CZGY ZD-85A Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital & Reciprocal Shaker

Overview

The CZGY ZD-85A Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital & Reciprocal Shaker is an engineered platform for controlled agitation and thermal regulation of biological and chemical samples in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of forced-air convection heating combined with mechanically driven orbital and reciprocating motion—enabling uniform temperature distribution across the shaking surface and consistent kinetic energy transfer to culture vessels. Unlike water-bath shakers, the air-bath design eliminates liquid contamination risks, simplifies cleaning, and supports rapid temperature equilibration. The unit is purpose-built for applications requiring simultaneous thermal stability and mechanical agitation—including microbial growth, cell suspension culture, enzyme reaction kinetics, solubility studies, and extraction protocols. Its dual-mode oscillation capability (selectable orbital or reciprocating motion) expands experimental flexibility without hardware modification, while the digital PID temperature controller ensures stable thermal performance within ±0.5 °C of setpoint across the full 0–50 °C operating range.

Key Features

• Integrated air-circulation heating system with aluminum alloy chamber and high-efficiency fan for rapid, uniform temperature control (ambient to 50 °C)
• Dual oscillation modes: selectable orbital (circular) or reciprocating (linear) motion—both at adjustable frequencies from 60 to 300 rpm with ±1 rpm speed resolution
• 20 mm fixed amplitude optimized for standard Erlenmeyer flasks (50–1000 mL), test tubes, and multi-well plates; compatible with universal clamping accessories
• Large 47 × 42 cm stainless steel platform with non-slip silicone mat; single-platform configuration ensures mechanical stability under load
• Digital interface with independent LED displays for real-time temperature and speed monitoring, plus intuitive push-button controls for parameter entry and confirmation
• Precision electronic timer supporting continuous operation or programmable durations from 1 minute to 9999 minutes (166.6 hours)
• Robust architecture: 500 W power rating, 220 V / 50 Hz input, grounded chassis, and over-temperature cut-off protection

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZD-85A accommodates a broad spectrum of sample containers—from 15 mL conical tubes to 2 L flasks—without requiring custom fixtures. Its platform geometry and vibration profile are validated for use with common microbiological media (e.g., LB, TB, M9), mammalian cell suspension cultures (CHO, HEK293), and biochemical assay mixtures. The device complies with general laboratory safety standards per IEC 61010-1 (Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use). While not certified for GMP or ISO 13485 environments out-of-the-box, its operational repeatability, audit-ready timer logs, and stable thermal-mechanical coupling support GLP-aligned workflows. Temperature and speed calibration can be verified using NIST-traceable thermistors and tachometers, enabling internal validation per institutional SOPs.

Software & Data Management

The ZD-85A operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded software or network connectivity. All parameters are set and monitored via front-panel controls and dual-line LED display. Timer events and temperature/speed states are recorded locally through visual indicators (green RUN LED, red STOP LED, and heater status lamp). For regulated environments requiring electronic records, users may integrate external data loggers via RS-232 or analog output (optional add-on module). The unit supports basic traceability: time-stamped run initiation/termination, manual parameter entry history (via operator logbook), and observable thermal stabilization behavior—sufficient for routine QC/QA documentation and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant processes when paired with procedural controls.

Applications

• Microbial cultivation (E. coli, yeast, Bacillus spp.) under defined temperature and aeration conditions
• Suspension-based mammalian and insect cell culture during expansion and transfection protocols
• Enzymatic assays requiring constant mixing and thermal consistency (e.g., protease activity, ligase kinetics)
• Solid-liquid extractions (plant metabolites, soil analytes) where gentle agitation prevents particle settling
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) using broth microdilution methods
• Preparation of homogeneous reagent stocks and buffer solutions prior to analytical analysis
• Environmental sample processing (water, sediment) for microbial enumeration and biodegradation studies

FAQ

Is the ZD-85A suitable for sterile applications?
The unit is not classified as Class II biosafety equipment. Sterile operation requires integration with laminar flow hoods or use of pre-sterilized vessels and aseptic technique. The air-bath chamber itself is not autoclavable but can be wiped with 70% ethanol between runs.

Can I run the shaker at 4 °C?
No. The ZD-85A provides only heating functionality (ambient to +50 °C) and lacks active cooling. For low-temperature shaking, a refrigerated shaker model is required.

What is the maximum flask size supported on the platform?
The 47 × 42 cm platform accommodates up to two 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks with proper clamping. Load distribution must remain balanced to prevent resonance-induced instability at higher speeds (>250 rpm).

Does the timer retain settings after power interruption?
No. The timer resets to default upon power loss. Users should implement backup power (UPS) or document setpoints manually if uninterrupted timing is critical.

Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?
Factory calibration certificates are available upon request at time of order. In-house recalibration is performed using calibrated reference thermistors and optical tachometers per ISO/IEC 17025–aligned procedures.