: The lower setting may be suitable where less circulation is desired.
• Practical Process Adjustment: Adapt circulation to different experimental configurations.
• Simple Operation: A dedicated rear-mounted speed selector avoids unnecessary complexity.

The actual flow rate through connected equipment may be lower than the nominal pump rating due to tubing resistance, fluid viscosity, temperature, and the external system configuration.

3. A 13-Liter Reservoir for Greater Laboratory Flexibility

Reservoir capacity affects how a refrigerated circulator fits into everyday laboratory work.

Small circulating baths can be convenient for limited-volume applications, but may not provide sufficient space or thermal fluid volume for every experiment.

The VWR 1190S features a 13-liter reservoir, equivalent to approximately 3.43 US gallons of nominal bath capacity.

This makes the system worth considering for laboratories that need:

• Additional fluid volume for circulation workflows.
• Space for suitable immersed sample containers.
• Temperature-control support for research equipment.
• Flexible use across different experiments.
• A single circulator for multiple compatible laboratory applications.

Reservoir capacity should not be confused with available sample immersion volume. Working fluid level, access dimensions, and required clearances must be considered when selecting a circulating bath.

4. Standard 115V Input for Convenient Laboratory Integration

Electrical requirements can become a significant consideration when upgrading laboratory equipment or introducing instruments into an existing workspace.

This VWR 1190S is identified as using standard 115V input power.

For North American laboratories, this can simplify planning compared with equipment requiring a 208V or 230V supply.

However, operating voltage is only one part of electrical compatibility. The laboratory must also confirm the required amperage, circuit capacity, plug configuration, grounding, and applicable electrical requirements.

Historical documentation for the 120V version lists a 60Hz, 12A configuration. Confirm the electrical nameplate and requirements of this particular used unit before installation.

5. PolyScience Manufacturing Behind the VWR Name

This VWR-branded circulator was manufactured by PolyScience, a recognized manufacturer of laboratory temperature-control equipment.

PolyScience equipment is widely associated with circulating baths, refrigerated temperature-control systems, chillers, and fluid-handling technologies used in scientific and industrial environments.

For buyers researching used laboratory equipment, identifying the underlying manufacturer can be useful when locating documentation, determining equipment lineage, or evaluating compatible replacement components.

The VWR 1190S provides an opportunity to acquire a VWR-branded, PolyScience-manufactured refrigerated circulator for laboratory applications requiring more than basic ambient-temperature cooling.

Compare this unit with another available PolyScience 7-Liter Refrigerated Circulator with Digital Controller at HiTechTrader.

VWR 1190S Technical Specifications

Understanding Cooling Capacity: Why Temperature Alone Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

When comparing refrigerated circulators, buyers often focus on the lowest advertised temperature.

However, reaching a low temperature with an unloaded bath is different from maintaining that temperature while removing heat from an instrument or laboratory process.

Cooling capacity, typically expressed in watts indicates how much heat a refrigeration system can remove under specified operating conditions.

Historical documentation for the VWR 1190S lists cooling capacities of approximately 900 watts at +20°C and 825 watts at 0°C.

These values are useful for understanding the model's original design capabilities, but actual performance depends on operating temperature, ambient temperature, fluid properties, maintenance condition, and the external thermal load.

What This Means for Your Laboratory

If you are connecting a refrigerated circulator to a condenser, analytical instrument, or jacketed reactor, consider both the required fluid temperature and the amount of heat the equipment generates.

A circulator may be capable of reaching a very low temperature without an external load, yet be unable to maintain that temperature when the connected equipment introduces more heat than its available cooling capacity can remove.

Before selecting a unit, determine:

• The target operating temperature.
• The estimated process heat load in watts.
• The required fluid flow rate and pressure.
• The distance and tubing arrangement between devices.
• The circulating fluid's viscosity and low-temperature characteristics.
• The laboratory's ambient temperature and ventilation conditions.

For additional guidance on choosing temperature-control equipment, see HiTechTrader's article: Choosing the Right Circulating Water Bath for Your Research.

Laboratory Applications for the VWR 1190S

Chemical Synthesis and Low-Temperature Reactions

Temperature can strongly influence chemical reaction rates, product selectivity, reagent stability, and the formation of unwanted byproducts.

For compatible applications, an extra-low-temperature refrigerated circulator can supply controlled cooling to immersed reaction vessels or external temperature-control equipment.

This makes the VWR 1190S a candidate for laboratory procedures requiring chilled conditions and repeatable thermal environments.

Reactor and Jacketed Vessel Temperature Control

Laboratory reactors and jacketed vessels may require external cooling or heating to help maintain the desired process temperature.

Where fluid, flow, pressure, and thermal-load requirements are compatible, the VWR 1190S can be considered as part of a temperature-control loop.

Researchers developing chemical processes may find refrigerated circulation useful for removing heat or stabilizing external process temperatures.

Explore used stirred reactor systems and Parr laboratory reactors available from HiTechTrader.

Rotary Evaporation and Condenser Cooling

Rotary evaporators and distillation systems often depend on controlled condenser temperatures to support vapor condensation.

A properly selected refrigerated circulator can supply chilled fluid to a compatible condenser, supporting solvent recovery and laboratory separation workflows.

Selection should be based on condenser heat load, temperature requirements, tubing compatibility, and the applicable circulating fluid.

Analytical Instrument Cooling

Some analytical instruments and laboratory testing systems require a stable external cooling fluid supply.

For these applications, a refrigerated circulator can help remove heat from compatible instruments and support consistent operating conditions.

The VWR 1190S may be appropriate for equipment whose cooling requirements fall within its verified operating capabilities.

Materials Science and Viscosity Research

Material properties can change significantly with temperature.

Researchers studying viscosity, liquid behavior, formulation stability, or the response of materials to temperature changes may require controlled heating and cooling.

A refrigerated/heated circulating bath can support these workflows by providing a regulated thermal environment for compatible testing arrangements.

Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Quality-Control Laboratories

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology research laboratories often use temperature-controlled baths for sample conditioning, method development, and testing.

Quality-control laboratories may also need controlled temperature environments when evaluating products, materials, and laboratory procedures.

The VWR 1190S's 13-liter reservoir and refrigerated circulation capabilities make it worth considering for appropriate research and analytical applications.

VWR 1190S vs. Smaller Refrigerated Circulators

The right circulating bath is not necessarily the smallest, newest, or most expensive model. It is the system whose temperature range, cooling capacity, reservoir volume, and circulation capabilities match the laboratory's actual requirements.

For researchers comparing available equipment, the VWR 1190S offers a different balance of features from a compact, modern digital circulator.

Consider the VWR 1190S When:

• You need a nominal 13-liter bath reservoir.
• Your application may require extra-low-temperature cooling.
• You want two selectable pump speeds.
• You need a refrigerated/heated circulating bath for internal or external use.
• You prefer a 115V unit for a compatible North American electrical installation.
• You are seeking used equipment value for research or laboratory support.

Consider a Smaller Digital Circulator When:

• Bench space is a greater concern than bath capacity.
• Your application only requires a smaller fluid reservoir.
• You need advanced touchscreen controls.
• Your required temperature range is less demanding.
• You prioritize modern user-interface features over reservoir size.

For comparison, explore this used PolyScience 7L Refrigerated Circulator with Digital Controller, or browse the full Baths & Circulators selection.

What to Check When Buying a Used Refrigerated Circulator

Purchasing a used refrigerated circulator can help a laboratory stretch its equipment budget, but selecting the right unit requires evaluating more than the manufacturer name and published specifications.

Important considerations include:

• Refrigeration Performance: Verify that the unit achieves the required bath temperature under appropriate test conditions.
• Pump Operation: Confirm that both HIGH and LOW pump speed settings operate properly.
• Temperature Controller: Inspect the display, setpoint controls, and temperature indication.
• Reservoir Condition: Check for corrosion, contamination, leaks, or mechanical damage.
• External Connections: Confirm that the circulation ports and required fittings are suitable for your setup.
• Electrical Requirements: Verify the 115V power configuration, current draw, and connector type.
• Refrigeration System: Review available maintenance information and confirm appropriate operating condition.
• Temperature Protection: Verify the functionality of installed over-temperature and low-liquid protection features.
• Circulating Fluid: Use fluid compatible with the circulator and appropriate for the intended temperature range.
• Included Accessories: Confirm whether the reservoir lid, tubing, fittings, or additional components are included.

HiTechTrader can provide available unit-specific information to help buyers evaluate this equipment before purchase.

Why Buy Used VWR and PolyScience Equipment from HiTechTrader?

Research laboratories depend on temperature-control equipment, but new refrigerated circulators can represent a significant investment.

For many laboratories, purchasing used equipment provides an opportunity to obtain established scientific instrumentation while reserving more of the budget for reagents, analytical systems, and other essential research resources.

HiTechTrader has supplied scientific and laboratory equipment since 1982, helping research organizations, industrial laboratories, universities, and other buyers source specialized equipment.

What HiTechTrader Offers

• Decades of Industry Experience: Serving laboratory equipment buyers since 1982.
• Specialized Scientific Inventory: Access to circulating baths, chillers, reactors, and analytical equipment.
• Used Equipment Options: Opportunities to acquire laboratory instruments without automatically paying new-equipment prices.
• Product Selection Assistance: Help identifying available equipment and comparing important specifications.
• Related Equipment: Convenient access to complementary laboratory systems and research instruments.

Browse laboratory circulating baths and chillers, explore used laboratory equipment, or visit HiTechTrader.com for additional scientific equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions About the VWR 1190S

What is the VWR 1190S refrigerated circulator?

The VWR 1190S is a 13-liter refrigerated/heated laboratory circulating bath manufactured by PolyScience. It is designed for temperature-controlled bath applications and compatible external fluid circulation systems.

What is the temperature range of the VWR 1190S?

Historical VWR product literature describes the 1190S as an extra-low-temperature circulator with a nominal range of approximately -40°C to +150°C. Actual temperature performance of this used unit must be verified.

Who manufactured the VWR 1190S?

This VWR-branded Model 1190S was manufactured by PolyScience, a manufacturer of laboratory circulating baths, chillers, and temperature-control equipment.

What is the bath capacity?

The VWR 1190S has a nominal 13-liter reservoir, approximately equivalent to 3.43 US gallons.

Does the VWR 1190S have adjustable pump speeds?

Yes. This unit has a HIGH/LOW pump speed selector on the rear. Historical model documentation lists two nominal pump flow settings of approximately 9 and 15 liters per minute.

Does this circulator require 220V power?

No. This particular unit is identified as operating on standard 115V input. Buyers should still verify the electrical nameplate, plug type, required amperage, and circuit compatibility.

Can the VWR 1190S be used with a laboratory reactor?

Potentially, yes. The VWR 1190S supports external circulation applications and may be suitable for compatible jacketed reactors or other temperature-controlled laboratory equipment. Flow requirements, thermal loads, fittings, and fluid compatibility must be verified.

Can this refrigerated circulator be used for rotary evaporator cooling?

It may be suitable for compatible condenser cooling applications when its verified cooling capacity, operating temperature, circulating fluid, and pump capabilities meet the requirements of the equipment.

Is the VWR 1190S a chiller or a water bath?

The VWR 1190S is a refrigerated/heated circulating bath. It combines a temperature-controlled reservoir with pumping capability and refrigeration, allowing appropriate internal bath use or external fluid circulation.

Is this VWR 1190S new or used?

This unit is offered in used condition. Contact HiTechTrader to request available condition information, photographs, included accessories, and current pricing.

Does HiTechTrader sell other refrigerated circulators?

Yes. HiTechTrader offers a selection of used laboratory baths and circulators, including equipment from PolyScience and other scientific instrument manufacturers. Inventory varies.

Give Your Laboratory More Control Over Temperature-Sensitive Work

Whether your laboratory needs an extra-low-temperature bath, a refrigerated circulation source for compatible analytical equipment, or a temperature-control system for chemical research, the used VWR 1190S 13-Liter Refrigerated Circulator manufactured by PolyScience is worth evaluating.

Its 13-liter reservoir, HIGH/LOW pump speed selection, 115V electrical configuration, and historically documented wide operating temperature range make it an interesting option for laboratories seeking versatile refrigerated circulation equipment.

From academic research and chemical engineering to pharmaceutical development and industrial quality control, the right temperature-control system can make an important difference in how efficiently experiments and testing workflows are performed.