MKN HZQ-2 Digital Full-Temperature Orbital Shaker

Overview

The MKN HZQ-2 Digital Full-Temperature Orbital Shaker is an engineered platform for precise, reproducible cultivation and suspension of biological samples under controlled thermal and mechanical conditions. Designed around the principles of orbital shaking—where a circular horizontal motion induces gentle yet effective mixing without excessive shear—it supports aerobic microbial growth, cell culture expansion, enzyme assays, solubility studies, and biochemical incubation protocols requiring simultaneous temperature regulation and agitation. Its integrated heating system, uniform airflow architecture, and robust stainless-steel chamber ensure stable thermal environments across the full operational range (5–50 °C), making it suitable for applications in microbiology, molecular biology, pharmacology, and agricultural research laboratories where consistency and traceability are essential.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-controlled digital interface with real-time LED display for simultaneous monitoring of speed, temperature, and timer settings
• Orbital shaking mechanism (26 mm amplitude) optimized for low-shear suspension of sensitive cells and microorganisms; optional reciprocating mode available upon configuration
• Forced-air circulation via brushless DC fan ensures ≤±0.5 °C temperature uniformity throughout the chamber volume
• High-efficiency 600 W heating element with PID-based thermal regulation enables rapid stabilization and minimal overshoot
• Stainless steel interior chamber and double-glazed insulated door minimize heat loss and support long-term operational stability
• Universal spring clamp system accommodates standard Erlenmeyer flasks (20 × 250 mL or 6 × 1000 mL); optional dedicated triangular flask fixtures available for enhanced rigidity
• Integrated interior lighting facilitates visual inspection of cultures without opening the chamber, reducing contamination risk and thermal disturbance

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HZQ-2 accommodates a broad range of vessel formats including glass and plastic flasks, test tubes, and multi-well plates (with appropriate adapter trays). Its load capacity of 25 kg supports high-throughput configurations while maintaining mechanical integrity at speeds up to 320 rpm. The unit complies with general electrical safety requirements per IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 or GLP-specific validation protocols out-of-the-box, its digital control log, non-volatile parameter storage, and stable thermal performance make it suitable for use in environments adhering to internal SOPs aligned with USP , ASTM E2500, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compatible data management workflows when paired with validated external software.

Software & Data Management

The HZQ-2 operates as a standalone instrument with embedded firmware supporting persistent parameter retention across power cycles. All setpoints—including speed, temperature, and timer—are stored in non-volatile memory. Though no proprietary PC software is bundled, the device’s analog/digital signal architecture allows integration into centralized lab monitoring systems via optional RS-232 or 4–20 mA output modules (available as accessories). For regulated environments, users may implement third-party electronic lab notebook (ELN) or LIMS interfaces to capture start/stop timestamps, setpoint history, and manual intervention logs—supporting audit trail requirements under GxP frameworks when combined with procedural controls.

Applications

• Microbial culture propagation (e.g., E. coli, yeast, actinomycetes) under defined aeration and thermal profiles
• Suspension cell line maintenance (CHO, HEK293) prior to transfection or bioreactor inoculation
• Enzyme kinetics assays requiring homogeneous mixing and constant temperature
• Soil extract preparation, antibiotic solubility testing, and dissolution rate studies in environmental and pharmaceutical labs
• Seed germination trials and plant tissue culture pre-incubation in agricultural research
• Standardized media preparation and reagent equilibration for downstream analytical workflows (HPLC, GC, ELISA)

FAQ

What is the maximum flask size supported without custom fixtures?
The standard spring clamp configuration supports up to six 1000 mL Erlenmeyer flasks or twenty 250 mL flasks. Larger vessels require mechanical reinforcement or optional rigid triangular flask holders.
Can the unit maintain temperature stability during extended overnight runs?
Yes—the polyurethane insulation, sealed chamber design, and PID-controlled heating system enable continuous operation at any setpoint between 5 °C and 50 °C with verified thermal uniformity over 16+ hour periods.
Is calibration documentation provided with shipment?
Factory calibration certificates for temperature and speed sensors are available upon request and may be included in the delivery package for quality assurance purposes.
Does the shaker meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards for shared lab environments?
The HZQ-2 conforms to EN 61326-1:2013 for laboratory equipment, ensuring minimal interference with adjacent instrumentation such as spectrophotometers, PCR cyclers, and analytical balances.
Can the timer function be disabled for continuous operation?
Yes—setting the timer to “0” disables automatic shutdown, enabling uninterrupted shaking until manually stopped or power interrupted.