Zuofei ZS-16 Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker & Incubator
| Brand | Zuofei |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Instrument Type | Air-bath Constant-Temperature Shaker |
| Timer Range | 1 min – 99 h 59 min |
| Oscillation Speed | 50–300 rpm |
| Orbit Diameter | 20 mm |
| Temperature Range | Ambient +5°C to 60°C |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
Overview
The Zuofei ZS-16 Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker & Incubator is an integrated laboratory instrument engineered for precise temperature-controlled agitation of biological and biochemical samples. It operates on the principle of orbital shaking—where a circular motion (20 mm orbit diameter) ensures uniform suspension and gas exchange in culture vessels—combined with forced-air convection heating for rapid, homogeneous thermal distribution across the platform. Designed for applications requiring simultaneous control of temperature and oscillation frequency, the ZS-16 serves as both an incubator and shaker without mechanical water baths or external chillers. Its microprocessor-based control architecture enables stable setpoint maintenance within ±0.3°C under standard lab conditions (25°C ambient), with real-time feedback from high-stability NTC thermistors embedded in the air chamber and platform surface.
Key Features
- 4.3-inch full-color capacitive touchscreen interface with intuitive UI navigation, supporting multi-language firmware (English default) and parameter lockout for GLP-compliant operation
- Independent hardware-level overtemperature protection circuit, compliant with IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards, activated automatically upon sensor failure or thermal runaway
- Brushless DC motor coupled with precision-ground ball bearings, delivering >20,000 hours MTBF and noise emission <52 dB(A) at 250 rpm
- Patented dynamic balance system minimizes lateral vibration at high speeds (up to 300 rpm), ensuring reproducible mixing performance across flask sizes from 15 mL tubes to 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks
- Full-view transparent acrylic lid with integrated safety interlock—motor stops immediately upon lid opening per EN 60335-1 requirements
- Modular platform design accepts standardized accessories including universal clamps, microplate holders, and silicone mat inserts for tube stabilization
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZS-16 accommodates a wide range of vessel formats via interchangeable mounting options: round-bottom flasks (50–2000 mL), conical centrifuge tubes (15–50 mL), Petri dishes, multiwell plates (6–96-well), and custom bioreactor vessels. All materials in contact with sample zones meet USP Class VI biocompatibility standards. The device conforms to ISO/IEC 17025 calibration traceability frameworks when paired with NIST-traceable thermocouples and tachometers. For regulated environments, audit trail functionality (via optional USB data logging module) supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when configured with user authentication and electronic signature protocols.
Software & Data Management
While the base unit operates autonomously via onboard firmware, optional PC connectivity (RS-232 or USB-C) enables remote monitoring and parameter scripting using Zuofei’s LabLink™ Desktop Suite (v3.2+). This application supports CSV export of time-stamped temperature and speed logs, alarm history review, and batch protocol storage. Firmware updates are delivered via signed binary packages verified through SHA-256 checksums. Internal memory retains up to 10 user-defined programs with independent timer, ramp, and hold profiles—critical for multi-stage fermentation or enzyme kinetics assays.
Applications
- Bacterial and yeast cultivation under controlled aeration and thermal conditions (e.g., E. coli expression, S. cerevisiae ethanol production)
- Mammalian cell suspension culture in serum-free media, particularly for transient transfection workflows
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) requiring precise incubation during broth dilution steps
- Protein solubilization and antigen-antibody binding kinetics where gentle orbital motion prevents shear-induced denaturation
- Environmental microbiology studies involving soil slurry homogenization or wastewater biofilm disruption
- Quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing for stability-indicating assays per ICH Q5C guidelines
FAQ
Is the ZS-16 suitable for CO₂-sensitive cell cultures?
No—this is an air-bath system without CO₂ regulation; it is intended for aerobic microbial growth or non-CO₂-dependent mammalian lines. For CO₂-controlled incubation, consider pairing with an external gas mixer or selecting a dedicated CO₂ shaker model.
Can the unit maintain temperature uniformity with a full load of 2 L flasks?
Yes—validation data shows ≤±0.8°C spatial deviation across the platform at 37°C with eight 2 L flasks (50% fill volume), verified per ASTM E145-22 Annex A4 test methods.
Does the timer support countdown interruption and resume functionality?
Yes—the microcontroller preserves elapsed time and setpoint state during power loss (with optional UPS) and allows manual pause/resume without resetting the total duration.
What calibration documentation is provided?
Each unit ships with a factory calibration certificate referencing NIST-traceable standards for temperature (±0.2°C at 37°C) and speed (±1 rpm at 150 rpm), valid for 12 months from date of shipment.
