IKA RH digital Magnetic Stirrer with Heating

Overview

The IKA RH digital is a precision-engineered magnetic stirrer with integrated heating functionality, designed for reproducible and thermally controlled mixing in research laboratories, quality control environments, and routine analytical workflows. Based on the principle of rotating magnetic field coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the ceramic-coated stainless-steel plate induces synchronous rotation of a ferromagnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the RH digital delivers stable agitation across a wide dynamic range. Its heating system employs a copper-substrate stainless steel (1.4301) plate engineered for rapid thermal response and uniform surface temperature distribution. The device operates under closed-loop temperature regulation when paired with an external Pt100 sensor (e.g., ETS-D5), enabling accurate, sample-integrated thermal control essential for kinetic studies, dissolution testing, and temperature-dependent reaction monitoring.

Key Features

• High-capacity stirring capability: Supports volumes up to 15 L of aqueous media using appropriately sized stir bars (20–80 mm length).
• Dual digital LED display showing real-time setpoints and actual values for both speed (rpm) and temperature (°C).
• Touch-sensitive control interface with intuitive button layout for speed and temperature parameter entry.
• Gradual motor start-up sequence minimizes splashing and ensures gentle acceleration of viscous or sensitive samples.
• Robust magnetic drive system optimized for high torque transmission at low speeds and stable operation at 2000 rpm.
• Adjustable safety overtemperature limit (100–360 °C) with automatic cut-off and error-code indication for fault diagnostics.
• Compliance with DIN 12878 standard allows direct integration with standardized heating sleeves and contact thermometers.
• IP21-rated enclosure ensures protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm, suitable for general laboratory use.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RH digital accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types—including aqueous solutions, organic solvents, buffer systems, and low-to-medium viscosity suspensions—provided appropriate chemically inert stir bars (e.g., PTFE- or glass-coated) are selected. Its heating plate geometry (Ø 135 mm) supports standard round-bottom flasks, beakers, and crystallization dishes. The unit meets DIN EN 60529 for ingress protection and conforms to electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1. When operated with traceable external temperature sensors and validated protocols, it supports GLP-compliant documentation workflows. Though not intrinsically rated for hazardous locations, its design aligns with general-purpose laboratory safety practices outlined in ISO/IEC 17025 Annex A.

Software & Data Management

The RH digital operates as a standalone instrument without embedded software or PC connectivity. All operational parameters are configured manually via front-panel controls, and no data logging, remote access, or audit trail functionality is included. However, its compatibility with the ETS-D5 external temperature sensor enables analog signal output (Pt100) that may be interfaced with third-party data acquisition systems supporting 4-wire RTD inputs. For regulated environments requiring electronic records, users must implement external validation of sensor calibration, measurement uncertainty, and manual entry traceability in accordance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles where applicable.

Applications

• Controlled-temperature dissolution testing in pharmaceutical development and QC labs.
• Homogenization of reagent mixtures prior to spectroscopic or chromatographic analysis.
• Preparation of calibration standards requiring precise thermal equilibration.
• Heating and stirring during titration procedures, enzymatic assays, or polymerization initiation steps.
• Supporting ASTM D2196 (viscosity of non-Newtonian materials) and USP <701> (dissolution apparatus qualification) auxiliary functions.
• Routine buffer equilibration in molecular biology and cell culture workflows.

FAQ

Does the RH digital support RS232 or USB communication?
No. It is a manually operated, non-networked instrument with no digital communication ports.
Can the heating function operate independently of stirring?
Yes. Speed and temperature controls are fully decoupled; either function may be enabled or disabled separately.
Is the ETS-D5 sensor included with the device?
No. The ETS-D5 is an optional accessory sold separately and must be ordered independently.
What is the accuracy specification for temperature control when using the ETS-D5?
Accuracy depends on sensor calibration, immersion depth, and thermal lag; typical system uncertainty is ±0.5 °C under optimized conditions with proper sensor placement.
How often should the stir bar and heating plate be cleaned and inspected?
Cleaning is recommended after each use with non-abrasive agents; visual inspection for plate discoloration or coating damage should occur weekly in high-throughput settings.