IKA KMO 3 basic Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA KMO 3 basic Magnetic Stirrer is an entry-level yet rigorously engineered laboratory stirring system designed for reliable, low-noise mixing of aqueous and low-viscosity samples in standard glassware. Based on the principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath a non-magnetic work surface induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the KMO 3 basic delivers precise speed control without mechanical shaft penetration, minimizing contamination risk and enabling sealed-vessel operation. Its compact footprint, tempered glass work surface, and integrated LED illumination support routine benchtop workflows in academic teaching labs, QC environments, and R&D settings where reproducibility, ease of cleaning, and long-term operational stability are prioritized over thermal regulation or high-torque demands.

Key Features

• Touch-sensitive control interface with intuitive LED display offering adjustable brightness—optimized for visibility under varied ambient lighting conditions including fume hood or darkroom use.
• Bi-directional automatic rotation reversal prevents vortex collapse and promotes homogenization in viscous or heterogeneous mixtures, particularly beneficial during dissolution or suspension preparation.
• Tempered glass work surface (140 × 120 mm) provides chemical resistance, thermal stability, and optical clarity—facilitating visual monitoring while maintaining structural integrity during routine handling.
• Integrated M6 female thread on the underside enables secure mounting to universal lab stands or custom fixtures without external clamps or adapters.
• USB 2.0 interface supports bidirectional communication with IKA’s Labworldsoft software suite for remote parameter setting, firmware updates, and audit-ready configuration logging—aligned with GLP-compliant documentation practices.
• Energy-efficient design with only 0.8 W standby power consumption and full compliance with IEC 62301 Ed. 2.0 (household and similar electrical appliances – measurement of standby power).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KMO 3 basic accommodates standard cylindrical and conical vessels up to 5 L capacity when using appropriately sized stir bars (20–80 mm length). It is validated for use with common laboratory solvents, buffers, and dilute aqueous solutions at ambient temperature. The device conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP42 ingress protection), ensuring resistance to vertically falling drops and solid objects ≥1 mm. Electrical safety complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory equipment. While not equipped with active heating, its glass plate exhibits minimal self-heating (+2 K after 1 h at 22 °C ambient), making it suitable for temperature-sensitive protocols where passive thermal drift must remain below ±0.5 K over short-duration experiments.

Software & Data Management

Through the optional Labworldsoft platform (v4.0+), users can configure speed profiles, enable/disable auto-reversal, adjust display brightness remotely, and export timestamped operation logs—including start/stop events, speed setpoints, and USB connection status. Firmware updates preserve calibration integrity and are performed via signed binary packages, supporting traceability requirements under ISO/IEC 17025 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with appropriate user access controls and electronic signature modules.

Applications

• Preparation of standard solutions and calibration standards in analytical chemistry labs.
• Homogenization of cell culture media prior to sterile filtration.
• Blending of reagents for titration or colorimetric assays.
• Supporting dissolution testing per USP <711> when used with fixed-speed protocols and documented stir bar geometry.
• Teaching demonstrations of fluid dynamics, mass transfer, and mixing efficiency in undergraduate physical chemistry laboratories.

FAQ

Does the KMO 3 basic include a heating function?
No. This model is a non-heated magnetic stirrer. For combined stirring and heating, consider the IKA RCT basic or HS 7 digital series.
Can the USB interface be used for real-time data acquisition?
No. The USB port supports only configuration commands and firmware updates—not continuous telemetry or analog output streaming.
Is the glass surface resistant to hydrofluoric acid or strong alkalis?
The tempered soda-lime glass surface is resistant to most common lab chemicals but is not compatible with HF, hot concentrated NaOH/KOH, or molten alkali metals.
What stir bar lengths are recommended for optimal torque transmission at 1500 rpm?
For maximum efficiency and minimal wobble, use 40–60 mm stir bars with diameters ≥6 mm in vessels ≥100 mL volume.
How is speed accuracy verified during factory calibration?
Each unit undergoes rotational speed validation using a traceable optical tachometer referenced to NIST-traceable standards, with results recorded in the device-specific calibration certificate shipped with the instrument.