IKA C-MAG HS 4 Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG HS 4 is a compact, single-position magnetic stirrer with integrated heating, engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory workflows requiring simultaneous mixing and controlled thermal input. Designed around the Couette flow principle—where rotation of a magnetic stir bar induces laminar fluid motion within a vessel—the instrument delivers consistent shear profiles across low- to medium-viscosity aqueous and organic solutions. Its ceramic heating plate provides uniform thermal distribution and high chemical resistance, while microprocessor-based feedback control maintains stable rotational speed and heater output under variable load conditions. The unit complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP21) for protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture, making it suitable for general-purpose benchtop use in ISO 17025-accredited laboratories, QC/QA environments, and academic teaching labs.

Key Features

• Ceramic heating plate (100 × 100 mm) with seamless, chemically inert surface resistant to acids, bases, and solvents
• Analog speed control dial (0–6) enabling intuitive adjustment across 100–1500 rpm with high torque retention at low speeds
• Integrated safety circuitry featuring automatic cut-off at 550 °C and visual thermal warning (flashing LED indicator during heating)
• Elevated control panel design minimizes risk of liquid splashes compromising display readability or tactile operation
• Microprocessor-controlled motor and heater subsystems ensure repeatable performance and real-time signal feedback for operational stability
• Compatible with IKA’s ETS-D5 external contact thermometer (sold separately) for closed-loop solution temperature regulation—critical for applications demanding strict thermal reproducibility per USP & ASTM standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG HS 4 accommodates standard round-bottom and flat-bottom glass vessels up to 5 L capacity (water-equivalent), supporting common labware including borosilicate beakers, flasks, and crystallization dishes. Its ceramic plate resists corrosion from halogenated solvents, concentrated HNO₃, NaOH, and other aggressive reagents typically used in sample preparation, dissolution testing, or catalyst synthesis. The device meets CE marking requirements and conforms to IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant as a standalone unit, its analog interface and optional ETS-D5 integration support GLP/GMP-aligned documentation when paired with validated electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) and audit-trail-enabled data acquisition systems.

Software & Data Management

As an analog-controlled instrument, the C-MAG HS 4 does not feature embedded digital connectivity or native software integration. However, its compatibility with the ETS-D5 digital contact thermometer enables external data logging via third-party DAQ systems or IKA’s labworldsoft platform (when used with compatible IKA interfaces). Users may record time-stamped temperature and speed setpoints for batch traceability, satisfying internal SOPs aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 (result reporting) and FDA guidance on laboratory data integrity. For fully automated workflows, pairing with IKA’s RH basic or RCT basic digital stirrers is recommended.

Applications

• Routine dissolution testing in pharmaceutical QC labs (aligned with USP )
• Preparation of buffer solutions, culture media, and reagent stocks in molecular biology and microbiology labs
• Controlled heating and stirring during polymer dissolution, nanoparticle dispersion, and colloidal synthesis
• Standardized sample conditioning prior to analysis by HPLC, ICP-OES, or titration
• Teaching fundamental principles of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and reaction kinetics in undergraduate chemistry curricula

FAQ

Can the C-MAG HS 4 maintain precise solution temperature without an external probe?
No—the built-in heater regulates only plate surface temperature (50–500 °C), with ±5 K setting accuracy. For accurate solution temperature control, the optional ETS-D5 contact thermometer must be used.
Is the unit suitable for use with volatile organic solvents?
Yes, provided appropriate ventilation is maintained and vessels are covered; the ceramic plate is chemically resistant, but solvent vapors require fume hood containment per OSHA and CLP regulations.
Does the device support programmable ramp-soak temperature profiles?
No—temperature and speed are manually adjusted via analog knobs; programmable profiles require digital models such as the IKA RCT basic or C-MAG HS 7.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term calibration stability?
Regular cleaning of the ceramic plate with non-abrasive ethanol wipes and annual verification of speed/torque performance using a certified tachometer are recommended per IKA Technical Service Bulletin TS-021.
Can multiple C-MAG HS 4 units be synchronized for parallel experiments?
No—each unit operates independently with no master-slave or network synchronization capability. For coordinated multi-station control, consider IKA’s labworldsoft-compatible digital stirrer platforms.