12
CORNING DIGITAL HOT PLATES, STIRRING HOT PLATES, STIRRERS
AND EXTERNAL TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER
12.0 Size and Dimensions
Model No.
Top Plate Size
Dimensions
PC-400D/410D/420D
5 x 7 in.
(12.7 x 17.8 cm)
4.25 x 7.75 x 11 in.
(10.8 x 19.7 x 28 cm)
PC-600D/610D/620D
10 x 10 in.
(25.4 x 25.4 cm)
4.625 x 11 x 15.375 in.
(11.75 x 19.7 x 39.05 cm)
13.0 Frequently Asked Questions
I have a beaker of water on my hot plate and the temperature is set for 550°C. Why does
the display setting blink and not remain constant?
The display will blink at any time when the temperature sensor is not within range
of the set temperature value. The temperature measured by the sensor is a composite
of the temperature of the heating element located beneath the sensor, the ceramic
top above the sensor, and the very small air space around the sensor. Water requires
a substantial amount of heat in order to boil yet remains at a constant temperature of
100°C for the duration of the boiling process. Although the heating element is producing
maximum heat at the 550°C setting, the water consumes this heat so quickly during the
boiling process that the heat is unable to raise the temperature measured by the sensor
to within the range of the 550°C set value.
How long does it take to bring a beaker of water to a boil?
Using a 600 mL PYREX® beaker with 400 mL of water at 25°C, it takes approximately
15 minutes to bring the water to a full, rolling boil.
Can I use a metal tray on top of my Corning® hot plate?
No. The metal will act as a heat sink, and have a high probability of creating an abnormal
heating condition. If an abnormal condition is detected, the product will shut down.
A metal vessel will also scratch the ceramic top plate.
The stir bar keeps decoupling. Why and what can I do to stop this?
These units are programmed to minimize decoupling. However, liquid viscosity, stir bar
magnetic strength, vessel used, and speed changes can cause decoupling. High viscosity
liquids must be stirred at slower speed settings. The magnetic strength of stir bars can
weaken over time and may need to be replaced. The vessels used need to have thin, flat
bottoms to insure optimal performance. Rapid decreases in stir speed can cause decoupling
as the magnet slows down quicker than the stir bar and the liquid.
What size vessel should I use?
The vessels used on the top of a hot plate must not be larger than the top plate.
