LAUDA Varioshake VS 8 B Bidirectional Platform Shaker

Overview

The LAUDA Varioshake VS 8 B is a precision-engineered bidirectional platform shaker designed for demanding life science and bioprocessing applications requiring uniform, low-vibration horizontal motion. Unlike orbital or reciprocating shakers, the VS 8 B employs a balanced dual-axis linear oscillation mechanism—generating consistent back-and-forth motion across a 20 mm amplitude—optimized for cell culture flasks, Petri dishes, microtiter plates, and sample tubes where minimal shear stress and maximal homogeneity are critical. Its compact footprint (350 × 355 × 160 mm) and robust electrogalvanized steel housing with powder coating ensure durability in shared lab environments, while the anodized aluminum platform delivers corrosion resistance and thermal stability under extended operation. The unit operates on a load-independent speed control architecture: motor torque compensation and integrated mass-balancing eliminate frequency drift—even at maximum 8 kg load—enabling uninterrupted 24/7 incubation-compatible shaking without manual recalibration.

Key Features

• Bidirectional linear oscillation with precisely controlled 20 mm amplitude—minimizes splashing and foam formation in sensitive biological suspensions.
• Dual-line LCD display showing both setpoint and real-time oscillation frequency (20–300 rpm), adjustable in 1.0 rpm increments for fine-tuned protocol reproducibility.
• Microprocessor-based control system with soft-start functionality to prevent abrupt acceleration, reducing mechanical wear and safeguarding delicate samples.
• Programmable timer spanning 1 minute to 99 hours and 59 minutes; continuous operation mode available for long-term assays.
• AC motor with integrated thermal overload protection and dynamic balancing system—ensures stable performance over extended duty cycles with negligible noise emission (<50 dB(A) at 1 m).
• RS-232 interface (optional) enables remote parameter setting, data logging, and integration into centralized laboratory automation systems compliant with GLP/GMP workflows.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VS 8 B accommodates standard labware including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), multi-well plates (6–96-well), Petri dishes, centrifuge tubes, and custom trays via interchangeable accessories (e.g., universal tray A000048, anti-slip mat A000041). Its flat, rigid platform supports even weight distribution—critical for high-density cell culture and enzymatic reaction kinetics studies. The device complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and meets essential safety requirements per EN 61010-1 for laboratory electrical equipment. While not intrinsically rated for use inside CO₂ incubators, its low heat dissipation (0.07 kW max) and absence of internal fans make it suitable for placement adjacent to or within temperature-controlled enclosures when external air circulation is maintained.

Software & Data Management

Although the VS 8 B operates as a standalone instrument, its optional RS-232 interface supports ASCII-based command protocols compatible with common lab data acquisition platforms (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, or custom Python scripts). Users can log timestamped frequency and timer status data, facilitating audit-ready documentation for ISO 17025-accredited labs or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned quality systems—provided external software implements electronic signatures and audit trails. Firmware updates are performed locally via serial connection; no cloud dependency or proprietary software installation is required.

Applications

• Mammalian and microbial suspension cell culture maintenance under non-invasive agitation conditions.
• Hybridization and washing steps in molecular biology workflows (e.g., Southern/Northern blotting, ELISA plate washing).
• Extraction efficiency optimization in analytical sample preparation (e.g., solid-phase extraction, protein solubilization).
• Stability testing of biopharmaceutical formulations under controlled mechanical stress.
• Environmental microbiology—uniform mixing of water or soil extracts prior to enumeration or PCR analysis.
• Materials science—dispersion homogenization of nanomaterials in aqueous or organic media.

FAQ

Is the VS 8 B suitable for use inside an incubator?
No—it is not rated for humid, high-CO₂, or elevated-temperature internal placement. However, its low thermal output permits safe operation in ambient-temperature incubator rooms.
Can the oscillation direction be reversed or adjusted?
The bidirectional motion is fixed and non-reversible by design; amplitude and frequency are the only user-adjustable parameters.
What is the expected service life under continuous operation?
With routine cleaning and avoidance of corrosive reagents, the motor and bearing assembly support ≥20,000 hours of continuous runtime, validated per LAUDA’s MTBF specifications.
Does the shaker meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?
The hardware itself does not provide electronic signatures or audit trails—but when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software implementing Part 11 controls, full compliance is achievable.
Are calibration certificates available?
Yes—NIST-traceable frequency and timer calibration reports can be ordered separately (certification code: CAL-VS8B-FREQ-TMR).