Heidolph Hei-PLATE Mix ‘n’ Heat Core+ Magnetic Stirrer with Integrated Heating

Overview

The Heidolph Hei-PLATE Mix ‘n’ Heat Core+ is a compact, benchtop magnetic stirrer with integrated heating functionality engineered for precision temperature-controlled mixing in academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial R&D laboratories. It operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated by a motor-driven permanent magnet array beneath a thermally stable ceramic-coated aluminum-silicon alloy plate (Kera-Disk®). This field couples with PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars to induce controlled rotational motion in liquid samples—enabling homogeneous mixing without mechanical shaft penetration. Unlike open-loop heated stir plates, the Core+ model incorporates dual-stage thermal regulation: internal plate temperature sensing ensures rapid thermal response, while optional external Pt1000 probe feedback enables closed-loop control with ±1 °C accuracy across the full 20–300 °C range. Its 800 W heating capacity supports rapid warm-up of viscous or high-thermal-mass solutions up to 20 L (water-equivalent), making it suitable for scalable reaction setup, dissolution testing, buffer equilibration, and pre-heating prior to downstream analytical workflows.

Key Features

• Robust Kera-Disk® heating plate with ceramic surface coating—resistant to chemical splashes, thermal shock, and mechanical abrasion; optimized for uniform heat distribution and long-term stability
• Pt1000 temperature sensor integration with automatic breakage detection and active fault signaling—ensures operational safety and traceable thermal validation
• Dual thermal safety architecture: independent overtemperature cut-off (>25 °C above setpoint) plus residual heat indicator for post-operation hazard awareness
• Soft-start function minimizes initial torque surge—preventing stir bar ejection and sample splashing during startup, especially critical for low-viscosity or volatile solvents
• Speed control range of 100–1,400 rpm with ±2 % repeatability—calibrated using ISO 17025-traceable methodology and validated under standardized test conditions (800 mL H₂O, 40 mm stir bar, 600 rpm, 50 °C, 60 mm probe depth)
• IP42-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529—providing protection against solid objects ≥1 mm and vertically falling water droplets, supporting safe operation in shared lab environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Hei-PLATE Mix ‘n’ Heat Core+ accommodates standard laboratory vessels including borosilicate glass beakers (up to 5 L nominal volume), stainless steel reactors, and polypropylene containers—provided magnetic coupling remains effective (e.g., vessel wall thickness ≤8 mm, non-ferromagnetic material). It complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EMC requirements per EN 61326-1:2013. While not certified for GMP manufacturing environments, its thermal accuracy, sensor traceability, and safety interlocks support GLP-compliant documentation when paired with calibrated external probes and validated SOPs. The device is compatible with ASTM E2910–22 (Standard Guide for Validation of Thermal Equipment in Laboratories) and aligns with USP <1058> guidelines for analytical instrument qualification (AIQ) at the Operational Qualification (OQ) level.

Software & Data Management

The Hei-PLATE Mix ‘n’ Heat Core+ operates as a stand-alone analog instrument without digital connectivity, firmware, or embedded software. All parameter inputs—speed and temperature—are adjusted via tactile rotary dials with LED-assisted digital displays. No data logging, remote control, or audit trail functionality is included. For regulated applications requiring electronic records, users must integrate external temperature dataloggers (e.g., compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11) and document manual setpoint entries within lab notebooks or ELN systems. Heidolph provides calibration certificates upon request, referencing NIST-traceable standards for both speed and temperature verification points.

Applications

• Controlled heating and homogenization of reagent solutions prior to HPLC or GC analysis
• Preparation of culture media and buffer stocks under reproducible thermal conditions
• Solubility and dissolution rate studies per USP <711> and Ph. Eur. 2.9.3
• Small-scale synthesis reactions requiring gentle agitation and precise thermal profiles
• Viscosity reduction of polymer solutions and suspensions before filtration or centrifugation
• Equilibration of reference standards and calibration solutions at defined temperatures

FAQ

Does the Hei-PLATE Mix ‘n’ Heat Core+ support external temperature probe feedback for closed-loop control?

Yes—when connected to an optional Pt1000-compatible external probe, the unit maintains ±1 °C temperature control accuracy across its operating range.
Is the device suitable for use with corrosive solvents such as concentrated acids or halogenated organics?

The Kera-Disk® surface provides broad chemical resistance; however, prolonged exposure to HF, hot conc. HNO₃, or molten alkalis is not recommended. Always consult Heidolph’s chemical compatibility guide prior to use.
Can the unit be validated for ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories?

Yes—through third-party calibration services using traceable standards for speed (optical tachometer) and temperature (reference thermometer + dry-block calibrator), meeting ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4 requirements.
What is the maximum recommended stir bar length for optimal coupling at 1,400 rpm?

For stable operation at top speed, Heidolph recommends stir bars ≤50 mm in length and ≥8 mm in diameter, oriented parallel to the plate surface.
Does the device include a timer or programmable ramp function?

No—timing and thermal ramping must be managed externally using laboratory timers or process controllers.