IKA T 18 Digital ULTRA-TURRAX® High-Speed Disperser

Overview

The IKA T 18 Digital ULTRA-TURRAX® is a high-performance, digitally controlled high-speed disperser engineered for precise and reproducible homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, and particle size reduction in laboratory-scale batch processes. Based on the proven ULTRA-TURRAX® principle—rotor-stator mechanical shear—the instrument generates intense hydrodynamic forces through high peripheral tip speeds, enabling efficient deagglomeration of powders, stabilization of suspensions, and formation of fine emulsions. Its compact benchtop design integrates a robust 300 W output motor with electronic speed regulation, delivering consistent torque across the full 3000–25,000 rpm range. Unlike analog or stepped-speed alternatives, the T 18 Digital employs real-time LED-based digital speed feedback and microprocessor-controlled acceleration profiles, minimizing mechanical stress on samples and ensuring repeatable process conditions critical for method development and QC workflows.

Key Features

• Digital LED speed display with ±1 % accuracy and continuous electronic speed control—no manual calibration required
• Electronic overload protection circuitry prevents motor damage during high-viscosity or stalled-rotor conditions
• Quick-release stainless-steel dispersing tools (S-shaped and saw-tooth geometries) designed for tool-free cleaning and sterilization compatibility
• Two sizes of disposable dispersing tools (S10N-G45 and S18N-G45) available to eliminate cross-contamination in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical R&D, clinical diagnostics)
• Integrated error code system (e.g., E1 = overtemperature, E2 = overload, E3 = sensor fault) supports rapid troubleshooting and audit-ready documentation
• Acoustically optimized housing reduces operational noise to 75 dB(A) without dispersing head—ideal for shared lab spaces requiring low ambient disturbance
• IP20-rated enclosure meets basic electrical safety requirements for indoor laboratory use per DIN EN 60529
• 100 % duty cycle rating allows uninterrupted operation for extended batch processing without thermal throttling

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The T 18 Digital accommodates sample volumes from 1 mL to 1500 mL (water-equivalent), supporting aqueous, organic, and mildly corrosive media up to 5000 mPa·s viscosity. Its rotor-stator geometry enables effective processing of pigments, nanomaterials, polymer dispersions, biological tissue homogenates, and pharmaceutical suspensions. While not certified for GMP manufacturing, the device complies with general laboratory safety standards including DIN EN 61010-1 (electrical safety) and supports GLP-aligned documentation when used with validated protocols. The availability of autoclavable and disposable tools facilitates compliance with ISO 17025 traceability requirements for testing laboratories and aligns with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles when integrated into electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems that capture speed logs and error events.

Software & Data Management

The T 18 Digital operates as a standalone instrument without proprietary software dependency. All operational parameters—including set speed, actual speed, runtime, and fault codes—are displayed locally via the front-panel LED interface. For integration into automated data capture workflows, users may log speed settings and observed behavior manually or via external time-stamped video recording. Though no USB or RS-232 interface is provided, the unit’s deterministic speed response and error-code transparency support retrospective validation of process consistency—a prerequisite for method transfer between labs or internal SOP documentation. When paired with IKA’s optional Labworldsoft™ (v5.0+) via compatible controllers, the T 18 Digital can be included in centralized equipment monitoring dashboards for preventive maintenance scheduling.

Applications

• Preparation of stable pigment dispersions for coating and ink formulation
• Homogenization of cell lysates and tissue extracts prior to protein quantification or nucleic acid isolation
• Dispersion of carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, and metal oxide nanoparticles in polymer matrices
• Routine emulsification of oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems for cosmetic and food science research
• Deagglomeration of ceramic and pharmaceutical excipient powders in wet milling pre-studies
• QC testing of suspension uniformity per USP and Ph. Eur. 2.9.30

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended operating time for continuous use?
The T 18 Digital is rated for 100 % duty cycle; it may operate continuously without enforced cooldown periods under standard ambient conditions (23 °C, ≤60 % RH).
Can the dispersing tools be autoclaved?
Yes—stainless-steel tools (e.g., S18N-G45) are fully autoclavable at 121 °C / 2 bar for 20 minutes. Verify tool integrity post-sterilization using visual inspection for blade deformation or corrosion.
Is the device compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
The T 18 Digital itself does not provide electronic signature or audit-trail functionality. However, its deterministic behavior, error logging, and compatibility with ELNs enable Part 11–compliant usage when embedded in a validated broader data governance framework.
What viscosity range is supported with standard dispersing tools?
Up to 5000 mPa·s using the S18N-G45 tool at ≥10,000 rpm. For higher viscosities, reduce volume or select larger-diameter tools (e.g., IKA S25N series) compatible with the T 25 Digital platform.
Does the unit include a stand or clamp?
No—the T 18 Digital is supplied as a handheld unit only. A separate universal stand (e.g., IKA SR 25) or custom clamping solution is required for hands-free fixed-position operation.