IKA Mini MR Standard Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA Mini MR Standard Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, single-position benchtop stirrer engineered for precision mixing of low-viscosity aqueous and organic solutions in routine laboratory workflows. Designed around the principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the polymer-coated plate induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the Mini MR delivers consistent agitation without mechanical shaft penetration or seal wear. Its brushless DC motor ensures quiet operation, minimal heat generation, and long-term reliability under continuous duty cycles. With no integrated heating function, this model is purpose-built for applications requiring strictly isothermal stirring conditions—such as pH-sensitive titrations, enzymatic reactions, dissolution testing under ambient thermal control, or preparation of calibration standards where temperature drift must be avoided. The device complies with IEC/EN 61010-1 safety standards for electrical laboratory equipment and meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1.

Key Features

• Compact footprint (114 × 37 × 127 mm) and lightweight design (0.25 kg) for space-constrained fume hoods, glove boxes, or mobile lab setups.
• Wide speed range of 0–2500 rpm enables fine-tuned control over mixing intensity—from gentle suspension of precipitates to vigorous homogenization of dilute suspensions.
• Polyester film-coated ceramic-free plate provides chemical resistance against common solvents and acids while maintaining uniform magnetic field distribution across the 115 × 115 mm active area.
• IP42-rated enclosure safeguards internal electronics from vertically falling droplets and solid objects ≥1 mm, supporting use in humid or splash-prone environments.
• Universal power input (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) ensures seamless deployment across global laboratory infrastructures without voltage conversion hardware.
• No speed display or digital interface simplifies operation and reduces failure points—ideal for high-throughput environments where tactile knob control and visual confirmation of stir bar rotation are sufficient.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Mini MR accommodates standard PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars up to 30 mm in length, supporting stable vortex formation in vessels ranging from 10 mL test tubes to 1 L beakers (water-equivalent volume). It is compatible with borosilicate glass, polypropylene, PETG, and other chemically inert labware. While not certified for explosive atmospheres (ATEX), its low-power motor (2 W output) and absence of heating elements render it suitable for use with flammable solvents under appropriate ventilation. The unit conforms to ISO/IEC 17025-relevant operational stability criteria when used within specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80 % RH). No regulatory certification for GLP or GMP environments is claimed; however, its passive, non-data-logging architecture inherently satisfies audit requirements for instruments excluded from 21 CFR Part 11 compliance scope.

Software & Data Management

The IKA Mini MR Standard operates as a stand-alone analog instrument with no embedded microprocessor, firmware, or connectivity options. It features no RS232, USB, or analog output interfaces—and therefore generates no electronic records, audit trails, or timestamped event logs. This architecture eliminates validation overhead associated with computerized system qualification (CSV) and aligns with Annex 11 principles for “non-critical” equipment in pharmaceutical QC labs. Users relying on documented mixing protocols may pair the device with external time-stamped video recording or manual logbook entries to satisfy traceability requirements for method execution.

Applications

• Preparation of buffer solutions and reagent dilutions in molecular biology and clinical diagnostics labs.
• Stirring during gravimetric analysis, redox titrations, or conductivity measurements where thermal artifacts must be excluded.
• Homogenization of cell culture media prior to sterile filtration or dispensing.
• Supporting ASTM D445 (kinematic viscosity) sample equilibration steps requiring agitation without temperature elevation.
• Use in teaching laboratories for introducing fundamental fluid dynamics concepts—e.g., laminar vs. turbulent flow regimes via visual observation of stir bar behavior at varying speeds.

FAQ

Does the Mini MR support temperature control?
No. This model is a non-heating stirrer only. For combined heating and stirring, consider the IKA RCT basic or HS series.
Can it be used with corrosive solvents like concentrated HCl or NaOH?
Yes—the polyester film plate resists short-term exposure to common inorganic acids and bases. However, prolonged contact with strong oxidizers (e.g., nitric acid) or halogenated solvents is not recommended.
Is speed calibration traceable to national standards?
No. The device lacks a calibrated tachometer or factory-certified speed verification report. For applications requiring metrologically traceable rotation rates, external optical tachometry is advised.
What stir bar size is optimal for 1 L volumes?
A 30 mm PTFE-coated bar with a 7–10 mm diameter provides optimal torque transfer and vortex stability in cylindrical 1 L beakers at speeds above 800 rpm.
Does it meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?
Not applicable—this is a non-computerized, non-data-generating instrument and falls outside the regulatory scope of Part 11.