IKA KS 130 basic Orbital Shaker
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | IKA Werke GmbH & Co. KG |
| Model | KS 130 basic |
| Timer Range | 5–50 min |
| Oscillation Speed | 0–800 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 4 mm |
| Maximum Load Capacity (incl. clamp) | 2.0 kg |
| Power Input | 45 W |
| Motor Output | 10 W |
| Operating Mode | Timed or Continuous |
| Display | LED for speed and time |
| Protection Rating | IP21 |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 270 × 98 × 316 mm |
| Weight | 8.8 kg |
| Ambient Temperature Range | 5–50 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | ≤80 % |
| Voltage | 220–240 V / 100–120 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Compliance | DIN EN 60529 |
Overview
The IKA KS 130 basic is a compact, microprocessor-controlled orbital shaker engineered for reliable, low-maintenance operation in life science laboratories. It employs a brushless DC motor coupled with an eccentric drive mechanism to generate smooth, consistent circular motion—ideal for applications requiring gentle yet effective mixing of liquid samples in tubes, flasks, and microplates. With a fixed 4 mm orbit diameter and speed control across a broad 0–800 rpm range, the unit delivers high reproducibility in suspension homogenization, cell culture maintenance, staining protocols, and reagent preparation. Its robust aluminum housing, precision-balanced drive train, and optimized thermal management support continuous-duty operation under standard ambient conditions (5–50 °C), making it suitable for both benchtop incubator integration and standalone use in QC, academic, and bioprocessing environments.
Key Features
- Brushless DC motor ensuring long service life, minimal vibration, and low acoustic emission (<50 dB(A) at 500 rpm)
- Microprocessor-based control system with real-time LED display of set and actual speed and timer status
- Two operating modes: programmable timed operation (5–50 minutes) or indefinite continuous run
- Stable platform design with integrated anti-slip rubber feet and reinforced mounting interface for secure attachment of optional clamps
- IP21-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529, providing protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture
- Universal dual-voltage input (100–120 V / 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz) enabling global deployment without external transformers
- Energy-efficient architecture: 10 W mechanical output from 45 W electrical input, minimizing heat dissipation and operational cost
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KS 130 basic accommodates standard laboratory vessels—including 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 250 mL), and 96-well microplates—when paired with IKA-certified clamps (sold separately). Its 2.0 kg maximum load capacity includes clamp mass, allowing stable operation even with partially filled multi-vessel configurations. The device meets essential safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements per DIN EN 61326-1 (laboratory equipment) and conforms to RoHS and WEEE directives. While not intrinsically rated for sterile or regulated GMP environments, its cleanable surface finish and absence of lubricants or consumable wear parts support routine decontamination protocols required in GLP-aligned workflows.
Software & Data Management
The KS 130 basic operates as a stand-alone instrument without proprietary software or connectivity interfaces. All parameter inputs and status feedback are managed locally via tactile rotary encoder and dual-line LED display. No data logging, remote control, or audit trail functionality is provided—consistent with its designation as a basic-grade orbital shaker intended for non-critical, routine mixing tasks. For labs requiring electronic recordkeeping or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, IKA recommends pairing this unit with external environmental monitoring systems or upgrading to the KS 4000i control series, which supports USB data export and password-protected parameter locking.
Applications
- Cell suspension maintenance during transient incubation steps prior to centrifugation or passaging
- Antibody and antigen incubation in ELISA and Western blotting workflows
- Homogenization of bacterial cultures in LB or TB media for OD600 measurement consistency
- Equilibration of pH-sensitive buffers and enzyme reaction mixtures
- Staining and washing steps in histology and immunofluorescence protocols
- Pre-analytical sample agitation in clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics preparation zones
FAQ
Is the KS 130 basic compatible with incubators?
Yes—the unit’s compact footprint (270 × 98 × 316 mm), low heat generation, and ambient temperature tolerance up to 50 °C allow safe placement inside non-humidified CO2-free incubators. However, verify internal airflow patterns to prevent localized cooling of the motor housing.
What clamps are recommended for microcentrifuge tubes?
IKA part numbers 0002230000 (universal tube holder, 0.2–50 mL) and 0002230001 (96-well plate adapter) are validated for use with the KS 130 basic. Clamp selection must account for total loaded mass not exceeding 2.0 kg.
Does the timer support repeat cycling?
No—the built-in timer functions as a single-cycle countdown; it does not auto-restart or support multi-step programs. For repetitive timing sequences, external programmable timers or lab automation controllers are required.
Can the unit operate continuously for extended periods?
Yes—rated for 100% duty cycle under specified ambient conditions. Long-term continuous operation at speeds above 600 rpm may reduce average motor lifetime; periodic inspection of drive belt tension (if applicable) and platform stability is advised.
Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?
No factory calibration certificate is included. As a Class A general-purpose shaker per ISO 8573-1, performance verification (e.g., speed accuracy ±3 rpm, timer deviation <±1%) should be conducted upon installation using traceable tachometry and stopwatch methods per internal SOPs.
