MKN HY-B2 Digital Orbital Shaker

Overview

The MKN HY-B2 Digital Orbital Shaker is an engineered platform for consistent, low-shear mixing of liquid-phase biological and biochemical samples in standard laboratory vessels. It operates on the principle of orbital motion—where the platform rotates in a horizontal circular path with a fixed 20 mm diameter orbit—generating gentle yet effective homogenization without vortexing or splashing. This mechanism is particularly suited for cell culture suspension, enzyme assays, solubility testing, and reagent preparation where uniform agitation and minimal mechanical stress are critical. Designed for benchtop integration in academic teaching labs, QC microbiology units, and bioprocess development environments, the HY-B2 delivers stable rotational performance across its full speed range (0–320 rpm), with digital feedback ensuring repeatable setpoint accuracy and long-term operational consistency.

Key Features

• Digital speed control with real-time RPM readout: Enables precise replication of agitation conditions across experiments and shifts.
• Robust aluminum-alloy platform (420 × 420 mm) with reinforced edge retention and anti-slip rubber matting to prevent vessel displacement during extended runs.
• Adjustable spring-loaded universal clamps accommodate round-bottom flasks (50–2000 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks, test tubes, and multi-well plates—no tools required for reconfiguration.
• Programmable mechanical timer (0–120 minutes) with auto-shutdown function, supporting unattended operation while maintaining safety compliance.
• Low-noise brushless DC motor and balanced drive train ensure <52 dB(A) acoustic emission at maximum speed—compatible with shared lab spaces and quiet-zone facilities.
• Thermally stable chassis with ventilation grilles supports continuous operation within ambient temperatures from 0 to 40 °C and relative humidity up to 85% RH (non-condensing).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HY-B2 accommodates common life science consumables including borosilicate glass flasks, PETG culture bottles, polypropylene centrifuge tubes, and 96-well microplates (with optional adapter). Its orbital geometry ensures laminar fluid motion ideal for aerobic microbial growth, antibody-antigen incubation, and buffer equilibration—applications routinely referenced in ISO 8573-1 (compressed air purity), USP sterility testing support protocols, and ASTM D4097-22 (laboratory shaker performance verification). While not certified to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC) or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, the device’s analog timer and non-networked architecture permit straightforward validation under GLP/GMP Annex 11-aligned documentation frameworks. Users may implement manual audit trails for speed/timer settings per batch record requirements.

Software & Data Management

The HY-B2 operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument with no embedded firmware or connectivity interfaces. All operational parameters—including speed setpoint, timer duration, and power-on state—are manually configured via front-panel controls. This architecture eliminates cybersecurity risks associated with networked instruments and simplifies IQ/OQ validation. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, external data loggers (e.g., USB-connected thermohygrometers or RPM sensors) may be deployed in parallel to capture environmental and performance metadata. The absence of proprietary software reduces total cost of ownership and avoids license renewal cycles or version compatibility constraints.

Applications

• Maintenance of suspension mammalian and insect cell cultures in serum-free or low-serum media.
• Preparation of homogeneous bacterial inocula for MIC/MBC assays per CLSI M07-A11 guidelines.
• Extraction optimization for plant metabolites and nucleic acids using solvent-based lysis buffers.
• Standardization of ELISA plate coating steps through controlled antigen adsorption kinetics.
• Teaching laboratory demonstrations of microbial growth kinetics, enzyme kinetics (e.g., β-galactosidase hydrolysis), and diffusion-controlled reaction rates.
• QC release testing of liquid pharmaceutical intermediates requiring uniform particulate dispersion prior to filtration or filling.

FAQ

Is the HY-B2 suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?
No—the unit is rated for ambient lab environments only (0–40 °C, ≤85% RH). Incubator use requires specialized models with corrosion-resistant components and sealed electronics.
Can the platform accept custom fixtures for microcarrier-based bioreactor vessels?
Yes—its 420 × 420 mm surface allows mounting of user-fabricated brackets or third-party adapters compatible with 125–500 mL spinner flasks, provided total load remains ≤15 kg and center-of-gravity alignment is maintained.
Does the shaker meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards for hospital-grade labs?
It conforms to general-purpose EMC design practices but lacks formal IEC 61326-1 certification; verification testing is recommended prior to deployment in clinical diagnostic suites.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Inspect motor mount bolts and clamp springs quarterly; lubricate pivot points annually with silicone-based grease; replace the timer mechanism if timing drift exceeds ±30 seconds over 60 minutes.
Is calibration traceable to national standards available?
Speed calibration using a NIST-traceable tachometer is supported, and MKN provides a basic calibration certificate upon request (fee applies); full metrological certification requires third-party lab engagement.