IKA RO 10 10-Position Digital Magnetic Stirrer (Non-Heated)

Overview

The IKA RO 10 is a precision-engineered, non-heated 10-position digital magnetic stirrer designed for high-throughput laboratory workflows requiring consistent, parallel sample agitation without thermal input. Utilizing robust permanent magnet coupling and optimized electromagnetic drive architecture, the RO 10 delivers reliable rotational motion to magnetic stir bars across all ten independent positions simultaneously. Its core operational principle relies on synchronous magnetic field rotation beneath the stainless steel work surface, inducing torque in ferromagnetic stir elements immersed in liquid media. This design ensures low mechanical wear, silent operation, and long-term speed stability—critical for applications such as reagent homogenization, buffer equilibration, enzymatic reaction setup, and dissolution testing where temperature control is externally managed or intentionally excluded. The device is not equipped with integrated heating elements, making it suitable for temperature-sensitive protocols or environments where localized heat generation must be avoided.

Key Features

• 10 independently spaced stirring positions (90 mm center-to-center), enabling true parallel processing of up to ten samples under identical rotational conditions
• Digital speed display with 10-step rotary dial control (0–1100 rpm), offering intuitive, repeatable setting selection without software dependency
• Stainless steel 1.4301 work surface—chemically resistant, non-porous, and easy to decontaminate; prevents liquid ingress and supports routine sterilization protocols
• Compact footprint (182 × 65 × 552 mm) and low-profile design (65 mm height) optimize bench space utilization in crowded analytical or QC laboratories
• IP42-rated enclosure provides protection against solid objects >1 mm and vertically falling water droplets—suitable for standard wet-lab environments
• Motor system engineered for high efficiency: 3.6 W mechanical output from 14.4 W electrical input, minimizing energy consumption and thermal load on the instrument housing
• Included removable PUR-coated cover for positional shielding and splash containment during extended or unattended operation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RO 10 accommodates standard cylindrical or oval magnetic stir bars up to 30 mm in length, compatible with common glassware including beakers (50–500 mL), test tubes, and multi-well plates when used with appropriate adapter inserts. It supports aqueous and low-viscosity organic solutions (up to ~50 mPa·s at 25 °C) at volumes ranging from 10 mL to 400 mL per position. The unit complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP42), IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use), and meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC Directive 2014/30/EU) and low-voltage safety (LVD Directive 2014/35/EU). While not certified for cleanroom use, its sealed construction and smooth surface facilitate adherence to GLP-aligned cleaning SOPs.

Software & Data Management

The RO 10 operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded firmware, network interface, or data logging capability. Speed settings are manually selected and visually confirmed via an LED digital readout—eliminating software validation requirements and simplifying 21 CFR Part 11 compliance in regulated environments where electronic records are not mandated. For labs requiring audit trails, external documentation (e.g., lab notebook entries, video monitoring, or connected environmental loggers) may be employed to record operational parameters and duration per batch. No driver installation, cloud connectivity, or firmware updates are necessary—ensuring operational continuity and cybersecurity resilience.

Applications

• Parallel preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in analytical chemistry labs
• Homogenization of cell culture media, antibody dilutions, and ELISA reagents prior to assay plate loading
• Stirring of pH-adjusted buffers during titration method development and validation
• Supporting dissolution testing per USP when paired with external water baths or environmental chambers
• Agitation of chromatographic mobile phase reservoirs to ensure gas degassing and compositional uniformity
• Pre-analytical sample conditioning in clinical microbiology workflows (e.g., sputum liquefaction, urine sediment resuspension)

FAQ

Is the RO 10 compatible with 115 V power supplies?

Yes—the instrument supports dual voltage (230 V / 115 V) and auto-senses frequency (50 / 60 Hz), making it suitable for deployment across North American, European, and Asian laboratory infrastructures.
Can the RO 10 be used with viscous samples such as glycerol or polymer solutions?

It is rated for aqueous and low-viscosity liquids up to approximately 50 mPa·s. For higher-viscosity applications, reduced maximum volume per position and lower speed settings (≤600 rpm) are recommended to maintain torque stability and avoid stalling.
Does the device include stir bars?

No—stir bars are sold separately and must be selected based on vessel geometry and required mixing intensity; IKA recommends PTFE-coated bars with internal magnets for chemical compatibility and durability.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?

Routine cleaning of the stainless steel surface with ethanol or isopropanol; periodic inspection of the rubber feet for compression set; no lubrication or internal servicing is required due to brushless motor design and sealed electronics.
Is the PUR cover autoclavable?

No—the polyurethane (PUR) cover is not autoclave-rated; it should be wiped with disinfectants compatible with thermoplastic elastomers and air-dried.