IKA ROLLER 10 basic 10-Axis Rolling Mixer

Overview

The IKA ROLLER 10 basic is a precision-engineered 10-axis rolling mixer designed for gentle, consistent homogenization of sensitive biological and chemical samples in laboratory and bioprocessing environments. Unlike orbital shakers or vortex mixers, this device employs a controlled rocking-and-rolling motion—characterized by a fixed 3° tilt angle and continuous unidirectional rotation—to induce laminar, low-shear mixing without foaming, phase separation, or cell damage. Its mechanical architecture follows the Couette-type flow principle, where sample containers rotate along parallel axes while maintaining constant angular orientation relative to gravity, ensuring uniform suspension of particulates and stable emulsions over extended periods. The unit is specifically validated for uninterrupted operation inside incubators (4–50 °C), making it ideal for applications requiring temperature-stable agitation during cell culture maintenance, antigen-antibody binding, or long-term solubilization protocols.

Key Features

• 10 independently mounted, removable rolling axes with standardized 32 mm diameter and 327 mm length—compatible with common cylindrical vessels including 13–50 mL conical tubes, serum bottles, and glass vials;
• Fixed rotational speed of 30 rpm ensures reproducible shear profiles across experiments and eliminates variability introduced by speed adjustment;
• Robust aluminum alloy chassis and IP21-rated enclosure provide resistance to incidental splashes and dust ingress in shared lab environments;
• Modular roll assembly allows rapid disassembly for decontamination—critical for GLP-compliant workflows handling biohazardous or cross-contamination-sensitive samples;
• Low-power 24 W DC drive system enables stable thermal output and silent operation, minimizing heat transfer to temperature-sensitive samples during incubator use;
• Compact footprint (380 × 115 × 545 mm) and lightweight design (8.242 kg) support flexible placement on benchtops, inside CO₂ incubators, or on mobile carts;
• No timer or digital display—intentionally simplified interface reduces electromagnetic interference risks and supports regulatory traceability in validated environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ROLLER 10 basic accommodates standard tube formats used across clinical diagnostics, molecular biology, and pharmaceutical development—including polypropylene, polycarbonate, and borosilicate glass containers up to 50 mL volume. Its 3° oscillation angle generates optimal gravitational displacement for red blood cell resuspension, polymer dissolution, and viscous reagent blending without bubble formation. The device conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP21) for protection against vertically falling solid objects and light moisture exposure. While not equipped with electronic audit trails, its passive mechanical design aligns with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 guidance for non-computerized systems in GMP settings—particularly where manual log entries and equipment calibration records are maintained per SOP.

Software & Data Management

This instrument operates as a standalone electromechanical system with no embedded firmware, network connectivity, or software interface. All operational parameters—including fixed 30 rpm speed, continuous duty cycle, and ambient temperature tolerance—are mechanically governed and require no configuration. Consequently, no software validation, cybersecurity controls, or data export functionality is applicable. For laboratories implementing computerized system validation (CSV), the ROLLER 10 basic qualifies as a “non-configurable, hardwired device” under ISPE GAMP 5 Category 1, eliminating requirements for electronic record review or change control documentation related to firmware updates.

Applications

• Resuspension of sedimented erythrocytes and leukocyte pellets in clinical hematology;
• Homogenization of high-viscosity buffers containing glycerol, sucrose, or methylcellulose for cryopreservation protocols;
• Antigen-antibody incubation in ELISA and lateral flow assay development;
• Long-duration solubilization of lyophilized proteins or recombinant enzymes prior to activity assays;
• Stabilization of colloidal suspensions in nanomedicine formulation studies;
• Continuous agitation of bacterial cultures in baffled flasks during stationary-phase metabolite harvesting.

FAQ

Is the ROLLER 10 basic suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?

Yes—the unit is rated for continuous operation within ambient temperatures of 4–50 °C and relative humidity up to 80 %, meeting standard incubator environmental specifications.
Can the rolling axes be sterilized using autoclaving?

No—axes are not autoclavable due to integrated bearings and polymer bushings; however, they may be cleaned with 70 % ethanol or validated disinfectants and air-dried.
Does the device comply with ISO 13485 or USP ?

While not certified to these standards, its construction materials, cleanability, and absence of electronic contamination sources support integration into ISO 13485 quality systems and USP compounding environments when used per facility SOPs.
What is the maximum recommended load per axis?

IKA specifies a maximum total mass of 2 kg distributed evenly across all 10 axes; exceeding this may affect mechanical longevity and angular consistency.
Is there an optional timer or speed controller available?

No—ROLLER 10 basic is intentionally offered as a fixed-speed, timer-free platform; alternative models such as ROLLER 6 or ROLLER 10 pro include programmable functions but differ in mechanical architecture and compliance scope.