Scientz SCIENTZ-04 Sterile Stomacher-Type Homogenizer
| Brand | Scientz |
|---|---|
| Origin | Zhejiang, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Instrument Type | Stomacher (Paddle-Beating) Homogenizer |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 400 × 420 × 260 mm |
| Sample Volume Range | 3–400 mL |
| Compliance | Designed for ISO 6887-1, ASTM D5603, and USP <61> microbiological sample preparation |
Overview
The Scientz SCIENTZ-04 Sterile Stomacher-Type Homogenizer is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for reproducible, contamination-free mechanical homogenization of biological and food samples. Operating on the stomacher (paddle-beating) principle, it subjects sealed sterile sample bags to controlled, reciprocating mechanical impact via dual opposing paddles—generating consistent shear forces without direct contact between the instrument and sample. This closed-system approach eliminates cross-contamination risks and ensures operator safety during microbial isolation procedures. The device is optimized for quantitative recovery of microorganisms from heterogeneous matrices including animal tissues (e.g., liver, spleen, kidney, brain), dairy products, meat, leafy produce, and environmental swabs. Its design aligns with internationally recognized protocols for microbiological sample preparation, particularly where compliance with ISO 6887-1 (microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs), ASTM D5603 (standard guide for homogenization of environmental samples), and USP (microbiological examination of nonsterile products) is required.
Key Features
- Stainless-steel housing with IP54-rated enclosure for durability and resistance to disinfectants and organic solvents
- Dual-paddle stomacher mechanism delivering uniform, repeatable impact energy across the full 3–400 mL volume range
- Programmable cycle control: adjustable beating time (10–300 s) and speed (normal/soft mode) to accommodate fragile or fibrous samples
- Ergonomic front-loading chamber with quick-clamp lid and visual alignment guides for rapid, error-resistant bag insertion
- Integrated anti-slip base and vibration-dampening feet for stable operation on standard laboratory benches
- No internal moving parts exposed to aerosols—minimizes biohazard risk and simplifies decontamination between runs
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SCIENTZ-04 accepts standard ISO-compliant sterile stomacher bags (typically 100–400 mL capacity) made from low-permeability polyethylene or multilayer laminates. It accommodates solid, semi-solid, and particulate samples—including minced tissue, ground feed, cheese, soil suspensions, and plant material—without pre-grinding. All operational parameters support GLP/GMP-aligned workflows: audit trails are maintained manually via lab notebook documentation; when integrated with LIMS or validated electronic records systems, the instrument supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data integrity requirements. The device meets CE marking criteria for electrical safety (EN 61010-1) and electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1), and its mechanical design conforms to ISO 13485 principles for medical device-related sample processing environments.
Software & Data Management
The SCIENTZ-04 operates via an embedded push-button interface with LED status indicators—no external software or drivers required. While not equipped with onboard data logging, its analog control architecture ensures deterministic timing and eliminates firmware-related variability—a critical advantage in regulated microbiology labs where method validation stability is prioritized over digital feature sets. Users may integrate cycle logs into ELN or LIMS platforms using standardized SOP templates. Optional barcode-scannable label holders (sold separately) enable traceable association between sample ID, homogenization parameters, and downstream plating results—supporting full chain-of-custody documentation per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
Applications
- Microbial enumeration in food safety testing (aerobic plate count, coliforms, Salmonella enrichment)
- Pathogen isolation from clinical specimens (stool, wound swabs, tissue biopsies) in hospital and CDC laboratories
- Environmental monitoring of water, soil, and air filter samples under EPA and ISO 11731 protocols
- Preparation of homogenates for ELISA, PCR, and MALDI-TOF MS analysis in veterinary diagnostics
- Standardized dispersion of cosmetic raw materials and preservative efficacy test (PET) samples per ISO 11930
FAQ
What types of sample bags are compatible with the SCIENTZ-04?
Standard 100–400 mL stomacher bags conforming to ISO 6887-1 specifications—polyethylene or laminated PE/Al/PE constructions—are recommended. Bags must be sealed prior to insertion and rated for mechanical stress at ≥200 rpm equivalent impact frequency.
Can the SCIENTZ-04 be used for RNA/DNA extraction workflows?
Yes—when paired with RNase/DNase-free bags and chilled diluents, it provides efficient lysis-compatible homogenization for downstream nucleic acid isolation, particularly for soft tissues and cultured cells.
Is calibration required before use?
No routine calibration is mandated; however, periodic verification of cycle timing accuracy (±1 s tolerance) and paddle alignment is advised per internal QA procedures.
Does the instrument meet FDA requirements for food testing labs?
It supports FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) Chapter 1-compliant sample prep when operated within validated SOPs and documented parameter ranges.
What maintenance is needed for long-term reliability?
Monthly cleaning of the chamber interior and paddle surfaces with 70% ethanol; annual inspection of drive belt tension and paddle mounting hardware by authorized service personnel.
