IKA Big Squid Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA Big Squid Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, single-position benchtop instrument engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory mixing applications. It operates on the principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the glass plate induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample vessel. This contactless drive mechanism eliminates mechanical wear, ensures contamination-free operation, and delivers consistent torque transfer across the full speed range. Designed for ambient or temperature-controlled environments (5–40 °C), the Big Squid is optimized for low-to-medium viscosity aqueous and organic solutions up to 1 L volume. Its thermally stable glass plate and chemically resistant TPC-ET polymer housing provide long-term durability under exposure to common solvents, acids, and bases—making it suitable for chemistry, biology, quality control, and teaching laboratories adhering to GLP-aligned workflows.

Key Features

• Digital LED speed display for real-time, unambiguous rpm readout
• Electronically controlled DC motor delivering stable rotational output with minimal thermal drift
• Extended speed range of 0–2500 rpm in precise 50 rpm increments, enabling fine-tuned optimization for viscous or shear-sensitive media
• Tempered glass working surface (Ø160 mm) offering high scratch resistance, optical clarity, and compatibility with standard round-bottom flasks and beakers
• Hybrid base construction combining glass and TPC-ET thermoplastic polyester—providing exceptional chemical resistance while maintaining structural rigidity
• Lightweight (0.7 kg) and space-efficient footprint (180 × 40 × 195 mm), ideal for crowded fume hoods or shared lab benches
• IP54-rated enclosure ensuring protection against dust ingress and water splashes during routine handling
• Energy-efficient design: 4 W total input power, 2 W motor output—minimizing heat dissipation and reducing standby load
• Sustainably engineered using recycled and recyclable materials without compromising functional integrity or regulatory compliance

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Big Squid accommodates standard magnetic stir bars up to 30 mm in length and supports vessels ranging from small test tubes to 1 L beakers or Erlenmeyer flasks. It is validated for use with water, buffer solutions, ethanol, isopropanol, acetone, dilute acids (e.g., 1 M HCl), and mild alkaline solutions. The device conforms to DIN EN 60529 for ingress protection (IP54) and meets general electrical safety requirements for laboratory equipment under IEC 61010-1. While it does not include integrated temperature sensing or feedback control, its specified operating ambient range (5–40 °C) ensures stable performance in climate-controlled labs compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 environmental monitoring guidelines. No RS232 or analog output interfaces are provided, aligning with its role as a dedicated, standalone stirring tool rather than a networked process instrument.

Software & Data Management

The IKA Big Squid operates as a stand-alone analog-electronic device with no embedded firmware, software stack, or data logging capability. All operational parameters—including speed setting and status—are managed via front-panel rotary control and displayed on a fixed-segment LED. As such, it requires no driver installation, network configuration, or cybersecurity validation. This architecture eliminates risks associated with firmware vulnerabilities, obsolescence, or validation overhead—making it inherently compatible with regulated environments where audit trails, electronic records, or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance are not required for basic mixing tasks. Documentation includes multilingual user manual, EU Declaration of Conformity, and material safety data aligned with REACH and RoHS directives.

Applications

• Homogenization of reagent solutions prior to titration, spectrophotometry, or chromatography sample preparation
• Buffer equilibration and pH adjustment in molecular biology workflows
• Preparation of cell culture media and sterile filtration support protocols
• Standardized mixing in ASTM D1298 (density of petroleum products) or ISO 787-11 (pigment dispersion testing) pre-analytical steps
• Teaching laboratory demonstrations of fluid dynamics, viscosity effects, and magnetic field interactions
• Supporting QC/QA batch release procedures where reproducible agitation—not temperature regulation—is the critical process parameter

FAQ

Does the Big Squid include heating or temperature control functionality?
No. The Big Squid is a non-heated magnetic stirrer. Its specified 5–40 °C range refers to permissible ambient operating conditions—not active thermal regulation.
Is it compatible with corrosive solvents such as concentrated nitric acid or chlorinated hydrocarbons?
The glass plate and TPC-ET housing resist moderate chemical exposure; however, prolonged contact with strong oxidizers or halogenated solvents is not recommended. Consult IKA’s chemical compatibility chart for validated resistance data.
Can multiple Big Squid units be synchronized or daisy-chained?
No. Each unit operates independently with no communication interface, synchronization capability, or master-slave configuration support.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
Rated for >20,000 hours of intermittent use. Continuous duty at maximum speed (2500 rpm) is discouraged; typical lab usage patterns ensure multi-year operational longevity without maintenance.
Does the device meet FDA or GMP requirements for pharmaceutical manufacturing?
It is not classified as GxP-critical equipment. While physically suitable for cleanroom-adjacent use, it lacks documentation packages (e.g., IQ/OQ protocols, calibration certificates) required for regulated production environments.