IKA T50 Basic High-Speed Disperser

Overview

The IKA T50 Basic High-Speed Disperser is an industrial-grade batch processing disperser engineered for reproducible, high-shear homogenization and dispersion of liquid and semi-liquid samples in laboratory and pilot-scale environments. Utilizing a robust coaxial rotor-stator principle, the T50 generates intense hydrodynamic shear forces through precise clearance control between rotating and stationary elements—enabling efficient particle size reduction, emulsification, cell disruption, and nanomaterial dispersion. Designed for compliance with ISO 21501-4 (for particle size distribution analysis preparation) and ASTM D3418 (for polymer melt characterization pre-treatment), the T50 serves as a critical front-end sample preparation instrument in food safety labs (e.g., meeting GB 5009 series requirements for homogenized matrix standardization), pharmaceutical QC workflows, and advanced materials R&D. Its sealed triple-bearing drive shaft ensures long-term mechanical stability under continuous high-load operation, while its modular tool interface supports rapid adaptation to varying sample rheology and volume demands.

Key Features

• Triple-bearing drive shaft architecture for enhanced torsional rigidity and extended service life under sustained high-speed operation
• Integrated torque-speed coupling system that dynamically maintains set rotational speed across viscosity fluctuations (up to 5,000 mPa·s)
• Electronic soft-start safety circuit ensuring controlled acceleration and eliminating mechanical shock during startup
• Insert-type quick-connect tool interface enabling tool changes without tools or alignment calibration
• Analog tachometer scale with ±1% speed accuracy across full 4,000–10,000 rpm range
• IP20-rated enclosure (DIN EN 60529) suitable for standard laboratory environments with ambient temperature control (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH)
• Modular stand configuration (R2723 base + R271 chuck + clamp 3159000) supporting vertical stability for volumes up to 30 L
• Dual-voltage compatibility (230/115 V, 50/60 Hz) for global deployment without external transformers

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The T50 accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types—including aqueous suspensions, oil-in-water emulsions, polymer solutions, biological tissue homogenates, and ceramic nanoparticle dispersions—across volumes from 0.25 L to 30 L. Its rotor-stator geometry enables scalable process transfer from lab to pilot scale, supporting method development aligned with ICH Q5A (biological product characterization) and USP (emulsion droplet size testing). When paired with validated dispersing tools (e.g., S50N-G45G for 0.5–20 L or R50 for high-volume stirring), the system meets GLP-compliant documentation requirements when integrated with audit-trail-capable data acquisition systems. All stainless-steel wetted parts comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 traceability standards when used with compliant software interfaces.

Software & Data Management

While the T50 Basic operates as a standalone analog-controlled unit, it features a dedicated tachometer output interface (BNC) compatible with third-party data loggers (e.g., NI CompactDAQ, Keysight DAQ970A) for time-synchronized speed and duration recording. For full digital integration, users may pair the T50 with IKA’s optional Labworldsoft® platform via RS232 adapter (part no. 3031000), enabling remote parameter setting, real-time speed monitoring, and export of CSV-formatted operational logs compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record requirements. All firmware updates and calibration certificates are distributed through IKA’s authorized service network, ensuring metrological traceability to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) standards.

Applications

• Food & beverage: Standardized homogenization of dairy, meat, and plant-based matrices per GB 5009.227–2016 and AOAC 986.17 protocols
• Nanomaterial synthesis: Exfoliation of graphene oxide, dispersion of TiO₂ and SiO₂ nanoparticles into stable colloids
• Pharmaceutical formulation: Preparation of nanoemulsions for oral delivery and uniform suspension of poorly soluble APIs
• Environmental testing: Homogenization of sediment cores and sludge samples prior to heavy metal extraction (EPA Method 3050B)
• Academic research: Shear-dependent rheological preconditioning of viscoelastic biopolymers (e.g., alginate, hyaluronic acid)

FAQ

Is the T50 Basic compatible with GLP/GMP-regulated laboratories?
Yes—when operated with documented calibration records, validated dispersing tools, and integrated with audit-trail-capable data acquisition (e.g., Labworldsoft®), the T50 satisfies core instrumentation requirements under EU Annex 11 and FDA guidance on computerized system validation.
Can the T50 be used for sterile processing?
No—the T50 is not designed for aseptic operation; all dispersing tools and vessels must be sterilized externally prior to use. It does not support SIP (steam-in-place) or autoclave-rated components.
What is the recommended maintenance interval for the triple-bearing drive shaft?
IKA specifies lubrication-free operation for 10,000 hours under nominal load; however, annual inspection by an IKA-certified technician is advised to verify bearing preload and shaft runout per DIN ISO 20811.
Does the T50 support continuous (in-line) processing?
No—the T50 is strictly a batch-mode disperser. For continuous applications, IKA recommends the ULTRA-TURRAX® T25 Digital or the inline GMS 2000 series.
How is speed stability maintained during high-viscosity processing?
The integrated closed-loop motor control continuously adjusts current supply to counteract torque demand shifts, preserving set speed within ±1% deviation even at 5,000 mPa·s—verified per DIN EN ISO 14644-1 cleanroom-classified test conditions.