OHAUS e-E51LD0403 ZH High-Speed Orbital Shaker

Overview

The OHAUS e-E51LD0403 ZH High-Speed Orbital Shaker is an engineered platform for precise, reproducible orbital mixing in life science and bioengineering laboratories. Utilizing a controlled circular motion with a fixed 3 mm orbit diameter, the shaker generates uniform shear forces ideal for suspension culture, reagent homogenization, and surface-bound assay protocols such as ELISA and immunoblotting. Its triple-eccentric-axis balanced drive system—paired with a brushless DC motor—ensures mechanical stability across the full operational range (100–800 rpm), minimizing vibration transmission to adjacent instrumentation and supporting unattended operation over extended durations. Designed for compliance with laboratory space constraints, the compact footprint (420 mm × 262 mm) enables integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or multi-tiered bench setups without compromising load capacity (up to 4.0 kg, including three 1 L Erlenmeyer flasks). The unit operates on low-voltage 24 V DC power, enhancing electrical safety in humid or regulated environments.

Key Features

• Triple-eccentric-axis balanced drive mechanism delivering high mechanical stability and reduced resonance at elevated speeds
• Brushless DC motor ensuring consistent torque output, extended service life, and minimal electromagnetic interference
• Backlit LCD display showing real-time speed and timer values simultaneously—enabling immediate parameter verification during protocol execution
• Microprocessor-controlled soft-start function that ramps speed gradually to prevent splashing or sample loss in low-viscosity cultures or dilute solutions
• Anodized aerospace-grade aluminum platform offering corrosion resistance, non-porous surface integrity, and ease of decontamination between runs
• IP21-rated enclosure providing protection against vertically falling drips and solid objects ≥12.5 mm—suitable for general laboratory use under non-harsh ambient conditions
• RS232 serial interface supporting bidirectional communication for external logging, remote control, and integration into automated lab workflows
• Integrated acoustic and visual alarm signaling end-of-timer or fault conditions (e.g., overload, motor stall, or thermal cutoff)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The e-E51LD0403 ZH accommodates a broad range of vessel configurations through its standardized clamping tray—compatible with universal flask holders, tube racks, and optional flat platforms. It supports routine applications involving microbial growth (E. coli, yeast), mammalian cell suspension cultures, antigen-antibody binding kinetics, nucleic acid hybridization, and staining/de-staining steps in Western and Southern blotting. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 out-of-the-box, its deterministic timer resolution (1-minute minimum increment), traceable speed calibration (±2% above 100 rpm), and audit-ready RS232 data export enable alignment with GLP/GMP documentation requirements when deployed within validated SOPs. The absence of AC mains voltage at the platform level further supports compliance with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment.

Software & Data Management

The built-in RS232 interface permits direct connection to PCs or centralized lab management systems for time-stamped parameter logging, firmware updates, and script-based scheduling. No proprietary software is required: standard terminal emulators (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term) can initiate commands such as “START”, “STOP”, “SET SPEED=550”, or “QUERY TIMER”. All communications adhere to ASCII-based command-response protocol with carriage-return line termination, facilitating integration with Python, LabVIEW, or custom SCADA environments. Audit trails—including start/stop timestamps, speed deviations, and error codes—are exportable as CSV files for regulatory review. Firmware retains user-defined settings across power cycles, eliminating reconfiguration between experiments.

Applications

• Molecular biology: Plasmid amplification, restriction digestion mixing, PCR plate agitation prior to thermocycling
• Cell culture: Suspension maintenance of insect or CHO cells in serum-free media; gentle resuspension of adherent cells post-trypsinization
• Clinical diagnostics: Uniform coating of microtiter plates in ELISA development; antigen immobilization consistency verification
• Protein biochemistry: Solubilization of inclusion bodies, ligand-binding equilibration in SPR sample prep, dialysis buffer exchange agitation
• Environmental & food testing: Homogenization of waterborne pathogen samples, extraction efficiency optimization for mycotoxin assays
• Quality control: Stability testing of liquid formulations under accelerated mixing stress (per USP and guidance)

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity for unevenly distributed vessels, such as a single 2 L flask?
The rated 4.0 kg capacity assumes balanced loading. For asymmetric configurations, center-of-mass displacement must remain within ±15 mm of the platform’s geometric center to maintain stability and avoid premature motor shutdown.
Does the shaker support programmable multi-step protocols (e.g., ramping speed during incubation)?
No—this model implements single-setpoint timing only. Multi-stage profiles require external controller integration via RS232 scripting.
Is the aluminum platform autoclavable?
No. Anodized aluminum is not compatible with steam sterilization. Surface decontamination should be performed using 70% ethanol, hydrogen peroxide vapor, or EPA-registered disinfectants per manufacturer guidelines.
Can the unit operate continuously for >24 hours?
Yes. Thermal management and brushless motor design permit uninterrupted operation up to 99 h 59 min—the maximum timer setting—provided ambient temperature remains ≤35°C and ventilation is unobstructed.
What certifications does the device hold for international shipment?
It carries TÜV certification per EN 61010-1:2010 and complies with RoHS 2011/65/EU. CE marking is not applied, as the 24 V DC input classifies it as a component-level device under EU directives.