IKA C-MAG HS 4 Digital Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG HS 4 Digital is a precision-engineered heating magnetic stirrer designed for demanding laboratory applications requiring simultaneous temperature control and reproducible agitation. Based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, it employs a rotating magnetic field beneath a seamless, chemically inert ceramic plate to drive PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars within vessels. Unlike conventional hotplate stirrers with exposed coil elements, the C-MAG HS 4 integrates a fully sealed ceramic surface—resistant to strong acids, alkalis, and organic solvents—minimizing contamination risk and enabling rapid decontamination. Its dual-function architecture supports independent or coupled control of speed and temperature, with real-time digital feedback via an elevated LCD display that reduces exposure to splashes. The system is engineered for long-term thermal stability and mechanical robustness in routine QC, synthesis, dissolution testing, and sample preparation workflows across pharmaceutical, chemical, and academic laboratories.

Key Features

• Seamless ceramic worktop with exceptional resistance to corrosion from aggressive reagents including HNO₃, HF, NaOH, and acetone
• Digital speed control (100–1500 rpm) with fine resolution and consistent torque delivery up to 5 L aqueous volume
• Precise digital heating control (50–500 °C) with programmable ramp rate (2.5 K/min) and overtemperature safety cut-off at 550 °C
• Integrated PT1000 sensor port enabling external medium temperature monitoring; achieves ±0.5 K control accuracy and 0.1 K display resolution when used with certified PT1000 probes
• Elevated control panel design minimizes liquid ingress risk during vigorous stirring or accidental spills
• Three operational modes: Standard (free parameter adjustment), Safety (restricted max speed/temp), and Lock (full parameter immobilization for unattended operation)
• Compliance-ready architecture: Supports GLP/GMP traceability through error-code logging (e.g., E1 = overtemperature, E2 = sensor fault) and non-volatile parameter retention after power loss

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG HS 4 accommodates standard laboratory glassware (beakers, flasks, crystallization dishes) up to 5 L capacity, compatible with stir bars up to 30 mm in length. Its IP21-rated enclosure ensures protection against vertically falling drops—suitable for general lab environments but not wet-process areas. The device conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP classification), IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment), and meets CE marking directives for EMC and low-voltage compliance. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its deterministic error reporting, stable setpoint retention, and hardware-based safety interlocks support validation under ISO/IEC 17025 and USP analytical instrument qualification frameworks.

Software & Data Management

The C-MAG HS 4 operates as a standalone instrument without proprietary software dependency. All parameters—including speed, set temperature, actual temperature, elapsed time, and active error codes—are displayed locally on the high-contrast LCD. No onboard data logging or USB/RS232 connectivity is provided; however, the PT1000 interface allows integration with external DAQ systems or validated SCADA platforms for continuous temperature recording in regulated environments. Parameter settings persist across power cycles, supporting repeatable method execution without reconfiguration. For audit trails, users are advised to document operating conditions manually or via connected environmental monitoring systems per internal SOPs.

Applications

• Controlled dissolution studies in pharmaceutical development (USP Apparatus II analog)
• Homogenization of viscous polymer solutions prior to rheological or spectroscopic analysis
• Heating and mixing during acid digestion protocols (e.g., EPA Method 3050B)
• Buffer equilibration and reagent synthesis under inert atmosphere (when used with sealed vessels and appropriate stir bar geometry)
• Calibration of temperature-sensitive sensors using traceable PT1000 reference probes
• Preparation of standardized suspensions for particle size analysis (ISO 13320)

FAQ

Does the C-MAG HS 4 support external temperature feedback for closed-loop control?

Yes—it features a dedicated PT1000 input enabling direct medium-temperature feedback for improved thermal regulation accuracy.
What is the maximum recommended vessel diameter for optimal stirring efficiency?

For uniform vortex formation and thermal homogeneity, use round-bottom or flat-bottom containers with diameters ≤90 mm on the 100 × 100 mm ceramic plate.
Can the unit be operated continuously at 500 °C?

Sustained operation at maximum temperature is permitted only with adequate ventilation and non-flammable media; thermal derating may apply above 400 °C depending on ambient conditions.
Is the ceramic plate replaceable if chipped or cracked?

No—the ceramic top is permanently bonded to the housing; physical damage requires full unit service by authorized IKA technical centers.
How does the Safety Mode differ from Locked Mode?

Safety Mode restricts user-adjustable limits (e.g., max 1200 rpm, 450 °C), while Locked Mode disables all front-panel inputs except power cycling—intended for shared or training environments.