DRETOP ZYC-60B Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DRETOP ZYC-60B Air-Bath Constant-Temperature 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 heating—using convection-heated ambient air circulated uniformly around the chamber—to maintain thermal stability across the entire platform surface. Unlike water-jacketed or direct-heating systems, this design eliminates condensation risk, simplifies maintenance, and ensures rapid thermal equilibration. The shaker employs a balanced eccentric drive mechanism with three-dimensional offset cam geometry to deliver smooth, low-vibration orbital motion (26 mm diameter), minimizing shear stress on sensitive cell cultures and microbial suspensions. Designed for compliance with routine laboratory workflows in academic research, pharmaceutical QC, and bioprocess development, the ZYC-60B supports applications requiring strict adherence to ISO/IEC 17025–aligned environmental control protocols and GLP documentation standards.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based PID temperature and speed controller with backlit LCD display—provides real-time monitoring of setpoint vs. actual temperature (±0.1°C resolution) and rotational speed (±1 rpm accuracy)
• Orbital shaking platform constructed from electropolished stainless steel (304 grade), corrosion-resistant and autoclavable-compatible for aseptic handling
• Integrated safety architecture: over-temperature cutoff, overspeed shutdown, timed auto-stop, power-failure recovery, and parameter lockout with password protection
• Brushless DC motor drive system—maintenance-free operation, constant torque across full speed range (0–300 rpm), no carbon dust generation or commutator wear
• Ergonomic inclined control panel with tactile buttons and intuitive menu navigation; optional USB data logging interface for timestamped export of temperature/speed/time profiles
• Tempered glass observation window with internal LED illumination—enables non-invasive visual monitoring without thermal disturbance

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZYC-60B accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 250 mL × 12), test tubes (16 × 15 mm), microcentrifuge tube racks, and custom spring-loaded clamps for irregular containers. Its single-platform configuration (290 × 260 mm) supports uniform heat transfer and mechanical consistency across all load configurations. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1. For regulated environments, its programmable timer (0–999 h) and audit-trail-capable USB data output support alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with validated software workflows. All internal surfaces are accessible for cleaning and meet ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom-compatible wipe-down protocols.

Software & Data Management

While the ZYC-60B operates as a standalone instrument, its optional USB interface enables direct connection to Windows-based PCs for data acquisition via DRETOP’s proprietary LabTrack™ utility (v3.2+). This application captures time-synchronized records of chamber temperature, platform RPM, elapsed runtime, and alarm events—including timestamps, user IDs, and deviation flags. Export formats include CSV for LIMS integration and PNG plots for inclusion in SOP appendices or regulatory submissions. No cloud dependency or subscription model is required; raw binary logs are stored locally and retain integrity under power interruption. Firmware updates are performed offline using signed .hex files to ensure traceability and prevent unauthorized modification—critical for GMP-compliant validation packages.

Applications

This shaker is routinely deployed in bacterial growth kinetics studies (e.g., E. coli OD₆₀₀ monitoring), enzyme activity assays under controlled thermal conditions, suspension cell culture expansion (CHO, HEK293), plasmid transformation recovery, antigen-antibody binding optimization, and environmental microbiology enrichment protocols. Its stable RT+5°C to 60°C operating envelope makes it suitable for mesophilic fermentation, yeast propagation, and thermolabile protein expression systems. In teaching laboratories, it serves as a platform for undergraduate biochemistry labs focusing on Michaelis-Menten kinetics and Arrhenius plot derivation. When paired with optional UV sterilization modules (254 nm, 15 W), it supports contamination-sensitive workflows such as primary tissue dissociation and stem cell passaging.

FAQ

What is the maximum flask capacity supported on the ZYC-60B platform?
The standard configuration accommodates up to twelve 250 mL Erlenmeyer flasks or sixteen 100 mL flasks using the included universal spring clamps.
Does the ZYC-60B support ramp-and-soak temperature programming?
No—this model implements single-setpoint PID control only; multi-stage thermal profiles require external programmable controllers or higher-tier ZYL-series variants.
Can the unit operate continuously for extended durations (e.g., 72+ hours)?
Yes—its brushless motor and sealed bearing assembly are rated for uninterrupted operation up to 999 hours, with thermal overload protection engaging only upon sustained ambient exceedance.
Is calibration certificate included with shipment?
A factory-issued NIST-traceable temperature calibration report (at 37°C and 55°C) is provided; speed calibration requires third-party verification using a certified tachometer per ASTM E2917.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Biannual inspection of drive belt tension, fan filter cleaning, and verification of door seal integrity—documented per ISO/IEC 17025 preventive maintenance schedules.