IKA MICROSTAR 30 digital Overhead Stirrer

Overview

The IKA MICROSTAR 30 digital is a compact, high-precision overhead stirrer engineered for reproducible mixing and dispersion tasks in research laboratories, quality control environments, and small-scale process development. Designed according to the principles of rheological torque transmission and rotational fluid dynamics, it delivers consistent shear input across viscous and non-Newtonian media—enabling reliable scale-down correlation between benchtop experiments and pilot-scale operations. Its brushless DC motor eliminates carbon dust contamination and ensures long-term speed stability without maintenance-induced drift. The device operates within a defined torque-speed envelope (up to 30 N·cm at 500 rpm), making it suitable for low-to-medium viscosity applications—including aqueous solutions, polymer dispersions, emulsions, and suspension formulations—where precise kinetic control is critical for reaction homogeneity or particle size distribution management.

Key Features

• Compact footprint (60 × 173 × 126 mm) optimized for fume hood integration and limited bench space
• LED digital display with real-time rpm readout and intuitive rotary speed control knob
• Brushless DC motor architecture ensuring zero brush wear, low electromagnetic interference, and stable torque output across the full speed range
• IP54-rated housing providing protection against dust ingress and water splashes during routine lab use
• Hollow shaft design (8.5 mm internal diameter) enabling insertion of temperature probes or pH electrodes without disassembly
• Integrated USB port supporting firmware updates and future software compatibility via IKA Labworld software suite
• Full 100% duty cycle rating for uninterrupted operation under continuous load conditions
• Robust aluminum die-cast housing with thermoplastic polymer coating for chemical resistance and mechanical durability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MICROSTAR 30 digital accommodates standard laboratory vessels (beakers, cylinders, jacketed reactors) up to 20 L capacity when used with appropriate impeller geometry (e.g., pitched-blade, anchor, or propeller types). It supports common stirring shaft diameters from 0.5 mm to 8 mm via its self-centering chuck mechanism. The unit complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP54), IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions), and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity). While not intrinsically rated for hazardous area use, its electrical isolation and thermal management meet general-purpose laboratory safety requirements per EN 61010-1. For GLP/GMP-regulated workflows, audit trails may be generated externally via optional IKA Labworld logging modules compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity provisions.

Software & Data Management

Firmware updates are delivered via USB connection using IKA’s standardized update utility—ensuring backward-compatible enhancements without hardware modification. Though the MICROSTAR 30 digital lacks built-in data logging, it serves as a fully addressable node within IKA Labworld networked environments. When paired with compatible IKA control units or PC-based acquisition systems, real-time rpm values can be streamed via virtual COM port emulation for synchronization with external sensors (e.g., temperature, pH, conductivity). All configuration parameters—including speed setpoints and operational history—are retained in non-volatile memory across power cycles.

Applications

• Homogenization of pharmaceutical suspensions and topical formulations under controlled shear profiles
• Preparation of calibration standards and reference materials requiring uniform particle dispersion
• Mixing of culture media and buffer solutions in microbiology and cell biology labs
• Dispersion of nanomaterials and pigment concentrates in R&D settings
• Stirring during titration, dissolution testing, or enzymatic reaction monitoring
• Supporting ASTM D2196 (viscosity of paints) and ISO 2557 (polymer solution mixing) method adaptations

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended viscosity for continuous operation?
The MICROSTAR 30 digital is rated for viscosities up to 20,000 mPa·s at reduced speeds (≤200 rpm); sustained operation above 10,000 mPa·s should employ low-shear impellers and verify thermal load on the motor.
Can the device be integrated into automated lab systems?
Yes—via USB virtual COM port interface, enabling remote speed control and status polling through third-party SCADA or LabVIEW environments.
Is the hollow shaft compatible with all standard temperature probes?
Probes with outer diameters ≤8.0 mm and rigid shanks may be inserted; flexible or insulated cables require external fixation to avoid shaft imbalance.
Does the unit support password-protected parameter locking?
No—parameter locking is not implemented at the device level; access control must be enforced externally via host software or physical access protocols.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
No scheduled maintenance is required beyond periodic cleaning of the chuck and shaft interface; brushless motor design eliminates routine commutator servicing.