IKA INC 125 FS Digital Shaking Incubator (SP25)

Overview

The IKA INC 125 FS Digital Shaking Incubator (SP25) is a precision-engineered, refrigerated orbital incubator designed for demanding life science applications requiring simultaneous temperature control and mechanical agitation. Unlike conventional static incubators, this unit integrates a motor-driven, removable shaking platform that operates independently of the thermal system—enabling seamless transition between static culture and orbital shaking modes. Its core functionality relies on PID-controlled heating combined with passive cooling (no active refrigeration), maintaining stable setpoints from ambient +8 °C up to 80 °C. The 25 mm orbital diameter ensures uniform mixing across suspension cultures while minimizing shear stress on sensitive cells. Engineered in Germany to DIN 12880 standards, the INC 125 FS digital supports GLP-compliant workflows through traceable temperature logging, programmable timers, and thermal decontamination cycles.

Key Features

• Removable shaking platform with automatic motion stop upon door opening—ensures operator safety and sample integrity
• Dual-mode operation: functions as both a high-stability static incubator (up to 6 wire mesh shelves) and a precision orbital shaker (10–300 rpm)
• High-resolution LCD display with intuitive digital interface for independent control of temperature, speed, and timer parameters
• Chamber constructed entirely from electropolished AISI 304 stainless steel—resistant to corrosion from sterilants, alcohols, and aqueous media
• Triple-glazed observation window with low-iron glass for minimal thermal loss and optimal optical clarity during long-term monitoring
• Thermal decontamination cycle (100 °C for 2 h) validated to eliminate microbial contaminants without disassembly
• USB port enables firmware updates and data export (temperature/time/speed logs) for audit-ready documentation
• Stackable design—up to two units may be vertically integrated using optional support frames, optimizing lab floor space
• Comprehensive safety architecture including TB Class 1 thermal cutoff, overtemperature protection, and fuse-protected power input (2 × T5.0A)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The INC 125 FS digital accommodates standard microbiological and cell culture vessels—including Erlenmeyer flasks (50–2000 mL), deep-well plates, roller bottles, and custom bioreactor cartridges—via its universal platform with pre-marked loading guides and compatibility with clip-on fixtures or adhesive pads. Its chamber geometry (550 × 550 × 415 mm) allows flexible shelf configuration, supporting up to six load-bearing shelves (20 kg each) when operated in static mode. All materials contacting the chamber interior comply with EU Directive 2002/72/EC for food-contact plastics and USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The unit meets DIN EN 60529 (IP20) for protection against solid objects and is certified to IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment safety. Temperature performance validation aligns with ISO/IEC 17025-recommended practices for calibration traceability, and time-stamped thermal logs satisfy FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with compliant data management software.

Software & Data Management

While the INC 125 FS digital operates autonomously via its onboard controller, its embedded USB interface facilitates integration into centralized lab informatics systems. Users may export timestamped operational logs—including setpoint history, actual temperature profiles, speed deviations, and alarm events—in CSV format for post-hoc analysis or regulatory submission. Firmware updates preserve backward compatibility with existing method protocols and maintain alignment with evolving IKA Connect ecosystem standards. Optional IKA Labworld Software (v4.2+) enables remote monitoring, multi-unit synchronization, and automated report generation compliant with GLP audit trails. All stored data includes device ID, user-defined batch IDs, and cryptographic checksums to ensure integrity during transfer and archival.

Applications

• Mammalian and insect cell line expansion under controlled agitation to enhance oxygen transfer and nutrient homogeneity
• Microbial fermentation studies (E. coli, yeast, bacilli) requiring precise temperature–speed coupling for growth phase optimization
• Enzyme kinetics assays where substrate mixing uniformity directly impacts reaction rate reproducibility
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) using broth microdilution in shaken suspension formats
• Protein expression in autoinduction media, where orbital motion prevents pellet formation during induction
• Environmental microbiology—soil slurry enrichment, biofilm detachment studies, and anaerobic culture maintenance
• Stability testing of biologics and vaccines under accelerated aging conditions (ICH Q5C)

FAQ

Can the shaking platform be used without the incubator chamber?

No—the shaking mechanism is fully integrated into the chamber structure and requires the thermal enclosure for proper heat dissipation and vibration damping.
Is active refrigeration available on this model?

No; the INC 125 FS digital relies on ambient air exchange and thermal mass stabilization. For sub-ambient operation, consider the IKA IC-200 series or external cold room integration.
What is the maximum flask size supported at 300 rpm?

A single 2 L Erlenmeyer flask (filled to 30% capacity) may be operated at full speed; load distribution must remain balanced across the platform to prevent resonance-induced instability.
Does the unit support password-protected parameter locking?

Yes—user-level access control (operator/admin) can be enabled via the setup menu to prevent unauthorized modification of critical settings.
How often should the drip tray and platform gasket be cleaned?

After each use involving liquid-containing vessels; routine inspection for residue accumulation is recommended weekly to maintain sealing integrity and prevent microbial carryover.