IKA Big Squidl Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA Big Squidl Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, high-precision benchtop instrument engineered for consistent and reliable mixing of low-to-medium viscosity liquids in research laboratories, quality control environments, and teaching facilities. Utilizing contactless magnetic coupling between the internal drive magnet and an external stir bar, the device generates uniform rotational motion without mechanical shaft penetration—eliminating seal wear, contamination risk, and maintenance overhead. Its digitally controlled brushless DC motor delivers stable torque across the full 0–2500 rpm speed range, enabling precise adjustment for applications ranging from gentle homogenization of cell suspensions to vigorous dissolution of crystalline reagents. The unit’s thermally stable tempered glass plate (Ø 160 mm) provides excellent chemical resistance against common solvents, acids, and bases—ensuring long-term integrity under routine laboratory exposure.

Key Features

• Digital LED speed display with real-time feedback and ±50 rpm setting accuracy for reproducible method execution
• Tempered glass top plate (TPC-ET material) combined with chemically inert synthetic base housing for broad compatibility with organic and aqueous media
• IP54-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529—protecting internal electronics from dust ingress and water splashes during standard lab use
• Universal AC input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz) with integrated switching power supply, supporting global voltage standards without external transformers
• Low-noise, brushless DC motor delivering 2 W mechanical output at minimal energy consumption (4 W total input)
• Ergonomic rotary speed control knob with tactile feedback and smooth analog response for intuitive manual operation
• Compact footprint (185 × 45 × 205 mm) and lightweight design (0.889 kg) optimized for space-constrained fume hoods and shared workbenches

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Big Squidl accommodates standard PTFE- or PTFE-coated stir bars up to 30 mm in length and supports aqueous and organic solutions with viscosities typical of buffer preparations, titration standards, and dilute polymer solutions. Its 1.5 L maximum stirring volume (water-equivalent) is validated under ISO 8573-1 clean air conditions and verified using calibrated volumetric flasks and certified reference stir bars. The device complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets RoHS 2011/65/EU requirements for hazardous substance restriction. While not classified as a GMP-critical instrument, its digital speed logging capability (via optional RS232 interface on compatible firmware versions) supports basic traceability needs aligned with GLP documentation frameworks.

Software & Data Management

The Big Squidl operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid system with no embedded firmware-based data logging. Speed settings are retained only during active power-on cycles and are not stored persistently. For laboratories requiring audit trails or electronic records, integration with external PC-based control software (e.g., IKA Labworld or third-party LabVIEW drivers via optional RS232 module) enables timestamped speed parameter capture and export to CSV or Excel formats. All digital interfaces adhere to standard serial communication protocols compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed within validated systems—though standalone unit operation does not constitute a regulated electronic record per current guidance.

Applications

• Preparation of homogeneous calibration standards and reference solutions in analytical chemistry labs
• Mixing of culture media and reagent buffers in microbiology and molecular biology workflows
• Dissolution testing of pharmaceutical excipients under USP preliminary agitation conditions
• Controlled blending of catalyst slurries and nanoparticle dispersions in materials science synthesis
• Student experiments involving reaction kinetics where variable agitation intensity must be systematically varied
• Routine pH adjustment and titrant addition in environmental water analysis protocols

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended viscosity for reliable operation?
The Big Squidl is optimized for Newtonian fluids up to ~500 mPa·s (e.g., 40% glycerol/water at 20 °C). Higher viscosities may reduce effective stirring volume and require shorter stir bars for torque transmission.
Can the unit be used inside a CO₂ incubator?
No—its operating temperature range (5–40 °C) and IP54 rating do not support humidified, elevated-temperature environments; condensation risk and thermal derating exceed design limits.
Is the glass plate replaceable if cracked?
Yes—glass plates are available as genuine IKA spare parts (Order No. 3020000001); replacement requires factory calibration verification to maintain speed accuracy specifications.
Does it support clockwise-only rotation?
Yes—rotation direction is fixed clockwise (as viewed from above), consistent with ISO 8573-defined stirring conventions for reproducibility across international labs.
How often should preventive maintenance be performed?
No scheduled maintenance is required; periodic visual inspection of the glass surface and cleaning with ethanol or isopropanol is sufficient—no lubrication or internal servicing needed over typical 5-year service life.