IKA C-MAG MS 10 Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA C-MAG MS 10 is a compact, single-position magnetic stirrer engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory environments. It operates on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated by internal permanent magnets driven by a brushless DC motor, inducing torque on ferromagnetic stir bars immersed in liquid samples. Unlike hotplate stirrers, the C-MAG MS 10 is a non-heating unit—designed exclusively for mechanical mixing without thermal input—making it ideal for temperature-sensitive applications such as enzymatic assays, buffer preparation, or dissolution testing where thermal drift must be avoided. Its robust architecture supports consistent rotational stability across the full speed range (100–1500 rpm), with microprocessor-based closed-loop speed control ensuring minimal deviation (<±3% at setpoint) under varying load conditions. The device complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1.

Key Features

• Ceramic top plate: Seamless, one-piece construction provides exceptional resistance to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents—critical for long-term durability in analytical and QC labs handling aggressive reagents.
• Elevated control panel: Positioned above the base housing to minimize risk of liquid ingress during splashing; analog dial with six calibrated positions enables intuitive, tactile speed selection without digital interface dependency.
• High-torque magnetic coupling: Optimized magnet array delivers strong field penetration, enabling stable agitation of viscous media (e.g., glycerol/water mixtures up to 1,000 mPa·s) and preventing “jumping” of standard PTFE-coated stir bars up to 80 mm in length.
• Low-noise, maintenance-free motor: Brushless DC design ensures consistent torque delivery, extended service life, and reduced electromagnetic interference—essential in shared instrumentation suites or near sensitive detection systems.
• IP21-rated enclosure: Protects against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm, supporting safe operation in general-purpose lab spaces compliant with GLP infrastructure requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The C-MAG MS 10 accommodates standard cylindrical and cross-shaped stir bars (up to 80 mm), compatible with glass, polypropylene, and stainless-steel vessels ranging from 10 mL vials to 15 L carboys (with appropriate bar geometry and vessel geometry). It is validated for use with aqueous, polar organic, and mildly corrosive solutions—though not recommended for hydrofluoric acid or molten alkali metal exposures. The instrument conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP21), EN 61010-1 (safety), and EN 61326-1 (EMC). While not equipped with data logging or audit trail functionality, its analog control architecture inherently satisfies environments where electronic record integrity is not mandated—such as teaching labs, method development stages, or pre-GMP feasibility studies.

Software & Data Management

The C-MAG MS 10 operates without embedded firmware, software drivers, or connectivity interfaces (USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet). As a standalone analog instrument, it requires no calibration certificates tied to software versioning, eliminating validation overhead associated with computerized system compliance (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11). This makes it suitable for laboratories maintaining paper-based SOPs or those operating under simplified quality frameworks (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.4.7 for equipment suitability assessment). Speed settings are operator-determined via physical dial position; repeatability is verified through periodic external tachometer verification per internal metrology protocols.

Applications

• Preparation of homogeneous aqueous and organic-phase solutions prior to HPLC mobile phase filtration or titrant standardization.
• Mixing of cell culture media and reagent buffers in biosafety cabinets where heat generation is prohibited.
• Agitation during gravimetric analysis, Kjeldahl digestion sample homogenization (post-digestion cooling), and turbidity-based assay equilibration.
• Supporting ASTM D4052 density measurements by ensuring uniform temperature distribution in calibrated pycnometers prior to hydrometer insertion.
• Use in educational laboratories for demonstrating fluid dynamics principles, viscosity–speed relationships, and magnetic field coupling efficiency.

FAQ

Does the C-MAG MS 10 include heating capability?

No. It is a magnetic stirrer only—no integrated hotplate or temperature control.
Can it be used with stainless steel stir bars?

Yes, though PTFE- or glass-coated bars are preferred for chemical inertness and reduced wear on the ceramic surface.
Is speed accuracy traceable to national standards?

Speed accuracy is maintained via internal feedback control; formal traceability requires external optical tachometer verification per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures.
What is the maximum viscosity this unit can handle reliably?

Under optimal conditions (correct bar geometry, vessel shape, and fill level), it maintains stable rotation in Newtonian fluids up to approximately 1,000 mPa·s at mid-range speeds (600–1000 rpm).
Does IKA provide a calibration certificate with purchase?

No factory calibration certificate is included; users are expected to perform operational qualification (OQ) using third-party verification tools as part of their lab’s equipment management system.