IKA T 65 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® High-Shear Dispersing Emulsifier

Overview

The IKA T 65 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® is a high-performance, bench-to-pilot-scale high-shear dispersing and emulsifying system engineered for reproducible, scalable processing of viscous and heterogeneous liquid-phase systems. Based on the proven ULTRA-TURRAX® principle—rotor-stator shear hydrodynamics—the unit generates intense mechanical energy through controlled fluid acceleration in the narrow gap between a rotating rotor and a stationary stator. This mechanism enables efficient particle size reduction, homogenization, emulsification, and dispersion across a broad viscosity range (up to 5000 mPa·s), making it suitable for formulation development, process optimization, and pre-production trials in pharmaceutical, chemical, cosmetic, and food R&D laboratories.

Key Features

• High-power drive system delivering 2200 W of continuous mechanical output, enabling stable operation at elevated torque loads without speed drift
• Digital LED speed display with ±3% accuracy and infinitely variable electronic speed control (1000–9500 rpm), ensuring precise shear rate definition regardless of batch volume or viscosity changes
• Three interchangeable rotor-stator geometries (S10N–G45, S25N–G45, S30N–G45) optimized for low-, medium-, and high-viscosity applications—each designed to maximize energy transfer efficiency and minimize heat generation
• IP 54-rated enclosure compliant with DIN EN 60529, offering protection against dust ingress and water splashes during routine lab use
• Stainless steel quick-coupling tool interface enabling tool exchange in seconds without tools; all dispersing tools are vacuum- and pressure-compatible (up to 6 bar) for closed-system processing
• Integrated electronic overload protection with error-code diagnostics displayed on the front panel for rapid fault identification and operational continuity
• Robust cast-aluminum housing and precision-balanced rotor assembly ensure long-term mechanical stability and vibration-free operation at maximum speeds

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The T 65 digital supports batch volumes from 2 L to 50 L (water-equivalent), accommodating both small-scale screening and pilot-batch preparation. It handles aqueous, organic, and multiphase systems—including suspensions, emulsions, pastes, and polymer solutions—with consistent shear delivery. All wetted parts comply with FDA-compliant materials (1.4404 / AISI 316L stainless steel). The instrument meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. Its design supports GLP-aligned documentation workflows, and when integrated with validated software platforms, facilitates audit-ready data capture per 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.

Software & Data Management

While the T 65 digital operates as a standalone unit with local parameter control, it is fully compatible with IKA’s labworldsoft® software suite via optional RS232 or USB interface. This integration enables remote speed setpoint adjustment, real-time torque and temperature logging (when paired with external sensors), automated protocol execution, and export of timestamped CSV files for traceability. All data records include operator ID, date/time stamp, speed profile, and error logs—supporting internal quality audits and regulatory submissions under ISO 17025 and GMP Annex 11 frameworks.

Applications

• Pre-formulation studies of nanoemulsions, liposomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles
• Dispersion of pigments, carbon black, and ceramic powders into carrier fluids
• Homogenization of vaccine adjuvants and biopolymer blends
• Emulsification of silicone oils, waxes, and high-melting-point fats
• Cell lysis and organelle isolation in life science sample prep
• Scale-down validation of production-scale rotor-stator processes using geometrically similar tooling

FAQ

What power supply configuration is required?
The T 65 digital requires a three-phase AC supply (3 × 400 V or 3 × 230 V, 50/60 Hz). Connection must be performed by a certified electrician following the wiring diagram provided in the operating manual.
Can the unit operate under vacuum or pressure?
Yes—when equipped with vacuum/pressure-rated ULTRA-TURRAX® dispersing tools (e.g., S25N–G45V), the system is rated for continuous operation up to 6 bar gauge pressure or full vacuum (≤1 mbar), provided the vessel and sealing system are appropriately rated.
Is speed maintained under increasing viscosity?
Yes—the digital speed regulation circuit actively compensates for load-induced torque fluctuations, maintaining setpoint speed within ±3% across the full viscosity range (1–5000 mPa·s).
How is tool wear monitored?
No automatic wear detection is built-in; however, consistent deviation in power draw or audible tonal shift during operation indicates potential rotor-stator clearance degradation—requiring visual inspection and micrometer verification per IKA maintenance guidelines.
What safety certifications does the device hold?
It carries CE marking per Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, and RoHS 2011/65/EU. Optional SI 400 safety switch adds emergency stop functionality compliant with EN ISO 13850.