IKA myPlate Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA myPlate Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, precision-engineered benchtop stirring device designed for routine laboratory applications requiring reliable, low-noise mixing of aqueous and mildly aggressive chemical solutions. Operating on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated by a permanent magnet array beneath a chemically resistant tempered glass plate, the myPlate induces synchronous rotation of PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars immersed in the sample vessel. Its brushless DC motor delivers consistent torque across the full speed range (100–2500 rpm), enabling reproducible homogenization of volumes up to 1.5 L (water-equivalent). Engineered for long-term stability and operator safety, the unit complies with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory electrical equipment and features an IP54-rated enclosure—protecting internal electronics against dust ingress and water splashes from any direction. The absence of mechanical drive shafts eliminates lubrication requirements and minimizes maintenance, supporting uninterrupted operation in QA/QC labs, teaching facilities, and R&D environments.

Key Features

• Tempered glass working surface (Ø 135 mm) offering high resistance to thermal shock, scratches, and common laboratory solvents—including diluted acids, bases, and alcohols.
• Capacitive touch-key interface with dual LED display showing both setpoint and real-time rotational speed, enabling precise parameter verification without physical contact.
• Electronic speed control with ±10 rpm setting accuracy ensures method reproducibility across users and shifts—critical for SOP-driven workflows.
• Low-power architecture: 4 W maximum input power and 1 W standby consumption align with ISO 50001 energy management principles and reduce operational overhead in multi-unit installations.
• Modular aesthetic design: Interchangeable decorative frames accept user-supplied printed templates (supplied with photo-grade paper), allowing institutional branding or visual workflow differentiation without compromising functional integrity.
• Compact footprint (152 × 164 mm base) and ultra-low profile (30 mm height) optimize space utilization in fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and crowded benchtops.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The IKA myPlate is validated for use with standard borosilicate glass beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and cylindrical vessels up to 1 L in volume. It accommodates stir bars up to 30 mm in length—sufficient for efficient vortex formation in containers ≥50 mL. While not rated for continuous heating, its minimal self-heating characteristic (+2 K after 1 hour at ambient 22 °C) prevents unintended thermal drift during extended mixing of temperature-sensitive biological buffers or enzymatic reactions. The device meets DIN EN 60529 (IP54), IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use), and RoHS 2011/65/EU directives. It is suitable for GLP-compliant environments where traceable, non-heating agitation is required; however, it is not intended for GMP manufacturing processes involving sterile or closed-system operations.

Software & Data Management

The IKA myPlate operates as a standalone analog-controlled instrument with no embedded firmware, network interface, or data logging capability. This design intentionally omits digital connectivity to eliminate cybersecurity risks, software validation burdens, and compatibility dependencies—making it ideal for regulated laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 or EU GMP Annex 11 frameworks where “black box” instrumentation requires extensive qualification. All operational parameters are manually entered and visually confirmed via LED indicators, ensuring full operator awareness and eliminating hidden state transitions. For labs requiring audit trails, external time-stamped video recording or manual logbook entries remain the recommended documentation method per ALCOA+ principles.

Applications

• Routine dissolution testing of pharmaceutical excipients and APIs in non-thermal buffer systems.
• Preparation of calibration standards and reagent dilutions in clinical chemistry and environmental testing labs.
• Mixing of cell culture media prior to sterile filtration—without introducing shear-induced protein denaturation.
• Homogenization of polymer solutions and colloidal suspensions where temperature control is secondary to shear consistency.
• Teaching laboratories: Demonstrating fluid dynamics, viscosity-dependent mixing efficiency, and magnetic coupling fundamentals.
• QC release testing for raw materials where rapid, repeatable dispersion is required prior to particle size or pH analysis.

FAQ

Does the IKA myPlate include a heating function?
No. The myPlate is a non-heating magnetic stirrer. Its glass plate exhibits only minimal self-heating (+2 K after one hour at 22 °C ambient); it is not equipped with integrated temperature control or Peltier elements.
Can the myPlate be used with stainless-steel stir bars?
No. Stainless-steel stir bars are incompatible due to induced eddy currents that cause localized heating and erratic rotation. Only PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars up to 30 mm in length are recommended.
Is the decorative frame system chemically resistant?
The interchangeable frames are made of ABS plastic and are intended for aesthetic customization only. They must be removed before cleaning with ethanol or isopropanol; prolonged exposure to acetone or chlorinated solvents may cause surface degradation.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
Based on IKA’s accelerated lifetime testing, the brushless DC motor and glass plate maintain functional specification for ≥20,000 hours of cumulative operation when used within specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80 % RH).
Does the unit support external analog/digital control signals?
No. The myPlate has no analog input (0–10 V), digital I/O, or RS-232/USB interfaces. It is strictly a manually operated device.