IKA ULTRA-TURRAX® Tube Drive P Control Homogenizer

Overview

The IKA ULTRA-TURRAX® Tube Drive P Control is a compact, benchtop bead-based homogenizer engineered for precise, reproducible, and contamination-free sample preparation in life science, pharmaceutical, clinical, and academic laboratories. Unlike conventional rotor-stator or probe-based systems, this instrument operates on the principle of high-shear mechanical disruption via oscillating motion transmitted through disposable, sealed dispersion tubes containing grinding beads. The device employs a precisely controlled electromagnetic drive system that imparts rapid vertical oscillation—rather than rotational motion—to the tube, enabling efficient cell lysis, tissue homogenization, nanoparticle dispersion, and emulsification without heat buildup or aerosol generation. Its fully enclosed tube architecture eliminates operator exposure risks and ensures containment of biohazardous, volatile, or toxic samples—making it compliant with biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) handling requirements and suitable for GLP/GMP-aligned workflows.

Key Features

• Programmable operation with independent control of speed (400–8,000 rpm), time (1 s–99 min 59 s), and direction (forward/reverse cycling)
• OLED display with intuitive multi-line menu navigation for real-time parameter monitoring and recall of up to 10 user-defined protocols
• Turbo mode for instantaneous acceleration to 8,000 rpm—ideal for rapid initiation of homogenization or final dispersion refinement
• Reversible motion capability enables optimized bead dynamics for heterogeneous or fibrous samples, reducing clumping and improving uniformity
• IP20-rated enclosure and low-noise design (50 dB(A) without dispersing head) support quiet, safe operation in shared laboratory environments
• Integrated USB-B interface for firmware updates and optional data logging via IKA Labworldsoft™ software (v5.0 or later)
• Compact footprint (122 × 54 × 178 mm) and lightweight construction (1.3 kg) facilitate placement inside biosafety cabinets or cold rooms

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ULTRA-TURRAX® Tube Drive P Control accepts standardized IKA disposable dispersion tubes (e.g., UTTP series) in volumes from 20 mL to 300 mL, each pre-loaded with calibrated stainless steel or ceramic beads. These single-use tubes eliminate cross-contamination and reduce cleaning validation burden—critical for regulated environments governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO/IEC 17025, or EU GMP Annex 11. The system supports a broad range of sample matrices: soft tissues (liver, spleen), cultured cells, plant material, microbial pellets, polymer suspensions, and viscous formulations up to 5,000 mPa·s. All electrical components conform to DIN EN 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment, and the unit carries CE marking per the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU.

Software & Data Management

When connected to a host PC via USB-B, the device communicates with IKA Labworldsoft™—a validated, audit-trail-enabled platform supporting electronic recordkeeping, method versioning, and user access control. Protocols can be exported as XML files for backup or inter-laboratory transfer. The software logs timestamped operational events—including speed, duration, direction cycles, and error codes—for full traceability in quality-controlled processes. Optional integration with LIMS platforms is supported via standard OPC UA or CSV export modules, facilitating alignment with digital lab initiatives under ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.5.2 (data integrity).

Applications

• High-yield lysis of mammalian, bacterial, and yeast cells without enzymatic or chemical additives
• Preparation of homogeneous suspensions for DLS, SEM, or TEM analysis
• Dispersion of nanomaterials (e.g., graphene oxide, metal oxides) in aqueous or organic media
• Homogenization of clinical specimens (blood, saliva, swabs) prior to nucleic acid extraction or PCR setup
• Rapid deagglomeration of pigment pastes, catalyst powders, and pharmaceutical excipients
• Batch-wise formulation development for topical gels, ointments, and nanoemulsions

FAQ

Is the ULTRA-TURRAX® Tube Drive P Control compatible with non-IKA dispersion tubes?
No. Only certified IKA UTTP-series disposable tubes are mechanically and thermally validated for use with this drive system. Substitution may compromise sealing integrity, bead containment, or torque transmission.
Can the device be operated inside a biosafety cabinet?
Yes—the compact dimensions, low heat dissipation (<36 W input), and absence of external exhaust make it suitable for Class II A2 and B2 cabinets. Ensure adequate clearance around ventilation slots.
What maintenance is required beyond routine cleaning of the housing?
None. The brushless electromagnetic drive has no consumable parts. No lubrication, belt replacement, or bearing service is necessary over its rated service life (>10,000 hours).
Does the unit support remote start/stop via external triggers?
Not natively. External control requires integration through Labworldsoft™’s API or third-party SCADA systems using USB virtual COM port emulation.
How is calibration verified for regulatory compliance?
Speed and timer accuracy are factory-verified per ISO 17025-accredited procedures. Users may perform periodic verification using an NIST-traceable tachometer and stopwatch; documentation templates are provided in the IQ/OQ package.