IKA C-MAG MS 4 Magnetic Stirrer
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | IKA Werke GmbH & Co. KG |
| Type | Magnetic Stirrer |
| Model | C-MAG MS 4 |
| Maximum Stirring Volume (H₂O) | 5 L |
| Speed Range | 100–1500 rpm |
| Drive Power | 1.5 W |
| Input Power | 30 W |
| Plate Material | Ceramic |
| Plate Dimensions | 100 × 100 mm |
| Unit Dimensions | 150 × 105 × 260 mm |
| Weight | 3 kg |
| Ambient Temperature Range | 5–40 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | 80 % |
| Protection Class | IP21 (per DIN EN 60529) |
| Voltage | 230 / 120 / 100 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Rotation Direction | Clockwise |
| Speed Control | Analog dial (0–6 scale) |
| Display | LED speed indicator |
Overview
The IKA C-MAG MS 4 is a compact, high-reliability magnetic stirrer engineered for precision mixing in routine laboratory workflows. It operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated beneath a non-magnetic ceramic plate to drive PTFE- or glass-coated stirring bars immersed in liquid samples. Designed for consistent torque delivery across viscosity ranges—from low-viscosity aqueous solutions to moderately viscous organic media—the unit integrates a brushless DC motor with microprocessor-based speed regulation. This closed-loop control system continuously monitors rotational feedback to maintain set speed within ±5% deviation under load, ensuring reproducible agitation conditions essential for dissolution testing, buffer preparation, reagent homogenization, and sample conditioning prior to analysis.
Key Features
- Ceramic heating-free plate (100 × 100 mm) fabricated via monolithic sintering—chemically inert to strong acids, bases, and solvents; resistant to thermal shock and scratching
- Elevated control panel design minimizes risk of liquid ingress during operation and improves ergonomics for visual speed monitoring and manual adjustment
- High-strength neodymium magnet array ensures stable coupling with stirring bars up to 80 mm length, eliminating “jumping” even at 1500 rpm or in vessels with slight bottom curvature
- Analog speed dial (0–6) with LED digital readout provides intuitive, tactile speed selection without software dependency or calibration drift
- Robust mechanical architecture: aluminum die-cast housing, vibration-damped feet, and IP21-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529 for protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm
- Universal voltage compatibility (100 / 120 / 230 V) and dual-frequency support (50/60 Hz) enable seamless deployment across global laboratory infrastructures without external transformers
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The C-MAG MS 4 supports standard laboratory glassware including beakers (50–1000 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks, and cylindrical vessels up to 5 L capacity when filled with water-equivalent media. Its magnetic coupling efficiency remains stable with common stir bar geometries (e.g., cross-shaped, oval, and micro stir bars ≥20 mm). While not equipped with integrated temperature control, the unit is routinely deployed in ambient-conditioned environments (5–40 °C) meeting ISO/IEC 17025 general requirements for equipment operating conditions. The ceramic plate surface complies with USP guidance on material compatibility for analytical sample preparation systems. All electrical components conform to IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment.
Software & Data Management
As a standalone analog-controlled instrument, the C-MAG MS 4 does not incorporate embedded firmware, network connectivity, or data logging capabilities. It requires no software installation, driver configuration, or cybersecurity validation—making it suitable for GLP- and GMP-regulated environments where audit trails must remain independent of electronic records. Speed settings are manually recorded in lab notebooks or integrated into paper-based SOPs. Its simplicity eliminates risks associated with firmware updates, authentication failures, or timestamp discrepancies, aligning with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles for instruments used in non-critical, non-record-keeping applications.
Applications
- Pre-analytical sample homogenization for HPLC mobile phase preparation, titrant standardization, and ICP-MS dilution series
- Cell culture media conditioning and pH-adjustment steps requiring gentle yet uniform mixing
- Synthesis reaction monitoring setups where external heating is provided by separate hotplates or oil baths
- Quality control laboratories performing USP disintegration testing or ASTM D445 kinematic viscosity sample equilibration
- Teaching labs emphasizing fundamental principles of fluid dynamics, magnetic coupling, and open-loop vs. closed-loop motor control
FAQ
Does the C-MAG MS 4 include a temperature sensor or heating function?
No. It is a magnetic stirrer only, with no integrated heating element or temperature probe.
Can it operate continuously for extended periods?
Yes—designed for unattended operation up to 24 hours under nominal load (≤5 L water, ≤1200 rpm), provided ambient conditions remain within specified limits (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH).
Is the ceramic plate resistant to hydrofluoric acid (HF)?
No. While highly resistant to most mineral and organic acids, standard IKA ceramic plates are not HF-compatible; alternative PTFE-coated plates or specialized models are recommended for HF handling.
What stir bar length is optimal for maximum torque transfer at 1500 rpm?
A 60–80 mm cross-type stir bar with PTFE coating delivers optimal coupling stability and vortex formation in 1–5 L volumes.
Does the unit meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for use near sensitive instrumentation?
Yes—it complies with EN 61326-1:2013 for laboratory equipment EMC, minimizing radiated and conducted emissions that could interfere with balances, pipettes, or spectrophotometers.
