The Automatic Distillation Unit ADU 4 is the ultimate instrument for automated distillation of gasoline, aviation fuels, napthas, white spirits, kerosene, gas oils, distillate fuel oils and other petroleum products (ASTM Boiling Groups 0 - 4). It complies with the standards ASTM D 86 - ASTM D 850 - ASTM D 1078 - ISO 3405 - DIN 51 751 - IP 123 - IP 195. The basic unit comprises a microprocessor controller, a digital display, a heater module with safety flask heating platform and a cooling fan. The condenser tube is equipped with a water jacket with hose connections to a thermostatic cooler. The circulator cools the receiver compartment which includes light barriers for detection of the first drop and recovery volume. A powerful 1200 W provides sample heating to over 400 °C. The ADU 4 uses a patented level detection system avoiding moving parts and associated wear problems. Rear gold reflects the radiation heat directly to the flask and the heaters incorporate a control function to compensate for aging and variations in power supply.