JEIO TECH VM-96E Vortex Mixer

Overview

The JEIO TECH VM-96E Vortex Mixer is a precision-engineered laboratory vortex shaker designed for consistent, reproducible mixing of samples in microtubes, centrifuge tubes, and standard microplates. It operates on the principle of circular orbital motion—generating controlled, high-frequency oscillation at a fixed 4 mm amplitude—to induce rapid fluid vortexing without splashing or aerosol generation. Unlike reciprocating or linear shakers, the VM-96E’s orbital kinematics ensure uniform energy transfer across sample volumes, minimizing stratification and enhancing homogenization efficiency in low-volume applications (0.2–5 mL). Its brushless DC motor delivers stable torque across the full speed range (200–3,000 rpm), enabling both gentle resuspension of pellets and vigorous dispersion of viscous or particulate-laden suspensions. The device complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and meets IP43-rated protection against solid objects ≥1 mm and water spray from any direction—making it suitable for use in fume hoods, clean benches, and general wet-lab environments.

Key Features

• Two selectable operation modes: touch-activated (momentary activation upon contact) and continuous (uninterrupted mixing until manually stopped)
• High-sensitivity capacitive touch sensor eliminates mechanical wear and reduces operator fatigue during repetitive use
• Flame-retardant ABS housing provides structural rigidity and chemical resistance to common lab solvents including ethanol, isopropanol, and diluted acids/bases
• Analog speed scale with calibrated markings enables intuitive, repeatable speed selection without digital interface dependency
• Integrated overload and current-limiting circuitry prevents thermal damage during extended operation or accidental overloading
• Non-slip rubber feet ensure stable placement on stainless steel work surfaces, laminar flow cabinets, and epoxy resin countertops
• Low-noise brushless DC motor achieves <55 dB(A) at 3,000 rpm—compatible with quiet-zone laboratory zones and shared instrumentation rooms

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VM-96E accommodates a broad range of primary labware through optional accessories, including conical-bottom microcentrifuge tubes (0.5–2.0 mL), round-bottom culture tubes (15–50 mL), 96-well PCR plates, and deep-well microplates. Its standardized platform interface supports JEIO TECH’s full suite of tube holders (diameters: 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm) and the VMS0008 microplate tray—each engineered with insert retainers to prevent lateral displacement during high-speed operation. All accessories are autoclavable (121 °C, 20 min) and compliant with ISO 13485 manufacturing controls. The instrument itself adheres to GLP-relevant design principles: no firmware-based audit trail is required due to its analog control architecture; however, its mechanical consistency and calibration stability support traceable SOP execution under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited quality systems.

Software & Data Management

The VM-96E is a stand-alone, analog-operated instrument with no embedded software, firmware, or network connectivity. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity vulnerabilities, firmware update dependencies, and validation overhead associated with digital controllers—making it inherently compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for systems where electronic records are not generated. Speed settings are recorded manually in laboratory notebooks or LIMS entries alongside sample identifiers and mixing duration. For laboratories requiring integration into automated workflows, the VM-96E can be externally triggered via TTL-compatible footswitch (sold separately) or programmable logic controller (PLC) interface using its auxiliary control port (available upon request).

Applications

• Resuspension of lyophilized reagents and cell pellets in molecular biology workflows
• Homogenization of immunoassay samples prior to ELISA plate reading
• Pre-analytical mixing of clinical specimens (serum, plasma, urine) for routine chemistry panels
• Dispersion of nanoparticle suspensions and colloidal standards in materials characterization labs
• Equilibration of extraction buffers in environmental testing protocols (e.g., EPA Method 3550C)
• Routine vortexing during QC/QA release testing of pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended load capacity for the VM-96E, and does it include accessory weight?
The maximum load capacity is 0.5 kg, inclusive of all mounted accessories (e.g., tube holder + tubes). Exceeding this limit may compromise amplitude stability and accelerate motor wear.
Can the VM-96E be used inside a biosafety cabinet or anaerobic chamber?
Yes—its IP43 rating, brushless motor (no carbon brushes or sparking), and absence of internal ventilation fans make it suitable for Class II BSCs and inert-gas environments.
Is the rubber platform autoclavable?
The standard rubber platform (VMS0011) is autoclavable at 121 °C for 20 minutes; repeated cycles may reduce elasticity after >50 cycles.
Does the VM-96E require periodic calibration?
No formal calibration is mandated; however, users should verify speed accuracy annually using a certified tachometer per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.5.2 for measurement traceability.
Are replacement parts and service documentation available internationally?
Yes—JEIO TECH maintains authorized service centers in the US, Germany, Japan, and Singapore, with technical manuals and spare part schematics accessible via secure portal registration.