Digital Display Constant Temperature Air-Bath Shaker CHA-S

Overview

The Digital Display Constant Temperature Air-Bath Shaker CHA-S is an engineered platform for precise temperature-controlled agitation of liquid samples in microbiology, molecular biology, and bioprocess development laboratories. Unlike water-bath shakers, this air-bath design employs forced convection via a high-efficiency axial fan and PID-regulated heating element to achieve uniform thermal distribution across the chamber—eliminating condensation risks and enabling rapid temperature equilibration. It operates on the principle of reciprocating linear oscillation (20 mm stroke), delivering consistent shear profiles ideal for aerobic microbial cultivation, enzyme reaction kinetics, solubility studies, and cell suspension maintenance. The device complies with general laboratory safety standards (IEC 61010-1) and is designed for continuous operation under GLP-aligned workflows where traceable temperature stability and reproducible motion parameters are critical.

Key Features

• PID digital temperature controller with ±0.5°C accuracy across 25–50°C range and ambient +5°C minimum setpoint—displayed in real time on a backlit LCD screen.
• Stepless DC motor drive enabling smooth, silent speed adjustment from 0 to 300 rpm with <±2 rpm repeatability over 8-hour continuous operation.
• Reciprocating motion mechanism with fixed 20 mm stroke amplitude—optimized for low-shear mixing of viscous broths and suspension cultures without foaming or splashing.
• Robust aluminum alloy chamber housing with insulated double-wall construction and internal airflow baffle system for thermal homogeneity (±0.8°C max deviation at 37°C).
• Programmable mechanical timer (0–120 min) with audible end-of-cycle alert and auto-shutdown; supports unattended overnight runs when integrated into routine incubation protocols.
• Universal spring clamp fixture accommodates round-bottom flasks (50–2000 mL), test tubes (12–25 mm OD), and custom vessels—no tool required for reconfiguration.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CHA-S supports standard laboratory glassware and polypropylene containers up to 2 L volume per platform. Its open-air chamber allows full visibility and easy access during operation—critical for monitoring culture turbidity or precipitate formation. While not certified for IEC 60601 medical device use, the unit meets essential requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs performing non-clinical biological assays. It is routinely deployed in academic research, QC microbiology, and upstream bioprocess screening where adherence to ASTM D2510 (standard practice for shaker calibration) and internal SOPs govern equipment qualification. Electrical safety conforms to GB 4793.1–2019 (equivalent to IEC 61010-1:2010).

Software & Data Management

This model operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded firmware or network interface. All operational parameters—including set temperature, actual chamber temperature, speed setting, and remaining timer duration—are displayed locally. For audit-trail compliance in regulated environments, users integrate external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300) via the optional 4–20 mA analog output port (available on CHA-S Pro variant). The timer function supports basic GLP documentation: start/end timestamps can be manually recorded alongside sample IDs in lab notebooks. No FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic signature capability is provided; manual verification and paper-based record retention remain standard practice.

Applications

• Aerobic bacterial and yeast cultivation in LB, TB, or defined minimal media under controlled thermal and agitation conditions.
• Enzymatic hydrolysis and ligand-binding assays requiring constant temperature and gentle mixing to prevent denaturation.
• Solubility profiling of pharmaceutical excipients or small-molecule compounds across temperature gradients.
• Cell detachment and resuspension in adherent mammalian cell lines prior to passaging or assay seeding.
• Standardization of shaking protocols for inter-laboratory reproducibility in CLSI M07-A10 antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• Pre-incubation of PCR master mixes or restriction digests where thermal uniformity supersedes orbital motion.

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity per platform?
The platform supports up to 15 kg distributed load—verified at 300 rpm and 50°C with no resonance or drift exceeding ±1 rpm.
Can the CHA-S be used for long-term incubation beyond 2 hours?
Yes; the unit is rated for continuous operation up to 72 hours at ≤45°C with proper ventilation clearance (≥10 cm on all sides).
Is calibration documentation included?
A factory-issued temperature and speed verification report is supplied with each unit, traceable to national metrology institutes (NIM, China).
Does it support external temperature probes?
No native probe port exists; however, third-party PT100 sensors can be mounted inside the chamber using adhesive thermal paste and routed externally for independent logging.
What maintenance is required?
Biannual inspection of fan blades, motor brushes (if applicable), and PID sensor contact points—no lubrication needed due to sealed bearing design.