IKA MICROSTAR 7.5 control Overhead Stirrer
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | MICROSTAR 7.5 control |
| Motor Input Power | 32 W |
| Motor Output Power | 22 W |
| Speed Range | 0/30 – 2000 rpm |
| Max. Torque | 7.5 N·cm |
| Max. Viscosity | 4000 mPa·s |
| Max. Volume (H₂O) | 5 L |
| Speed Setting Accuracy | ±1 rpm |
| Speed Measurement Deviation | ±1 % (>300 rpm), ±3 rpm (<300 rpm) |
| Temperature Range (with PT1000) | –10 to 350 °C |
| Temp. Measurement Accuracy | ±0.5 K (DIN EN 60751 Class A) |
| Torque Measurement Deviation | ±3 N·cm |
| Timer Range | 0–6000 min |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 60 × 173 × 136 mm |
| Weight | 1.18 kg |
| Ambient Operating Conditions | 5–40 °C, ≤80 % RH |
| Power Supply | 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| USB Interface | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Display | LCD (speed, torque, temperature, timer) |
| Shaft Clamp Range | Ø 0.5–8.2 mm |
| Hollow Shaft ID | 8.5 mm |
| Extension Arm | Ø13 mm × 160 mm |
| Continuous Duty Cycle | 100 % |
| Motor Type | Brushless DC |
Overview
The IKA MICROSTAR 7.5 control is a precision-engineered overhead stirrer designed for demanding laboratory mixing applications requiring high reproducibility, real-time parameter monitoring, and robust operational safety. Based on brushless DC motor technology, it delivers stable rotational motion across its full speed range (0/30–2000 rpm) without mechanical wear or carbon dust generation—ensuring long-term calibration stability and compliance with GLP environments. Its core measurement architecture integrates microprocessor-controlled closed-loop speed regulation, dynamic torque sensing (0–7.5 N·cm), and optional PT1000 temperature feedback via a dedicated sensor interface. The device operates under continuous-duty conditions (100 % duty cycle), supporting viscosity ranges up to 4000 mPa·s in aqueous media and maximum working volumes of 5 L—making it suitable for scalable process development, formulation studies, and reaction monitoring in chemistry, pharmaceutical, and materials science labs.
Key Features
- Brushless DC motor with integrated electronics for low-noise, maintenance-free operation and extended service life
- LCD display showing real-time values for speed, torque, temperature (when equipped), and elapsed time
- Precision speed control via analog rotary encoder with ±1 rpm setting resolution and closed-loop feedback
- Hollow shaft design (8.5 mm internal diameter) enabling insertion of temperature probes or sampling tubes during static operation
- Adjustable extension arm (Ø13 mm × 160 mm) for flexible positioning over reactors, jacketed vessels, or custom fixtures
- Vibration detection system that automatically halts rotation upon abnormal mechanical resonance—preventing sample loss and equipment damage
- USB 2.0 interface supporting firmware updates, parameter logging (via labworldsoft®), and audit-trail-capable data export
- Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity for wireless configuration and remote monitoring using the IKA Labworld app
- IP54-rated housing constructed from chemically resistant thermoplastic polymer and anodized cast aluminum
- Integrated mechanical key lock to prevent accidental parameter changes during unattended runs
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MICROSTAR 7.5 control accommodates standard laboratory stirring elements—including PTFE-coated anchors, propellers, and dissolving blades—with clamping diameters from 0.5 to 8.2 mm. Its torque and speed characteristics are validated for Newtonian and moderately shear-thinning fluids within ISO 2555 and ASTM D2196-compliant viscosity ranges. The unit meets DIN EN 61000-6-3 (EMC) and DIN EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) standards. Temperature measurements using the optional PT1000 sensor comply with DIN EN 60751 Class A tolerances (±0.5 K at 0 °C), supporting thermal validation protocols required under USP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with compliant software. The IP54 ingress protection rating ensures reliable function in humid or particulate-laden environments typical of QC laboratories.
Software & Data Management
Data acquisition and instrument control are enabled through IKA’s labworldsoft® software platform (v4.0+), which supports multi-parameter logging (speed, torque, temperature, time), customizable alarm thresholds, and CSV-based export for LIMS integration. All parameter changes, start/stop events, and error logs are timestamped with system-level audit trails—meeting ALCOA+ principles for data integrity. Firmware updates are performed securely via USB or over-the-air (OTA) through Bluetooth. The device stores no user data locally; all records reside exclusively on the host PC or network server, facilitating centralized backup and 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures when deployed with validated IT infrastructure.
Applications
- Controlled dissolution testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in USP Apparatus 2 configurations
- Emulsion and suspension homogenization in formulation development (e.g., topical gels, nanoemulsions)
- Thermal reaction monitoring in jacketed glass reactors with simultaneous temperature and torque profiling
- High-viscosity polymer blending where constant torque delivery prevents motor stall or shear degradation
- Environmental sample preparation (e.g., soil slurry homogenization, wastewater digestate mixing)
- Quality control of industrial lubricants and adhesives per ISO 3219 and ASTM D1824 test methods
FAQ
Does the MICROSTAR 7.5 control support external temperature control loops?
Yes—it provides a dedicated PT1000 input and can output analog signals to third-party temperature controllers via optional I/O modules.
Can torque data be exported in real time during operation?
Yes, via USB-connected labworldsoft® with configurable sampling intervals down to 100 ms.
Is the hollow shaft compatible with all standard temperature probes?
It accepts any rigid probe with outer diameter ≤8.2 mm and sufficient rigidity to avoid deflection during static insertion.
What safety certifications does this model carry?
It bears CE marking, complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment, and satisfies RoHS 2011/65/EU requirements.
How is calibration traceability maintained for torque and speed measurements?
Factory calibration uses NIST-traceable torque transducers and laser tachometers; users may perform verification checks using certified reference standards per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.
