IKA RCT basic Magnetic Stirrer with Large Glass Plate

Overview

The IKA RCT basic Magnetic Stirrer with Large Glass Plate is a precision-engineered, compact benchtop instrument designed for reliable, low-heat mixing of aqueous and chemically aggressive solutions in academic, quality control, and routine laboratory environments. Operating on the principle of rotating magnetic coupling—where a microprocessor-controlled motor drives an internal permanent magnet array beneath a chemically inert glass plate—the device induces synchronous rotation of PTFE- or ceramic-coated stir bars immersed in samples. Unlike hotplate stirrers, this model features no integrated heating element (0 °C temperature control range), eliminating thermal drift and enabling strict isothermal conditions essential for sensitive chemical syntheses, enzymatic assays, buffer equilibration, and dissolution testing where temperature-induced degradation must be avoided. Its robust architecture prioritizes mechanical stability, electromagnetic compatibility, and long-term repeatability across thousands of operational cycles.

Key Features

• Digital LED speed display offering real-time, high-contrast readout of rotational velocity (0–2500 rpm) in 50 rpm increments for precise protocol adherence.
• Tempered glass working surface (Ø160 mm) providing exceptional resistance to acids, bases, solvents, and oxidizing agents—compatible with common lab cleaning regimens including ethanol, acetone, and diluted nitric acid.
• TPC-ET polymer housing—engineered from certified recycled materials—delivering dimensional stability, impact resilience, and reduced environmental footprint without compromising structural integrity.
• Low-power brushless DC motor (2 W output, 3 W input) optimized for quiet operation (<45 dB(A)), minimal heat generation, and extended service life under continuous duty.
• IP54-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529 ensures protection against dust ingress and water splashes from any direction—suitable for use in shared wet labs and near fume hoods.
• Compact footprint (180 × 40 × 195 mm) and lightweight design (0.7 kg) facilitate easy repositioning, storage, and integration into modular lab furniture systems.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RCT basic supports single-vessel mixing of volumes up to 1.0 L (water-equivalent) using standard cylindrical or flat-bottomed glassware (e.g., beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and volumetric cylinders). It accommodates stir bars up to 30 mm in length and is validated for use with low-viscosity to moderately viscous Newtonian fluids (up to ~500 mPa·s at 25 °C). Non-magnetic or ferromagnetic vessel bases do not interfere with coupling efficiency due to optimized magnetic field geometry. The unit complies fully with EU directives: CE marking (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD), RoHS 2011/65/EU, and meets IEC 61000-6-3 emission standards. While not certified for GMP/GLP-regulated workflows requiring audit trails, its stable performance aligns with ISO/IEC 17025 method validation requirements for sample homogenization steps.

Software & Data Management

The RCT basic operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded firmware, network interface, or data logging capability. All parameters—including speed setting and operational status—are controlled manually via front-panel rotary encoder and confirmed by LED display. Absence of RS232, USB, or analog output interfaces ensures electromagnetic isolation critical in electrophysiology or low-noise measurement setups. This design philosophy emphasizes operational simplicity, calibration transparency, and immunity to software obsolescence—making it ideal for SOP-driven environments where traceability relies on procedural documentation rather than electronic records. No drivers, cloud platforms, or proprietary software are required or supported.

Applications

• Routine dissolution and dilution of reagents, standards, and calibration solutions prior to spectrophotometric or chromatographic analysis.
• Homogenization of cell culture media, PBS buffers, and enzyme reaction mixtures under strictly ambient temperature conditions.
• Preparation of homogeneous suspensions for particle size analysis (e.g., dynamic light scattering pre-filtering) and colloidal stability studies.
• Supporting ASTM D445 (kinematic viscosity) and USP (dissolution apparatus qualification) protocols where mechanical agitation—without thermal bias—is mandated.
• Educational laboratories conducting kinetics experiments, redox titrations, and precipitation reactions requiring reproducible mixing intensity independent of thermal variables.

FAQ

Does this stirrer include a heating function?
No. The RCT basic is a non-heating magnetic stirrer; it provides only rotational agitation with zero temperature regulation capability.
What is the maximum recommended viscosity for consistent stirring performance?
For optimal coupling and speed stability, use with Newtonian fluids ≤500 mPa·s at 25 °C. Higher viscosities may require larger stir bars or reduced speed settings.
Is the glass plate replaceable if damaged?
Yes—glass plates are available as genuine IKA spare parts (Order No. 3010000000); replacement requires no tools and maintains full IP54 integrity.
Can this unit be used inside a CO₂ incubator or cold room?
Operation is rated for ambient temperatures between 5 °C and 40 °C with ≤80% relative humidity; condensation-prone or pressurized enclosures are not supported.
Are stir bars included with the instrument?
No—stir bars are sold separately; we recommend IKA’s PTFE-coated models (e.g., Cat. No. 0050020000) for broad chemical compatibility and magnetic responsiveness.