IKA RCT basic Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RCT basic Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, single-position benchtop stirrer engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory mixing applications. Designed around the fundamental principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath a chemically inert polymer plate induces torque on a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the RCT basic delivers consistent rotational motion without mechanical contact between drive and vessel. This non-invasive mixing method eliminates contamination risk, simplifies cleaning, and ensures compatibility with sealed or sterile vessels. Its lightweight (0.32 kg), space-efficient footprint (95 × 37 × 115 mm), and polypropylene (PP) top plate make it suitable for use in fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and shared teaching labs where chemical resistance and ease of decontamination are essential. The device operates across universal mains input (100–240 V, 50/60 Hz), supporting global deployment without voltage adaptation.

Key Features

• Continuously adjustable speed control from 300 to 1800 rpm, enabling precise tuning for low-viscosity aqueous solutions up to 0.25 L volume.
• Brushless DC motor architecture ensures long-term operational stability, zero maintenance, and absence of carbon dust accumulation—critical for cleanroom-adjacent or GLP-compliant environments.
• High-coercivity internal magnet system prevents “jumping” or decoupling of standard stir bars (up to 30 mm length), even under moderate load or slight vessel misalignment.
• Polypropylene (PP) work surface offers excellent resistance to dilute acids, bases, and alcohols; its smooth, non-porous texture facilitates rapid wipe-down and avoids retention of residues.
• IP21-rated enclosure (per DIN EN 60529) provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm, meeting minimum safety requirements for general laboratory use.
• No integrated digital interface, RS232 port, or analog output—intentionally designed as a dedicated, interference-free analog instrument for environments where electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) or data integrity protocols preclude embedded electronics.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RCT basic is validated for homogeneous mixing of low-to-medium viscosity liquids—including aqueous buffers, saline solutions, diluted reagents, and organic solvents compatible with PP surfaces. It supports standard PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars (≤30 mm) and accommodates round-bottom flasks, beakers, and vials with flat-bottom geometry. While not certified for explosive atmospheres or intrinsically safe operation, its low power consumption (10 W total input), absence of heating elements, and passive magnetic drive render it appropriate for use in Class I, Division 2 (C1D2) adjacent zones when operated per local electrical safety regulations. The unit conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and carries CE marking per EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD).

Software & Data Management

The IKA RCT basic operates exclusively via manual analog control and does not incorporate microprocessor-based logic, memory storage, or digital communication interfaces. Consequently, it generates no electronic records, requires no software installation, and is inherently compliant with environments governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11, or ISO/IEC 17025 documentation traceability requirements where data integrity controls would otherwise apply to electronic systems. Its simplicity eliminates validation overhead associated with firmware updates, audit trails, or user access management—making it suitable for QC laboratories operating under minimal regulatory burden or for educational settings prioritizing operational transparency over digital integration.

Applications

• Routine dissolution and reagent homogenization in analytical chemistry workflows.
• Preparation of calibration standards and dilution series in environmental and clinical testing labs.
• Cell culture media equilibration prior to sterile filtration (when used with appropriate sterile technique).
• Supporting titration setups where gentle, continuous agitation is required without introducing air bubbles.
• Undergraduate and graduate teaching labs—demonstrating core fluid dynamics principles, magnetic coupling efficiency, and safe benchtop instrumentation practices.
• Field-deployable mixing in mobile laboratories or temporary testing stations due to its universal voltage compatibility and robust mechanical design.

FAQ

Does the RCT basic include a heating function?
No. The RCT basic is a non-heated magnetic stirrer. It lacks a temperature-controlled hotplate and is intended solely for agitation at ambient conditions.
Can it be used with corrosive solvents such as concentrated HCl or NaOH?
The PP work surface resists mild concentrations typical of lab stock solutions; however, prolonged exposure to >10% HCl or >20% NaOH is not recommended. Always consult IKA’s chemical compatibility chart for extended chemical exposure scenarios.
Is the device suitable for GMP-regulated production environments?
Yes—as a Class A auxiliary device with no programmable logic or data output, it may be employed in GMP manufacturing support roles (e.g., buffer preparation) provided it undergoes periodic visual inspection and performance verification per site-specific SOPs.
What stir bar size is optimal for maximum efficiency at 1800 rpm?
A 20–25 mm PTFE-coated stir bar with centered elliptical geometry achieves optimal torque transfer and vortex stability at upper speed ranges while minimizing lateral vibration.
Does IKA provide calibration documentation or certificate of conformance?
A manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is supplied with each unit. NIST-traceable speed calibration is not offered as a standard service due to the analog nature of the control system; users may verify rotational speed using an external optical tachometer.