IKA topolino Portable Magnetic Stirrer

Overview

The IKA topolino is a compact, portable magnetic stirrer engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory workflows requiring gentle-to-moderate agitation of small-volume samples. Operating on the principle of rotating magnetic fields generated by a permanent magnet array beneath a chemically resistant polypropylene (PP) plate, the device induces synchronous rotation of PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars immersed in vessels. Its brushless DC motor ensures maintenance-free operation, eliminates spark generation, and delivers consistent torque across the full speed range—critical for reproducible mixing in analytical prep, buffer conditioning, reagent dissolution, and small-scale reaction monitoring. Designed for benchtop versatility rather than high-torque applications, the topolino serves as an optimized solution for environments where space, energy efficiency, and operational simplicity are prioritized—such as teaching labs, QC sample preparation stations, and field-deployable analytical setups.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor with 0.8 W nominal output power—ensures long service life, silent operation, and zero carbon dust contamination.
• Stepless speed control enabling precise adjustment from 500 to 1800 rpm, supporting both rapid homogenization and low-shear suspension stabilization.
• Polypropylene (PP) stirring plate—resistant to common acids, bases, and organic solvents; non-magnetic and thermally stable up to 60 °C surface temperature under continuous use.
• Compact footprint (Ø 80 mm plate, overall dimensions 95 × 37 × 115 mm) and lightweight design (0.484 kg) facilitate easy relocation between fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and mobile lab carts.
• Universal input voltage compatibility (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) enables seamless deployment across international laboratory infrastructures without external transformers.
• IP21-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529—provides protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects >12.5 mm, suitable for standard dry-lab environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The topolino is validated for use with standard cylindrical or conical glassware (e.g., beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and vials) up to 250 mL capacity when paired with appropriately sized stir bars (≤30 mm length). It supports aqueous, mildly acidic/basic, and low-viscosity organic media (e.g., ethanol, acetone, dichloromethane), provided vessel geometry allows efficient magnetic coupling. While not certified for explosion-proof or sterile-process-critical applications, its construction and electrical safety compliance meet IEC 61010-1 requirements for laboratory equipment. The device operates within ambient conditions specified by ISO 15195 (laboratory environment classification), and its non-metallic plate minimizes interference in electromagnetic-sensitive settings (e.g., near NMR consoles or electrophysiology rigs).

Software & Data Management

As a manually operated analog instrument, the IKA topolino does not incorporate digital interfaces, firmware, or data logging capabilities. Its operation requires no software installation, driver configuration, or network connectivity—reducing cybersecurity exposure and simplifying validation pathways in regulated environments. For laboratories adhering to GLP or GMP practices, the absence of electronic records means operational parameters (speed setting, duration) must be documented manually in lab notebooks or LIMS-integrated electronic batch records. No 21 CFR Part 11 compliance features are implemented, aligning with its role as a foundational utility device rather than a regulated process instrument.

Applications

• Routine dissolution of salts, powders, or lyophilized reagents into aqueous buffers prior to pH adjustment or filtration.
• Homogenization of calibration standards and reference material suspensions in analytical chemistry workflows.
• Stirring during titration setup, electrode equilibration, or conductivity probe calibration procedures.
• Low-heat mixing of temperature-sensitive biological samples (e.g., enzyme solutions, antibody dilutions) where hotplate integration is unnecessary.
• Undergraduate teaching labs: ideal for demonstrating magnetic coupling principles, viscosity-dependent speed response, and safe handling of small-volume chemical manipulations.

FAQ

Is the topolino compatible with metal stir bars?
No—only PTFE- or glass-coated magnetic stir bars are recommended to prevent corrosion, chipping, and magnetic decoupling during operation.
Can it be used inside a CO₂ incubator?
Not advised—the specified ambient operating range (5–40 °C) and IP21 rating do not account for elevated humidity or condensation risks typical of incubator environments.
Does it support external speed control via analog signal?
No—the topolino lacks analog/digital input terminals; speed is adjusted solely via the front-panel rotary control.
What is the maximum allowable vessel height for effective stirring?
Vessels should not exceed 120 mm in total height to ensure optimal magnetic coupling; taller containers may require longer stir bars (up to 30 mm) and reduced speed settings.
Is CE marking applicable?
Yes—the device carries the CE mark, indicating conformity with EU directives including EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU.