Hanuo XH-D Multi-Station Vortex Mixer

Overview

The Hanuo XH-D Multi-Station Vortex Mixer is an engineered solution for rapid, reproducible mixing of liquid samples in standard laboratory vessels—including test tubes, centrifuge tubes, Eppendorf tubes, culture flasks, and small beakers. It operates on the principle of horizontal circular oscillation, generating controlled orbital motion that induces turbulent vortex formation within contained liquids. Unlike vertical shakers or orbital agitators, this design ensures efficient energy transfer directly to the sample interface with minimal splashing or foaming—critical for maintaining sample integrity during homogenization, re-suspension, or dissolution steps. The device features a robust cast aluminum chassis for thermal stability and mechanical rigidity, supporting consistent performance across extended operation cycles. Its compact footprint (170 × 120 × 170 mm) enables seamless integration into crowded benchtop environments without compromising accessibility or ergonomic usability.

Key Features

• Two interchangeable platform configurations: concave rubber platform for secure retention of round-bottom tubes and flat plastic platform for stability with flat-bottom containers—both designed for rapid tool-free swapping.
• Dual-mode actuation: momentary touch activation for transient mixing (e.g., brief resuspension prior to centrifugation) and continuous operation for prolonged homogenization protocols.
• Precision-engineered brushless motor delivering stable 2800 rpm output with low vibration transmission and acoustic noise <45 dB(A) at 1 m distance—compliant with ISO 7779 for laboratory equipment sound emission.
• Analog speed scale provides intuitive visual feedback; no digital electronics required, enhancing long-term reliability and eliminating firmware-related failure modes.
• Thermally optimized 50 W motor sustains duty-cycle operation without thermal throttling; rated for continuous use under ambient temperatures up to 40 °C per IEC 61000-6-3 EMC standards.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The XH-D accommodates a broad range of common labware: 0.2–50 mL conical tubes, 15–50 mL centrifuge tubes, 10–100 mL Erlenmeyer flasks, and shallow Petri dishes (up to 90 mm diameter). Platform geometry ensures centripetal force alignment with vessel centerlines, minimizing lateral slippage. All materials contacting sample holders—rubber gasketing and food-grade polypropylene surfaces—meet USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. While not certified for sterile applications, the unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for electrical equipment used in laboratory environments, including protection against electric shock, mechanical hazards, and abnormal temperature rise. No regulatory certification (e.g., FDA 510(k), CE medical device classification) applies, as it is designated strictly as general-purpose laboratory instrumentation.

Software & Data Management

This is a standalone analog instrument with no embedded microprocessor, network interface, or data logging capability. As such, it does not support electronic audit trails, user authentication, or compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. Its simplicity aligns with GLP/GMP Annex 15 guidance for “non-critical” ancillary equipment where manual operation records suffice. Users are advised to document usage parameters (e.g., mode, duration, platform type) in paper-based or LIMS-integrated logbooks when employed in regulated workflows involving sample preparation for analytical testing (e.g., HPLC sample prep, ELISA plate washing).

Applications

• Routine re-suspension of pelleted cells, precipitated proteins, or lyophilized reagents prior to downstream analysis.
• Homogenization of viscous solutions (e.g., glycerol stocks, agarose suspensions) before pipetting or dilution.
• Pre-analytical mixing in QC/QA labs performing ASTM D4097 (petroleum product homogeneity testing) or ISO 11737-1 (microbial enumeration sample preparation).
• Cell culture maintenance tasks including gentle dissociation of adherent monolayers in low-serum media.
• Education laboratories requiring durable, low-maintenance mixing tools for undergraduate chemistry and biology curricula.

FAQ

Is the XH-D suitable for mixing high-viscosity samples such as 50% glycerol solutions?
Yes—its 5 mm amplitude and 2800 rpm output generate sufficient shear to disrupt viscous layers; however, optimal results require use of the concave rubber platform to prevent tube ejection.
Can the mixer be operated inside a cold room or incubator?
It is rated for ambient operation between 5–40 °C and 20–80% RH non-condensing; extended exposure below 10 °C may affect rubber platform elasticity and motor startup torque.
Does the unit include speed calibration documentation?
No factory calibration certificate is provided; users requiring traceable speed verification should employ an external optical tachometer per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedure.
Are replacement platforms available separately?
Yes—concave rubber (PN: XH-D-RB) and flat plastic (PN: XH-D-PP) platforms are orderable as consumables with standard lead times.
What maintenance is recommended for long-term reliability?
Biannual inspection of platform mounting screws and visual check of motor housing integrity; no lubrication or internal servicing is required under normal operating conditions.