What if the rotary evaporator flask cannot be removed?
A rotary evaporator is a device that uses an evaporation bottle to increase the evaporation area. It is placed in a water bath under reduced pressure and heated while rotating, allowing the solution inside the bottle to diffuse and evaporate. The glass bottle of the rotary evaporator may lock at the bottle mouth and cannot be disassembled after long-term use or storage. This situation often occurs after the pressure reduction and concentration work is completed. Today, let's share what we should do when we encounter difficulties in removing glass bottles.
When the flask of the rotary evaporator cannot be removed, the following methods can be tried to solve this problem:
1. Release the vacuum
The rotary evaporator usually needs to be evacuated during operation. If the gas is forgotten to be released, the flask may be difficult to remove due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside.
Check and release the vacuum to ensure pressure balance inside and outside the flask.
2. Heat the flask
The flask is heated during the rotary evaporation process and may become tighter due to mouth shrinkage after cooling.
Use a heater or alcohol lamp to heat the neck of the flask appropriately, causing it to expand, and then try to gently twist the flask.
Be careful not to overheat to avoid damaging the flask or rotary evaporator.
3. Use lubricants
Apply an appropriate amount of lubricating oil, such as Vaseline or silicone oil, at the connection between the flask and the rotary evaporator.
Lubricants help reduce friction and make the flask easier to remove.
4. Gently tap or vibrate
Gently tap the bottom or side of the flask with a wooden board or other non-metallic tool, or try gently shaking the rotary evaporator.
Avoid using metal tools to directly strike the flask to avoid damaging its surface or creating safety hazards.
Preventive measure
After use: Ensure that the neck of the flask is loosened to avoid prolonged tight connections.
Daily maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain the rotary evaporator to maintain its good working condition.
Pre use inspection: Check whether the connection between the flask and the rotary evaporator is firm and easy to disassemble before use.
Through the above methods, the problem of most rotary evaporator flasks not being able to be removed can be solved.
