IKA RCT classic Magnetic Stirrer with Heating

Overview

The IKA RCT classic Magnetic Stirrer with Integrated Heating Plate is an engineered solution for precise, reproducible, and safe thermal mixing in research, quality control, and teaching laboratories. Based on Couette flow principles, it employs a rotating magnetic field generated beneath a chemically resistant aluminum heating plate to drive magnetic stir bars within vessels—enabling homogeneous mixing without mechanical shaft penetration. Its design integrates high-efficiency EC (electronically commutated) brushless DC motor technology with digital PID temperature regulation, delivering stable rotational performance and accurate thermal control across diverse sample viscosities and volumes up to 20 L of water-equivalent media. Developed and manufactured in Staufen, Germany, the RCT classic complies with DIN EN 61010-2-010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and supports unattended operation under validated conditions.

Key Features

• Robust construction: Die-cast aluminum housing with abrasion-resistant coating and explosion-proof tempered glass top plate (resistant to acids, alkalis, and thermal shock up to 310 °C)
• Precision temperature control: Dual-mode heating algorithm supporting both rapid ramp-up and fine-tuned stabilization; ±0.2 K accuracy achievable with optional ETS-D6 external sensor under standardized test conditions (500 mL H₂O, 600 rpm, 40 mm stir bar)
• Intelligent safety architecture: Real-time PT1000/ETS sensor validation; automatic shutdown and “Error 5” alert if sensor is not immersed or improperly positioned; user-adjustable dry-run detection delay
• Digital connectivity: RS232 and USB ports enable bidirectional communication with IKA labworldsoft® software for remote parameter setting, data logging, and GLP-compliant audit trail generation
• Human-centered interface: Front-mounted control knobs, large dual LED display showing set/actual speed and temperature, illuminated status icons, and QR code for instant access to manuals, firmware updates, and calibration certificates
• Energy-optimized thermal design: Low self-heating (<17 K rise at ambient 22 °C after 1 h idle), high thermal coupling efficiency between plate and vessel, and standby power consumption of only 1.6 W

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RCT classic accommodates standard laboratory glassware (e.g., beakers, flasks, reaction vessels) with diameters compatible with its Ø135 mm aluminum heating surface. It supports stir bars ranging from 20–80 mm in length and is suitable for aqueous, organic, and mildly corrosive solutions. Its IP42 ingress protection rating ensures operational reliability in environments with occasional splashes or particulate exposure. The device conforms to international safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards including CE marking, TÜV certification, and DIN EN 60529 (IP classification). For regulated environments, its digital interfaces support 21 CFR Part 11–compliant data capture when used with validated labworldsoft® configurations, fulfilling requirements for GxP, ISO/IEC 17025, and FDA-audited workflows.

Software & Data Management

Equipped with native RS232 and USB interfaces, the RCT classic integrates seamlessly into centralized laboratory informatics systems. When paired with IKA labworldsoft®, users can perform remote configuration of speed, temperature, ramp rates, and safety limits; initiate timed protocols; log real-time sensor data with timestamps; and export CSV or PDF reports traceable to instrument serial number and operator ID. Audit trails include parameter changes, error events (e.g., “Error 5”), and session start/end times—meeting GLP/GMP documentation rigor. Firmware updates are delivered via secure web portal, ensuring continued alignment with evolving regulatory expectations.

Applications

This instrument serves critical functions across analytical chemistry (e.g., dissolution testing per USP , buffer preparation), pharmaceutical development (reaction monitoring, crystallization studies), materials science (polymer solution homogenization), environmental testing (extraction protocols), and biotechnology (media conditioning prior to cell culture). Its ability to maintain ±1 K stability with PT1000 feedback in 500 mL aqueous samples makes it suitable for kinetic assays requiring thermal consistency. The wide speed range (50–1500 rpm) and soft-start functionality prevent vortex disruption and stir-bar ejection during low-viscosity or sensitive suspension handling.

FAQ

What external temperature sensors are compatible with the RCT classic?
The unit accepts PT1000 probes as standard and supports high-accuracy ETS-D5 (±0.5 K) and ETS-D6 (±0.2 K) sensors for enhanced thermal validation.
Does the RCT classic support unattended overnight operation?
Yes—when configured with appropriate safety limits, external sensor immersion, and connected to labworldsoft® for event logging, it meets DIN EN 61010-2-010 criteria for supervised autonomous use.
How is “Error 5” triggered and can its response threshold be modified?
“Error 5” activates when the system detects invalid resistance values from the temperature sensor, indicating improper immersion; the detection delay is configurable via front-panel menu.
Is the heating plate surface interchangeable or serviceable?
No—the aluminum plate is permanently bonded to the thermal module; however, its chemical and thermal resilience ensures multi-decade service life without degradation.
What is the maximum load capacity on the heating plate?
The unit supports up to 25 kg total mass, including vessel, medium, and stir bar—verified under static and dynamic loading per IKA engineering specifications.