TAITEC VIX-100 High-Capacity Glass Vial Orbital Shaker with Reverse Function

Overview

The TAITEC VIX-100 is a high-throughput orbital shaker engineered specifically for simultaneous, uniform agitation of up to 100 standard 20 mL glass vials — a configuration commonly used in radiochemical analysis, solvent-based extraction, and liquid scintillation counting (LSC) sample preparation. Unlike conventional tube shakers or microplate mixers, the VIX-100 employs a patented ratchet-based clamping mechanism (Patent Pending) and a precisely balanced eccentric drive system to deliver consistent orbital motion at speeds up to 2000 rpm. Its defining operational feature is bidirectional reversal — an integrated motor control sequence that alternates rotation direction at user-defined intervals — enhancing homogenization efficiency during viscous or phase-separated mixtures. This capability is particularly critical in applications where sediment resuspension, interfacial mass transfer, or complete dissolution of precipitated analytes is required prior to instrumental analysis.

Key Features

• High-Density Vial Processing: Accommodates exactly 100 × 20 mL glass vials in standardized partitioned carriers — compatible with common LSC vial formats (e.g., polyethylene, low-diffusion borosilicate) and capped conical tubes up to 180 mm in height.
• Reversible Orbital Motion: Programmable directional reversal enables controlled shear application across heterogeneous samples; ideal for accelerating solvent extraction kinetics and minimizing stratification in multi-phase systems.
• Ratchet-Lock Vessel Fixation: One-touch mechanical clamping ensures secure retention of vials or tube racks without threaded fasteners or adjustable knobs — reducing setup time and eliminating cross-contamination risk from loose hardware.
• Precision Timer Integration: Built-in 15-minute countdown timer supports reproducible endpoint control for standardized protocols; independent start/stop and reverse initiation buttons allow manual intervention without timer reset.
• Dual-Plate Configurability: Optional second oscillation platform (sold separately) enables parallel processing of two distinct sample sets under identical or independently optimized conditions — essential for method validation or comparative studies.
• Robust Mechanical Architecture: Cast-aluminum base frame, stainless-steel platform mounting, and sealed induction motor ensure long-term stability under continuous operation in regulated laboratory environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VIX-100 is validated for use with standard pharmaceutical, environmental, and nuclear research sample containers including 20 mL amber glass vials (USP Type I), screw-cap polypropylene tubes, and silicone-sealed scintillation vials. Its non-heated, ambient-temperature operation aligns with ASTM D3924–22 (Standard Practice for Laboratory Sample Agitation) and supports workflows compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 7.2.2 (method validation for sample preparation steps). The device meets IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory equipment and incorporates electromagnetic compatibility per EN 61326-1. While not intrinsically rated for flammable solvent environments, it is routinely deployed in fume hoods during organic extraction protocols involving toluene, xylene, or chloroform — provided local ventilation standards are observed.

Software & Data Management

The VIX-100 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded firmware or digital interface. All parameter settings — speed selection (stepwise adjustment), reversal activation, and timer initiation — are executed via front-panel tactile switches with LED status indicators. This analog control architecture eliminates software validation burden under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and simplifies audit readiness in GMP/GLP laboratories where electronic record integrity is subject to strict documentation requirements. For traceability, users may integrate the shaker into paper-based or LIMS-linked SOPs using timestamped log entries. Optional external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300) can monitor platform vibration amplitude via accelerometer input if process consistency monitoring is mandated.

Applications

• Liquid scintillation counting (LSC) sample homogenization prior to beta-emission measurement
• Solvent-assisted solid-phase extraction (SPE) and Soxhlet pre-extraction agitation
• Radioisotope tracer mixing in environmental fate studies (e.g., ¹⁴C-labeled compounds)
• Cell lysis buffer equilibration for downstream nucleic acid isolation
• Calibration standard reconstitution and dilution series preparation
• Stability-indicating assay development requiring rigorous mechanical dispersion

FAQ

Can the VIX-100 accommodate vials larger than 20 mL?
No — the platform fixture geometry and clamping force profile are optimized exclusively for 20 mL glass vials arranged in 10 × 10 arrays. Larger containers require custom fixtures not supplied by TAITEC.
Is speed calibration traceable to NIST standards?
Speed indication is based on factory-calibrated tachometric feedback; however, no NIST-traceable certificate is included. Users performing critical kinetic studies should verify rotational frequency with an external optical tachometer.
Does the reversal function operate continuously or only once per cycle?
Reversal is triggered once per timer interval — i.e., forward rotation for the full duration unless manually interrupted and reversed. There is no automatic periodic reversal mode.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual inspection of motor coupling integrity, cleaning of platform grooves with isopropyl alcohol, and verification of ratchet spring tension are recommended. No lubrication of internal drive components is permitted.
Is the VIX-100 suitable for use with corrosive solvents like concentrated acids?
The platform surface is anodized aluminum; direct exposure to strong oxidizers or halogenated acids may cause pitting. Use secondary containment trays and consult TAITEC’s chemical resistance guide before deployment.