Zuofei HY-1 Vortex Mixer
| Brand | Zuofei |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Region | Domestic (China) |
| Model | HY-1 |
| Price | Upon Request |
| Speed | 3000 rpm |
| Operation Mode | Touch-Activated (Momentary) |
| Oscillation Type | Circular Orbit |
| Housing Material | ABS Plastic |
| Amplitude | 4.5 mm |
| Speed Indication | Analog Scale |
Overview
The Zuofei HY-1 Vortex Mixer is a compact, benchtop laboratory instrument engineered for rapid and reproducible mixing of small-volume liquid samples in tubes and vials. It operates on the principle of orbital shaking—generating controlled circular motion at the base platform to induce vortex formation within the sample container. This mechanism ensures efficient homogenization of suspensions, re-suspension of pellets, and thorough blending of low-viscosity solutions without introducing excessive shear or foaming. Designed specifically for momentary (touch-activated) operation, the HY-1 eliminates continuous-run fatigue and enables precise user control over mixing duration—critical for sensitive biochemical assays, cell culture preparation, and routine QC workflows where over-mixing may compromise sample integrity.
Key Features
- Touch-activated momentary operation: Press-and-hold interface delivers immediate motor response with no preset timing; ideal for intermittent, operator-controlled mixing cycles.
- High-speed performance: Capable of up to 3000 rpm, enabling rapid vortex generation in standard 0.5–50 mL tubes including microcentrifuge tubes, PCR strips, and conical-bottom vials.
- Stable circular orbit motion: 4.5 mm amplitude provides consistent kinetic energy transfer across sample volumes while minimizing tube ejection risk during high-speed operation.
- Compact and lightweight design: Dimensions of 190 × 126 × 113 mm and net weight of 0.37 kg facilitate placement in crowded hoods, biosafety cabinets, or mobile lab setups.
- Durable ABS housing: Chemically resistant, non-conductive enclosure ensures long-term reliability in wet-lab environments and simplifies surface decontamination.
- DC brushless motor with external 12 V/1 A power adapter: Delivers smooth torque delivery, low electromagnetic interference, and extended service life compared to AC induction motors.
- Analog speed scale: Provides intuitive visual feedback for repeatable manual speed selection without digital electronics or software dependency.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HY-1 is validated for use with common laboratory consumables including polypropylene and polycarbonate centrifuge tubes (up to 50 mL), glass test tubes (up to 15 mL), and PCR-compatible strip tubes. Its mechanical design conforms to general safety requirements for Class I electrical equipment per IEC 61010-1. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 or GLP-specific validation protocols out-of-the-box, the device supports traceable operation when integrated into documented SOPs—particularly for applications requiring consistency in vortex duration and intensity (e.g., ELISA plate prep, nucleic acid extraction, or buffer equilibration). Users performing regulated work under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 should implement supplementary procedural controls, including operator training records and periodic functional verification using calibrated tachometers.
Software & Data Management
The HY-1 operates as a standalone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, connectivity options (USB/Bluetooth/Ethernet), or data logging capability. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity concerns, reduces maintenance overhead, and ensures deterministic behavior across laboratory shifts. All operational parameters—including activation timing and speed setting—are manually controlled and documented externally via lab notebooks or LIMS entries. For labs requiring audit-ready traceability, integration with time-stamped video monitoring or external RPM verification tools is recommended during method qualification.
Applications
- Routine resuspension of lyophilized reagents and bacterial pellets
- Homogenization of immunoassay reagents prior to pipetting
- Mixing of DNA/RNA extraction buffers with tissue lysates
- Preparation of calibration standards and dilution series
- Blending of enzyme-substrate mixtures in kinetic assays
- Dispersion of nanoparticles in aqueous carriers for characterization studies
- Quality control checks in pharmaceutical manufacturing (non-GMP support role)
FAQ
Is the HY-1 suitable for mixing viscous samples such as glycerol-based stocks or agarose solutions?
The HY-1 is optimized for low-to-medium viscosity liquids (typically < 500 mPa·s). Highly viscous or particulate-laden samples may require longer activation time or alternative mixing methods (e.g., orbital shakers or magnetic stirrers).
Can the device accommodate tubes larger than 50 mL?
No—mechanical stability and vortex efficiency are validated only for containers ≤50 mL. Larger vessels risk imbalance, reduced mixing efficacy, and potential platform wear.
Does the HY-1 include speed calibration documentation?
Factory calibration data is not supplied with standard units. Users requiring verified speed accuracy should perform periodic verification using a handheld optical tachometer against the analog scale.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Routine cleaning of the rubber cup and platform surface with 70% ethanol is recommended. No lubrication or internal servicing is needed due to the sealed brushless motor design.
Is the 12 V DC power adapter compatible with international voltage inputs?
Yes—the included AC/DC adapter accepts 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz input, making it suitable for global deployment without additional transformers.
