IKA RCT basic Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RCT basic is a precision-engineered magnetic stirrer designed for reliable, unattended operation in demanding laboratory environments. Utilizing proven Couette-flow magnetic coupling principles, it delivers consistent torque transmission and uniform mixing across volumes up to 20 L — ideal for applications requiring thermal stability alongside mechanical homogeneity. Unlike basic stirrers, the RCT basic integrates dual-temperature control architecture: one loop governs the heating plate surface temperature (50–360 °C), while the second enables closed-loop sample temperature regulation when paired with an external contact probe (e.g., ETS-D5) via its standardized DIN 12878 interface. This architecture supports reproducible thermal protocols compliant with GLP and GMP workflows where temperature traceability is critical. The unit’s robust aluminum heating plate features a high-gloss finish optimized for rapid heat transfer and chemical resistance, while its sealed IP42 housing ensures protection against dust ingress and incidental splashes — extending service life in shared lab spaces.

Key Features

• High-torque DC motor delivering stable rotation from 0/50 to 1500 rpm, with smooth acceleration and minimal speed drift under load
• Integrated PT1000 temperature sensor (model PT1000.60) for precise plate temperature monitoring and automatic thermal compensation
• Dual-mode temperature control: independent setpoint adjustment for heating plate and sample (when external probe connected)
• Adjustable safety temperature limit (50–360 °C) with audible and visual alerts; error codes displayed digitally for rapid diagnostics
• Heated aluminum plate with optimized thermal mass and emissivity for uniform heat distribution and reduced overshoot
• IKAMAG® safety control logic prevents stir bar ejection during rapid speed changes or viscosity transitions
• Front-panel digital display showing real-time rpm, plate temperature, and (if active) sample temperature
• Included H100 protective film for chassis maintenance and long-term aesthetic preservation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RCT basic accommodates standard laboratory glassware including beakers, flasks, and reaction vessels (up to 20 L volume) on its 135 mm diameter heating surface. Its strong neodymium magnet array ensures secure coupling with PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars — even in high-viscosity media or low-fill conditions. The device conforms to IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and EN 61326-1 (EMC requirements for laboratory equipment). Its DIN 12878 interface supports traceable temperature validation per ISO/IEC 17025 and ASTM E2877 guidelines when used with calibrated external probes. The IP42 rating meets typical environmental protection requirements for general-purpose laboratory installations.

Software & Data Management

While the RCT basic operates as a standalone instrument without PC connectivity, its digital interface supports full auditability of operational parameters. All temperature and speed settings, safety limit configurations, and fault codes are retained in non-volatile memory and visible on-screen during operation. For laboratories implementing 21 CFR Part 11-compliant workflows, the unit may be operated within validated procedures that document manual parameter entry, visual verification of setpoints, and periodic calibration records for the PT1000 sensor and external probe (if used). Optional accessories such as the IKA Labworldsoft-compatible ETS-D5 probe enable integration into broader temperature management systems when deployed in multi-instrument networks.

Applications

• Controlled heating and stirring of reagent solutions prior to titration or spectrophotometric analysis
• Homogenization of polymer solutions, colloidal suspensions, and catalyst slurries under defined thermal conditions
• Preparation of buffer solutions and culture media requiring simultaneous temperature stabilization and mixing
• Supporting reflux and extraction protocols where precise thermal input and agitation synergy are essential
• Use in quality control labs performing USP <797> or EP 2.9.30-compliant compounding procedures involving sterile preparations
• Teaching laboratories requiring durable, intuitive instrumentation for undergraduate chemistry and materials science curricula

FAQ

Does the RCT basic support external temperature feedback for sample-controlled heating?
Yes — via its DIN 12878 port, it accepts compatible contact probes (e.g., IKA ETS-D5) to enable closed-loop sample temperature regulation.
What is the maximum recommended vessel height for stable operation?
Vessels up to 300 mm tall are supported when using appropriately sized stir bars and maintaining center alignment over the heating plate.
Is calibration documentation available for the built-in PT1000 sensor?
The PT1000.60 sensor is factory-calibrated; users should perform periodic verification using NIST-traceable reference thermometers per internal SOPs.
Can the RCT basic be used in fume hoods with continuous operation?
Yes — its IP42-rated enclosure and convection-cooled design permit safe extended use in ventilated enclosures, provided ambient airflow does not directly impinge on controls.
What maintenance is required to sustain long-term accuracy?
Regular cleaning of the aluminum plate with ethanol or isopropanol, inspection of stir bar integrity, and annual verification of thermal and speed performance against certified standards are recommended.