IKA Vortex 2 Orbital Shaker

Overview

The IKA Vortex 2 Orbital Shaker is a precision-engineered, benchtop orbital mixing device designed for consistent, reproducible sample agitation in life science laboratories. Operating on the principle of circular orbital motion—where the platform rotates around a central axis with a fixed 4 mm orbit diameter—the instrument generates uniform shear forces ideal for resuspending pellets, homogenizing low-viscosity solutions, and preparing reagents prior to downstream analysis. Unlike vortex mixers that employ vertical conical motion, the Vortex 2’s true orbital kinematics minimize sample splashing and tube wear while ensuring gentle yet effective mixing across diverse vessel geometries. Its compact footprint (120 × 140 × 138 mm), robust all-metal housing, and silicone-isolated base deliver mechanical stability even at maximum speed (2500 rpm), making it suitable for continuous operation in QC labs, academic research settings, and GLP-compliant environments.

Key Features

• Continuous and pulse (touch) operation modes—enabling precise control over mixing duration without manual intervention
• Analog speed regulation via calibrated dial (0–6 scale), offering stable, drift-free rotational output from 500 to 2500 rpm
• High-efficiency brushless motor with low thermal load (motor output: 9 W; input: 39 W), engineered for uninterrupted 100% duty cycle operation
• IP21-rated enclosure per DIN EN 60529, providing protection against vertically falling solid objects and limited ingress of moisture—suitable for standard laboratory ambient conditions (5–40 °C, ≤80% RH)
• Integrated silicone feet for passive vibration isolation and anti-slip performance on smooth work surfaces
• Single-platform design optimized for compatibility with optional clamps and inserts—including Eppendorf tubes (0.2–50 mL), microtiter plates (96-well), and conical flasks up to 250 mL (clamps sold separately)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Vortex 2 supports broad sample container versatility through its modular accessory system. Users may select from three standardized clamp types (e.g., universal tube holder, plate clamp, flask strap VG3.36) and seven interchangeable rubber or silicone inserts tailored to specific vessel diameters and wall rigidity. This ensures secure retention during high-speed operation and prevents cross-contamination between runs. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and carries full CE marking. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant (lacking digital audit trail or user authentication), its analog interface and deterministic mechanical behavior make it appropriate for use in ISO 17025-accredited testing labs where procedural documentation—not electronic records—is the primary traceability mechanism.

Software & Data Management

The Vortex 2 operates as a standalone analog instrument with no embedded firmware, software interface, or data logging capability. Speed settings are manually selected and retained solely by mechanical dial position; no configuration memory or USB/RS232 connectivity is provided. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity risks associated with networked devices and aligns with ALCOA+ principles for simplicity and long-term maintainability. For laboratories requiring documented operational parameters, external validation protocols (e.g., speed verification using calibrated tachometers per ASTM E2915) are recommended during IQ/OQ qualification. Maintenance logs and calibration records should be maintained manually in accordance with internal SOPs.

Applications

• Routine resuspension of bacterial cell pellets post-centrifugation
• Pre-analytical homogenization of ELISA assay buffers and antibody diluents
• Equilibration of enzyme reaction mixtures prior to kinetic assays
• Blending of agarose or acrylamide gels before casting
• Dispersion of nanoparticles in aqueous suspensions for DLS sample preparation
• Supporting sample preparation workflows in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical development labs

FAQ

Is the Vortex 2 compatible with microtiter plates?
Yes—when used with the optional 96-well plate clamp (order code: 0032000100), the Vortex 2 provides uniform orbital agitation suitable for plate-based assays.
Does it support programmable timing?
No—the Vortex 2 lacks built-in timer functionality. Timing must be controlled externally (e.g., stopwatch or lab timer) when using pulse mode.
Can it accommodate conical flasks?
Yes—using the dedicated flask strap (VG3.36), users can securely mount round-bottom or conical flasks up to 250 mL capacity.
What is the maximum permissible load weight?
The platform supports a total mass of up to 0.4 kg, including the weight of the clamp and sample vessels.
Is routine calibration required?
While no mandatory recalibration interval is specified, periodic verification of rotational speed against a NIST-traceable tachometer is recommended per laboratory quality management systems (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.4).