IKA RH lite Heating Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA RH lite Heating Magnetic Stirrer is a compact, entry-level laboratory instrument engineered for precision, safety, and operational simplicity in routine heating and stirring applications. Based on the proven principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet beneath the heated plate induces synchronous rotation of a magnetic stir bar immersed in the sample—the RH lite delivers consistent torque transfer without mechanical seals or moving parts penetrating the vessel. Its brushless DC motor ensures low maintenance, high efficiency, and extended service life while minimizing electromagnetic interference and thermal load on the drive electronics. Designed specifically for standard benchtop workflows in teaching labs, QC environments, and preparatory chemistry settings, the RH lite operates without external temperature sensors or feedback loops; instead, it relies on direct plate-surface thermal control—a robust and cost-effective solution for applications where sample temperature monitoring is not required, but reproducible heating and homogeneous mixing are essential.

Key Features

• Compact footprint (168 × 100 × 217 mm) optimized for space-constrained workstations
• Anodized aluminum alloy heating plate (Ø135 mm) with enhanced mechanical strength and uniform heat distribution
• Independent dual-control interface: dedicated rotary knobs for speed (100–1500 rpm) and plate temperature (0–310 °C)
• Integrated safety circuit with adjustable overtemperature cutoff (50–360 °C), compliant with EN IEC 61010-2-010 for heating equipment
• Energy-efficient brushless DC motor delivering high torque at low power consumption (7 W motor output, 600 W heating power)
• Low self-heating design minimizes ambient thermal impact—ideal for temperature-sensitive solutions
• IP22 ingress protection rating ensures resistance to vertically falling drips and limited finger contact
• Stable two-point mounting base supports secure placement on uneven surfaces or integration into modular lab setups

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RH lite accommodates standard laboratory glassware up to 15 L volume (water-equivalent), with compatibility across borosilicate beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and round-bottom vessels using stir bars ranging from 20 to 80 mm in length. Its open-loop heating architecture meets the functional requirements of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories for non-critical thermal conditioning steps—such as reagent dissolution, buffer preparation, or pre-heating prior to analytical injection. While not equipped with external PT100 probe input or digital PID regulation, the device satisfies GLP documentation needs through stable mechanical controls, traceable calibration points (via external thermometer verification), and built-in thermal fail-safes. All electrical and thermal safety certifications—including CE marking and conformity to EN IEC 61010-1 and EN IEC 61010-2-010—are fully documented in the manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity.

Software & Data Management

The RH lite operates as a standalone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, network connectivity, or software interface. This design eliminates cybersecurity risks, firmware update dependencies, and validation overhead associated with digital controllers—making it particularly suitable for regulated environments where auditability of manual operation is prioritized. All setpoints (speed and temperature) are adjusted via tactile rotary controls with engraved scales, enabling unambiguous recording in lab notebooks. For laboratories adhering to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, the absence of electronic data generation means no electronic records or signatures are produced—thus avoiding compliance complexities related to system validation, audit trails, or electronic signature implementation. Calibration verification may be performed using NIST-traceable thermometers and tachometers, with results logged manually per SOP.

Applications

• Preparation of aqueous and organic solutions in undergraduate and graduate teaching laboratories
• Routine dissolution testing of pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients under controlled thermal conditions
• Buffer and media formulation in microbiology and cell culture support labs
• Homogenization of polymer solutions, colloidal suspensions, and catalyst slurries prior to filtration or analysis
• Pre-heating of samples for subsequent spectroscopic, chromatographic, or titrimetric analysis
• Use in cleanroom-adjacent areas where low particulate generation and minimal electromagnetic emission are advantageous

FAQ

Does the RH lite support external temperature probe input?
No. The RH lite uses direct plate-surface temperature control only and does not accept external PT100 or thermocouple inputs.
What is the maximum recommended vessel height for optimal stirring performance?
For stable vortex formation and efficient mixing, vessel height should not exceed 2.5× the internal diameter; taller vessels may require longer stir bars or reduced speed to prevent splashing.
Can the RH lite be used under a fume hood with continuous operation?
Yes—its low surface temperature rise and IP22-rated enclosure allow safe use inside ventilated enclosures, provided ambient humidity remains below 80 % RH and airflow does not impede heat dissipation.
Is the heating plate compatible with ceramic or stainless-steel vessels?
The anodized aluminum plate is optimized for glass and PTFE-coated containers; prolonged direct contact with metal vessels may cause localized overheating and reduce thermal uniformity.
How often should the unit undergo preventive maintenance?
No scheduled maintenance is required beyond periodic visual inspection of the plate surface for scratches or residue buildup and cleaning with isopropyl alcohol and lint-free cloth.