IKA PowerGen 125 Handheld Homogenizer Kit
| Brand | IKA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | T_701FBT10P |
| Instrument Type | Electric Handheld Homogenizer |
| Max. Sample Volume | 0.5–100 mL |
| Speed Range | 8,000–30,000 rpm |
| Temperature Control | Not integrated |
Overview
The IKA PowerGen 125 Handheld Homogenizer Kit is an ergonomically engineered, high-speed rotor-stator homogenization system designed for rapid, reproducible cell lysis, tissue disruption, emulsification, and suspension homogenization in low-volume laboratory applications. Operating on the principle of mechanical shear generated by a rotating stainless-steel dispersing element within a fixed stator geometry, the device delivers consistent energy input across sample volumes from 0.5 mL to 100 mL. Its compact, corded design integrates a brushless motor capable of maintaining stable rotational speeds between 8,000 and 30,000 rpm—enabling precise control over shear intensity without thermal runaway or mechanical drift. The system is optimized for benchtop workflows requiring minimal footprint, immediate start-up, and operator mobility—making it especially suitable for biosample preparation in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical QC, and academic research labs where scalability from microcentrifuge tubes to standard centrifuge vessels is essential.
Key Features
- Ergonomic handheld housing weighing only 500 g, engineered for extended manual operation with reduced operator fatigue
- High-torque, maintenance-free brushless motor ensuring long-term speed stability and minimal vibration at all setpoints
- Included S10N-5G stainless-steel dispersing tool (5 mm diameter) validated for compatibility with Eppendorf tubes (1.5–2.0 mL), conical centrifuge tubes (15–50 mL), cuvettes, and small-volume reaction vessels
- Tool-free quick-release mechanism for rapid disperser head interchange—supporting future expansion with optional accessories (e.g., S18N-10G for larger volumes or cryo-compatible variants)
- IP20-rated enclosure compliant with IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (emission) standards for safe use in general laboratory environments
- No integrated temperature regulation; compatible with external cooling solutions (e.g., ice-water baths or chilled sample holders) for thermosensitive applications
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PowerGen 125 supports aqueous, viscous, and moderately abrasive suspensions—including mammalian tissue homogenates, bacterial lysates, plant extracts, nanoparticle dispersions, and diagnostic reagent formulations. It meets material compatibility requirements for Class I and II biological safety cabinets when operated with appropriate containment (e.g., sealed tube adapters). While not certified for ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, its operational parameters are fully documentable via manual log entries, supporting GLP-compliant workflows when integrated into validated SOPs. The stainless-steel disperser head complies with EN 10204:2004 Type 3.1 certification for traceable metallurgical composition, ensuring corrosion resistance and cleanability per ISO 15883-1 guidelines for reusable labware.
Software & Data Management
This analog-controlled instrument does not feature digital connectivity, programmable protocols, or onboard data logging. All operational parameters—including speed selection and runtime—are manually set and monitored via tactile dial interface. For laboratories requiring audit-ready records, integration with external timing devices or video documentation systems is recommended. When deployed within GxP-regulated environments, users must establish procedural controls for speed verification (e.g., periodic calibration using a certified tachometer traceable to NIST standards) and disperser head replacement tracking per equipment maintenance logs.
Applications
- Routine lysis of cultured cells and soft tissues prior to DNA/RNA extraction or protein isolation
- Preparation of uniform suspensions for flow cytometry, ELISA plate coating, or particle size analysis
- Homogenization of clinical specimens (e.g., whole blood, saliva, biopsy samples) in diagnostic assay development
- Dispersion of nanomaterials and pigments in formulation R&D for coatings, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical suspensions
- Emulsification of oil-in-water or water-in-oil systems during excipient screening and stability testing
- Disruption of microbial biofilms adherent to surfaces or embedded in agarose matrices
FAQ
Is the PowerGen 125 suitable for sterilization via autoclaving?
No—the handheld unit itself is not autoclavable. Only the S10N-5G dispersing tool and compatible accessories may be autoclaved at 121 °C for 20 minutes; verify material integrity after each cycle.
Can this homogenizer be used with corrosive solvents such as chloroform or acetone?
The S10N-5G disperser head is constructed from 1.4404 (AISI 316L) stainless steel and resists short-term exposure to common organic solvents; prolonged contact with halogenated solvents requires post-use cleaning with ethanol/water followed by passivation.
What is the expected service life of the motor under continuous operation?
Rated for 20,000 hours of intermittent duty (duty cycle ≤ 30%); continuous operation beyond 5 minutes per session is not recommended without active cooling.
Does IKA provide calibration certificates for speed accuracy?
Factory calibration is performed per DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025; users may request a test certificate (T_701FBT10P-CC) at time of order—valid for one year from date of issue.
Are there CE or UKCA markings affixed to the device?
Yes—the unit bears CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), and UKCA marking for post-Brexit Great Britain market compliance.
