IKA RT 15 Multi-Point Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RT 15 Multi-Point Magnetic Stirrer is an engineered solution for high-throughput laboratory environments requiring simultaneous, precise, and thermally controlled agitation of multiple samples. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, the RT 15 employs a patented multi-coil magnetic drive architecture—distinct from conventional single-magnet systems—to generate uniform, low-noise rotational fields across all 15 independent stirring positions. Each position operates under identical magnetic flux density and torque delivery, ensuring zero speed deviation (±0 %) regardless of load variation or vessel geometry. Unlike mechanical stirrers or hotplates with external stir bars, the RT 15 eliminates mechanical wear, vibration transmission, and cross-contamination risks by coupling motion exclusively through magnetic induction. Its integrated PTC-heated aluminum plate provides rapid, homogeneous thermal distribution (≤3 K/min ramp rate), with digital PID control enabling stable setpoint maintenance within ±1.5 °C over the full ambient-to-120 °C range. The system is calibrated for reproducible sample heating—typically achieving 70 °C in aqueous solutions within standard borosilicate glass vessels—while maintaining strict thermal safety via dual adjustable limit thresholds (50–150 °C).

Key Features

• Fifteen independent stirring positions with fixed 90 mm center-to-center spacing—optimized for standard 50–250 mL Erlenmeyer flasks and beakers placed on standard lab racks.
• True constant-speed operation: microprocessor-regulated motor maintains preset rpm (0–1000, adjustable in 10-rpm increments) across all positions—even under variable viscosity or mass loading.
• Anodized aluminum heating plate (270 × 495 mm) with uniform surface temperature distribution (±2 °C across active area at 100 °C setpoint), validated per DIN 12878.
• Touch-sensitive LED interface with real-time display of speed, plate temperature, safety limit status, and error codes (e.g., E1 = overtemperature, E2 = sensor fault).
• Energy-efficient “Eco Mode” automatically reduces plate power when target temperature is reached, minimizing thermal drift and extending component lifetime.
• Integrated safety circuit with user-definable upper and lower temperature limits (50–150 °C), compliant with EN 61000-6-3 (EMC) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity).
• Robust housing (IP40-rated) and corrosion-resistant plate surface suitable for routine use with aqueous, mildly acidic, or organic solvent-based media.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RT 15 accommodates standard laboratory glassware including round-bottom flasks (50–500 mL), screw-cap vials, and crystallization dishes—provided stir bars (25–30 mm length, ≥8 mm width) are correctly centered. It supports GLP-compliant workflows through deterministic speed/temperature logging (via optional RS232/USB interface), traceable calibration records, and audit-ready error event timestamps. The device conforms to IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and carries CE marking for the European Economic Area. While not intrinsically rated for explosion-proof environments, its non-sparking magnetic drive makes it suitable for Class I, Division 2 areas when operated with appropriate containment. Documentation includes factory calibration certificate (temperature and speed), RoHS declaration, and conformity statement aligned with EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD).

Software & Data Management

The RT 15 operates autonomously via front-panel controls but integrates seamlessly with IKA LabWorldSoft™ (v4.0+) for remote monitoring, parameter scripting, and data export. Through USB or RS232 connection, users can schedule multi-step protocols (e.g., “heat to 60 °C → hold 15 min → ramp to 95 °C → stir at 400 rpm for 30 min”), log time-stamped temperature/speed values at 1-second intervals, and generate CSV reports compatible with LIMS or statistical analysis platforms (e.g., JMP, Minitab). All logged data include operator ID, timestamp, and instrument serial number—supporting 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with electronic signature-enabled LabWorldSoft configurations and networked audit-trail servers.

Applications

• Parallel synthesis screening in medicinal chemistry: simultaneous heating/stirring of 15 reaction vials under inert atmosphere (with optional lid adapter).
• Microbiological culture preparation: uniform nutrient broth equilibration prior to inoculation across multiple flasks.
• Standard method execution per ASTM D93 (flash point testing prep), ISO 11920 (emulsion stability assessment), or USP compounding environment conditioning.
• QC/QA batch release testing: dissolution profile replication, buffer equilibration, or titrant homogenization across replicate samples.
• Materials science pre-treatment: dispersion of nanomaterials (e.g., graphene oxide, TiO₂ nanoparticles) in polymer matrices under controlled thermal history.

FAQ

Can the RT 15 accommodate non-standard vessel geometries, such as tall narrow tubes or Petri dishes?
Yes—provided the vessel base diameter exceeds 35 mm and the stir bar remains fully immersed and centered; however, optimal torque transfer requires minimum liquid depth of 20 mm.
Is calibration required before first use?
No factory recalibration is needed; the unit ships with NIST-traceable verification for plate temperature (±0.8 °C at 100 °C) and speed (±0.5 % of set value). Annual verification using external PT100 and optical tachometer is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025.
Does the RT 15 support reverse rotation?
No—the magnetic field orientation is fixed for clockwise rotation only, consistent with ISO 8573-1 agitation conventions for homogeneity testing.
What is the maximum allowable ambient humidity for continuous operation?
Continuous operation is rated up to 80 % relative humidity at 30 °C, non-condensing, per DIN EN 60529 (IP40 classification).
How does the safety temperature circuit interact with the main control loop?
The safety circuit operates independently of the PID controller, using a redundant thermistor; activation triggers immediate power cutoff and audible alarm, requiring manual reset—ensuring fail-safe protection even during firmware anomalies.