Hanuo HY-4 Digital Speed-Controlled Reciprocal Shaker
| Brand | Hanuo |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Model | HY-4 |
| Instrument Type | Reciprocal Shaker |
| Timing Range | 0–120 min |
| Oscillation Frequency | 0–320 rpm |
| Stroke Amplitude | 20 mm |
| Number of Platforms | 1 |
| Platform Dimensions | 43 × 28 cm |
| Motor Power | 60 W |
| Operating Mode | Non-temperature-controlled (Ambient Only) |
Overview
The Hanuo HY-4 Digital Speed-Controlled Reciprocal Shaker is an entry-level, benchtop mechanical shaker engineered for reproducible sample agitation in life science, environmental, clinical, and industrial laboratories. It operates on a linear reciprocating motion principle—driven by an eccentric cam mechanism—to generate consistent horizontal oscillation across a single platform. Unlike orbital or vortex shakers, the HY-4’s fixed-stroke (20 mm) reciprocating action provides uniform shear distribution ideal for suspension mixing, extraction protocols, immunoassay plate washing pre-incubation, and routine cell culture flask agitation where gentle yet effective motion is required. Designed for ambient-temperature applications only (no integrated heating or cooling), it serves as a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution for labs requiring reliable speed control and timing precision without thermal regulation.
Key Features
- Digital RPM display with continuous (stepless) speed adjustment from 0 to 320 rpm—enabling precise replication of agitation intensity across experiments.
- Mechanical timer with 1–120 minute range, offering repeatable endpoint control without software dependency or battery backup requirements.
- Robust aluminum-alloy frame and reinforced steel platform structure ensure long-term stability and minimal vibration transmission to adjacent equipment.
- Ergonomic spring-loaded bottle clamp system accommodates multiple tube formats (e.g., test tubes, centrifuge tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks) simultaneously, supporting comparative experimental setups with minimal reconfiguration.
- Low-noise brush motor (60 W) delivers smooth operation at all speeds, maintaining acoustic levels below 55 dB(A) at 1 m distance—suitable for shared lab environments.
- Compact footprint (43 × 28 cm platform; overall dimensions approx. 50 × 35 × 18 cm) optimizes bench space without compromising load capacity (up to 5 kg evenly distributed).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HY-4 accepts standard laboratory vessels up to 1 L volume when placed centrally on the platform, including glass and polypropylene bottles, conical tubes (15–50 mL), multi-well plates (with optional plate holder accessory), and culture flasks (T25–T75). Its non-temperature-controlled design complies with general-purpose shaker standards under ISO 8573-1 (compressed air purity) and IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits). While not certified for GLP/GMP production environments, it meets essential safety requirements per IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment—including overcurrent protection, insulated housing, and grounded chassis. No regulatory certification (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11, CE medical device classification) applies, as the unit is designated for research-use-only (RUO) applications.
Software & Data Management
The HY-4 operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded microprocessor, network interface, or data logging capability. All operational parameters—speed setting and timer activation—are manually entered via front-panel rotary dial and mechanical knob. This architecture eliminates firmware dependencies, cybersecurity risks, or software validation burdens. For laboratories implementing electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or LIMS integration, users are advised to manually record settings in audit-trail-compliant logbooks. Optional external digital timers or USB-connected data acquisition modules may be deployed for time-synchronized event logging, though Hanuo does not supply or validate such third-party peripherals.
Applications
- Pre-analytical sample homogenization prior to spectrophotometric, HPLC, or ELISA analysis.
- Extraction of analytes from solid matrices (e.g., soil, plant tissue) using solvent-based protocols per EPA Method 3540C or ASTM D5389.
- Agitation of bacterial or yeast cultures in non-CO₂-dependent growth media during logarithmic phase expansion.
- Washing steps in immunodetection workflows, including Western blot membrane rinsing and lateral flow assay buffer exchange.
- Quality control testing of reagent stability under mechanical stress conditions (e.g., accelerated shelf-life studies).
- Teaching laboratory demonstrations of kinetic mixing efficiency, viscosity-dependent damping effects, and resonance thresholds in fluid systems.
FAQ
Is the HY-4 suitable for cell culture incubation?
No—the HY-4 lacks temperature control and CO₂ regulation; it is intended only for ambient-temperature agitation. For incubated shaking, refer to certified orbital shakers with integrated heating and humidity management.
Can the stroke amplitude be adjusted?
No—the 20 mm reciprocating stroke is mechanically fixed and non-variable. This ensures consistent shear profile but precludes customization for high-viscosity or foam-prone samples.
Does the unit support AC voltage variations common outside China?
The standard HY-4 is configured for 220 V / 50 Hz input. Units for North America (120 V / 60 Hz) or EU (230 V / 50 Hz) require factory modification and are available upon special order with revised compliance labeling.
What maintenance is required?
Annual inspection of motor brushes, lubrication of cam shaft bearings, and verification of platform leveling using a spirit level. No calibration certificate is issued, as the device falls outside metrological traceability scope per ISO/IEC 17025.
Is there a warranty or service network outside mainland China?
Hanuo provides a 12-month limited warranty covering material and workmanship defects. International technical support is available via authorized regional distributors; direct OEM service is restricted to Shanghai-based facilities.
