Infrared Vortex Mixer WIZARD by VELP Scientifica

Overview

The VELP WIZARD Infrared Vortex Mixer is an orbital shaker engineered for precision, ergonomic efficiency, and laboratory-wide versatility in sample homogenization, re-suspension, and mixing applications. Unlike conventional vortex mixers relying on mechanical pressure activation, the WIZARD integrates a proprietary infrared proximity sensor system—designed and validated by VELP Scientifica—that detects the presence of tubes, microplates, or vessels within its working zone without physical contact. Upon detection, the device initiates vibration automatically, eliminating repetitive manual pressing and reducing biomechanical strain associated with high-frequency touch-based operation. Its circular orbital motion—characterized by a consistent 4.5 mm amplitude—generates uniform shear forces across heterogeneous samples, ensuring reproducible dispersion and suspension performance across diverse container formats. The mixer’s compact footprint (145 × 160 × 140 mm) and low center of gravity—achieved through a die-cast zinc-alloy base—guarantee operational stability even at maximum rotational speeds of 3000 rpm. Built to meet the functional demands of modern QC, clinical, and research laboratories, the WIZARD complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), supporting routine use under GLP-aligned workflows.

Key Features

• Patented infrared proximity sensing: Enables hands-free activation upon vessel placement—no tactile pressure required.
• Zinc-alloy structural base combined with chemically resistant polymer housing: Ensures long-term dimensional stability and resistance to common lab solvents, acids, and bases.
• Three integrated anti-slip rubber feet: Provide secure anchoring on benchtops during continuous or high-speed operation.
• Analog speed control via calibrated rotary knob: Offers intuitive, stepless adjustment from 0 to 3000 rpm with immediate response and no digital latency.
• IP42-rated enclosure: Protects internal electronics against ingress of solid objects ≥1 mm and vertically falling water droplets—suitable for standard wet-lab environments.
• Universal power supply (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz): Eliminates need for voltage converters in multinational laboratory deployments.
• Modular accessory interface: Supports rapid, tool-free interchange of tube holders, microplate platforms, and beaker clamps—validated for compatibility with standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant 96- and 384-well plates.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The WIZARD accommodates a broad range of primary laboratory containers without requiring recalibration or firmware adjustment. Certified mechanical compatibility includes conical tubes (0.2–50 mL), round-bottom and flat-bottom microcentrifuge tubes, PCR strip tubes, 96-well and 384-well microplates (with optional plate adapter), and cylindrical glass or polypropylene beakers up to 250 mL. All accessories are manufactured from autoclavable, non-shedding polymers compliant with USP Class VI biological safety requirements. The device meets CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC Directive and 2014/35/EU LVD), and its design supports audit readiness for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories. While not classified as a medical device under FDA 21 CFR Part 820, its operational consistency and traceable speed control align with internal SOPs for sample preparation in regulated bioanalytical workflows.

Software & Data Management

The WIZARD operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded firmware, cloud connectivity, or software dependency—ensuring deterministic behavior, zero cybersecurity exposure, and uninterrupted functionality across IT-restricted environments. Speed settings are retained mechanically via potentiometer position; no memory storage or electronic logging is implemented. This architecture eliminates concerns related to data integrity validation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11, making it inherently suitable for environments where ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) are enforced for manual process records. Users document operating parameters (e.g., speed, duration, vessel type) directly in lab notebooks or LIMS-integrated electronic batch records.

Applications

• Routine resuspension of lyophilized reagents, cell pellets, and precipitated nucleic acids.
• Homogenization of immunoassay standards, ELISA plate coatings, and antigen-antibody complexes prior to incubation.
• Pre-analytical mixing of whole blood, serum, plasma, and urine specimens prior to centrifugation or automated analyzer loading.
• Dispersion of nanoparticle suspensions, colloidal solutions, and viscous polymer blends in materials science prototyping.
• Standardized agitation of calibration standards in environmental and pharmaceutical QC labs—supporting method validation per ASTM D5665 and ISO 8573-1.

FAQ

Does the infrared sensor require calibration or periodic maintenance?
No. The infrared emitter/detector pair is factory-aligned and sealed within the housing; no user-serviceable components exist. Routine cleaning with 70% isopropanol is sufficient.
Can the WIZARD be used inside a cold room or incubator?
It is rated for ambient operation between 5 °C and 40 °C and relative humidity ≤80% non-condensing. Prolonged use below 10 °C may affect rubber foot elasticity and sensor response time.
Is the device compatible with magnetic stir bars or heat modules?
No. The WIZARD is strictly a mechanical orbital mixer and does not integrate heating, cooling, or magnetic coupling capabilities.
What safety certifications does the WIZARD hold?
CE-marked per EN 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and RoHS 2011/65/EU compliant.
How is speed accuracy verified during IQ/OQ protocols?
Users may employ a handheld tachometer (e.g., ASTM E1544-compliant optical tachometer) to measure actual rpm at setpoints across the 0–3000 range; deviation tolerance is ±25 rpm at full scale per VELP’s published technical specification sheet.