IKA C-MAG MS 7 Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG MS 7 is a high-performance, single-position magnetic stirrer engineered for precision, reliability, and long-term stability in routine laboratory environments. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, it operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated beneath a non-magnetic ceramic plate to drive PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars immersed in liquid samples. Its brushless DC motor delivers consistent torque across the full speed range—critical for reproducible mixing of low- to medium-viscosity solutions, including aqueous buffers, organic solvents, and dilute polymer dispersions. Unlike hotplate stirrers, the C-MAG MS 7 is strictly a stirring-only device with no integrated heating function, making it ideal for temperature-sensitive applications where external thermal control (e.g., water baths or climate-controlled rooms) is employed. Its compact footprint and robust mechanical architecture support continuous operation under GLP-compliant workflows in QC labs, academic research settings, and pharmaceutical development units.

Key Features

• High-strength neodymium magnetic coupling system ensures stable rotation of stir bars up to 80 mm in length—even at maximum speed (1500 rpm) and with viscous loads up to 10 L of water-equivalent volume.
• Monolithic ceramic working surface (180 × 180 mm) provides exceptional resistance to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents; seamless construction prevents liquid ingress and facilitates rapid decontamination.
• Elevated control panel minimizes risk of solution splashing onto electronics while improving ergonomics for visual speed reading and manual adjustment via calibrated analog dial (scale 0–6).
• Microprocessor-based speed regulation with real-time motor feedback maintains ±3% speed accuracy across the operating range (100–1500 rpm), independent of load fluctuations or line voltage variation.
• IP21-rated enclosure ensures protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm—suitable for standard laboratory benchtop use under controlled ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH).
• Universal voltage compatibility (100 / 120 / 230 V) and dual-frequency support (50/60 Hz) enable global deployment without hardware modification or external transformers.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG MS 7 accommodates standard laboratory glassware—including beakers (up to 10 L capacity), Erlenmeyer flasks, and jacketed reactors—provided bottom geometry permits efficient magnetic coupling. It is compatible with all commercially available magnetic stir bars rated for chemical inertness and thermal stability (e.g., PTFE-coated, glass-encapsulated, or AlNiCo-core variants). The device complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP21), IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use), and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. While not certified for use in explosion-hazardous areas (ATEX), its non-heating design and sealed electronics make it suitable for solvent-rich fume hood environments when operated within specified ambient limits.

Software & Data Management

As a stand-alone analog-controlled instrument, the C-MAG MS 7 does not feature digital connectivity (e.g., USB, RS232, or Bluetooth) or embedded software. Speed setting and monitoring are performed manually via the front-panel dial and analog indicator. This architecture eliminates firmware dependencies, reduces validation burden, and supports straightforward IQ/OQ protocols required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 and ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks—particularly where audit trails for electronic records are not mandated. For laboratories requiring traceable speed documentation, external data loggers interfaced via optional analog output modules (not included) may be deployed per internal SOPs.

Applications

• Homogenization of reagent solutions prior to HPLC or GC sample preparation
• Continuous agitation during titration, dissolution testing (USP <711>), and buffer equilibration
• Mixing of cell culture media and enzymatic reaction mixtures under ambient or externally regulated temperatures
• Supporting ASTM D1298 (density of crude oil) and ASTM D4052 (density of liquids by digital density meter) sample conditioning steps
• Stirring during gravimetric analysis, precipitation reactions, and standard solution dilution series
• Integration into automated liquid handling workflows where discrete, non-heated agitation is required between processing stages

FAQ

Does the C-MAG MS 7 include a heating function?
No. It is a magnetic stirrer only. Heating capability is not integrated; users must employ external temperature control methods.
What is the maximum recommended viscosity for reliable stirring?
Optimal performance is maintained for Newtonian fluids with dynamic viscosity up to ~1000 mPa·s (e.g., 40% glycerol/water at 20 °C); higher viscosities may require reduced speed or shorter stir bars.
Can this unit be used inside a CO₂ incubator or cold room?
Operation is permitted only within the specified ambient range (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH); condensation or thermal cycling outside these limits may compromise long-term reliability.
Is calibration required for regulatory compliance?
Speed verification using a calibrated tachometer is recommended annually or per internal quality procedures; no factory calibration certificate is supplied as standard.
What stir bar size is optimal for 10 L mixing?
A 60–80 mm cross-shaped or oval stir bar with PTFE coating is recommended for large-volume uniformity and vortex control.