Thermo Fisher MaxQ 8000 Stackable Refrigerated Orbital Shaker
| Brand | Thermo Fisher |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer | Thermo Fisher Scientific |
| Model | SHKE8000-8CE / SHKE8000-1CE |
| Oscillation Frequency Range | 25–400 rpm ±1 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 25 mm |
| Temperature Control Range | –5°C to 60°C (ambient-compensated) |
| Chamber Air Filtration | HEPA filter (≥95% efficiency for particles ≥0.3 µm) |
| Stackability | Up to 3 units vertically |
| Max Platform Height (3-unit stack) | 154.9 cm |
| Chamber Construction | Seamless stainless steel with recessed corners and integrated drain valve |
| User Interface | Dual-display LCD showing setpoint vs. real-time values |
| Remote Alarm Output | Dry-contact relay for external monitoring |
Overview
The Thermo Fisher MaxQ 8000 Stackable Refrigerated Orbital Shaker is an engineered solution for high-density, temperature-controlled cell culture, microbial growth, and biochemical incubation in regulated laboratory environments. It operates on orbital shaking mechanics—generating a consistent 25 mm circular motion—to ensure homogeneous suspension of cultures while minimizing shear stress on sensitive biological samples. Integrated refrigeration enables precise thermal control from –5°C to 60°C, with active ambient compensation to maintain setpoint stability across varying room conditions. Designed specifically for GxP-compliant labs, the system supports reproducible, traceable operation through real-time parameter monitoring and hardware-level alarm signaling—critical for QC/QA workflows in biopharma, academic core facilities, and contract research organizations.
Key Features
- Stackable architecture supporting up to three vertically aligned units—optimized for footprint-constrained cleanrooms and biosafety cabinets without sacrificing throughput.
- Orbital motion with programmable frequency range (25–400 rpm ±1 rpm) and fixed 25 mm orbit diameter—validated for uniform mixing of flasks up to 2 L capacity, including Erlenmeyer and baffled vessels.
- Integrated HEPA filtration system (≥95% retention of particles ≥0.3 µm) ensures laminar, particle-reduced internal airflow—reducing cross-contamination risk during long-term aerobic cultivation.
- Ergonomic downward-folding door and fully retractable platform enable unobstructed access; maximum platform height of 154.9 cm at triple-stack configuration maintains operator reach compliance per ISO 11228-1.
- Seamless stainless-steel chamber with recessed internal corners and embedded drain valve facilitates rapid decontamination and residue removal—meeting cleaning validation requirements under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU GMP Annex 1.
- Front-accessible service design allows all routine maintenance—including condenser cleaning, sensor calibration, and fan inspection—without disassembling stacked units or relocating equipment.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MaxQ 8000 accommodates standard microbiological and mammalian culture formats: 125 mL to 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks, multi-well plates (with optional platform adapters), and roller bottles. Its temperature uniformity (±0.5°C at 37°C, per ASTM E145-22 Class II verification protocol) and vibration stability (<0.5 mm peak-to-peak displacement at 300 rpm) support adherence to USP , ISO 13408-2, and CLSI M22-A3 guidelines for sterile process simulation and bioburden testing. The dry-contact remote alarm output supports integration into facility-wide environmental monitoring systems (EMS) compliant with ISO 14644-3 and cGMP Annex 15.
Software & Data Management
While the MaxQ 8000 operates via an embedded microcontroller with local LCD interface (no PC dependency), its dual-display screen simultaneously renders user-defined setpoints and live operational parameters—eliminating input lag and reducing human error during method transfer. All alarm events—including temperature deviation >±2°C, motor stall, or door-open state—are logged with timestamp and retained for ≥30 days. Optional RS-485 serial interface (available via accessory module) enables connection to LIMS or SCADA platforms for automated data capture, audit trail generation, and electronic signature support per 21 CFR Part 11 Subpart B.
Applications
- High-yield bacterial expression (e.g., E. coli BL21(DE3) in TB medium at 30°C/220 rpm)
- Oxygen-sensitive anaerobic culture using gas-tight flask seals and low-speed agitation (25–60 rpm)
- Stem cell expansion in serum-free media requiring precise thermal homogeneity and minimal shear
- Enzyme kinetics assays requiring simultaneous temperature control and mixing across replicate wells
- Environmental stress response studies involving cold-shock (–5°C) or heat-shock (45–60°C) protocols with orbital agitation
FAQ
What is the maximum flask size supported without platform modification?
Standard configuration accommodates 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks; larger vessels require optional heavy-duty platform kits (Part No. MAXQ-PLT-HD).
Is the HEPA filter replaceable, and what is its certified service life?
Yes—the filter is user-replaceable (Part No. MAXQ-FIL-HEPA) with a nominal lifespan of 12 months under continuous operation at 25°C and 50% RH.
Does the unit meet IEC 61000-6-3 for electromagnetic compatibility in shared lab spaces?
Yes—certified to IEC 61000-6-3:2019 (Emission) and IEC 61000-6-2:2016 (Immunity), with CE and UL 61010-1 safety listing.
Can temperature and speed profiles be programmed with ramping functions?
No—this model supports only static setpoints; programmable ramping requires the MaxQ 8000 Advanced Controller option (SHKE8000-AC).
What documentation is provided for IQ/OQ validation?
Factory-issued IQ/OQ protocols, calibration certificates (NIST-traceable thermistor and tachometer), and raw test data are included with each shipment.
