Corning SS4I Four-Position Slow-Speed Magnetic Stirrer
| Brand | Corning |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | SS4I |
| Speed Range | 10–150 rpm |
| Max Vessel Volume per Position | 1 L (4 × 1 L total) |
| Max Vessel Diameter | 130 mm |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 260 × 260 × 70 mm |
| Housing Material | Glass-Filled Resin |
| Weight | 3 kg |
| Motor Type | DC Stepper Motor |
| Voltage/Frequency | 120 V / 60 Hz (Cat. No. 440814) or 230 V / 50 Hz (Cat. No. 440821) |
| Certifications | UL, CE |
| Operating Humidity | ≤80% RH (non-condensing) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Overview
The Corning SS4I Four-Position Slow-Speed Magnetic Stirrer is an engineered solution for controlled, low-shear mixing of multiple samples in parallel under laboratory conditions. Designed specifically for applications requiring gentle agitation—such as cell culture media preparation, polymer dissolution, buffer equilibration, and long-term stability studies—the SS4I employs precision DC stepper motor technology to deliver consistent rotational motion across four independent stirring positions. Unlike high-speed stirrers optimized for rapid homogenization, the SS4I operates within a calibrated 10–150 rpm range, minimizing vortex formation, foaming, and mechanical stress on sensitive biological or viscous samples. Its compact footprint (260 × 260 × 70 mm) and low-profile housing facilitate integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, and multi-instrument workstations without compromising accessibility or airflow dynamics.
Key Features
- Four independent magnetic stirring positions with synchronized speed control via integrated digital interface
- Stable low-speed operation (10–150 rpm) with ±2 rpm repeatability across all positions
- Glass-filled resin housing offering chemical resistance, thermal stability, and ESD-safe surface properties
- Optimized magnetic coupling design supporting vessels up to 130 mm in diameter and 1 L volume per position
- UL- and CE-certified electrical architecture compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment
- DC stepper motor drive enabling precise start/stop response, torque consistency at low speeds, and silent operation
- Two voltage configurations available: 120 V / 60 Hz (Cat. No. 440814) and 230 V / 50 Hz (Cat. No. 440821)
- Non-condensing operating humidity limit of ≤80% RH ensures reliability in controlled-environment labs
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SS4I accommodates standard laboratory glassware including borosilicate beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and custom cylindrical containers—provided they feature ferromagnetic stir bars and fall within the 130 mm max diameter and 1 L volume constraints per position. It supports ISO-standardized stir bar geometries (e.g., 30–40 mm oval or cross-shaped bars) and is routinely deployed in workflows aligned with USP , ISO 13485, and GLP-compliant environments where documentation of mixing parameters is required. While the unit itself does not generate electronic audit trails, its stable mechanical performance facilitates traceable process validation when paired with external logging systems or time-stamped video monitoring.
Software & Data Management
The SS4I is a standalone hardware device with no embedded firmware, network interface, or proprietary software suite. Speed selection is performed manually via front-panel rotary dial with LED indication; no data export, remote control, or PC connectivity is supported. This analog-digital hybrid architecture prioritizes operational simplicity, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and long-term serviceability—making it suitable for regulated settings where software validation overhead must be minimized. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, integration with external environmental monitoring platforms (e.g., Vaisala viewLinc or DeltaTrak) can be achieved using discrete relay outputs or analog signal taps (optional accessory).
Applications
- Preparation of shear-sensitive cell culture media and protein-based formulations
- Long-duration dissolution testing of pharmaceutical excipients under static temperature conditions
- Homogenization of high-viscosity polymer solutions prior to rheological characterization
- Equilibration of calibration standards and reference materials in analytical chemistry workflows
- Controlled hydration of hydrogels and biomaterial scaffolds in tissue engineering protocols
- Parallel batch processing in QC/QA labs performing lot-release testing under cGMP Annex 1 guidelines
FAQ
Does the SS4I support variable speed programming or timed ramping?
No. The SS4I provides fixed-speed manual adjustment only; it does not include programmable profiles, ramp functions, or timer-based shut-off.
Can the SS4I be used inside a CO₂ incubator or refrigerated chamber?
It is rated for ambient operation at ≤80% RH non-condensing and is not designed for internal placement in humidified or sub-ambient enclosures without environmental adaptation.
What stir bar sizes are recommended for optimal coupling at 10 rpm?
For reliable engagement at minimum speed, use 35 mm oval or 40 mm cross-type stir bars with ≥5 mm thickness and nickel-plated or PTFE-coated ferromagnetic cores.
Is the SS4I compatible with magnetic hotplate functionality?
No. The SS4I is a dedicated magnetic stirrer without heating elements or temperature control capabilities.
How is maintenance performed on the DC stepper motor?
The motor is sealed and non-serviceable; routine cleaning of the top plate with isopropyl alcohol and periodic inspection of stir bar magnetism constitute the full preventive maintenance protocol.
