IKA Big Squid Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA Big Squid Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, high-precision benchtop instrument engineered for consistent and reliable mixing of low-to-medium viscosity samples in research, quality control, and teaching laboratories. Designed around the principles of contactless magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath a chemically inert glass plate induces rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the Big Squid delivers stable rotational motion without mechanical wear or seal degradation. Its optimized motor architecture supports continuous operation across its full speed range (0–2,500 rpm), enabling precise control over mixing intensity for applications ranging from gentle reagent homogenization to vigorous suspension of fine particulates. The unit operates silently and with minimal heat generation, maintaining thermal stability in temperature-sensitive preparations.

Key Features

• Tempered glass working surface (Ø160 mm) offering exceptional chemical resistance to acids, bases, solvents, and oxidizing agents—compatible with routine cleaning using ethanol, acetone, or diluted nitric acid.
• Digital LED speed display providing real-time, non-parallax readout with 50 rpm resolution for reproducible method setup and inter-laboratory transferability.
• Brushless DC motor delivering high torque at low speeds and stable rotation up to 2,500 rpm—engineered for long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.
• IP54-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529, protecting internal electronics against dust ingress and water splashes from any direction—suitable for shared lab environments with variable humidity (≤80 % RH).
• Universal power input (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) with integrated switching-mode power supply, eliminating need for voltage converters in global deployments.
• Low-profile footprint (185 × 45 × 205 mm) and lightweight construction (0.7 kg) facilitate placement inside fume hoods, cold rooms, or on crowded benchtops without compromising accessibility.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Big Squid accommodates standard cylindrical or conical glassware (e.g., beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks) up to 1.5 L volume when used with appropriately sized magnetic stir bars (max. length 30 mm). Its glass plate surface ensures compatibility with common laboratory containers—including borosilicate glass, polypropylene, and PTFE-lined vessels—without risk of scratching or adhesion. While the device itself does not incorporate active temperature control, its ambient operating specification (5–40 °C) aligns with ISO/IEC 17025 general requirements for environmental conditions during testing. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EMC directives (2014/30/EU). No RS-232 or analog output interfaces are provided; thus, it is intended for standalone use—not integrated into automated GLP/GMP workflows requiring audit-trail-capable data logging.

Software & Data Management

The IKA Big Squid operates as a stand-alone instrument with no embedded firmware, software interface, or connectivity options. All operational parameters—including speed setting and status—are managed locally via front-panel controls. The LED display provides immediate visual feedback but does not store historical data or support external calibration verification. For laboratories requiring traceable parameter recording, users must implement manual logbooks or integrate external digital documentation systems. As the device lacks networked functionality or FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures, it is classified as a Class A general-purpose laboratory tool under EU MDR Annex XVI and does not require formal validation for routine mixing tasks.

Applications

• Preparation of buffer solutions, culture media, and reagent dilutions in molecular biology and microbiology labs.
• Homogenization of polymer solutions and colloidal suspensions prior to rheological or particle size analysis.
• Supporting dissolution testing protocols where consistent agitation is required under USP guidelines (though not a pharmacopeial dissolution apparatus itself).
• Facilitating titration setups by ensuring uniform mixing during endpoint detection.
• Use in undergraduate chemistry teaching labs due to intuitive operation, robust build, and wide speed range suitable for kinetic demonstrations.

FAQ

Is the Big Squid compatible with hot plates or temperature-controlled stirrers?
No—the Big Squid is a non-heating magnetic stirrer only. It lacks integrated heating elements or temperature sensors.
Can it drive stirring in viscous solutions like glycerol or silicone oil?
It is optimized for aqueous and low-viscosity organic media (up to ~1,000 mPa·s); performance in highly viscous fluids may require reduced speed or larger stir bars.
Does IKA provide calibration certificates or metrological traceability for this model?
No—this is a general-purpose instrument without factory-calibrated speed verification; users may verify rotational accuracy using an external tachometer if required.
What stir bar sizes are recommended for optimal performance?
For 1.5 L volumes, elliptical or cross-shaped stir bars 25–30 mm in length and 8–10 mm in width yield best vortex formation and torque transmission.
Is the glass plate replaceable if damaged?
Yes—glass plates are available as genuine IKA spare parts (Order No.: 0050000000); replacement requires basic screwdriver tools and follows IKA’s documented service procedure.