YIHENG BTV-100 Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer
| Brand | YIHENG |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic (China-Made) |
| Model | BTV-100 |
| Instrument Type | Mixing & Homogenization Equipment |
| Timer Range | 1 min – 100 h |
| Oscillation Frequency | 500 – 2500 rpm |
| Orbital Amplitude | 3.6 mm |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
Overview
The YIHENG BTV-100 Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer is an engineered solution for high-throughput sample homogenization in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical quality control laboratories. Utilizing orbital vortex motion—generated by eccentric rotation of a single platform—the instrument induces rapid, consistent fluid agitation across multiple tubes simultaneously. Unlike single-tube vortexers, the BTV-100 employs a robust motor-driven oscillation mechanism with precise angular displacement control, enabling uniform energy transfer to all positioned samples without manual intervention. Its design conforms to standard benchtop ergonomics and integrates seamlessly into workflows requiring reproducible mixing prior to DNA extraction, ELISA plate preparation, cell suspension, or reagent reconstitution. The device operates under ambient laboratory conditions (10–30 °C, <80% RH), and its thermally stable housing ensures long-duration operation without thermal drift affecting motor performance.
Key Features
- High-capacity mixing platform accommodating up to 50 tubes in parallel—compatible with common formats including 0.2 mL PCR tubes, 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes, and 15 mL conical tubes (with optional adapters)
- Dual operational modes: continuous mixing for extended homogenization or pulse-mode (touch-activated) for transient, operator-controlled agitation
- Integrated LCD interface displaying real-time values for speed (rpm), elapsed time, and remaining timer duration—with independent adjustment of both parameters
- Microprocessor-based closed-loop control system ensuring speed stability within ±15 rpm across the full 500–2500 rpm range and minimal overshoot during acceleration/deceleration
- Orbital motion with 3.6 mm displacement diameter optimized for efficient vortex formation in low-volume liquid samples while minimizing splashing or foam generation
- Single-platform architecture with balanced dynamic loading, reducing mechanical resonance and extending service life under repeated 100-hour continuous duty cycles
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BTV-100 supports standardized consumables used across ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs and GLP-compliant environments. Tube holders—including silicone-grip foam inserts and aluminum block adapters—are designed to maintain positional integrity during high-frequency oscillation, preventing cross-contamination and tube ejection. While the instrument itself does not require regulatory certification as a standalone device, its operational repeatability aligns with ASTM D5664 (Standard Practice for Vortex Mixing of Liquid Samples) and supports data integrity requirements under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated laboratory information management systems (LIMS). All electrical components meet CE safety directives (EN 61010-1) and RoHS compliance standards.
Software & Data Management
The BTV-100 operates via embedded firmware with no external software dependency; however, its timer and speed settings are fully programmable and retain configuration memory after power cycling. For traceability in regulated environments, users may document run parameters manually or integrate the device into electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) via timestamped operator logs. Though it lacks native USB/Ethernet connectivity, the unit’s deterministic behavior—combined with its ±15 rpm speed tolerance and 1-second timer resolution—enables audit-ready process records suitable for internal SOPs and external inspection readiness.
Applications
- Pre-PCR sample homogenization and master mix resuspension
- Cell pellet resuspension in flow cytometry and immunoblotting workflows
- Uniform dispersion of nanoparticles or colloidal suspensions in nanomedicine R&D
- Buffer equilibration and reagent reconstitution in QC/QA release testing
- High-throughput screening (HTS) support for enzyme kinetics assays requiring consistent mixing prior to spectrophotometric readout
- Sample preparation for LC-MS and GC-MS workflows where phase homogeneity directly impacts analytical precision
FAQ
What tube sizes can the BTV-100 accommodate without adapter accessories?
The standard platform accepts 0.2 mL PCR tubes and 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes directly. Larger formats (e.g., 15 mL, 50 mL) require optional aluminum or foam-insert adapters.
Is the oscillation speed linearly proportional to displayed rpm across the entire range?
Yes—the microprocessor regulates motor current and feedback timing to maintain linearity within ±15 rpm deviation at any setpoint between 500 and 2500 rpm.
Can the BTV-100 be operated inside a cold room or incubator?
It is rated for ambient use only (10–30 °C). Operation below 10 °C may affect LCD responsiveness and motor brush longevity; condensation ingress is not protected against.
Does the device support automatic shutdown upon timer expiration?
Yes—upon reaching the programmed end time, the unit halts motor operation and retains the final display state until manually reset.
Are replacement platforms or custom fixtures available from YIHENG?
OEM-compatible platform assemblies and application-specific foam inserts (e.g., for 96-well skirted plates) are available through authorized YIHENG distribution channels with lead times of 4–6 weeks.
