IKA C-MAG HS 10 Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG HS 10 is a high-performance heating magnetic stirrer engineered for demanding laboratory applications requiring precise thermal control and robust mechanical agitation. Designed around a closed-loop microprocessor-controlled architecture, it integrates independent regulation of heating plate temperature and motor-driven stirring speed—enabling simultaneous, stable operation across wide thermal and rheological ranges. Its operating principle relies on electromagnetic induction to rotate a PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bar within a vessel, while a ceramic heating plate transfers thermal energy via conduction. The system is optimized for reproducible mixing of viscous, heterogeneous, or temperature-sensitive solutions—common in synthetic chemistry, polymer processing, pharmaceutical formulation, and materials science workflows. Unlike basic stirrers, the C-MAG HS 10 supports external feedback control using the optional IKA ETSD5 contact temperature sensor, allowing direct monitoring and regulation of solution temperature rather than relying solely on plate surface readings—a critical distinction for process-critical applications where thermal gradients significantly affect reaction kinetics or crystallization behavior.

Key Features

• High-power 1500 W ceramic heating plate with rapid thermal response (5 K/min heating rate for 1 L H₂O)
• Microprocessor-based dual-loop control: independent real-time adjustment of speed (100–1500 rpm) and plate temperature (50–500 °C)
• Integrated safety circuitry with automatic cut-off at 550 °C to prevent overheating and thermal damage
• Elevated control panel design minimizes risk of liquid ingress and improves ergonomics during extended operation
• Chemically inert, seamless ceramic plate (260 × 260 mm) resistant to strong acids, bases, and organic solvents
• Digital LED display for intuitive parameter setting and repeatable protocol execution
• High-torque motor delivering consistent rotational performance even with high-viscosity media (e.g., glycerol, silicone oil, polymer melts)
• Anti-jump magnetic coupling system ensuring stable stir bar rotation under variable load conditions
• ETSD5 sensor port enabling closed-loop solution temperature control with ±3 K accuracy and ±3 K stability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG HS 10 accommodates vessels up to 15 L volume (water-equivalent), supporting round-bottom flasks, beakers, and jacketed reactors with diameters compatible with its 260 mm × 260 mm heating surface. It accepts standard magnetic stir bars up to 80 mm in length and is compatible with all common labware materials—including borosilicate glass, PTFE, and stainless steel. From a regulatory standpoint, the device conforms to IEC/EN 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and carries an IP21 ingress protection rating, indicating limited protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant as a standalone instrument, its digital interface and stable parameter logging—when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software—support GLP/GMP-aligned documentation practices. The unit meets general requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories when used within defined operational limits and calibrated per manufacturer-recommended intervals.

Software & Data Management

The C-MAG HS 10 operates as a stand-alone analog-digital hybrid instrument without embedded firmware-based data logging or network connectivity. All operational parameters—including setpoints, actual plate temperature, and motor speed—are displayed in real time on the front-panel LED interface. For traceable recordkeeping, users may manually document settings or integrate the unit into external monitoring systems via analog output signals (where supported by optional accessories). When used with the ETSD5 temperature probe, the system provides direct feedback to maintain solution temperature within ±3 K tolerance—essential for method validation in quality control environments. Though no proprietary software is bundled, IKA’s standardized hardware interface allows compatibility with common lab information management systems (LIMS) through configurable analog-to-digital converters and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), facilitating integration into automated workflows under controlled validation protocols.

Applications

• Synthesis and purification of organic compounds requiring precise thermal ramping and homogeneous mixing
• Preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in analytical chemistry labs
• Viscosity-dependent dissolution testing of pharmaceutical dosage forms
• Thermal curing of resins and adhesives in materials development
• Heating and homogenizing cell culture media prior to sterilization
• Controlled evaporation and concentration of solvent mixtures in environmental sample preparation
• Stabilization studies of emulsions and colloidal dispersions under elevated temperature

FAQ

Does the C-MAG HS 10 support external temperature feedback control?

Yes—the unit features a dedicated ETSD5 sensor interface enabling direct measurement and regulation of solution temperature, improving accuracy over plate-surface-only control.
What is the maximum recommended vessel size for optimal stirring efficiency?

For consistent vortex formation and thermal uniformity, use vessels with bottom diameters ≤240 mm; larger containers may require optimization of stir bar geometry and placement.
Is the ceramic plate resistant to hydrofluoric acid (HF)?

No—while highly resistant to most mineral and organic chemicals, standard IKA ceramic plates are not HF-resistant; alternative PTFE-coated or quartz hotplates are recommended for HF handling.
Can the C-MAG HS 10 be operated continuously at 500 °C?

Continuous operation at maximum temperature is permissible only with adequate ventilation and appropriate vessel loading; prolonged exposure above 400 °C may accelerate aging of internal components and reduce long-term calibration stability.
How often should the unit undergo preventive maintenance or recalibration?

IKA recommends annual verification of temperature and speed accuracy using NIST-traceable standards, especially in regulated environments; visual inspection of the ceramic surface and stir bar coupling should occur before each use.