IKA MICROSTAR 15 control Overhead Stirrer

Overview

The IKA MICROSTAR 15 control is a high-precision, microprocessor-controlled overhead stirrer engineered for demanding laboratory mixing and dispersion tasks requiring consistent torque delivery, thermal monitoring, and long-term operational stability. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, it operates on the principle of direct-drive brushless DC motor technology—eliminating carbon brush wear and ensuring maintenance-free performance over extended service life. Its compact footprint (60 × 173 × 136 mm) integrates full digital control logic, real-time torque sensing, and integrated temperature feedback via PT1000-compatible probes—making it suitable for applications ranging from low-viscosity aqueous solutions to highly viscous polymer melts and thermally sensitive reaction mixtures. Unlike conventional benchtop stirrers, the MICROSTAR 15 control delivers closed-loop speed regulation across its entire 30–1000 rpm range, with ±1 rpm accuracy above 300 rpm and ±3 rpm below—critical for reproducible shear history in rheological protocols or crystallization studies.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor with 22 W continuous output power and 15 N·cm maximum torque—optimized for stable operation under variable load conditions up to 20,000 mPa·s viscosity
• LCD display showing real-time values for speed (rpm), torque (N·cm), elapsed time (min), and measured temperature (°C/K) with 0.1 K resolution
• Integrated PT1000 temperature sensor interface supporting external probe connection; temperature measurement accuracy complies with DIN IEC 751 Class A (±0.5 K) and overall deviation ≤ ±(0.15 + 0.002×|T|) K
• Dual communication interfaces: USB port for parameter logging, firmware updates, and remote configuration via IKA Labworldsoft® software; Bluetooth module for wireless pairing with mobile devices and tablet-based control
• Vibration detection algorithm that triggers automatic shutdown upon abnormal mechanical resonance—preventing damage to drive shafts, vessels, or samples
• IP54-rated enclosure combining die-cast aluminum housing with chemically resistant thermoplastic polymer coating—ensuring durability in corrosive fume hood environments
• Key-lock function (mechanical button lock) and programmable timer (0–6000 min) supporting unattended operation under GLP-compliant workflows

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MICROSTAR 15 control accommodates standard laboratory glassware including round-bottom flasks (up to 5 L), jacketed reactors, and custom reaction vessels equipped with standardized stirrer ports (e.g., ISO-KF 25/35). Its hollow shaft design (8.5 mm internal diameter) allows simultaneous insertion of temperature probes, pH electrodes, or sampling needles without disassembly. The device meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1 and safety standards per EN 61010-1. Its construction and documentation support audit readiness for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories and align with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity expectations when used with validated Labworldsoft® configurations—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access controls.

Software & Data Management

IKA Labworldsoft® serves as the primary platform for advanced control, data acquisition, and reporting. Through USB or Bluetooth connectivity, users can configure multi-step stirring profiles (e.g., ramp-and-hold speed sequences), log timestamped torque and temperature datasets at user-defined intervals, and export CSV-formatted records compatible with LIMS integration. Firmware updates are delivered digitally and verified cryptographically to maintain system integrity. All logged parameters—including speed setpoint deviations, torque overshoot events, and thermal drift metrics—are stored with immutable timestamps and operator IDs, satisfying traceability requirements for GMP and GLP environments.

Applications

• Controlled synthesis of nanomaterials and colloidal dispersions where shear rate uniformity directly impacts particle size distribution
• Viscosity-dependent reaction kinetics in pharmaceutical intermediate manufacturing (e.g., esterification, amidation)
• Thermal profiling during polymerization processes using inline temperature feedback to modulate agitation intensity
• Stabilization testing of emulsions and suspensions under accelerated aging conditions (e.g., 40 °C/75% RH)
• Preparation of culture media and buffer solutions in microbiology and cell biology labs requiring precise homogenization without foaming
• Calibration verification of rotational viscometers using standardized reference oils under controlled shear histories

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended vessel volume for this stirrer?

The MICROSTAR 15 control is rated for up to 5 L of water-equivalent mixing volume under standard conditions; actual capacity depends on fluid density, viscosity, and impeller geometry.
Can the device operate continuously for 24 hours?

Yes—it supports 100% duty cycle operation within ambient temperature limits (5–40 °C) and relative humidity ≤80%, provided adequate ventilation and mechanical coupling integrity are maintained.
Is the PT1000 temperature sensor included with the unit?

No—the PT1000 probe is optional and must be ordered separately; however, the stirrer provides full electrical and mechanical compatibility with all standard IKA and third-party Class A PT1000 sensors.
Does the USB interface support direct connection to a networked lab computer?

Yes—USB connection enables plug-and-play recognition as a virtual COM port, allowing seamless integration into existing laboratory networks when paired with Labworldsoft® server deployment.
How is calibration traceability established for torque and speed measurements?

Torque and speed transducers are factory-calibrated against national metrology institute-traceable standards; calibration certificates (including uncertainty budgets) are available upon request for ISO/IEC 17025 compliance documentation.