IKA RT5 5-Position Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RT5 is a precision-engineered 5-position heating magnetic stirrer designed for reproducible, parallel sample processing in research laboratories, quality control environments, and teaching facilities. It operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated by internal drive coils to induce synchronous rotation of PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stirring bars immersed in vessels. Each of the five independently aligned positions features identical thermal and rotational dynamics—ensuring uniform heat distribution across the silicone membrane heating plate and consistent speed delivery within ±5% deviation per position. This architecture eliminates inter-position variability, making the RT5 particularly suitable for comparative kinetic studies, multi-sample reagent preparation, standardized dissolution testing, and method validation protocols where experimental equivalence across replicates is mandatory.

Key Features

• Five precisely spaced stirring positions (90 mm center-to-center distance) enabling simultaneous processing of up to five 400 mL vessels (0.4 L per position, 2 L total capacity with H₂O)
• Uniform silicone membrane heating surface (120 × 450 mm) with optimized thermal conductivity and low thermal inertia, delivering stable plate temperatures from ambient to 120 °C
• Dual-scale analog controls: temperature (1–10) and speed (1–10), calibrated for intuitive operation without software dependency
• Integrated temperature stability of ±2 K at setpoint under standard load conditions; maximum medium temperature limited to 70 °C depending on vessel geometry and thermal mass
• Robust mechanical design with compact footprint (138 × 65 × 552 mm), lightweight aluminum housing (3 kg), and IP42-rated ingress protection against splashing water and solid objects ≥1 mm
• Low-noise brushless motor system (1.8 W output power, 7.2 W input) optimized for continuous duty cycles and long-term rotational consistency

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RT5 accommodates standard laboratory glassware including beakers (50–500 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks, and cylindrical reaction vessels. Compatible stirring bars range up to 30 mm in length and are selected based on viscosity, volume, and required shear profile. The device meets DIN EN 60529 for mechanical safety and environmental robustness. While it does not include digital data logging or electronic audit trails, its analog control architecture ensures operational transparency and compliance with basic GLP documentation requirements when paired with manual logbooks. No RS232 or analog output interfaces are integrated—consistent with its role as a dedicated, non-networked benchtop tool for routine mixing tasks.

Software & Data Management

The IKA RT5 operates exclusively via front-panel analog dials and requires no firmware, drivers, or PC connectivity. All operational parameters—including speed setting (0–1100 rpm) and heating level (ambient to 120 °C)—are manually selected and visually indicated. This design prioritizes reliability, electromagnetic compatibility, and ease of qualification in regulated environments where software validation burdens are undesirable. Users maintain full traceability through handwritten or LIMS-linked procedural records referencing dial positions, elapsed time, and observed thermal equilibrium behavior.

Applications

• Parallel synthesis and screening of catalysts, polymers, or pharmaceutical intermediates
• Buffer and media preparation across multiple batches under identical thermal–mechanical conditions
• Dissolution testing per USP guidelines (when used with appropriate vessel geometry and temperature monitoring)
• Cell culture reagent equilibration prior to inoculation
• Standardized viscosity calibration checks using Newtonian reference fluids
• Teaching labs requiring synchronized demonstration of reaction kinetics across student workstations

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended vessel size per position?
Each position supports vessels up to 400 mL (0.4 L) with optimal stirring efficiency; total capacity reaches 2 L only when all five positions operate simultaneously with compatible low-viscosity aqueous media.
Can the RT5 be used with corrosive or high-boiling solvents?
Yes—provided vessels are chemically resistant and stirring bars are appropriately coated (e.g., PTFE/glass); however, the 70 °C practical medium limit applies to prevent thermal degradation of seals or evaporation artifacts.
Is external temperature feedback supported?
No—the RT5 uses open-loop heating control without PT100 or thermocouple input; users must verify bath or medium temperature independently using calibrated external probes.
Does the unit comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
Not applicable—the RT5 lacks electronic data generation, user authentication, or audit trail functionality; it is intended for use in non-electronic record environments or as a supporting device within validated workflows.
What maintenance is required for long-term performance?
Routine cleaning of the silicone membrane surface with isopropanol; periodic inspection of stirring bar integrity and motor ventilation grilles for dust accumulation.