DRETOP ZYC-301L Air-Bath Orbital Shaker
| Brand | DRETOP |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Instrument Type | Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker |
| Timer Range | 0–999 h |
| Oscillation Frequency | 0–300 rpm |
| Oscillation Amplitude | 26 mm |
| Temperature Range | RT+5°C to 60°C |
| Shelf Quantity | 2 shelves |
Overview
The DRETOP ZYC-301L Air-Bath Orbital Shaker is an integrated laboratory instrument engineered for precise temperature-controlled orbital agitation of biological and biochemical samples. It operates on the principle of air-bath convection heating—where heated ambient air circulates uniformly around the sample chamber—ensuring rapid thermal equilibration and minimal temperature gradient across the dual-platform shaker deck. Unlike water-bath shakers, this design eliminates contamination risks associated with liquid media while maintaining high thermal stability (±0.1°C) and mechanical reproducibility (±1 rpm speed control). The unit is purpose-built for applications requiring concurrent thermal regulation and consistent orbital motion—including microbial culture expansion, enzyme kinetics assays, cell suspension maintenance, hybridization protocols, and small-scale bioprocess development. Its compact vertical footprint and dual-shelf configuration support parallel experimentation without cross-platform interference, making it suitable for QC labs, academic research facilities, and GLP-compliant biomanufacturing environments.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-based P.I.D. temperature and speed controller with backlit LCD interface—displaying real-time setpoints and actual values for temperature, RPM, and elapsed time.
- Dual independent stainless-steel shelves (500 × 360 mm each), each equipped with adjustable universal spring clamps compatible with standard Erlenmeyer flasks (50–2000 mL), test tubes, and custom vessels.
- Orbital drive mechanism utilizing a three-dimensional eccentric cam system with soft-start acceleration to prevent splashing and ensure sample integrity during startup and deceleration.
- Brushless DC motor with constant torque output across the full 0–300 rpm range; zero carbon wear, no scheduled maintenance, and extended service life under continuous operation.
- Double-door front access with tempered glass viewport and internal LED illumination—enabling non-invasive observation without thermal or vibrational disturbance.
- Comprehensive safety architecture including over-temperature cutoff, overspeed shutdown, audible/visual alarm activation, power-failure recovery, and parameter encryption to prevent unauthorized setting changes.
- Optional configurations available: UV germicidal lamp (254 nm) for periodic interior sterilization; supplemental O2 inlet ports with manual flow shutoff valves; USB data logging interface supporting timestamped CSV export and post-run graphical analysis.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZYC-301L accommodates a broad spectrum of vessel types and volumes—from microcentrifuge tubes to 2 L flasks—via its modular clamp system. Its RT+5°C to 60°C operating range meets standard requirements for mesophilic bacterial growth (e.g., E. coli, Bacillus subtilis), yeast fermentation, mammalian cell suspension culture, and immunoassay incubation steps. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and supports audit-ready workflows through built-in parameter memory and event logging. When configured with optional USB data export and password-protected settings, it aligns with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 expectations for electronic record integrity in regulated environments. All internal surfaces—including chamber walls, shelves, and clamps—are electropolished stainless steel (AISI 304), facilitating ISO 14644-compliant cleaning and validation per GMP Annex 1 guidelines.
Software & Data Management
The embedded controller stores up to 10 user-defined protocols with independent temperature/RPM/timer profiles. Each protocol includes ramp rate definition, hold segments, and auto-restart logic following interruption. USB connectivity enables direct download of time-series datasets (temperature, speed, runtime) into spreadsheet-compatible formats for traceability and statistical process control (SPC). No proprietary software is required—data files are natively readable in Excel, Python (pandas), or MATLAB. Audit trail functionality records all parameter modifications with timestamps and operator IDs when paired with external authentication systems. Firmware updates are performed via USB stick, ensuring long-term compatibility with evolving lab informatics infrastructure.
Applications
- Batch cultivation of aerobic microorganisms under controlled oxygen transfer conditions (enhanced by optional O2 ports).
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing using broth microdilution methods per CLSI M07-A11 standards.
- Protein expression optimization in E. coli BL21(DE3) cultures at 37°C with induced shaking at 200–250 rpm.
- Cell line passaging and viability assessment in suspension-adapted CHO or HEK293 cultures.
- Enzymatic digestion of chromatin (ChIP-seq prep) and DNA shearing via acoustic coupling alternatives where mechanical shear must be minimized.
- Environmental microbiology studies involving soil slurry enrichment or wastewater biofilm reactor simulation.
FAQ
What is the maximum flask capacity supported on each shelf?
Each 500 × 360 mm shelf holds up to twenty-four 250 mL Erlenmeyer flasks using standard spring clamps—or alternatively, nine 500 mL flasks or four 1000 mL flasks depending on configuration.
Does the ZYC-301L support refrigerated operation?
No—the base model operates from ambient +5°C to 60°C. For sub-ambient capability, refer to the ZYC-301LR variant, which integrates a sealed R134a compressor system with digital expansion valve control.
Can the two shelves operate at different temperatures or speeds?
No—both shelves share a common air-circulation chamber and drive train, ensuring synchronized thermal and mechanical conditions across platforms.
Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?
Yes—a factory-issued NIST-traceable calibration certificate for temperature sensor and tachometer is included, along with instructions for user-performed verification using external reference standards.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Beyond routine wiping of stainless-steel surfaces and inspection of clamp integrity, no scheduled maintenance is needed due to the brushless motor design and sealed bearing assemblies. Annual verification of PID performance and alarm thresholds is recommended for regulated use.
