IKA T 25 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® Homogenizer
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG |
| Type | Probe-type Rotational Homogenizer |
| Model | T 25 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 87 × 271 × 106 mm |
| Volume Range | 1–2000 mL (H₂O) |
| Motor Input Power | 800 W |
| Motor Output Power | 500 W |
| Speed Range | 3000–25,000 rpm |
| Speed Accuracy | ±1 % |
| Speed Display | LED |
| Speed Control | Continuous (Stepless) |
| Max. Viscosity | 5000 mPa·s |
| Noise Level (without dispersing tool) | 75 dB(A) |
| Shaft Diameter | 13 mm |
| Shaft Length | 160 mm |
| IP Rating | IP20 |
| Operating Temperature | 5–40 °C |
| Relative Humidity | ≤80 % |
| Voltage | 220–240 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Weight | 2.5 kg |
| Duty Cycle | 100 % continuous operation |
| Compliance | DIN EN 60529 |
Overview
The IKA T 25 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® is a high-performance, probe-type rotational homogenizer engineered for precision mechanical dispersion, emulsification, and cell disruption in laboratory environments. Based on the principle of high-shear rotor-stator interaction, the device generates intense hydrodynamic forces—comprising cavitation, turbulence, and radial shear—within liquid or semi-liquid samples. Its digitally controlled motor delivers consistent torque across the full speed range (3000–25,000 rpm), enabling reproducible processing of volumes from 1 mL to 2 L (water-equivalent). Designed for robust daily use in QC labs, R&D facilities, and clinical sample preparation workflows, the T 25 digital integrates thermal and electronic overload protection, real-time speed monitoring via LED display, and error-code diagnostics to support GLP-compliant documentation practices.
Key Features
- Digital speed control with continuous (stepless) adjustment and ±1 % speed accuracy ensures repeatable process parameters across batches.
- 500 W output power and optimized thermal management allow uninterrupted 100 % duty-cycle operation under load—critical for time-sensitive protocols such as tissue homogenization or nanoparticle dispersion.
- ULTRA-TURRAX® probe geometry—featuring precision-machined stainless-steel rotors and concentric stators—maximizes energy transfer efficiency while minimizing heat generation and foaming.
- Two disposable probe options (S-shaped and conical geometries) eliminate cross-contamination risks in diagnostic, pharmaceutical, or regulated bioanalytical applications.
- Integrated electronic overload protection automatically interrupts operation during stall conditions or excessive viscosity events, preserving motor longevity and data integrity.
- Quiet operation (75 dB(A) without probe attached) meets ISO 14040-based acoustic requirements for shared laboratory spaces; optional vacuum/pressure-rated accessories enable sealed-system processing.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The T 25 digital accommodates diverse sample matrices—including aqueous suspensions, viscous polymer solutions (up to 5000 mPa·s), soft tissues, microbial cultures, and diagnostic reagents—without requiring solvent addition or pre-dilution. Its IP20-rated housing complies with DIN EN 60529 for indoor laboratory use, while the stainless-steel wetted parts meet FDA-compliant material standards (ASTM F899) for non-implantable device manufacturing support. The instrument supports audit-ready workflows: speed setpoints, runtime, and fault codes are retained in non-volatile memory, facilitating traceability per ISO/IEC 17025 and 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements when integrated with validated LIMS or ELN platforms.
Software & Data Management
While the T 25 digital operates as a standalone unit with local LED interface, its analog output port (0–10 V) enables integration with external data acquisition systems for real-time speed logging and correlation with analytical instruments (e.g., particle size analyzers or pH meters). All operational parameters—including active speed, cumulative runtime, and error history—are accessible via front-panel navigation. For laboratories implementing electronic records, IKA’s LabWorldSoft™ (v5.0+) provides optional USB connectivity for automated export of run logs in CSV format, supporting metadata tagging (operator ID, sample ID, SOP version) and alignment with ALCOA+ data integrity principles.
Applications
- Pre-analytical sample preparation for clinical diagnostics: homogenization of blood clots, stool suspensions, and biopsy specimens prior to PCR or immunoassay analysis.
- R&D-scale formulation development: dispersion of pigments, nanomaterials, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) into aqueous or organic carriers.
- Environmental testing: homogenization of wastewater sludge, soil extracts, and sediment cores for heavy metal or microbial enumeration assays.
- Food & beverage QA: particle size reduction in sauces, emulsion stabilization trials, and viscosity profiling of dairy alternatives.
- Academic research: subcellular fractionation, organelle isolation, and lysis of Gram-negative bacteria using optimized pulse protocols.
FAQ
Can the T 25 digital be operated under inert gas or vacuum conditions?
Yes—when equipped with optional pressure/vacuum-compatible ULTRA-TURRAX® probes and sealed vessel adapters, it supports processing in nitrogen-purged or reduced-pressure environments to prevent oxidation or volatile loss.
Is calibration required before first use or at scheduled intervals?
No routine calibration is mandated; however, users should verify speed accuracy annually using an external tachometer traceable to NIST standards as part of equipment qualification (IQ/OQ) protocols.
What maintenance procedures are recommended for long-term reliability?
Daily wipe-down of the housing and shaft; monthly inspection of probe threads and stator wear; biannual lubrication of the gear mechanism using IKA-certified grease (Part No. 0000000252); replacement of disposable probes after 200 cycles or visible erosion.
Does the device comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directives for EU deployment?
Yes—the T 25 digital conforms to EN 61326-1:2013 for laboratory electrical equipment and carries CE marking under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU.
