LAUDA Varioshake VS 8 OE Orbital Shaker
| Brand | LAUDA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | VS 8 OE |
| Instrument Type | Temperature-Controlled Orbital Shaker |
| Timer Range | 1 min – 99 h 59 min (or continuous operation) |
| Oscillation Frequency | 20–500 rpm (adjustable in 1.0 rpm increments) |
| Orbit Diameter | 10–32 mm |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 8 kg |
| Construction | Anodized aluminum platform, electrogalvanized steel housing |
| Optional Interface | RS232 |
Overview
The LAUDA Varioshake VS 8 OE is a precision-engineered temperature-controlled orbital shaker designed for reproducible, low-maintenance mixing and agitation of biological, biochemical, and microbiological samples in research, quality control, and production laboratories. Operating on the principle of controlled circular orbital motion—where the platform rotates around a fixed center point with defined amplitude—the VS 8 OE delivers uniform kinetic energy transfer across the entire sample volume. This motion minimizes shear stress on sensitive cell cultures while ensuring thorough homogenization of suspensions, dissolution of solids, or incubation-assisted reactions. Unlike reciprocating or linear shakers, orbital motion provides superior consistency in oxygen transfer and suspension stability, making it especially suitable for E. coli growth, yeast fermentation, ELISA plate washing, and protein expression workflows. The unit integrates a Peltier-based heating system capable of maintaining stable temperatures up to 70 °C, enabling simultaneous thermal regulation and mechanical agitation without external incubator dependency.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-controlled digital interface with dual LCD display showing both setpoint and real-time oscillation frequency (20–500 rpm), adjustable in precise 1.0 rpm increments
- Smooth, brushless DC motor drive ensures silent, vibration-damped operation with no maintenance required over extended service life
- Orbit diameter continuously adjustable from 10 mm to 32 mm via mechanical cam mechanism—optimized for diverse vessel types including flasks (50–2000 mL), microtiter plates, and test tubes
- Robust construction: anodized aluminum shaking platform resists corrosion and wear; electrogalvanized steel housing provides structural integrity and electromagnetic shielding
- Programmable timer with resolution down to 1 minute and maximum range of 99 hours 59 minutes—or selectable continuous mode for unattended overnight runs
- Optional RS232 serial interface supports remote parameter configuration and data logging when integrated into centralized lab automation systems
- Thermal performance certified per IEC 61000-4-3 for electromagnetic compatibility and compliant with EN 61326-1 for laboratory measurement equipment
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VS 8 OE accommodates standard laboratory vessels ranging from 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes to 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks, with optimal performance verified using ISO 8573-compliant air-handling configurations. Its orbital geometry ensures minimal cross-contamination risk during multi-vessel runs, supporting GLP-compliant documentation requirements. The device meets applicable sections of ISO/IEC 17025 for testing laboratories and is validated for routine use under USP Analytical Instrument Qualification protocols. While not intrinsically rated for hazardous environments, its sealed electronics and non-sparking motor design align with general-purpose biosafety level 1 and 2 (BSL-1/2) containment practices.
Software & Data Management
Although the VS 8 OE operates as a standalone instrument, its optional RS232 interface enables integration with third-party laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or custom Python/Node.js scripts for audit-trail generation. All parameter changes—including speed, time, and temperature—are timestamped and stored in volatile memory for session recall. When used in regulated environments, users may implement external validation tools to satisfy FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures, particularly where instrument settings are part of batch release documentation.
Applications
- Growth of aerobic bacterial and fungal cultures requiring consistent aeration and nutrient dispersion
- Enzyme kinetics assays involving temperature-dependent reaction monitoring
- Cell lysis optimization studies using detergent-based or mechanical disruption buffers
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing via broth microdilution methods (CLSI M07-A10)
- Immunoassay plate incubation and wash steps prior to detection readout
- Preparation of calibration standards for HPLC and mass spectrometry workflows
- Stability testing of biopharmaceutical formulations under accelerated thermal conditions
FAQ
What is the maximum load capacity for the VS 8 OE model?
The VS 8 OE is rated for a maximum platform load of 8 kg, evenly distributed across the shaking surface.
Does the unit support cooling functionality?
No—the VS 8 OE is a heating-only orbital shaker. For combined heating/cooling capability, consider the LAUDA Varioshake VS 15 R or VS 30 O models.
Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?
Yes—each unit ships with a factory-issued calibration certificate traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) standards, covering temperature accuracy (±0.3 °C at 37 °C) and rotational speed deviation (< ±1% of setpoint).
Can multiple VS 8 OE units be synchronized for parallel experiments?
Synchronization is not natively supported; however, external PLC control via RS232 allows coordinated start/stop and parameter alignment across networked units.
What safety certifications does the VS 8 OE hold?
It carries CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), and conforms to UL 61010-1:2012 Third Edition for electrical safety in laboratory equipment.
