IKA T18 Digital and T25 Digital Ultra-Turrax® High-Speed Dispersers

Overview

The IKA T18 Digital and T25 Digital Ultra-Turrax® high-speed dispersers are precision-engineered laboratory instruments designed for reproducible homogenization, dispersion, emulsification, and cell disruption across a broad range of sample viscosities and volumes. Based on the proven rotor-stator principle—where high shear forces are generated by the relative motion between a rapidly rotating rotor and a fixed stator—the devices deliver consistent energy input into samples, enabling uniform particle size reduction and stable phase integration. Both models operate within a speed range of 3400–24,000 rpm, with electronic speed control ensuring stable rotational performance under variable load conditions. The T18 Digital is optimized for smaller-scale applications (1 mL–1.5 L), while the T25 Digital extends operational capacity to 2.5 L, making it suitable for larger batch processing in environmental, pharmaceutical, and materials science laboratories. Each unit features an integrated overload protection circuit, thermal cut-off, and robust mechanical architecture compliant with DIN EN 60529 (IP20) for safe operation in standard laboratory environments.

Key Features

• Stepless electronic speed control with real-time feedback and ±1 % speed accuracy
• Dual-display options: analog scale (T18 Digital) and high-contrast LED digital display (T25 Digital)
• Interchangeable dispersing heads—including standardized S-shaped, conical, and micro-tips—for application-specific shear profile optimization
• Quick-lock shaft coupling system enabling tool-free attachment/detachment of dispersing elements
• Integrated tachometer interface (T18 Digital) and optional external tachometer compatibility for independent speed verification
• Thermally protected 500 W universal motor delivering 300 W continuous mechanical output
• Stainless steel shaft (13 mm diameter, 175 mm length) with corrosion-resistant surface finish for long-term chemical compatibility
• Compact footprint (65 × 240 × 80 mm) and lightweight design (1.6 kg) facilitating benchtop mobility and integration into fume hoods or gloveboxes

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

Both models accommodate aqueous and non-aqueous media across viscosities up to 5000 mPa·s, supporting routine preparation of suspensions, nanoemulsions, polymer blends, and diagnostic reagents. The T25 Digital’s reinforced three-bearing drive assembly ensures enhanced mechanical stability during extended operation at high torque—critical for viscous slurries and vacuum- or pressure-compatible reactor configurations. Units comply with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and meet essential safety requirements per EN 61010-1 for laboratory electrical equipment. While not intrinsically rated for hazardous area use, their IP20 enclosure provides adequate protection against solid ingress in controlled indoor settings. For regulated environments, instrument logs (e.g., runtime, speed setpoints) may be manually recorded to support GLP/GMP documentation workflows; however, neither model includes FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails or electronic signature functionality.

Software & Data Management

The T18 Digital and T25 Digital operate as standalone instruments without embedded microprocessor-based software or digital communication interfaces. No RS232, USB, or analog output ports are provided—data acquisition relies on external tachometers, manual logging, or third-party sensor integration via auxiliary mounting fixtures. Speed settings are retained only during active operation and are not stored upon power-down. For laboratories requiring traceable parameter recording, integration with external data loggers or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is feasible using the tachometer signal output (T18) or optional pulse-output modules (available separately). All firmware and calibration procedures remain proprietary to IKA and are performed exclusively by authorized service centers.

Applications

• Preparation of standardized suspensions for particle size analysis (e.g., ISO 13320, ASTM D4467)
• Homogenization of tissue lysates and microbial cultures prior to nucleic acid extraction
• Dispersion of nanomaterials (e.g., graphene oxide, TiO₂ nanoparticles) in polymer matrices
• Routine emulsification of oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical development
• Slurry conditioning for wastewater treatment simulation and sediment toxicity testing (OECD 218/219)
• Diagnostic sample processing—including blood plasma separation, pathogen lysis, and antigen suspension formulation

FAQ

What is the difference between the T18 Digital and T25 Digital models?
The T18 Digital uses an analog speed scale and is rated for maximum volumes up to 1.5 L; the T25 Digital features an LED digital display and supports up to 2.5 L batches, with a reinforced three-bearing drive system for improved longevity under high-load conditions.

Can these dispersers be used under vacuum or pressure?
Yes—both units are mechanically compatible with sealed reactor vessels when equipped with appropriate feedthroughs and clamping fixtures; however, the disperser body itself is not pressure-rated and must remain external to the vessel.

Are replacement dispersing heads interchangeable between T18 and T25?
No—T18 and T25 utilize distinct shaft geometries and locking mechanisms; dispersing elements are model-specific and not cross-compatible.

Is there a CE mark and declaration of conformity available?
Yes—each unit ships with EU Declaration of Conformity referencing EN 61010-1, EN 61326-1, and EN 61000-6-2/6-3, confirming compliance for use within the European Economic Area.

What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Routine cleaning of the shaft and dispersing head after each use, periodic inspection of rotor-stator clearance, and annual verification of speed accuracy using a calibrated tachometer are recommended. Lubrication or internal servicing must be performed by IKA-certified technicians only.