IKA T10 Basic Dispersion Unit Kit

Overview

The IKA T10 Basic Dispersion Unit Kit is a compact, high-speed rotor-stator homogenizer engineered for precise and reproducible dispersion, emulsification, and cell disruption in low-volume laboratory applications. Operating on the principle of hydrodynamic shear generated by a rapidly rotating rotor within a fixed stator, the system delivers controlled mechanical energy to break down aggregates, suspend particles, and uniformly disperse immiscible phases in volumes ranging from 0.5 mL to 100 mL. Its 125 W universal motor—capable of delivering 75 W of continuous mechanical output—maintains stable rotational speed across varying load conditions, including solutions with viscosities up to 5,000 mPa·s. Designed for benchtop flexibility, the unit requires no external transformer and operates directly from standard AC mains (100–230 V, 50/60 Hz), enabling seamless relocation between fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and clean benches.

Key Features

• High-speed performance: Continuous speed control from 8,000 to 30,000 rpm ensures optimal shear intensity for diverse sample matrices—from viscous polymer solutions to fragile biological suspensions.
• Ergonomic handheld design: Lightweight (0.4 kg) housing with balanced center of gravity minimizes operator fatigue during extended manual operation.
• Tool-free dispersing element exchange: Integrated quick-release coupling allows rapid switching between stainless steel probes (Ø5 mm, Ø8 mm, Ø10 mm) and sterile, nuclease-free disposable plastic tips—critical for cross-contamination-sensitive workflows such as PCR prep and RNA isolation.
• Robust thermal management: Optimized duty cycle (10 min ON / 5 min OFF) prevents motor overheating during repetitive batch processing, extending service life under routine QC or R&D use.
• IP30-rated enclosure: Protects internal electronics against vertically falling solid objects; suitable for general laboratory environments compliant with DIN EN 60529 standards.
• Low acoustic signature: 65 dB(A) noise emission (measured without dispersing element) supports quiet operation in shared lab spaces without compromising performance.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The T10 Basic accommodates aqueous, organic, and semi-aqueous systems—including buffers, surfactant solutions, nanoparticle suspensions, tissue homogenates, and microbial lysates. Its stainless steel dispersing elements are autoclavable (121 °C, 20 min), while disposable plastic tips eliminate carryover risk in molecular biology applications requiring DNase/RNase-free handling. The instrument meets essential electrical safety requirements per DIN EN 60529 (IP30) and complies with CE marking directives for laboratory equipment. While not validated for GMP manufacturing environments, its consistent speed stability, traceable calibration intervals, and documented maintenance procedures support GLP-aligned data integrity in preclinical research and method development labs.

Software & Data Management

As a manually operated analog device, the T10 Basic does not incorporate digital connectivity or embedded software. Speed is adjusted via a calibrated analog dial and read from a fixed scale—eliminating electronic drift and ensuring long-term repeatability without firmware updates or cybersecurity dependencies. For laboratories requiring audit trails, users may integrate external timing devices or log operational parameters (speed setting, duration, probe type) in paper-based or LIMS-linked electronic notebooks. This architecture aligns with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles for non-computerized systems when paired with defined SOPs and operator training records.

Applications

• Preparation of homogeneous nanosuspensions for drug solubility enhancement studies.
• Routine homogenization of small-tissue biopsies (e.g., liver, spleen) prior to protein extraction.
• Dispersion of carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide in aqueous surfactant media.
• Emulsification of oil-in-water formulations for cosmetic or food science testing.
• Rapid lysis of bacterial cultures and yeast cells for plasmid DNA isolation.
• Standardization of reference particle dispersions for dynamic light scattering (DLS) calibration.

FAQ

Is the T10 Basic compatible with viscous samples such as methylcellulose solutions?
Yes—its 75 W mechanical output and wide speed range (8,000–30,000 rpm) enable effective processing of samples up to 5,000 mPa·s, provided batch volume remains within the 0.5–100 mL specification.
Can stainless steel dispersing elements be sterilized in an autoclave?
Yes—all metal probes are constructed from 1.4404 (AISI 316L) stainless steel and rated for repeated autoclaving at 121 °C for 20 minutes.
What is the recommended maintenance interval for the motor and drive shaft?
IKA recommends visual inspection before each use and lubrication of the shaft coupling every 6 months under normal usage; full service is advised after 2,000 operating hours or per institutional preventive maintenance schedules.
Does the kit include documentation required for ISO/IEC 17025 traceability?
The unit ships with a Declaration of Conformity and factory calibration certificate referencing DIN 53019-1 for rotational speed verification; users must establish in-house calibration protocols aligned with their accredited scope.
Are replacement seals and O-rings available as spare parts?
Yes—sealing components (including shaft seals and housing gaskets) are listed under IKA part number 000010200, supplied in the included spare seal kit and available separately through authorized distributors.