IKA RH basic 2 Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RH basic 2 Heating Magnetic Stirrer is an entry-level, single-position benchtop instrument engineered for reliable thermal and mechanical control in routine laboratory workflows. It operates on the principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the stainless-steel heating plate induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample vessel. Heat transfer occurs via conduction through the plate surface, enabling simultaneous temperature regulation and homogeneous mixing. Designed for general-purpose applications in chemistry, biology, quality control, and teaching laboratories, the RH basic 2 delivers reproducible performance under standard ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH) and complies with DIN EN 60529 for ingress protection (IP21), ensuring safe operation in non-dusty, non-splash environments.

Key Features

• Stainless steel heating plate (material grade 1.4301) offering corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and ease of cleaning
• Fixed safety cut-off at 400 °C prevents overheating and provides fail-safe thermal protection independent of user-set parameters
• Stepwise analog controls for both speed (0–6) and heating temperature (1–6), enabling intuitive, tool-free operation without digital interface complexity
• Robust mechanical design with low-maintenance DC motor (2 W output power) optimized for continuous duty cycles up to 2000 rpm
• Compact footprint (168 × 105 × 220 mm) and lightweight construction (2.4 kg) facilitate integration into crowded fume hoods or shared lab benches
• Universal voltage compatibility (100 V / 115 V / 220–240 V) and dual-frequency support (50/60 Hz) ensure global deployment without hardware modification

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RH basic 2 accommodates standard laboratory glassware—including beakers, flasks, and crystallization dishes—up to 10 L volume when filled with aqueous solutions. Its 125 mm diameter heating surface supports vessels with flat, thermally conductive bases; optimal stirring efficiency is achieved using appropriately sized PTFE- or glass-coated stir bars (typically 30–60 mm length). The device meets essential electrical safety requirements per IEC 61010-1 and carries CE marking for use within the European Economic Area. While not certified for GLP/GMP-regulated environments requiring audit trails or electronic records, its analog control architecture ensures operational transparency and minimal validation burden for non-critical preparatory tasks.

Software & Data Management

The RH basic 2 is a stand-alone, manually operated instrument with no embedded microprocessor, digital display, or data logging capability. All settings are adjusted via calibrated rotary dials; no software drivers, firmware updates, or PC connectivity are required or supported. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity concerns, reduces calibration traceability overhead, and aligns with laboratories maintaining legacy equipment fleets or adhering to simplified SOPs where manual parameter recording suffices. For users requiring electronic documentation, external temperature loggers (e.g., compliant with ASTM E74 or ISO/IEC 17025) may be deployed alongside the unit.

Applications

• Preparation of buffer solutions, culture media, and reagent dilutions in molecular biology and microbiology labs
• Heating and homogenizing reaction mixtures during synthetic organic chemistry procedures
• Dissolution testing and solubility studies in pharmaceutical development and QC settings
• Standardized sample conditioning prior to analysis by HPLC, titration, or spectrophotometry
• Instructional use in undergraduate chemistry and engineering laboratories due to its mechanical simplicity and visual operability

FAQ

Is the RH basic 2 suitable for viscous or non-aqueous solvents?
Yes—provided the stir bar remains magnetically coupled and the vessel base ensures efficient heat transfer. Performance may decrease above 1000 cP; for high-viscosity applications, consider models with higher torque or overhead stirring.

Does it support programmable ramping or temperature hold functions?
No. The RH basic 2 offers only fixed-step analog heating control (1–6) without time-based profiles or PID regulation.

Can it be used under inert atmosphere or in a glovebox?
Yes, provided the ambient temperature remains within 5–40 °C and relative humidity does not exceed 80%. Verify voltage compatibility with local glovebox power supplies.

What maintenance is required?
Routine cleaning of the stainless-steel plate with ethanol or mild detergent; periodic inspection of stir bar integrity and motor housing ventilation slots for dust accumulation.

Is calibration required for regulatory compliance?
While not mandatory for general use, users in regulated environments should establish internal verification protocols—e.g., verifying plate surface temperature against a NIST-traceable thermometer at setpoints 1–6 per SOP.