MKN TY-80 Decolorization Shaker

Overview

The MKN TY-80 Decolorization Shaker is a precision-engineered laboratory shaker designed specifically for low-shear, uniform agitation of gels, membranes, and biological samples during post-electrophoretic processing. It operates on two distinct motion principles—horizontal orbital rotation (TY-80R) and gentle rocking motion (TY-80S)—enabling optimal reagent penetration and diffusion control in applications where mechanical stress must be minimized. Unlike high-speed vortexers or incubator shakers, the TY-80 delivers reproducible, low-torque oscillation ideal for delicate procedures including Coomassie Blue destaining, silver staining development, autoradiographic film processing, Western blot membrane incubation, antigen–antibody binding, nucleic acid hybridization, and suspension cell culture maintenance. Its compact footprint and silent brushless DC motor architecture make it suitable for shared core facilities, teaching labs, and GLP-compliant environments where space efficiency and acoustic performance are critical.

Key Features

• Two configurable operation modes: horizontal orbital rotation (10 mm orbit diameter) for even gel washing, or rocking motion (±25° amplitude) for directional fluid displacement across membrane surfaces.
• Digitally adjustable speed control (0–80 rpm) with fine-resolution increment steps, ensuring precise matching to protocol-specific agitation requirements.
• Imported brushless DC motor delivering stable torque output, extended service life (>20,000 hours MTBF), and ultra-low operational noise (<45 dB[A])—critical for open-lab configurations.
• Robust aluminum alloy platform with non-slip silicone mat interface; platform dimensions optimized for standard electrophoresis trays (TY-80R: 320 × 240 mm) and transfer cassettes (TY-80S: 210 × 280 mm).
• Thermally insulated housing and IP20-rated enclosure meet IEC 61010-1 safety standards for Class II laboratory equipment.
• Continuous-duty design with thermal overload protection and auto-restart capability after brief power interruption.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TY-80 accommodates a broad range of sample containers—from standard 10 × 10 cm gel trays and 15 × 20 cm nitrocellulose/PVDF membranes to multi-well plates (up to 6-well format) and conical tubes (50 mL). Its motion profiles comply with common biochemical workflow standards referenced in ISO 15190:2020 (laboratory safety) and ASTM E2500-13 (verification of laboratory equipment). While not certified for GMP manufacturing environments, its consistent motion repeatability supports data integrity in QC/QA settings aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 expectations when used with documented SOPs and operator training records.

Software & Data Management

The TY-80 is a standalone analog-controlled instrument without embedded firmware or digital connectivity. Speed setting and mode selection are managed via front-panel rotary encoder and tactile toggle switch—ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in proximity to sensitive detection systems (e.g., phosphorimagers, CCD-based scanners). For laboratories requiring audit trails, manual logbook entries—including date/time, speed, duration, and user ID—are recommended per GLP Annex 11 guidance. Optional external timer relays (e.g., Omron H3CR-F8) may be integrated for unattended run termination.

Applications

• Electrophoresis post-processing: fixation, staining (Coomassie, silver), destaining, and destain buffer exchange.
• Membrane-based assays: blocking, primary/secondary antibody incubation, wash steps in Western blotting and ELISPOT.
• Nucleic acid workflows: pre-hybridization equilibration, probe hybridization, stringency washes in Southern/Northern blotting.
• Radiographic film development: uniform developer/fixer agitation during autoradiography and phosphor storage imaging.
• Low-shear suspension culture: maintenance of hybridoma or insect cell lines during transient expression protocols.
• General solution-phase reactions: enzyme kinetics sampling, ligand-binding equilibrium studies, and dialysis buffer exchange.

FAQ

What is the difference between TY-80R and TY-80S models?

The TY-80R employs horizontal orbital motion (10 mm orbit) for isotropic mixing, while the TY-80S uses rocking motion (±25°) to promote laminar flow across vertically oriented membranes.
Can the TY-80 accommodate glass plates used in native PAGE?

Yes—the 320 × 240 mm platform (TY-80R) supports standard 20 × 20 cm glass plates with compatible gel casting frames when placed on an anti-slip mat.
Is speed calibration traceable to NIST standards?

No built-in calibration certificate is provided; however, rotational speed can be verified externally using a handheld optical tachometer (e.g., Extech 461923) per ISO/IEC 17025-aligned lab procedures.
Does the unit include a lid or cover for containment?

No—enclosure is not supplied as standard. Users requiring aerosol containment should integrate third-party acrylic hoods rated for chemical resistance (e.g., methanol, acetic acid, formaldehyde).
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?

Annual inspection of motor coupling integrity and platform leveling; no lubrication or belt replacement is needed due to brushless DC motor design.