IKA KS501 digital Orbital Shaker

Overview

The IKA KS501 digital orbital shaker is an engineered platform for precise, reproducible circular motion in laboratory applications requiring gentle yet consistent agitation of samples in flat-bottomed or conical vessels—particularly separatory funnels, Petri dishes, multi-well plates, and wide-mouth bottles. Based on the Couette-type orbital drive principle, it generates a uniform 30 mm diameter circular motion at speeds adjustable from 0 to 300 rpm with digital resolution and real-time LED feedback. Designed for continuous-duty operation under full load, the unit features a robust brushless DC motor and thermally optimized housing, enabling uninterrupted performance over extended periods without thermal derating. Its low-profile footprint (120 mm height) and expansive 505 × 585 mm platform maximize stability and accommodate oversized or multiple sample containers simultaneously—up to a total mass of 15 kg including fixtures. The device operates without integrated temperature control, positioning it as a dedicated ambient-temperature orbital agitator suited for cell suspension, solubility testing, ELISA plate washing prep, and reagent homogenization workflows.

Key Features

• Digital speed control with LED seven-segment display for real-time rpm readout and intuitive parameter entry
• Precise 30 mm orbit diameter ensuring homogeneous mixing across large surface-area vessels
• Continuous-duty rated motor (19 W output, 74 W input) with 100% duty cycle capability—even at maximum load
• Integrated RS 232 and USB interfaces for remote operation, protocol scripting, and audit-ready data logging
• Programmable timer with 1–55 minute range and dual-mode operation: timed run or indefinite continuous mode
• IP21-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529, providing protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm
• Universal power supply (100–230 V, 50/60 Hz) supporting global lab infrastructure without external transformers

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KS501 digital accommodates a broad range of vessel geometries—including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), separatory funnels (up to 4 L), standard Petri dishes, 96-well microplates (with optional plate clamps), and custom trays—provided total mass remains within the 15 kg limit. Its flat, non-perforated platform allows direct placement of containers without adapters, minimizing vibration transmission loss. The system complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP21), meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, and supports GLP/GMP-aligned documentation when used with validated interface software. While not intrinsically explosion-proof, its non-sparking motor design and absence of internal heating elements make it suitable for use in standard chemical and biological laboratories per ISO 15190:2020 guidelines.

Software & Data Management

Via its native RS 232 and USB ports, the KS501 digital integrates seamlessly with IKA Labworldsoft® v5.x or third-party SCADA/LIMS systems using ASCII-based command protocols (e.g., “SPEED=240”, “START”, “STOP”). All parameter changes, start/stop events, and runtime logs are timestamped and exportable in CSV format—enabling traceability required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records when paired with appropriate user access controls and audit trail configuration. Firmware updates are performed via USB, and configuration profiles can be saved/restored to ensure method consistency across instruments and shifts.

Applications

• Homogenization of cell suspensions and bacterial cultures prior to centrifugation or plating
• Extraction kinetics in solvent-based separation protocols (e.g., liquid–liquid extraction using separatory funnels)
• Pre-incubation mixing of immunoassay reagents and antibody conjugates
• Coating uniformity enhancement in thin-film preparation workflows
• Standardized agitation during dissolution testing per USP and Ph. Eur. 2.9.3 (when combined with validated vessels and environmental monitoring)
• Environmental sample preparation for heavy metal leaching studies (EPA Method 1311)

FAQ

Does the KS501 digital include clamps or vessel holders?
No—clamps, universal platforms, and specialized fixtures (e.g., flask holders, microplate carriers) are sold separately as optional accessories.
Can the shaker be operated inside a cold room or incubator?
Yes, provided ambient conditions remain within the specified operating range: 5–50 °C and ≤80 % relative humidity (non-condensing).
Is the timer programmable in seconds or only minutes?
The built-in timer is calibrated in 1-minute increments; finer temporal resolution requires external control via RS 232 or USB scripting.
What safety certifications does the unit carry?
It bears CE marking, conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP21), and satisfies EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and RoHS 2011/65/EU requirements.
How is calibration verified for regulatory compliance?
IKA provides factory calibration certificates (traceable to national standards); users may perform speed verification using an external tachometer or optical sensor—recommended annually or per internal QA schedule.