IKA KS 260 basic Orbital Shaker

Overview

The IKA KS 260 basic is a compact, benchtop orbital shaker engineered for precision and reliability in routine life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of controlled circular motion—specifically, a 10 mm orbital diameter—generating uniform, low-shear agitation ideal for cell culture suspension, microbial growth, solubility studies, and reagent mixing. Its brushless DC motor delivers stable rotational dynamics across the full 0–500 rpm range, with fine resolution down to 1 rpm increments (adjustable from 50 rpm upward), ensuring reproducible motion profiles critical for protocol standardization. Designed for continuous duty under ambient lab conditions (5–50 °C, ≤80 % RH), the unit complies with DIN EN 60529 for ingress protection (IP21), safeguarding internal electronics against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm. The absence of mechanical timers or complex firmware reduces failure points, aligning with GLP-aligned environments where operational transparency and audit-ready simplicity are prioritized.

Key Features

• Single-platform design with flat, non-perforated stainless-steel surface for broad compatibility with universal clamps and custom fixtures
• LED digital display showing real-time speed (rpm) and remaining timer duration (min)
• Electronic speed control with smooth potentiometer adjustment and tactile feedback for repeatable setting recall
• Integrated analog output signal (0–10 V DC) enabling external monitoring or integration into centralized lab control systems
• Robust aluminum housing and vibration-damped base minimize transmission to adjacent equipment and improve positional stability
• No RS232 or USB interface—intentionally omitted to support secure, isolated operation in regulated QC/QA workflows where network connectivity is restricted
• Energy-efficient motor architecture: 10 W mechanical output from 45 W electrical input, optimized for sustained 24/7 operation without thermal derating

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KS 260 basic accommodates standard laboratory vessels—including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), test tubes, microtiter plates (with appropriate plate clamps), and centrifuge tubes—via interchangeable IKA-certified clamping accessories (sold separately). Its 7.5 kg maximum load capacity includes clamp mass, permitting simultaneous agitation of multiple vessel types when using modular multi-position holders. The device meets essential safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD). While not certified to ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, its deterministic analog control loop, absence of stored user data, and non-networked architecture facilitate straightforward validation for GMP-relevant applications such as buffer preparation, media dispensing, and stability testing per ICH Q5C guidelines.

Software & Data Management

The KS 260 basic operates without embedded software, firmware updates, or onboard data logging—eliminating cybersecurity vulnerabilities and simplifying qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) documentation. All operational parameters are set manually and displayed locally; no configuration files, audit trails, or electronic records are generated. This design supports laboratories adhering to ALCOA+ principles in paper-based or hybrid record-keeping systems. For users requiring traceability, the analog output can be connected to external chart recorders or PLCs configured with timestamped acquisition, satisfying basic data integrity requirements under Annex 11 (EU GMP) when paired with validated peripheral hardware.

Applications

• Suspension culture of mammalian and insect cells in serum-free or low-serum media
• Shake-flask fermentation for recombinant protein expression screening
• Extraction protocols requiring gentle orbital mixing (e.g., nucleic acid isolation, antigen retrieval)
• Standardization of dissolution media agitation in pharmaceutical pre-formulation studies
• Environmental microbiology—BOD bottle agitation per ASTM D5210
• Calibration verification of viscometers and densitometers using standardized reference fluids

FAQ

Is the KS 260 basic suitable for incubator integration?
Yes—its compact footprint (360 × 420 mm base) and low heat dissipation (<15 W surface temperature rise at 500 rpm) allow safe placement inside most forced-air CO₂ incubators with adequate ventilation clearance.
Can it operate continuously for 72 hours or longer?
Yes—the motor and electronics are rated for 100 % duty cycle; no thermal shutdown or speed drift has been observed during extended validation runs under nominal load (≤5 kg) at 250 rpm.
Are clamps included with the instrument?
No—clamps are optional accessories. IKA offers dedicated holders for Erlenmeyer flasks (e.g., KS 260 flask clamp set), microplate carriers (KS 260 microplate adapter), and tube racks (KS 260 tube holder), each designed to maintain center-of-mass alignment and prevent resonance at high speeds.
What voltage configurations are supported?
Dual-range auto-sensing power supply: 100–120 V AC (50/60 Hz) and 220–240 V AC (50/60 Hz); no manual voltage selector switch required.
Does it comply with USP <797> environmental controls for compounding pharmacies?
While not a sterile device, its IP21 rating, absence of particulate-generating components (e.g., brushes, fans), and smooth anodized surfaces support cleaning validation per USP <797> Annex A for non-sterile compounding areas.