DRETOP XC2-9 Stackable Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DRETOP XC2-9 Stackable Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker is an engineered platform for precise, reproducible cultivation and agitation of biological samples under controlled thermal and mechanical conditions. Utilizing orbital shaking motion with a fixed 26 mm amplitude and PID-regulated heating, the instrument maintains stable temperature uniformity across dual independent platforms—enabling parallel experiments with distinct thermal and agitation profiles. Designed for demanding life science workflows—including microbial culture, protein expression, cell suspension maintenance, and biochemical assay development—the XC2-9 integrates incubation and agitation in a single footprint-efficient architecture. Its stackable configuration supports vertical expansion without sacrificing individual layer control, making it suitable for laboratories where floor space is constrained but experimental throughput must scale.

Key Features

• Two independently controlled orbital platforms with synchronized or asynchronous operation modes (forward/reverse/alternating direction)
• Full-color capacitive touchscreen interface with intuitive PID controller; real-time display of temperature, speed, elapsed time, and remaining timer
• Brushless DC motor drive system ensuring low-vibration, maintenance-free operation with ±1 rpm speed stability and soft-start acceleration to prevent sample splashing
• Stainless steel chamber interior and powder-coated steel exterior; tempered glass observation window with integrated LED illumination
• Comprehensive safety suite: over-temperature cutoff, overspeed alarm, auto-restart after power interruption, parameter lock function, and user-adjustable temperature/speed calibration offsets
• Flexible operational modes: temperature-only mode, shaking-only mode, or combined thermo-mechanical control—configurable per platform

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The XC2-9 accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Erlenmeyer flasks (250–3000 mL), culture bottles, and multi-well plates via adjustable universal clamps or optional platform inserts. Its temperature uniformity (±1°C at setpoint) and speed repeatability meet routine requirements for GLP-compliant cell culture, fermentation optimization, and diagnostic reagent preparation. While not certified to ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, the device’s parameter logging capability (via optional USB data export) supports audit-ready documentation when integrated into validated lab workflows. It complies with IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety and EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility.

Software & Data Management

The onboard firmware supports multi-step programmable protocols with up to 99 segments per program, including ramp-and-soak temperature profiles and dynamic speed modulation. All settings—including active program ID, current operating state, and historical runtime—are retained in non-volatile memory during power loss. Data export is available via USB flash drive in CSV format, capturing timestamped temperature, speed, and timer values at user-defined intervals (1–600 sec). No proprietary software installation is required; exported files are compatible with Excel, MATLAB, and LIMS platforms for traceability and statistical process analysis.

Applications

• Bacterial and yeast fermentation studies requiring tight coupling of temperature and aeration via orbital agitation
• Mammalian and insect cell suspension cultures where shear stress minimization and oxygen transfer efficiency are critical
• Enzyme kinetics assays and immunoassay plate incubation with gentle mixing
• Environmental microbiology—water quality testing, bioremediation screening, and soil extract incubation
• Pharmaceutical QC workflows involving dissolution testing support, stability-indicating method development, and excipient compatibility studies
• Academic teaching labs conducting comparative growth curve analysis across multiple strains or media formulations

FAQ

Can the two platforms operate at different temperatures simultaneously?
No—the XC2-9 shares a single heating system and therefore maintains one uniform chamber temperature across both platforms. However, each platform can be set to independent oscillation frequencies, directions, and timing schedules.
Is refrigeration available on this model?
The XC2-9 is a heating-only configuration. For sub-ambient capability, refer to the XC2-9R variant, which incorporates a sealed compressor-based cooling system with a range of 4°C to 60°C.
What is the maximum flask size supported per platform?
Each 520 × 420 mm platform accommodates up to four 2 L flasks or nine 1 L flasks using standard universal clamps. Custom platform inserts for microplate carriers or tube racks are available as accessories.
Does the unit include validation documentation?
Factory calibration certificates for temperature and speed sensors are provided. IQ/OQ documentation templates and third-party validation support services can be arranged through DRETOP’s international technical support team.
How is airflow managed inside the chamber?
A rear-mounted axial fan ensures passive convection-driven air circulation, minimizing thermal gradients. No forced-air impeller is used to avoid vibration transmission to the shaking platforms.