IKA Vortex2 Vortex Mixer

Overview

The IKA Vortex2 Vortex Mixer is a compact, benchtop orbital shaker engineered for rapid and reproducible sample homogenization in life science laboratories. Operating on the principle of eccentric orbital motion—where the platform rotates around a central axis with a fixed 4 mm orbit diameter—the device generates consistent vortexing action ideal for resuspension of pellets, mixing reagents, and preparing dilutions across microcentrifuge tubes, PCR strips, and small-volume vials. Designed for continuous-duty operation without thermal overload protection or speed feedback control, the Vortex2 delivers stable mechanical agitation at fixed speeds within its 500–2500 rpm range. Its robust brushed DC motor architecture ensures long-term reliability under routine use in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and quality control environments where simplicity, footprint efficiency, and mechanical consistency are prioritized over programmable features.

Key Features

• Fixed-speed orbital mixing with precise 4 mm oscillation amplitude for uniform vortex formation across tube geometries
• Wide operational speed range (500–2500 rpm) optimized for both gentle resuspension and vigorous mixing of viscous or particulate-laden samples
• Compact footprint (120 × 138 × 140 mm) and lightweight design (3.9 kg) enabling flexible placement on laminar flow hoods, cold rooms, or crowded benchtops
• Single-platform configuration with universal cup-type holder accommodating standard 0.2–50 mL tubes without tool-based adjustment
• Energy-efficient motor system with 39 W input / 9 W mechanical output power, minimizing heat generation during extended operation
• No digital display or timer circuitry—reducing electronic failure points and supporting ISO 13485-aligned maintenance protocols in regulated QC labs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Vortex2 supports common laboratory consumables including polypropylene and polycarbonate microcentrifuge tubes (0.2–2.0 mL), PCR strip tubes, conical-bottom Eppendorf-style tubes, and small glass vials up to 50 mL when secured with optional accessories. Its maximum load capacity of 0.4 kg (including clamp mass) ensures mechanical stability under typical loading conditions. While not certified to specific regulatory standards such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or ISO/IEC 17025, the device complies with general electrical safety requirements per EN 61010-1 (IEC 61010-1) for laboratory equipment. Its non-programmable architecture aligns with GLP environments where audit trails and electronic record integrity are managed at the procedural—not instrument—level.

Software & Data Management

The IKA Vortex2 operates as a standalone analog device with no embedded firmware, USB interface, or software dependency. It does not generate electronic logs, store operating parameters, or support remote control. This design eliminates validation overhead associated with computerized systems under GMP or CLIA regulations. Users maintain full traceability through manual logbook entries referencing speed setting (e.g., “Vortex2 @ 2000 rpm, 30 s”), consistent with traditional paper-based SOP documentation practices in academic and contract research laboratories.

Applications

• Routine resuspension of bacterial or yeast cell pellets post-centrifugation
• Homogenization of enzyme reaction mixtures prior to kinetic assay initiation
• Preparation of serial dilutions in ELISA and qPCR workflows
• Mixing of staining solutions (e.g., Coomassie, DAPI) with gel slices or membrane blots
• Reconstitution of lyophilized reagents and calibration standards in analytical chemistry labs
• Supporting sample preparation steps compliant with ASTM D7216 (standard practice for mixing liquid samples prior to analysis)

FAQ

Does the Vortex2 include a timer or speed display?
No. The unit operates at manually selected fixed speeds with no digital readout or timing functionality.
Can it accommodate 50 mL conical tubes?
Yes—with the optional IKA Vortex 50 adapter (sold separately), which provides secure clamping for larger vessels.
Is the motor brushless?
No. It utilizes a maintenance-free brushed DC motor optimized for torque delivery at low-to-mid speed ranges.
What is the expected service life under daily lab use?
Based on IKA’s internal accelerated testing, the motor and mechanical assembly are rated for ≥10,000 hours of continuous operation at nominal load.
Does it meet CE marking requirements?
Yes. The device carries CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), verified by third-party notified body TÜV Rheinland.