Rotavapor || Rotary evaporator || demonstration || Solvent evaporation || Rotavap || Procedure

Learn the basic principles of rotary evaporator operation, which works by reducing pressure to lower solvent boiling point, rotating the sample to increase surface area, and applying heat. Review all major components including vacuum source, glass tube, rotary motor, heating bath, receiving flask, and condenser.

Connect the receiving flask using a Combi clip and prepare the sample flask. Fill the hot water bath with distilled water and fill the cold wrap with dry ice. Ensure the water circulator contains ice.

Inspect the rotavapor and all glass pieces to ensure there are no cracks, chips, or defects. Switch on the stabilizer, rotavapor, and vacuum controller.

Lower the sample flask by pressing the down button. Adjust the heating bath temperature and set the rotation speed using the control knob. Begin rotating the flask and monitor the solution to ensure it does not foam or boil excessively.

Place your finger over the vent hole to control the vacuum during evaporation. Keep a watchful eye on the process as the solvent evaporates and collects in the receiving flask.

Turn off the vacuum source and stop the rotation. Remove the collecting flask and observe the solvent that has been collected.

Lift the flask from the water bath and remove the sample flask. Leave the flask open to allow trace amounts of solvent to evaporate completely before analyzing the dried compound.