LAUDA Varioshake VS 15 B Bidirectional Platform Shaker
| Brand | LAUDA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | VS 15 B |
| Timer Range | 1 min to 99:59 h |
| Oscillation Frequency | 20–300 rpm |
| Amplitude | 30 mm |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
| Max Load Capacity | 15 kg |
| Platform Dimensions (W × D) | 450 × 450 mm |
| Ambient Temperature Range | 10–50 °C |
| Power Consumption | 0.07 kW |
| Overall Dimensions (W × D × H) | 480 × 487 × 160 mm |
| Weight | 18 kg |
Overview
The LAUDA Varioshake VS 15 B is a precision-engineered bidirectional platform shaker designed for demanding life science and bioengineering applications requiring uniform, low-shear horizontal motion. Unlike orbital or reciprocating shakers, the VS 15 B employs a true bidirectional linear oscillation mechanism—achieving synchronous back-and-forth movement across two orthogonal axes—ensuring homogeneous suspension of sensitive biological samples without vortex formation or excessive shear stress. This motion profile is particularly advantageous for cell culture maintenance, hybridization assays, blotting procedures, and gentle reagent mixing where consistent agitation and minimal mechanical disturbance are critical. Built in Germany with industrial-grade materials—including an anodized aluminum platform and electrogalvanized, powder-coated steel housing—the device delivers long-term stability, thermal resilience across ambient conditions (10–50 °C), and acoustic optimization for shared laboratory environments.
Key Features
- Bidirectional linear oscillation with precisely balanced dual-axis drive, eliminating rotational torque and minimizing sample stratification
- Electronically regulated speed control (20–300 rpm) with stepless soft-start functionality to prevent splashing and ensure reproducible acceleration profiles
- Digital timer offering programmable intervals from 1 minute up to 99 hours and 59 minutes—or continuous operation mode for extended incubation protocols
- Anodized aluminum platform (450 × 450 mm) fitted with four replaceable polymer locating pins for secure accessory mounting and positional repeatability
- Thermally stable AC motor with integrated overload protection and dynamic mass-balancing system to maintain constant speed independent of load (up to 15 kg)
- Compact footprint (480 × 487 × 160 mm) and low power draw (0.07 kW), supporting energy-efficient operation in high-density lab configurations
- Robust structural design featuring vibration-damped base and reinforced chassis for sustained reliability under 24/7 usage conditions
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VS 15 B accommodates standard laboratory vessels—including Petri dishes, multi-well plates (6–96-well), hybridization tubes, blotting cassettes, and custom containers—via interchangeable accessories such as non-slip rubber mats (Order No. A000041), anti-slide platform carriers (A000043), oscillation-specific trays (A000045), and universal flat carriers (A000049). Its open-platform architecture supports rapid setup changes and cleaning validation. The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and its construction meets RoHS and WEEE directives. While not intrinsically rated for use inside CO₂ incubators, it is routinely deployed in adjacent controlled environments for post-incubation processing steps aligned with GLP and ISO 17025 workflows.
Software & Data Management
The VS 15 B operates via an analog-digital hybrid interface: a tactile rotary encoder for intuitive parameter selection and an LED display for real-time feedback on setpoint and elapsed time. It does not incorporate onboard data logging or network connectivity; however, its stable, repeatable performance enables seamless integration into externally monitored systems. When paired with external environmental loggers or LIMS-linked timers, the shaker supports audit-ready documentation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—provided timestamped operational records are captured at the system level. Firmware updates are not applicable; calibration verification is performed annually using traceable tachometric reference standards.
Applications
- Maintenance of adherent and suspension mammalian cell cultures during transfection and passaging protocols
- Uniform hybridization of DNA/RNA probes on membranes and microarrays
- Washing steps in Western, Southern, and Northern blotting workflows
- Gentle resuspension of bacterial pellets and enzyme-immobilized beads
- Equilibration of immunoassay plates prior to ELISA reading
- Pre-analytical sample homogenization for downstream PCR, sequencing, and proteomic workflows
- Quality control testing of diagnostic reagents under standardized agitation conditions
FAQ
Is the VS 15 B suitable for use inside an incubator?
No—the unit is rated for ambient operation only (10–50 °C) and lacks ingress protection or humidity-resistant components required for internal incubator placement.
Can the oscillation direction be reversed or customized?
The bidirectional motion is fixed orthogonally by mechanical design; no user-selectable axis inversion or waveform modulation is available.
What is the tolerance for speed accuracy across the 20–300 rpm range?
Speed deviation remains within ±1.5% of setpoint under full 15 kg load, verified per ISO 5725-2 repeatability guidelines.
Are replacement platforms or mounting hardware available separately?
Yes—accessories including anodized aluminum trays, polymer locating pins, and anti-slip surface kits are stocked with individual order numbers for traceability and procurement compliance.
Does LAUDA provide IQ/OQ documentation support?
Standard factory test reports are included; site-specific Installation and Operational Qualification protocols can be developed in collaboration with certified third-party validation partners.
