IKA RCT 5 digital Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RCT 5 digital magnetic stirrer is an engineered solution for precise, reproducible, and thermally stable mixing in research laboratories, quality control environments, and industrial R&D settings. Utilizing high-efficiency permanent magnet coupling and a microprocessor-controlled heating plate, this instrument delivers robust performance across demanding applications—from low-viscosity aqueous solutions to high-boiling-point organic solvents and viscous polymer melts. Its core architecture integrates closed-loop thermal regulation with real-time rotational feedback, enabling simultaneous control of both stirring dynamics and thermal profiles. Designed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, the RCT 5 digital complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards and meets essential requirements for GLP-compliant workflows where traceable parameter logging and operational integrity are critical.

Key Features

• High-Power Ceramic-Coated Heating Plate: 850 W output with rapid thermal response (7.5 K/min in 1 L H₂O), combined with a 137 × 137 mm anodized aluminum surface featuring durable ceramic coating—resistant to chemical etching and mechanical abrasion.
• Dual-Mode Temperature Control: Internal PID regulation (±5 K at 100 °C) supplemented by optional external probe integration (PT1000, ETS-D5, or ETS-D6), achieving ±0.2 K precision under defined test conditions (500 mL H₂O, 600 rpm, 40 mm stir bar).
• Intelligent Safety Architecture: Independent adjustable safety circuit (50–370 °C), visual alarm indicators, and key lock function prevent inadvertent parameter changes during unattended operation.
• Advanced Motion Control: Bidirectional rotation, programmable intermittent mode, and real-time viscosity trend display enable adaptive process optimization—particularly valuable in reaction monitoring and emulsion development.
• Digital Parameter Management: Dual-line LCD simultaneously displays setpoint and actual values for both speed (50–1500 rpm, ±10 rpm resolution) and temperature (0–310 °C, ±1 K resolution), with RS232 and USB interfaces supporting data export and remote configuration via IKA Labworldsoft™.
• Robust Environmental Compliance: IP42 ingress protection ensures resistance to splashing liquids and particulate ingress; operates reliably within ambient conditions of 5–40 °C and ≤80% RH.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RCT 5 digital supports standard laboratory vessels—including round-bottom flasks (up to 5 L), beakers (up to 20 L H₂O equivalent), and jacketed reactors—when paired with appropriately sized magnetic stir bars (30–80 mm). Its thermal design accommodates media ranging from water and ethanol to dimethylformamide (DMF), ethylene glycol, and silicone oils. The instrument conforms to DIN EN 60529 (IP42), IEC 61010-1 (safety), and IEC 61326-1 (EMC). When used with validated external probes and configured with audit-trail-enabled software, it supports compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures in regulated environments.

Software & Data Management

Equipped with native RS232 and USB connectivity, the RCT 5 digital integrates seamlessly into centralized lab management systems. IKA Labworldsoft™ provides full parameter logging—including timestamped speed, temperature, safety threshold status, and error codes (e.g., “Error 5” indicating sensor disconnection or overheating)—with configurable sampling intervals and CSV export capability. All data entries include user ID, device ID, and session metadata, fulfilling documentation requirements for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and internal SOP adherence. Firmware updates are delivered via USB and maintain backward compatibility with existing calibration certificates.

Applications

• Controlled synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) requiring sustained agitation at elevated temperatures (≤310 °C)
• Preparation of homogeneous catalyst slurries for hydrogenation studies
• Standardized dissolution testing per USP using calibrated probe-based temperature verification
• Viscosity profiling of thermosetting resins during cure initiation
• Buffer equilibration and reagent aging protocols in molecular biology labs
• Accelerated stability testing of pharmaceutical suspensions under GLP conditions

FAQ

What external temperature sensors are compatible with the RCT 5 digital?
The unit supports PT1000 RTDs as well as IKA’s proprietary ETS-D5 and ETS-D6 immersion probes—each delivering distinct thermal response characteristics and accuracy profiles.
Does the instrument support GLP-compliant data recording?
Yes, when operated with Labworldsoft™ and configured with user authentication, electronic signatures, and audit-trail logging enabled, it satisfies core GLP data integrity requirements.
Can the RCT 5 digital operate without an external sensor while maintaining temperature accuracy?
It maintains internal plate temperature control within ±5 K at 100 °C; however, for accurate *medium* temperature control—especially in vessels with thermal lag or poor conductivity—an external probe is strongly recommended.
Is bidirectional stirring programmable for specific reaction kinetics?
Yes, reversal direction can be triggered manually or scheduled via timer-based sequences to disrupt boundary layers or enhance mass transfer in heterogeneous systems.
What is the warranty coverage for the RCT 5 digital?
IKA offers a standard 2-year manufacturer warranty, extendable under regional service agreements; all units undergo factory calibration and receive individual conformity documentation prior to shipment.