SpeedDigester K‑439 from Büchi – The high-performance solution for fast and accurate Kjeldahl digestion
The SpeedDigester K‑439 from Büchi is a mineralisation device designed to offer a unique combination of speed, precision and flexibility in chemical digestion processes. It combines two proven technologies: infrared heating, which allows extremely rapid temperature rise, and block heating, which ensures homogeneous heat distribution. This dual principle guarantees efficient, reproducible digestion suitable for a wide range of applications, including the Kjeldahl method for nitrogen determination, COD digestion and reflux digestion.
One of the major advantages of the K‑439 is its integrated temperature sensor. This allows the digestion temperature to be precisely controlled, providing reliable monitoring throughout the process. This control ensures consistent analytical quality and allows the user to optimise digestion times according to the nature of the samples. The temperature range, from 50 to 580°C, makes the device suitable for processing both simple samples and more complex matrices.
The SpeedDigester K‑439 is designed to adapt to different needs. It is compatible with several tube formats: 100 mL micro-Kjeldahl tubes, 300 mL standard tubes and 500 mL TKN tubes, as well as ground-seal tubes for specific applications such as reflux or aqua regia. Depending on the volumes and methods used, up to twelve samples can be processed simultaneously, optimising analytical throughput in high-volume laboratories.
The design of the device takes into account safety and user comfort requirements. Acid fumes generated during digestion are efficiently extracted and directed to a neutralisation system, such as the Büchi K-415 scrubber, reducing the risk of exposure to corrosive vapours. The device is also equipped with thermal insulation elements, helping to protect the user and limit heat loss.
Modularity is at the heart of the K-439 design. Depending on the nature of the samples and the methods used, the user can choose from different extraction module configurations: standard, with a condensate trap to prevent liquid backflow, or for the controlled addition of H₂O₂ in certain protocols. This flexibility is complemented by a wide range of accessories, including tube holders, insulating plates, air or water condensers, and specific kits for treating samples under reflux.
The K-439 stands out for its robustness and compliance with international quality standards. CE and CSA certified, it is designed for intensive laboratory use while maintaining consistent performance over time. Its compact design, combined with a clear interface via a QVGA screen, makes it easy to integrate into any analytical environment.
With the SpeedDigester K-439, Büchi offers a versatile and high-performance tool that meets the chemical digestion needs of laboratories while ensuring a high level of safety, reproducibility and productivity.
