IKA C-MAG HS4 / HS7 / HS10 Digital Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG HS series comprises three precision-engineered digital heating magnetic stirrers—HS4, HS7, and HS10—designed for demanding laboratory environments requiring simultaneous temperature control and robust mechanical agitation. These instruments operate on the principle of magnetic coupling: a rotating permanent magnet beneath the ceramic plate induces synchronous rotation of a PTFE- or glass-coated stirring bar immersed in the sample vessel. Heat is delivered via resistive heating elements embedded beneath the seamless ceramic surface, enabling precise thermal management during mixing. Unlike analog units, the C-MAG HS series integrates microprocessor-based closed-loop control for both speed and temperature, ensuring consistent rotational stability under variable load conditions and reproducible thermal profiles across repeated experiments. The series is engineered for continuous operation in academic research labs, QC/QA facilities, and pharmaceutical development workflows where traceability, safety compliance, and long-term reliability are non-negotiable.

Key Features

• Ceramic working surface: Monolithic, chemically inert, and scratch-resistant; withstands exposure to strong acids, bases, and organic solvents without degradation.
• Dual independent control system: Microprocessor-regulated motor drive maintains set speed ±5% across viscosity changes; separate PID-controlled heating circuit ensures thermal stability within ±10 K (without external probe) or ±3 K (with ETSD5 sensor).
• Enhanced safety architecture: Fixed overtemperature cut-off at 550 °C prevents thermal runaway; flashing LED indicator alerts users to elevated plate surface temperature; elevated control panel minimizes liquid ingress risk during vigorous stirring.
• Scalable platform design: HS4 (100 × 100 mm plate, 250 W heating), HS7 (180 × 180 mm, 1000 W), and HS10 (260 × 260 mm, 1500 W) accommodate increasing volume requirements—from small-scale synthesis to pilot-batch preparation.
• Universal voltage compatibility: Auto-switching power supply supports 100 V (Japan), 120 V (North America), and 230 V (EU/UK) inputs with 50/60 Hz frequency tolerance—no manual configuration required.
• Robust mechanical construction: All models meet DIN EN 60529 IP21 rating for protection against vertically falling drops and solid objects ≥12.5 mm; operating ambient range: 5–40 °C, ≤80% RH non-condensing.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG HS series accommodates standard laboratory glassware—including beakers, flasks, and reaction vessels—up to 15 L capacity (HS10, water-equivalent). Stirring bar compatibility extends to lengths up to 80 mm (HS7/HS10), supporting high-viscosity media such as polymer solutions, suspensions, and molten salts. The ceramic plate’s uniform thermal distribution eliminates hot spots, reducing localized decomposition risks in thermally sensitive reactions. From a regulatory standpoint, the instruments support GLP-compliant workflows through repeatable parameter recall (digital setpoint storage), real-time status feedback (LED indicators for heat/stir states), and compatibility with calibrated external temperature probes (ETSD5) meeting ASTM E2877 and ISO 17025 traceability requirements. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, audit-ready usage logs can be generated when integrated with validated LIMS or ELN platforms.

Software & Data Management

The C-MAG HS series operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded firmware update capability or USB/RS232 connectivity. Parameter settings—including speed (0–6 scale, corresponding to 100–1500 rpm) and temperature (50–500 °C)—are retained in non-volatile memory after power cycling. For advanced data capture, the optional ETSD5 electronic contact thermometer provides direct feedback to the unit’s internal controller, enabling closed-loop solution temperature regulation. Users may manually record operational parameters alongside experimental metadata in bound lab notebooks or electronic systems. Calibration certificates for ETSD5 sensors are available upon request and conform to ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration practices. No proprietary software is required; however, third-party DAQ systems may interface via analog output signals (if externally enabled through accessory modules).

Applications

• Chemical synthesis: Homogenization of heterogeneous catalytic mixtures, reflux condensation setups, and controlled-rate addition reactions requiring stable thermal and mechanical input.
• Materials science: Dispersion of nanomaterials in solvent matrices, dissolution testing of thin-film precursors, and slurry preparation for electrode coating.
• Pharmaceutical development: Buffer preparation, excipient blending, and stability study sample conditioning per USP and guidelines.
• Environmental analysis: Digestion of soil/water samples prior to ICP-MS or AAS analysis; extraction protocols involving heated solvent agitation.
• Food & beverage QA: Viscosity standardization of sauces, emulsions, and dairy formulations under defined thermal history.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended viscosity for reliable operation?
The HS4, HS7, and HS10 are rated for aqueous systems up to 15 L; performance with viscous media (e.g., glycerol, polymer melts) depends on stir bar geometry and vessel geometry. For viscosities >5,000 mPa·s, use longer (≤80 mm), elliptical stir bars and wide-diameter vessels.
Can the unit maintain set temperature without an external probe?
Yes—the built-in heater sensor regulates plate surface temperature to ±10 K of setpoint. For solution temperature accuracy, ETSD5 integration is required (±3 K stability).
Is the ceramic plate resistant to hydrofluoric acid?
No. While highly resistant to HCl, HNO₃, NaOH, and most organics, HF etches alumina-based ceramics. Use PTFE-coated plates or alternative heating mantles for HF applications.
Does the unit support programmable ramp-soak temperature profiles?
No. The C-MAG HS series offers only manual setpoint control. For multi-stage thermal protocols, consider IKA’s RET cordless or RCT basic series with PC interface.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Wipe the ceramic surface with ethanol or isopropanol after each use; inspect stir bars for coating integrity before reuse; verify calibration annually using NIST-traceable reference thermometers and tachometers.