IKA LAB DISC WHITE Magnetic Stirrer
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | LAB DISC WHITE |
| Instrument Type | Magnetic Stirrer |
| Maximum Stirring Volume (H₂O) | 0.8 L |
| Speed Range | 15–1500 rpm |
| Motor Output Power | 3 W |
| Input Power | 5 W |
| Working Plate Material | Polyester Film |
| Plate Diameter | Ø 100 mm |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 116 × 12 × 175 mm |
| Weight | 0.599 kg |
| IP Rating | IP65 |
| Operating Temperature | 5–40 °C |
| Relative Humidity Limit | 80 % |
| Voltage | 100–240 V AC |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Max. Stir Bar Length | 25 mm |
| Max. Load Capacity | 1.5 kg |
Overview
The IKA LAB DISC WHITE is a compact, ultra-thin magnetic stirrer engineered for precision mixing in demanding laboratory environments. Unlike conventional stirrers with mechanical drive shafts or rotating motors, this device employs a solid-state electromagnetic coil array embedded beneath a seamless polyester film work surface—eliminating moving parts, mechanical wear, and associated maintenance requirements. Its operation relies on controlled alternating magnetic fields to induce synchronous rotation of standard PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars immersed in samples. The unit’s unique bidirectional auto-reversal function—triggered every 30 seconds—enhances homogeneity by preventing vortex stabilization and promoting radial flow patterns, especially beneficial for low-viscosity aqueous solutions and sensitive biological suspensions. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the LAB DISC WHITE adheres to stringent quality control standards aligned with DIN EN 61000 (EMC) and DIN EN 61010-1 (safety for laboratory electrical equipment), ensuring operational reliability across global research, QC, and teaching labs.
Key Features
- IP65-rated sealed housing and work surface—resistant to splashes, dust ingress, and common laboratory solvents including ethanol, acetone, and diluted acids/bases.
- Zero-mechanical-wear architecture: no gears, belts, or bearings—enabling silent, vibration-free operation and extended service life.
- Auto-reversing stirring algorithm: programmable polarity switching every 30 seconds improves mixing uniformity without user intervention.
- Ultra-low profile (12 mm height) and lightweight design (0.599 kg) facilitates integration into fume hoods, glove boxes, and multi-tiered bench setups.
- Universal voltage input (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) supports global deployment without external transformers or adapters.
- Non-slip silicone feet provide stable positioning on inclined or polished surfaces while minimizing micro-vibrations during high-speed operation.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LAB DISC WHITE is validated for use with standard magnetic stir bars up to 25 mm in length and accommodates vessels with flat, non-magnetic bases—including borosilicate glass beakers (up to 1 L capacity), polypropylene centrifuge tubes, and custom reaction vials. Its chemical-resistant polyester film surface withstands repeated exposure to aqueous buffers, saline solutions, and mild organic solvents under ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH). The device complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP65), DIN EN 61010-1:2013 (safety requirements for electrical equipment), and meets CE marking requirements for the European Economic Area. While not certified for hazardous area use (ATEX/IECEx), it is suitable for general-purpose mixing in ISO 17025-accredited testing laboratories and GLP-compliant environments where traceability and instrument qualification are maintained per internal SOPs.
Software & Data Management
The LAB DISC WHITE operates as a standalone analog-controlled instrument with no embedded microprocessor or digital interface. Speed adjustment is performed via a calibrated rotary potentiometer with tactile feedback, providing continuous, stepless control across the full 15–1500 rpm range. No firmware, USB connectivity, or data logging capability is included—intentionally simplifying validation pathways for regulated environments where software verification (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11) would otherwise impose additional documentation burdens. This design aligns with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate) when used in conjunction with manual logbooks or LIMS-integrated procedural records.
Applications
- Routine dissolution and dilution preparation in pharmaceutical QC labs (e.g., USP dissolution media conditioning).
- Cell culture media equilibration and reagent blending in molecular biology workflows.
- Standard buffer preparation for electrophoresis, ELISA, and chromatography sample handling.
- Low-heat mixing of temperature-sensitive enzyme solutions where motor-driven stirrers risk localized heating.
- Teaching laboratories requiring robust, intuitive equipment for undergraduate chemistry and life sciences instruction.
FAQ
Is the LAB DISC WHITE compatible with metal-bottomed containers?
No. Ferromagnetic or conductive vessel bases interfere with magnetic field coupling and must be avoided. Use only glass, ceramic, or non-magnetic polymer containers.
Can it operate continuously for 24 hours?
Yes—its thermally optimized coil design and passive cooling enable unattended operation within specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH).
Does it support speed calibration or external control signals?
No. It lacks analog/digital input ports or calibration protocols; speed indication is purely relative and intended for qualitative mixing control.
What maintenance is required?
None beyond periodic surface cleaning with isopropyl alcohol and visual inspection of the work plate for scratches or chemical etching.
Is it suitable for viscous solutions like glycerol or polymer melts?
Not recommended. Its 3 W motor output and optimized field geometry are designed for low-to-medium viscosity liquids (≤100 mPa·s); higher viscosities require overhead or high-torque magnetic stirrers.
