DLAB MX-E Fixed-Speed Vortex Mixer

Overview

The DLAB MX-E Fixed-Speed Vortex Mixer is an entry-level, compact orbital shaker engineered for rapid, reproducible homogenization of small-volume liquid samples in standard laboratory tubes and microcentrifuge vessels. It operates on the principle of eccentric circular motion—generated by a precisely balanced offset drive shaft—to induce vigorous vortex formation within sample containers. This mechanical agitation mechanism ensures efficient suspension of particulates, resuspension of pelleted cells or precipitates, and uniform mixing of viscous or heterogeneous solutions without requiring variable speed control. Designed specifically for routine benchtop workflows in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and quality control laboratories, the MX-E delivers consistent 3000 rpm performance with minimal thermal load and acoustic emission—making it suitable for continuous use across shift-based operations.

Key Features

• Touch-activated momentary operation: Initiates mixing only while pressure is applied to the rubberized platform, enhancing user safety and preventing unintended activation during multi-step protocols.
• High-efficiency 12 V DC brushless motor: Provides stable torque output, extended service life (>10,000 hours MTBF), and low electromagnetic interference—critical for labs housing sensitive instrumentation.
• Optimized orbital geometry: 4.8 mm orbit diameter generates sufficient shear force for complete sample re-suspension while minimizing tube ejection risk—even with loosely capped 1.5 mL microtubes.
• Stable ABS housing with anti-slip silicone footpads: Ensures vibration isolation and positional integrity on stainless steel, laminated, or epoxy resin work surfaces under full-load conditions.
• Universal AC input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz): Enables seamless deployment across global laboratory environments without external voltage converters.
• IP21-rated enclosure: Offers protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—meeting baseline safety requirements for general-purpose lab equipment per IEC 60529.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MX-E accommodates standard conical-bottom microcentrifuge tubes (0.2–15 mL), PCR strip tubes, and small-diameter glass vials up to 16 mm outer diameter. Its fixed-speed architecture eliminates calibration drift associated with potentiometer-based speed controls, supporting method consistency in GLP-compliant environments where protocol traceability is required. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the device conforms to essential electrical safety standards (IEC 61010-1:2010) and electromagnetic compatibility directives (IEC 61326-1:2013). Routine verification can be performed using NIST-traceable tachometers; no software validation or audit trail functionality is provided.

Software & Data Management

The MX-E is a standalone electromechanical instrument with no embedded firmware, connectivity ports (USB/Ethernet), or digital interface. All operational parameters are hardwired: speed is fixed at 3000 rpm, and timing is manually controlled via operator hand pressure. Consequently, it requires no software installation, driver updates, or cybersecurity configuration—reducing IT overhead and eliminating data integrity concerns related to electronic recordkeeping. For laboratories maintaining electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), manual entry of mixing duration and tube type is recommended as part of raw data documentation per ALCOA+ principles.

Applications

• Rapid resuspension of bacterial cell pellets post-centrifugation in plasmid prep workflows.
• Homogenization of enzyme reaction mixtures prior to spectrophotometric analysis.
• Reconstitution of lyophilized reagents in diagnostic assay development.
• Pre-analytical mixing of whole blood samples for hematology controls.
• Dispersion of nanoparticle suspensions in material science screening protocols.
• Standardized vortexing steps in ISO 15189-accredited clinical microbiology SOPs.

FAQ

Is the MX-E compatible with PCR plates or deep-well plates?
No—the platform is optimized for single-tube operation and lacks plate-holding fixtures or adjustable clamping mechanisms.
Can the unit operate continuously for extended periods?
Yes, the brushless motor and thermal management design support uninterrupted operation up to 8 hours at ambient temperatures ≤35 °C.
Does the MX-E meet CE or UKCA marking requirements?
It complies with the essential health and safety requirements of the EU Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and EMC Directive (2014/30/EU); however, formal CE marking documentation must be obtained from DLAB’s authorized EU representative.
What maintenance is required?
None beyond periodic cleaning of the platform surface with 70% ethanol; the sealed motor assembly is maintenance-free.
Is there a warranty?
DLAB provides a 24-month limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal laboratory use conditions.