IKA MS 3 basic Orbital Shaker

Overview

The IKA MS 3 basic Orbital Shaker is a compact, benchtop orbital shaker engineered for precision mixing of small-volume samples in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of circular orbital motion—generating consistent, low-shear agitation ideal for cell culture suspension, enzyme kinetics assays, immunoassay plate washing, and reagent homogenization. Unlike reciprocating or vortex shakers, its 4.5 mm orbit diameter ensures uniform energy distribution across multi-well plates without splashing or cross-contamination. Designed for reliability under continuous operation (100% duty cycle), the unit features a die-cast zinc housing that provides mechanical stability, electromagnetic compatibility, and resistance to common lab solvents and cleaning agents. Its universal power supply (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) enables seamless deployment across global laboratory infrastructures without voltage conversion.

Key Features

• Orbital motion with precisely controlled 4.5 mm orbit diameter for reproducible mixing of microtiter plates and small vessels
• Dual operational modes: Mode A (safety-optimized with automatic plate adapter detection) and Mode B (unrestricted speed access for custom fixtures)
• Pulse (point-action) function for transient agitation—ideal for gentle resuspension or endpoint mixing prior to centrifugation or analysis
• LED-based speed display with real-time rpm readout; no analog dials or calibration drift
• Robust die-cast zinc alloy chassis ensuring long-term dimensional stability and vibration damping
• Compliance with DIN EN 60529 (IP21 rating) for protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm
• Low-power DC motor drive (24 V, 800 mA) delivering high torque at low speeds and thermal efficiency during extended runs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MS 3 basic accommodates standard 96-well microtiter plates (MTPs), 384-well plates, PCR strips, 1.5–2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes, glass vials (up to 15 mL), and optical cuvettes—when used with appropriate adapters. Its 0.5 kg maximum load capacity (including fixture mass) supports typical assay configurations without compromising speed stability. The shaker meets essential regulatory and safety requirements for routine laboratory use: conformity with IEC 61010-1 (electrical safety for lab equipment), RoHS-compliant materials, and CE marking for the European Economic Area. While not intrinsically rated for use in classified hazardous environments, its design aligns with GLP-compliant workflow documentation standards when integrated into validated protocols.

Software & Data Management

The MS 3 basic is a standalone, hardware-controlled instrument with no embedded microprocessor or digital interface (e.g., USB, RS-232, or Ethernet). As such, it does not generate electronic records, audit trails, or time-stamped logs—making it suitable for non-GxP environments or as a secondary mixing device within FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant workflows where manual entry and procedural control suffice. For laboratories requiring traceable operation, external timers or environmental monitoring systems may be deployed in parallel. Firmware updates or remote configuration are not supported; all operational parameters are set via front-panel controls only.

Applications

• Homogenization of ELISA, CLIA, and lateral flow assay reagents prior to plate loading
• Cell suspension maintenance in low-density adherent or suspension cultures during incubation
• Equilibration of antibody-antigen binding reactions in kinetic studies
• Pre-centrifugation mixing of lysates, supernatants, or extraction buffers
• Standardization of sample viscosity in routine QC checks for liquid handling systems
• Supporting ISO 15197–aligned glucose assay preparation in clinical research settings

FAQ

What plate types are compatible with the MS 3 basic?

Standard 96-well and 384-well microtiter plates, PCR plates, and tube racks for 1.5–2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes—provided the appropriate IKA-certified adapter is installed.
Does the shaker support programmable timing?

No—the MS 3 basic lacks a built-in timer or countdown function. Timing must be managed externally using laboratory timers or process SOPs.
Can it operate continuously for 24 hours?

Yes—rated for 100% duty cycle under ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH) with no mandatory cooldown intervals.
Is the speed calibration traceable to national standards?

While factory-calibrated per IKA’s internal metrology protocol, the unit does not include NIST-traceable calibration certificates; third-party verification is recommended for regulated applications.
What maintenance is required?

No scheduled lubrication or consumable replacement is specified. Routine cleaning with 70% ethanol and visual inspection of platform integrity are sufficient for sustained performance.