IKA T18 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® High-Shear Disperser

Overview

The IKA T18 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® is a precision-engineered high-shear disperser designed for reproducible, scalable sample homogenization, emulsification, and particle size reduction in laboratory environments. Based on rotor-stator hydrodynamic shear principle, the system generates intense mechanical energy through controlled rotational motion of a high-speed stainless-steel rotor within a concentric stator sleeve—inducing turbulent flow, cavitation, and extensional stress to disrupt aggregates, disperse immiscible phases, and reduce droplet or particle dimensions. Its compact benchtop footprint, combined with a wide operational speed range (3000–25,000 rpm), enables precise adaptation to diverse rheological profiles—from low-viscosity aqueous solutions to moderately viscous suspensions up to 5000 mPa·s. The device operates exclusively in batch mode and is certified for continuous duty under specified ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH), making it suitable for routine QC workflows, formulation development, and pre-analytical sample preparation across pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and materials science laboratories.

Key Features

• Digitally controlled variable-speed drive with LED display for real-time rpm monitoring and repeatable parameter recall
• Electronic speed regulation with ±0.01% accuracy relative to setpoint, ensuring process consistency across replicates
• Integrated electronic overload protection safeguarding motor integrity during transient viscosity spikes or stalled-tool events
• Quick-release stainless-steel dispersing tools compliant with ISO 8502-3 for corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning between samples
• Two disposable dispersing tool options (S-shaped and conical geometries) minimize cross-contamination in regulated environments
• Error code diagnostics displayed via LED interface support rapid troubleshooting without service intervention
• Acoustically optimized housing design limits noise emission to 75 dB(A) without attached tool—critical for open-lab configurations
• IP20-rated enclosure meets basic electrical safety requirements per DIN EN 60529 for indoor laboratory use

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The T18 digital accommodates sample volumes from 1 mL to 1500 mL in standard glass or polymer vessels (e.g., beakers, centrifuge tubes, reaction flasks). It supports aqueous, organic, and mildly aggressive media when paired with chemically compatible dispersing tools. While not intrinsically rated for explosive atmospheres or sterile processing, its construction and operational envelope align with general laboratory safety standards (DIN 58953-2, EN 61000-6-3 EMC). For GxP-regulated applications, users may implement procedural controls—including documented calibration intervals, tool traceability logs, and operator training records—to support GLP/GMP audit readiness. Though not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–certified out-of-the-box, audit trails can be maintained externally via lab notebook entries or LIMS-integrated SOPs.

Software & Data Management

This model operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded firmware-based data logging or PC connectivity. All operational parameters—including speed setting, runtime, and fault codes—are retained only as visual indicators during active use. Users requiring electronic recordkeeping must integrate external timing devices, manual logbooks, or third-party acquisition systems. For laboratories implementing digital quality systems, the T18 digital serves as a deterministic endpoint device: its fixed mechanical architecture and calibrated speed control ensure that identical input settings yield statistically equivalent dispersion outcomes across instruments and time—facilitating method transfer and inter-laboratory comparability without proprietary software dependencies.

Applications

• Preparation of stable oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions for cosmetic and pharmaceutical dosage forms
• Dispersion of nanomaterials (e.g., graphene oxide, metal oxides) into polymer matrices or solvents
• Cell lysis and subcellular fractionation in life science research protocols
• Homogenization of pigment pastes, ceramic slurries, and battery electrode suspensions
• Rapid deagglomeration of micronized APIs prior to dissolution testing or particle size analysis
• Standardized sample conditioning for rheological, viscometric, or spectroscopic characterization

FAQ

Is the T18 digital ULTRA-TURRAX® suitable for sterilization or autoclaving?
No—stainless-steel dispersing tools are cleanable and chemically resistant but not designed for steam sterilization. Autoclaving may compromise dimensional tolerances and surface passivation.
Can this unit be used with corrosive solvents such as chlorinated hydrocarbons or strong acids?
Only with verified chemical compatibility of selected dispersing tools and vessel materials; consult IKA’s Chemical Resistance Guide before exposure.
Does the device support programmable multi-step protocols?
No—it lacks onboard memory or timer functions. Speed and duration must be manually controlled by the operator.
What maintenance is required to sustain performance over time?
Routine inspection of rotor-stator clearance, lubrication-free bearing integrity, and verification of speed accuracy using an external tachometer every 6–12 months is recommended.
Is technical support available outside Germany?
Yes—IKA maintains authorized service partners in over 50 countries; warranty and calibration services follow local distributor agreements.