IKA T10 / T18 / T25 / T50 ULTRA-TURRAX® High-Speed Dispersers

Overview

The IKA T10, T18, T25, and T50 ULTRA-TURRAX® high-speed dispersers are precision-engineered rotor-stator homogenizers designed for reproducible sample preparation across research laboratories, quality control environments, and pilot-scale development workflows. Operating on the principle of high-shear mechanical dispersion—where rotational energy is transferred from a rapidly spinning rotor into a stationary stator to generate intense hydrodynamic forces—these instruments achieve efficient particle size reduction, emulsification, cell lysis, suspension homogenization, and colloidal stabilization. Each model is purpose-optimized for distinct volume and viscosity regimes: the T10 serves micro-volume applications (0.5–10 mL); the T18 covers standard benchtop needs (1–1,500 mL); the T25 digital series extends dynamic range with programmable memory and real-time speed feedback (10–2,000 mL); and the T50 delivers industrial-grade torque for large-batch processing (0.5–20 L). All units comply with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and are constructed with corrosion-resistant stainless steel housings and IP20-rated enclosures suitable for ISO Class 7 cleanroom-adjacent use.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor architecture ensuring long service life, minimal maintenance, and stable torque delivery across full speed range
• Electronic speed control with digital display (T25/T50) or analog dial (T10/T18), enabling precise, repeatable setpoint execution ±1% of nominal speed
• Integrated temperature monitoring circuitry with automatic thermal cutoff at 85 °C to prevent motor overheating during prolonged operation
• Quick-release collet system (R 182 / R 271) allowing tool-free exchange of dispersing elements in under 10 seconds
• Ergonomic vertical design with low center of gravity and non-slip rubber feet for vibration-damped stability on laboratory benches
• Modular accessory ecosystem—including S-series dispersing tools (S10N, S18N, S25N, S50N), universal stands (R104, R1822, R2723), and clamp supports (RH3, RH5)—enabling seamless scalability from micro to macro volumes

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These dispersers accommodate aqueous, organic, and semi-viscous media—including buffers, polymer solutions, suspensions of nanoparticles, plant tissue homogenates, bacterial lysates, and pharmaceutical suspensions—up to 5,000 mPa·s. Stainless steel (1.4404/316L) and PTFE-coated dispersing elements ensure chemical compatibility with mild acids, bases, and alcohols; disposable plastic heads (e.g., S10D-7G-KS) support GLP-compliant single-use workflows. The systems meet key regulatory expectations for instrument qualification: they support IQ/OQ documentation templates per ISO/IEC 17025, provide traceable speed calibration via factory-certified tachometer verification, and enable audit-ready operation when integrated with validated LIMS or ELN platforms. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, their digital variants (T25/T50) support external electronic signature integration through RS232/USB interfaces.

Software & Data Management

The T25 Digital and T50 models feature built-in memory for up to 5 user-defined protocols, each storing speed setpoint, ramp time, hold duration, and auto-stop logic. Optional IKA Labworld software (v3.2+) enables remote parameter configuration, real-time speed logging at 1 Hz resolution, CSV export for statistical process control (SPC), and batch-level metadata tagging (operator ID, timestamp, sample ID). All models output standardized analog voltage signals (0–10 V) proportional to actual RPM for third-party DAQ integration. Firmware updates are performed via USB flash drive using signed binaries verified by SHA-256 checksums—ensuring integrity and version traceability in regulated environments.

Applications

• Life sciences: Homogenization of mammalian tissues, disruption of yeast/bacterial cells, preparation of subcellular fractions, and nanoparticle dispersion for drug delivery studies
• Materials science: Deagglomeration of carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, and metal oxide pigments in solvent-based inks and coatings
• Food & agriculture: Emulsification of dressings and sauces, viscosity reduction of fruit pulps, and microbial suspension standardization for plate counts
• Pharmaceutical QC: Uniform dispersion of insoluble actives in suspension formulations prior to HPLC or dissolution testing per USP
• Chemical R&D: Catalyst slurry homogenization, polymer solution degassing support, and pre-mixing of multi-phase reaction precursors

FAQ

What distinguishes the T18 from the T25 Digital?
The T25 Digital adds programmable memory, real-time speed feedback, RS232/USB connectivity, and enhanced torque at low speeds—making it suitable for SOP-driven environments requiring protocol repeatability and data traceability.
Can I use the same dispersing tool across all models?
No. Dispersing elements are mechanically and dimensionally specific to each series (e.g., S18N tools fit only T18/T25; S50N tools are exclusive to T50) due to shaft diameter, thread pitch, and stator geometry differences.
Is validation support available for GMP labs?
Yes. IKA provides IQ/OQ checklists, factory calibration certificates (traceable to DKD/DAkkS), and mechanical performance test reports—compatible with Annex 11 and EU GMP Chapter 4 requirements when used with documented procedures.
What is the maximum continuous run time at full speed?
Under ambient conditions (23 °C, 50% RH) and with recommended cooling intervals, the T18 supports ≤15 min continuous operation at 24,000 rpm; extended runs require duty-cycle management per IKA Technical Bulletin TB-HM-004.
Do these units comply with explosion-proof requirements for solvent-based processing?
Standard models are not ATEX-certified. For flammable solvent applications, consult IKA’s EX-series alternatives (e.g., RW 20 DZM) or integrate within certified fume hoods meeting EN 14175-3 standards.