LAUDA Varioshake VS 15 R Two-Dimensional Planar Shaker
| Brand | LAUDA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | VS 15 R |
| Timer Range | 1 min to 99:59 h |
| Oscillation Frequency | 2–50 rpm |
| Amplitude | 3° |
| Tray Quantity | 1 |
| Operating Ambient Temperature | 10–50 °C |
| Tray Dimensions (W × D) | 450 × 450 mm |
| Max Load Capacity | 15 kg |
| Power Consumption | 0.09 kW |
| External Dimensions (W × D × H) | 480 × 487 × 160 mm |
| Weight | 17 kg |
Overview
The LAUDA Varioshake VS 15 R is a precision-engineered two-dimensional planar shaker designed for consistent, low-shear mixing and incubation of biological and chemical samples under controlled ambient conditions. Unlike orbital or reciprocating shakers, the VS 15 R employs a proprietary N-type planar oscillation mechanism—generating uniform, bidirectional horizontal motion across a flat plane with a fixed angular amplitude of 3°. This motion profile minimizes sample splashing and foam formation while ensuring homogeneous suspension of cells, microorganisms, or particulates in culture flasks, petri dishes, and multi-well plates. The device operates without internal heating or cooling elements; it is classified as an ambient-air shaker, intended for use within laboratory environments maintained between 10 °C and 50 °C. Its robust mechanical architecture—including a balanced AC motor with thermal overload protection, anodized aluminum oscillation platform, and powder-coated electrolytic galvanized steel housing—ensures long-term operational stability and minimal maintenance over continuous duty cycles.
Key Features
- Two-dimensional planar oscillation (N-type motion) with precise 3° angular amplitude for gentle yet effective sample homogenization
- Digitally controlled speed regulation from 2 to 50 rpm in 0.5 rpm increments via integrated LC display and keypad
- Soft-start electronic drive system eliminates mechanical shock during acceleration and deceleration
- Programmable timer with resolution down to 1 minute and maximum duration of 99 hours 59 minutes—or indefinite continuous operation mode
- Anodized aluminum oscillation tray (450 × 450 mm) with four non-slip plastic locating pins for secure accessory mounting
- Compact footprint (480 × 487 × 160 mm) and lightweight design (17 kg) optimized for benchtop integration in regulated lab spaces
- Constant-speed performance independent of load mass up to 15 kg, verified across full frequency range
- Optional RS-232 interface available for external command control and basic data logging (e.g., setpoint, runtime, status)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VS 15 R accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), Petri dishes, deep-well plates, and custom containers secured via optional accessories—such as black silicone adhesive pads (Art. A000041), anti-slip tray carriers (A000043), oscillation-specific trays (A000045), and universal mounting platforms (A000049). Its mechanical design conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use). While not intrinsically rated for GMP or GLP environments, the unit supports audit-ready workflows when paired with validated procedures and external documentation systems. It does not incorporate temperature control, thus falls outside scope of ISO 17025 clause 5.4.2 for thermal calibration—but remains suitable for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs performing non-thermal mechanical validation protocols.
Software & Data Management
The VS 15 R operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded operating system or firmware-based data storage. All parameter settings—including target rpm, timer value, and run status—are retained only during active operation and reset upon power cycle. The optional RS-232 interface enables serial communication at 9600 baud, supporting ASCII command sets for remote start/stop, speed adjustment, and timer readback. Integration into LIMS or ELN platforms requires third-party middleware or custom scripting (e.g., Python with PySerial). No native compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 is provided; however, electronic records generated via external controllers may be rendered compliant through supplementary access controls, audit trails, and electronic signatures implemented at the host system level.
Applications
- Cell culture maintenance and subculturing in suspension-adapted lines (e.g., insect, hybridoma, CHO cells)
- Enzyme kinetics assays requiring uniform agitation without shear-induced denaturation
- Immunoassay plate washing and reagent mixing prior to detection steps
- Soil and water sample homogenization for microbiological analysis per ASTM D5057 and ISO 11731
- Pre-analytical preparation of clinical specimens (e.g., whole blood mixing for coagulation studies)
- Material compatibility testing of biocompatible polymers under dynamic mechanical stress
FAQ
Does the VS 15 R include temperature control?
No. It is an ambient-air shaker and must be operated in a climate-controlled environment.
Can the oscillation amplitude be adjusted?
No. The 3° planar amplitude is mechanically fixed and not user-variable.
Is the unit compatible with CO₂ incubators?
Not recommended—its operating temperature range (10–50 °C) and lack of humidity resistance preclude safe use inside humidified incubator chambers.
What safety certifications does it hold?
It complies with IEC 61010-1 (Ed. 3.1) for laboratory electrical safety and IEC 61000-6-3 for electromagnetic compatibility.
How is load imbalance compensated?
Through a factory-calibrated dynamic mass balancing system integrated into the drive shaft assembly, ensuring vibration-free operation at all speeds up to 50 rpm.
