IKA Color Squid Digital Magnetic Stirrer
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | Color Squid |
| Instrument Type | Magnetic Stirrer |
| Max. Stirring Volume (H₂O) | 1 L |
| Speed Range | 0–2500 rpm |
| Display | LED Digital Speed Readout |
| Motor Power Output | 2 W |
| Plate Material | Tempered Glass |
| Protection Rating | IP54 |
| Input Voltage | 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 145 × 45 × 160 mm |
| Weight | 1.074 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 5–40 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | ≤80 % RH |
| Stir Bar Max. Length | 30 mm |
| Speed Setting Resolution | 50 rpm |
| DC Supply | 12 V =, 300 mA |
Overview
The IKA Color Squid Digital Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, benchtop magnetic stirring system engineered for precision, chemical resistance, and operational reliability in modern analytical, quality control, and synthetic chemistry laboratories. Utilizing a brushless DC motor with electronic speed control, the device delivers stable rotational torque across its full 0–2500 rpm range—enabling consistent homogenization of low- to medium-viscosity aqueous and organic solutions up to 1 L volume. Its tempered glass top plate provides uniform thermal distribution, high scratch resistance, and inert surface compatibility with common laboratory solvents, acids, and bases. Designed without integrated heating, the Color Squid serves as a dedicated non-thermal mixing platform—ideal for temperature-sensitive reactions, pH adjustments, titrations, or dissolution testing where thermal drift must be excluded from experimental variables.
Key Features
- Digital LED speed display providing real-time feedback of setpoint and actual rotation rate
- Electronic motor control architecture ensuring high reproducibility and minimal speed drift under load
- Chemically resistant tempered glass work surface manufactured using TPC-ET polymer-reinforced processing for enhanced durability and cleanability
- IP54-rated enclosure offering protection against dust ingress and water splashes—suitable for shared lab environments and fume hood integration
- Ergonomic rotary speed adjustment knob with 50 rpm resolution for fine-tuned process optimization
- Energy-efficient design: 4 W total input power, 2 W motor output, compliant with IEC 62301 standby power requirements
- Universal AC input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz) enabling global deployment without voltage conversion hardware
- Compact footprint (145 × 45 × 160 mm) optimized for space-constrained workstations and glovebox interfaces
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Color Squid supports standard PTFE- or PTFE-coated magnetic stir bars up to 30 mm in length, accommodating common geometries including oval, cross, and flea types. Its inert glass surface ensures compatibility with aggressive reagents including 37% hydrochloric acid, 65% nitric acid, 98% sulfuric acid, and acetone, methanol, and dichloromethane—validated per DIN 51304 and ISO 15190 chemical resistance guidelines. The unit conforms to EN 61010-1:2019 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EMC requirements per EN 61326-1:2013. No internal heating element eliminates thermal interference—making it suitable for applications requiring strict isothermal conditions per ASTM E2913 or USP environmental controls.
Software & Data Management
As a stand-alone analog-controlled instrument, the Color Squid does not feature digital connectivity, firmware updates, or data logging capabilities. Its operation adheres to “zero-software” design principles—eliminating validation overhead associated with computerized systems under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11. All operational parameters are manually set and visually verified via LED display, supporting fully auditable manual batch records in GLP and GMP environments. The absence of microprocessors or network interfaces removes cybersecurity risks and simplifies IQ/OQ documentation during equipment qualification.
Applications
- Preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in metrology labs
- Mixing of buffer formulations and enzymatic assay reagents under ambient thermal conditions
- Homogenization of nanoparticle suspensions prior to DLS or UV-Vis analysis
- Stirring during potentiometric titrations where electrode stability depends on mechanical consistency
- Dissolution testing of pharmaceutical dosage forms per USP , where heating artifacts must be decoupled from dissolution kinetics
- Supporting solvent exchange protocols in sample preparation workflows for LC-MS and GC-MS
- Use in biosafety cabinets for sterile solution blending without introducing heat-induced convection currents
FAQ
Does the Color Squid include a built-in temperature sensor or heating function?
No. It is a non-heating magnetic stirrer. Temperature control must be provided externally (e.g., via water bath or climate-controlled room).
Is the glass plate replaceable if damaged?
Yes. IKA supplies OEM replacement plates (Order No. 302000000) compatible with all Color Squid units.
Can it operate continuously for extended periods?
Yes. Rated for continuous duty at ambient temperatures between 5–40 °C and relative humidity ≤80 %, per DIN EN 60529 IP54 specification.
What stir bar size is recommended for optimal performance at 2500 rpm?
A 25–30 mm PTFE-coated oval stir bar is optimal; longer bars may induce wobble or resonance at upper speed ranges.
Is the unit compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements?
Yes—the absence of software and reliance on manual operation allows straightforward inclusion in accredited testing lab scope documentation without additional validation layers.
