KS Kangshi Orbital Shaker

Overview

The KS Kangshi Orbital Shaker is a robust, entry-level mechanical shaker engineered for consistent, low-shear orbital agitation of liquid samples in life science, clinical, environmental, and industrial laboratories. Operating on the principle of eccentric-drive orbital motion—where the platform rotates in a fixed horizontal circle with a 20 mm diameter trace—the device delivers uniform mixing without vortexing or excessive foaming, making it especially suitable for cell suspension, microbial culture propagation, extraction protocols (e.g., liquid–liquid partitioning using separatory funnels), and reagent homogenization. Designed for reliability over extended operation cycles, its brushed DC motor and precision-machined cam mechanism ensure stable speed maintenance across the full 40–280 rpm range, with minimal drift under load. The absence of integrated temperature control positions this unit as a dedicated ambient-temperature shaker, intended for use alongside incubators or in controlled-room-temperature environments compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory infrastructure requirements.

Key Features

• Continuously variable speed control (40–280 rpm) via analog rotary dial, enabling precise protocol matching for diverse biological and chemical applications.
• 20 mm orbital amplitude optimized for efficient mixing of viscous and low-viscosity solutions while minimizing splashing and aerosol generation.
• Single-tier aluminum alloy platform (standard size: 300 × 300 mm) with non-slip rubber matting and universal clamp interface for secure attachment of Erlenmeyer flasks, test tubes, and up to five standard glass separatory funnels (50–250 mL).
• Integrated 0–120 minute mechanical timer with auto-shutoff functionality, supporting unattended operation for standardized incubation or extraction workflows.
• Low-power (60 W), energy-efficient design compliant with IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic emission standards; grounded metal chassis meets IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment.
• Tool-free platform access and simplified maintenance architecture—no lubrication points or consumable drive belts—reducing total cost of ownership and downtime.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KS shaker accommodates common laboratory vessels including borosilicate glass and polypropylene containers ranging from 10 mL test tubes to 2 L flasks. Its clamp system supports ASTM D2892-compliant separatory funnel configurations for solvent extraction procedures. While not certified for GLP or GMP production environments, the unit meets basic laboratory safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) criteria per EN 61326-1 and is routinely deployed in QA/QC labs conducting method validation per USP (bacterial endotoxins) or EPA Method 3510C (liquid–liquid extraction). Users are advised to verify vessel integrity and clamping security prior to operation, particularly at higher speeds (>220 rpm), to prevent displacement or breakage.

Software & Data Management

This is a standalone hardware-only instrument with no embedded microprocessor, digital display, or data logging capability. All operational parameters—including speed setting, timer activation, and power state—are managed manually via front-panel controls. As such, it does not support FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record compliance, nor does it generate audit trails or exportable datasets. Its simplicity aligns with lean lab principles where manual documentation (e.g., handwritten logbooks or LIMS-integrated batch records) suffices for routine, non-regulated assays. For applications requiring traceability, users may pair the shaker with external time-stamped video monitoring or integrate it into validated SOPs referencing ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 (result reporting).

Applications

• Microbial culture maintenance in nutrient broths (e.g., E. coli, S. cerevisiae) prior to centrifugation or plating.
• Standardized liquid–liquid extractions in environmental analysis (e.g., pesticide residue recovery from aqueous matrices per EPA 8081B).
• Antibody–antigen binding equilibration in ELISA plate coating steps.
• Cell dissociation support during primary tissue digestion protocols (e.g., collagenase dispersion).
• Homogenization of calibration standards for spectrophotometric or HPLC analysis.
• Rehydration and dispersion of lyophilized reagents or reference materials.

FAQ

Is the KS shaker suitable for sterile applications?
It is not autoclavable or IP-rated for cleanroom use; however, the platform surface can be decontaminated with 70% ethanol or hydrogen peroxide wipes between runs.
Can it accommodate microtiter plates?
Yes—with optional universal microplate clamps (sold separately), though standard configuration prioritizes flask and funnel compatibility.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
Rated for ≥10,000 hours of cumulative runtime when operated within specified voltage tolerance (±10%) and ambient temperature (10–30°C).
Does it comply with CE or UL marking requirements?
The unit conforms to CE directives for EMC and low-voltage equipment (2014/30/EU and 2014/35/EU); UL certification is not held but design adheres to equivalent safety fundamentals per UL 61010-1.
Is speed calibration traceable to NIST standards?
No factory calibration certificate is provided; users may validate rpm accuracy using an external handheld tachometer referenced to NIST-traceable sources during IQ/OQ qualification.