CZGY SZ-1 Compact Vortex Mixer

Overview

The CZGY SZ-1 Compact Vortex Mixer is a benchtop vortex agitation device engineered for rapid, consistent, and reproducible mixing of small-volume liquid samples in standard test tubes. It operates on the principle of orbital eccentric motion generated by a high-torque DC motor driving a rotating eccentric cam assembly coupled with a resilient polyurethane foam head. This mechanical design induces vigorous circular motion at the base of vertically positioned tubes, creating controlled turbulence and efficient homogenization without requiring caps to be loosened or samples to be removed from containment. The mixer is optimized for applications where speed, footprint efficiency, and energy conservation are critical—particularly in clinical laboratories, quality control workflows, academic teaching labs, and bioprocessing support environments. Its fixed-speed architecture ensures operational simplicity and long-term mechanical stability, making it suitable for routine, high-frequency use across diverse life science disciplines.

Key Features

• High-efficiency DC motor delivering stable 3200 rpm (53.3 Hz) rotational output with minimal thermal drift and low acoustic emission
• Compact footprint (≤150 × 120 × 130 mm) designed for space-constrained lab benches and biosafety cabinets
• Dual-density polyurethane foam head engineered for secure tube retention and uniform force transmission across common tube geometries (e.g., 12–18 mm OD)
• Low-power consumption (30 W nominal) compliant with IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic current emission standards
• Continuous-duty rated for up to 4 hours of uninterrupted operation under ambient conditions (15–30 °C, <80% RH)
• Single-platform configuration with non-slip rubberized base and integrated power switch with LED status indicator
• Mechanically robust housing constructed from impact-resistant ABS polymer with IP20-rated electrical enclosure

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SZ-1 accommodates standard cylindrical glass or plastic test tubes with outer diameters ranging from 12 mm to 21 mm and lengths up to 200 mm—including common formats such as 13 × 100 mm, 16 × 125 mm, and 18 × 150 mm. It is not intended for use with microcentrifuge tubes (<0.5 mL), conical-bottom vials, or pressurized containers. While the device does not incorporate temperature regulation or programmable timing, its mechanical performance meets baseline functional requirements outlined in ISO 8573-1:2010 (compressed air purity) for ancillary lab equipment and aligns with general laboratory safety practices per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Annex A.3 for instrument suitability assessment. No CE, UL, or FDA 510(k) certification is claimed; users are advised to validate performance against internal SOPs prior to regulated use.

Software & Data Management

The CZGY SZ-1 is a standalone analog instrument with no embedded microcontroller, digital interface, or data logging capability. It lacks USB, RS-232, Bluetooth, or Ethernet connectivity and does not support remote control, audit trail generation, or electronic record keeping per FDA 21 CFR Part 11. As such, it is classified as a Class I general-purpose laboratory device under ISO 13485:2016 Annex C. Documentation includes a printed user manual with maintenance instructions, electrical specifications (220 V ±10%, 50 Hz), and mechanical replacement guidance for the foam head assembly. All calibration and verification activities must be performed manually using external tachometers and visual inspection protocols aligned with GLP principles.

Applications

• Rapid resuspension of lyophilized reagents, cell pellets, and precipitated nucleic acids in molecular biology workflows
• Homogenization of immunoassay diluents, ELISA plate sample preps, and hematology controls
• Pre-analytical mixing of clinical specimens (serum, plasma, urine) prior to centrifugation or automated analyzer loading
• Dispersion of nanoparticles, colloidal suspensions, and dye solutions in materials characterization studies
• Student-level demonstrations of fluid dynamics, viscosity-dependent mixing behavior, and kinetic energy transfer in undergraduate biochemistry labs
• Support function in GMP-adjacent environments where traceable automation is unnecessary but mechanical consistency is required

FAQ

What tube sizes are compatible with the SZ-1?
Standard round-bottom or flat-bottom test tubes with outer diameters between 12 mm and 21 mm and lengths up to 200 mm. Tubes must be held vertically and pressed firmly onto the foam head during operation.
Does the SZ-1 support variable speed control?
No. It operates at a fixed frequency of 3200 rpm (53.3 Hz) and does not include speed adjustment hardware or firmware.
Can the foam head be replaced?
Yes. Replacement foam inserts can be cut to original dimensions (diameter ≈ 25 mm, thickness ≈ 12 mm) and bonded using cyanoacrylate adhesive (e.g., ethyl-2-cyanoacrylate). CZGY provides dimensional schematics upon request.
Is the unit suitable for use in a cold room or incubator?
No. It is rated for operation only within ambient laboratory conditions (15–30 °C, non-condensing humidity). Enclosure ventilation is not sealed for temperature-controlled enclosures.
What is the warranty coverage?
CZGY provides a 12-month limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Exclusions include consumables (foam head), misuse, unauthorized modification, or damage from improper voltage supply.