GLTlab SH-3N Triple-Position Heated Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The GLTlab SH-3N Triple-Position Heated Magnetic Stirrer is an engineered solution for laboratories requiring simultaneous, independent control of temperature and agitation across three sample vessels. Designed around the principle of contactless magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the heated ceramic-coated aluminum plate induces rotation in PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars immersed in liquid samples—the SH-3N delivers precise, low-vibration mixing without mechanical drive shafts or seals. Its triple-zone architecture enables parallel processing of up to three 2 L vessels, making it especially suited for comparative studies, reagent preparation batches, method development, and quality control workflows where consistency across replicates is critical. Unlike single-position units, the SH-3N eliminates sequential handling delays while maintaining individual setpoint integrity per station—each with dedicated digital LED displays for real-time speed and temperature feedback.

Key Features

• Triple independent heating and stirring zones with synchronized or asynchronous operation
• Ceramic-coated aluminum top plate (445 × 145 mm) offering uniform thermal distribution, high thermal conductivity, and resistance to acids, bases, and organic solvents
• Dual digital LED displays—one for rotational speed (150–2000 rpm, adjustable in 1-rpm increments), one for plate temperature (ambient to 120 °C)
• Brushless DC motor ensuring maintenance-free operation, consistent torque delivery at low speeds, and extended service life under continuous duty
• Programmable heating rate (~5 °C/min) with overtemperature cutoff and visual/audible thermal warning system
• IP42-rated enclosure providing protection against solid objects >1 mm and vertically falling water droplets—suitable for standard laboratory environments
• Universal voltage compatibility (110/115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz) enabling deployment across North American, European, and APAC lab infrastructures

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SH-3N accommodates standard round-bottom and flat-bottom glass or stainless-steel vessels (e.g., beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, reaction vials) up to 2 L per position. Stir bar compatibility spans lengths of 25–35 mm with diameters typical for magnetic stirrers (4–10 mm), supporting both standard and heavy-duty mixing applications. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU for hazardous substance restrictions. While not certified for GMP or GLP environments out-of-the-box, its stable thermal and rotational performance—verified via internal factory calibration—supports adherence to ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements when integrated into validated laboratory procedures. Traceable calibration records and operational logs can be maintained manually per institutional SOPs.

Software & Data Management

The SH-3N operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded microprocessor-based data logging or PC connectivity. All parameter inputs and status outputs are managed locally via front-panel membrane switches and dual LED displays. This design prioritizes operational simplicity, electromagnetic interference (EMI) resilience, and long-term reliability in environments where networked instrumentation may introduce cybersecurity or compatibility concerns. For labs requiring electronic record retention, external USB data loggers or industrial PLC interfaces can be deployed to capture analog voltage outputs (if externally wired) or timed manual entries aligned with 21 CFR Part 11 principles—though native audit trail functionality is not provided.

Applications

• Buffer and media preparation in molecular biology and cell culture labs
• Homogenization of suspensions prior to filtration or centrifugation in pharmaceutical QC testing
• Controlled dissolution studies during formulation development
• Accelerated aging experiments involving temperature-dependent chemical reactions
• Simultaneous titration setup or multi-sample pH adjustment workflows
• Pre-heating and agitation of viscous reagents (e.g., agarose, polymer solutions) prior to dispensing

FAQ

Does the SH-3N support programmable ramp-hold temperature profiles?
No. It provides manual setpoint control only—users must adjust temperature and speed values directly via front-panel controls.
Can the unit maintain ±0.5 °C temperature stability at 120 °C?
Under static load conditions with appropriate vessel geometry and stir bar selection, typical thermal stability is ±1.5 °C at maximum setpoint; actual deviation depends on ambient draft, vessel thermal mass, and solvent evaporation rate.
Is the ceramic coating resistant to hydrofluoric acid (HF)?
No. While highly resistant to common lab chemicals including 37% HCl, 70% HNO₃, and acetone, the ceramic layer is not HF-compatible—avoid direct exposure.
What is the minimum recommended stir bar size for reliable coupling at 150 rpm?
A 30 mm × 7 mm PTFE-coated stir bar is optimal for stable engagement across the full speed range, particularly under low-viscosity conditions.
Does the SH-3N include a stir bar retrieval tool or spare stir bars?
No. These accessories are sold separately and must be selected based on vessel geometry and application viscosity requirements.