DLAB SK-L180-S Intelligent Reciprocal Shaker

Overview

The DLAB SK-L180-S Intelligent Reciprocal Shaker is an engineered solution for consistent, low-shear sample agitation in molecular biology, biochemistry, and histology workflows. Designed around a linear reciprocating motion principle—where the platform moves horizontally along a fixed axis with precise amplitude control—the instrument ensures uniform mixing of gels, membranes, blotting substrates, and solution-based assays without vortexing or splashing. Its 20 mm amplitude and adjustable speed range (40–200 rpm) provide optimal energy transfer for gentle yet effective de-staining, hybridization, antibody incubation, and washing steps. Unlike orbital shakers, the reciprocal motion minimizes sample foaming and surface tension disruption, making it especially suitable for Western blot processing, Coomassie/silver staining protocols, and nucleic acid hybridization where reproducible contact kinetics are critical. The unit operates on universal input voltage (100–240 V AC), enabling seamless deployment across global laboratory infrastructures without transformer dependency.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor architecture delivering maintenance-free operation, high torque consistency, and extended service life (>20,000 hours MTBF)
• Dual independent LED displays for real-time monitoring of both speed (rpm) and remaining timer duration
• Precision-tuned linear drive mechanism with ±0.5 rpm speed stability across full operating range
• Integrated safety logic: automatic shutdown upon overload detection or abnormal motor current draw
• IP21-rated enclosure providing protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—suitable for standard wet-lab environments
• Compact footprint (294 × 348 × 123 mm) optimized for benchtop use in biosafety cabinets and cold rooms
• 268 × 268 mm stainless-steel tray with non-slip silicone coating to secure flasks, trays, and gel boxes during extended runs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SK-L180-S accommodates a broad spectrum of container formats—including 10 × 10 cm gel trays, mini-blot modules, multi-well plates (up to 96-well), and conical tubes (50 mL)—within its 2 kg maximum load capacity. Its mechanical design complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements for hazardous substance restriction. While not certified for GMP or GLP-regulated production environments, the device supports traceable operation when integrated into validated workflows adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 quality management principles. All timing and speed parameters are user-settable and retained across power cycles, supporting repeatable protocol execution per SOP documentation standards.

Software & Data Management

This model operates as a standalone hardware platform with no embedded microcontroller-based data logging or PC connectivity. All operational parameters are configured manually via front-panel controls, eliminating software validation overhead in regulated settings. For laboratories requiring audit trails, external time-stamped video recording or electronic lab notebook (ELN) integration is recommended to document run initiation, duration, and termination. The absence of USB/RS-232 interfaces aligns with risk-mitigation strategies for environments where networked peripherals introduce cybersecurity or electromagnetic interference concerns.

Applications

• Electrophoretic gel destaining (Coomassie Brilliant Blue, silver nitrate)
• Membrane blocking and antibody incubation in Western and dot blot procedures
• Nucleic acid hybridization (Southern/Northern blots) under controlled kinetic conditions
• Cell suspension homogenization prior to lysis or centrifugation
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) plate washing steps
• Protein precipitation and solvent extraction in small-volume samples

FAQ

Is the SK-L180-S compatible with refrigerated or cold-room operation?
Yes—its specified operating temperature range (5–40 °C) includes standard cold-room conditions (4–8 °C), provided ambient humidity remains below 80% RH and condensation is prevented.
Can the shaker accommodate uneven or heavy loads, such as stacked gel cassettes?
The 2 kg load limit applies to total mass including fixtures; users must ensure center-of-gravity alignment over the tray’s central axis to avoid mechanical resonance or premature wear.
Does the unit support programmable multi-step protocols?
No—this is a single-parameter, single-stage shaker; speed and time are set independently and cannot be sequenced automatically.
What maintenance is required for the brushless DC motor?
None—no brushes to replace, no lubrication points, and no scheduled calibration; periodic visual inspection of tray mounting screws and cable integrity is sufficient.
Is the device suitable for use inside a Class II biosafety cabinet?
Yes—its low acoustic emission (<45 dB[A]) and absence of forced-air cooling allow safe integration within laminar flow enclosures without disrupting airflow patterns.