IKA Color Squidl Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA Color Squidl Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, digitally controlled laboratory stirrer engineered for precision mixing of low-to-medium viscosity aqueous and organic solutions in volumes up to 1 L. Utilizing a permanent magnet drive system coupled with a brushless DC motor, it delivers stable rotational torque across its full speed range (0–2500 rpm) without mechanical wear or heat buildup in the motor housing. Its tempered glass working surface provides uniform thermal distribution and high resistance to scratches, acids, bases, and common solvents—making it suitable for routine QC testing, buffer preparation, reagent dissolution, and sample homogenization under ambient conditions. Designed for benchtop use in analytical, pharmaceutical, and academic laboratories, the Color Squidl integrates ergonomic operation with essential safety compliance for unattended operation in general-purpose lab environments.

Key Features

• Digital LED speed display with real-time feedback of setpoint and actual rotation rate
• Tempered glass plate (Ø 115 mm) offering superior chemical resistance and optical clarity for visual monitoring of stirring behavior
• Recyclable thermoplastic elastomer (TPC-ET) housing engineered for impact resilience and long-term dimensional stability
• Microprocessor-controlled speed regulation with ±50 rpm setting resolution and consistent torque delivery across the entire 0–2500 rpm range
• IP54-rated enclosure providing protection against dust ingress and water splashes from any direction—suitable for humid or wet-lab peripheries
• Universal input power supply (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) enabling global deployment without voltage conversion hardware
• Low-power architecture: 4 W total input, 2 W motor output—optimized for energy efficiency and minimal thermal footprint

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Color Squidl is validated for use with standard PTFE- or PTFE-coated magnetic stir bars up to 30 mm in length, supporting homogeneous mixing of water-based buffers, saline solutions, ethanol/water mixtures, and dilute acid/base preparations. It is not intended for viscous media (e.g., polymer melts, glycerol >50 % v/v), high-shear dispersion, or sealed-vessel applications requiring pressure or temperature control. The device conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets DIN EN 60529 requirements for ingress protection (IP54). While not certified for GLP or GMP-regulated workflows requiring audit trails, its stable performance and traceable operating parameters support documentation under internal SOPs aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 quality systems.

Software & Data Management

The Color Squidl operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded firmware update capability or PC connectivity. All operational parameters—including speed setpoint, run time (manual), and motor status—are managed locally via a single rotary control knob and verified through the integrated LED display. No data logging, remote control, or export functionality is provided. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, integration with external timers or environmental monitoring systems may be implemented at the facility level; however, the instrument itself does not generate timestamps, event logs, or digital signatures compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11.

Applications

• Preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in analytical chemistry labs
• Homogenization of cell culture media and PBS buffers prior to filtration or dispensing
• Dissolution of crystalline reagents (e.g., NaCl, KCl, EDTA) in volumetric flasks or beakers
• Supporting titration workflows where consistent agitation ensures endpoint reproducibility
• Low-risk educational demonstrations of fluid dynamics and mass transfer principles
• Integration into modular benchtop setups alongside pH meters, conductivity probes, or temperature sensors

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended viscosity for reliable operation?
The Color Squidl is optimized for Newtonian fluids with dynamic viscosities below 50 mPa·s (e.g., water, 10 % ethanol, 0.9 % saline). Performance degrades above this threshold due to reduced coupling efficiency between the drive magnet and stir bar.
Can the stirrer be used with metal containers?
No. Ferromagnetic or conductive vessels (e.g., stainless steel beakers) will attenuate the magnetic field and impair stir bar rotation. Only non-magnetic, non-conductive containers—glass, PP, PE, or PTFE—are compatible.
Is the glass plate replaceable if damaged?
Yes. The tempered glass plate is a field-serviceable component; replacement parts are available directly from IKA authorized distributors under part number 300000001244.
Does the unit include a stir bar?
No. A compatible stir bar (e.g., IKA RW 20, 30 mm length) must be ordered separately.
What maintenance is required?
Routine cleaning with isopropanol or mild detergent; no lubrication or calibration is necessary. Verify plate integrity and absence of microfractures before each use.