Variomag VarioStir Series High-Capacity Magnetic Stirrer
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 465655, 465665, 465675, 465685 |
| Instrument Type | Magnetic Stirrer |
| Max Stirring Volume | 40–600 L |
| Speed Range | 100–2000 rpm |
| Temperature Control | Not integrated (external heating required) |
| Certifications | CE |
| IP Rating | IP22 / IP64 / IP65 (model-dependent) |
| Power Supply | 220 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 20–80 W |
Overview
The Variomag VarioStir Series represents a family of high-capacity magnetic stirrers engineered for robust, long-duration mixing in demanding laboratory and pilot-scale applications. Unlike conventional benchtop stirrers, these units utilize high-torque permanent magnet drive systems coupled with precision-engineered stir bars to generate uniform rotational motion in viscous or large-volume samples—without mechanical shafts penetrating the vessel. The core principle relies on magnetic coupling: a rotating external rotor beneath the work surface induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample, enabling contamination-free agitation under sealed conditions. Designed for continuous operation in humid or chemically exposed environments, each model features a fully sealed stainless-steel housing and conforms to international electrical safety standards (CE). The series supports scalable mixing—from 40 L up to 600 L—making it suitable for buffer preparation, cell culture media conditioning, reagent synthesis, and quality control workflows where reproducibility and operator safety are critical.
Key Features
- Sealed stainless-steel chassis rated for high-humidity and splash-prone lab environments
- Three-stage safety stop: mechanical brake engages within ≤3 seconds upon power interruption or emergency stop activation
- Digital speed control with real-time RPM display (models 465655, 465675, 465685); analog knob control (model 465665)
- Programmable timer function (5 s–60 min) with auto-shutdown capability (models 465675 & 465685)
- IP-rated enclosures: IP22 (basic indoor use), IP64 (dust-resistant + water-splashing protection), IP65 (full dust-tightness + low-pressure water jet resistance)
- Low-noise, brushless DC motor architecture ensuring stable torque delivery across full speed range
- Universal 220 V, 50/60 Hz input compatibility; energy-efficient design (20–80 W depending on model and load)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VarioStir Series accommodates standard glass, stainless-steel, and polypropylene vessels—including jacketed reactors and open-top bioreactor flasks—provided magnetic stir bars of appropriate geometry and material (e.g., PTFE-coated, ceramic-core, or high-moment rare-earth types) are selected for viscosity and volume requirements. All models comply with CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. IP64 and IP65 variants meet IEC 60529 specifications for ingress protection, supporting deployment in ISO Class 7 cleanrooms or GLP-compliant analytical laboratories where environmental resilience is mandated. No internal heating element is integrated; therefore, temperature regulation requires external sources (e.g., heated baths or jacketed vessels), ensuring thermal independence from stirring mechanics.
Software & Data Management
While the VarioStir Series operates as a standalone hardware platform without embedded firmware or network connectivity, its digital models (465655, 465675, 465685) support manual parameter logging via external lab notebooks or LIMS-integrated documentation workflows. Speed setpoints, runtime duration, and operational timestamps can be recorded manually during batch execution. For regulated environments operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 requirements, users may implement audit-trail-enabled electronic records using validated third-party data capture tools interfaced via USB or RS-232 (where available per custom configuration). No proprietary software is required, minimizing validation overhead and system dependency.
Applications
- Preparation of large-volume buffers and growth media in bioprocessing labs
- Mixing of polymer solutions, suspensions, and colloidal dispersions in materials R&D
- Homogenization of pharmaceutical formulations prior to filtration or filling steps
- Stirring of acidic, alkaline, or organic solvent-based reaction mixtures in synthetic chemistry
- Continuous agitation during stability studies per ICH Q1 guidelines
- Supporting ASTM D2196 (viscosity of non-Newtonian materials) and ISO 3219 (rheological testing protocols) sample conditioning
FAQ
Does the VarioStir Series include built-in temperature control?
No. These units provide magnetic agitation only; thermal regulation requires external heating/cooling systems.
What is the maximum recommended viscosity for reliable operation at 600 L capacity?
For optimal performance, dynamic viscosity should not exceed 5,000 mPa·s when using appropriately sized stir bars and optimized vessel geometry.
Are replacement stir bars and drive magnets available through authorized channels?
Yes—Variomag-certified stir bars (including high-moment elliptical and dual-magnet designs) and service kits are supplied with traceable lot documentation.
Can the timer function be disabled for continuous operation?
Yes. Models 465675 and 465685 allow selection between timed mode and indefinite run mode via front-panel interface.
Is calibration required before first use or after maintenance?
Speed accuracy is factory-verified against NIST-traceable tachometers; no user calibration is needed. Routine verification using an optical tachometer is recommended annually per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.
