IKA C-MAG MS 4 Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG MS 4 is a compact, single-position magnetic stirrer engineered for precision, reliability, and chemical resistance in routine laboratory environments. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, it operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated beneath a non-magnetic ceramic workplate to drive magnetic stir bars immersed in samples. Unlike hotplate stirrers, the C-MAG MS 4 provides purely mechanical agitation without integrated heating—making it ideal for temperature-sensitive applications, long-term mixing under controlled environmental conditions, or integration into multi-instrument workflows where thermal input must be excluded. Its robust motor delivers consistent torque across the full speed range, enabling effective homogenization of low- to medium-viscosity aqueous and organic solutions up to 5 L (water-equivalent volume). The absence of heating elements simplifies thermal management, reduces power consumption, and eliminates risks associated with accidental overheating or thermal drift during extended operation.

Key Features

• High-strength neodymium magnet system ensures stable coupling with stir bars—even at elevated speeds or with viscous media—minimizing “jumping” or decoupling events.
• Seamless one-piece ceramic workplate offers exceptional resistance to acids, bases, solvents, and oxidizing agents; surface hardness and non-porosity prevent chemical infiltration and facilitate rapid, residue-free cleaning.
• Elevated control panel design positions the speed dial and LED display above the work surface, reducing exposure to splashes and improving ergonomics during operation and monitoring.
• Microprocessor-assisted motor control maintains set speed under variable load conditions via real-time feedback, delivering high reproducibility across repeated experiments.
• Compact footprint (150 × 105 mm base) and low profile (260 mm height) optimize bench space utilization in crowded analytical or QC laboratories.
• Universal voltage compatibility (100–230 V, 50/60 Hz) enables seamless deployment across global laboratory infrastructures without external transformers.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG MS 4 supports standard laboratory glassware including beakers (up to 1000 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks, and cylindrical vessels placed directly on the ceramic plate. It is compatible with all commercially available PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars ranging from 10 mm to 40 mm in length. As a Class I electrical device, it conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP21 ingress protection), ensuring operational safety against vertically falling drops of water and solid objects >12.5 mm. While not certified for hazardous area use, its non-sparking motor and ceramic surface meet general requirements for use in ISO 17025-accredited testing labs and GLP-compliant environments. No regulatory certification for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 is applicable, as the device lacks digital data output or audit-trail functionality.

Software & Data Management

The C-MAG MS 4 is an analog-controlled instrument with no embedded software, network interface, or data logging capability. Speed selection is performed manually via a calibrated 0–6 rotary dial corresponding to 100–1500 rpm in approximate linear increments. An LED indicator displays active power status only; no speed value is digitally shown. Consequently, it requires manual documentation of operating parameters in lab notebooks or LIMS entries. This architecture prioritizes simplicity, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and long-term serviceability—eliminating firmware dependencies, cybersecurity concerns, or obsolescence risks associated with embedded microcontrollers. For labs requiring traceable speed records, external tachometric verification or integration with third-party data acquisition systems is recommended.

Applications

• Preparation of buffer solutions, reagents, and calibration standards in analytical chemistry and clinical diagnostics.
• Homogenization of cell suspensions and dilution series in microbiology and molecular biology workflows.
• Continuous mixing during titration, dissolution testing, or pH adjustment procedures where temperature stability is critical.
• Supporting extraction protocols (e.g., liquid–liquid or solid-phase) by maintaining uniform phase contact without introducing thermal artifacts.
• Use in cleanrooms and containment hoods due to low electromagnetic emission and absence of moving external parts beyond the stir bar.
• Teaching laboratories where robustness, intuitive operation, and chemical durability are prioritized over automation.

FAQ

Does the C-MAG MS 4 include a heating function?

No. It is a non-heating magnetic stirrer. For combined heating and stirring, consider the IKA C-MAG HS 4 or RET basic series.
What is the maximum viscosity this stirrer can handle effectively?

It is optimized for aqueous and low-to-medium viscosity organic solutions (typically < 500 mPa·s). Performance with highly viscous fluids (e.g., glycerol, polymer melts) depends on stir bar geometry, vessel shape, and fill level.
Is the ceramic plate replaceable if damaged?

The ceramic workplate is permanently bonded to the housing and not field-replaceable. Physical impact or thermal shock may cause cracking; avoid placing hot glassware directly onto the cold surface.
Can it operate continuously for 24 hours?

Yes. Designed for unattended operation within specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH), provided adequate ventilation around the unit’s rear vent is maintained.
What stir bar size is recommended for 5 L mixing?

A 40 mm PTFE-coated stir bar is recommended for optimal torque transfer and vortex formation in tall-form 5 L vessels; shorter bars may suffice in wide-diameter containers with lower aspect ratios.