Omni International THQ Digital Handheld/Desk-Top Dual-Mode Homogenizer
| Brand | OMNI International |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | THQ |
| Instrument Type | Probe-Type Rotor Homogenizer |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 23 × 23 × 78 mm |
| Sample Volume Range | 0.25–100 mL |
| Power | 40 W |
| Speed Range | 8,000–32,000 rpm (500 rpm increments) |
| Speed Accuracy & Repeatability | ±0.5% |
| Noise Level | <65 dB(A) |
| Certifications | CE |
Overview
The Omni International THQ Digital Handheld/Desk-Top Dual-Mode Homogenizer is an engineered solution for precise, reproducible mechanical homogenization in life science and pharmaceutical laboratories. Based on high-shear rotor-stator principle—where rapid rotation of a probe within a fixed sleeve generates intense hydrodynamic forces—the THQ delivers controlled disruption of biological matrices including soft and hard tissues, cultured cells, microbial pellets, and viscous suspensions. Its dual-mode design supports both handheld operation for flexibility during small-batch processing and stable desk-top mounting for extended or sequential sample preparation. The system’s core architecture integrates a maintenance-free, brushless DC motor with Whisper Quiet™ acoustic dampening technology, ensuring consistent torque delivery across variable sample viscosities and volumes without thermal drift or speed deviation.
Key Features
- Digital control interface with membrane keypad and LED display enables intuitive speed selection and real-time parameter monitoring.
- ±0.5% speed accuracy and repeatability—validated across the full 8,000–32,000 rpm range—ensures method transferability between operators and instruments.
- Compact footprint (23 × 23 × 78 mm) and lightweight construction facilitate integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, and shared instrumentation spaces.
- Interchangeable probe system supports rapid adaptation to diverse sample types: disposable Omni Tip plastic probes for low-risk applications; stainless-steel probes (5 mm, 7 mm, 10 mm diameters) for high-integrity or high-viscosity protocols; and hybrid composite probes for enhanced durability in abrasive or fibrous samples.
- CE-compliant electromagnetic compatibility and electrical safety performance align with IEC 61010-1 requirements for laboratory equipment used in research and quality control environments.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The THQ accommodates sample volumes from 0.25 mL to 100 mL using appropriately sized probes—enabling scalable workflow development from micro-scale lysate prep to bench-top emulsion formulation. Omni Tip probes (7 mm diameter, 110 mm length) are available in three configurations: flat-tip for soft tissue homogenization (e.g., liver, brain), serrated-tip for fibrous or calcified tissues (e.g., muscle, bone), and hybrid-tip with stainless-steel outer sheathing for extended service life in demanding applications. All stainless-steel probes are precision-machined from medical-grade 316 stainless steel and passivated per ASTM A967, supporting autoclaving (121°C, 20 min) and compatibility with common sterilants including hydrogen peroxide vapor and ethylene oxide. The system supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with validated probe traceability logs and operator-defined run parameters.
Software & Data Management
While the THQ operates as a standalone instrument without embedded software, its digital control architecture enables seamless integration into laboratory information management systems (LIMS) via external data logging tools. Each speed setting is stored in non-volatile memory, preserving user-defined protocols across power cycles. For audit-ready environments governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the THQ may be operated under SOP-controlled conditions where speed, duration, and probe type are manually recorded in electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or linked to barcode-scanned probe identifiers. Optional mounting brackets and vibration-dampening stands further support repeatable positioning—critical for inter-laboratory reproducibility studies referenced in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing workflows.
Applications
- Cell lysis and subcellular fractionation for proteomics and metabolomics sample prep
- Homogenization of plant and animal tissues prior to nucleic acid extraction or immunoassay analysis
- Preparation of stable oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions in formulation development
- Dispersion of nanoparticles and nanocomposites in polymer matrices
- Disruption of yeast and bacterial cultures for enzyme activity assays or plasmid isolation
- Pharmaceutical excipient blending and suspension stabilization during preformulation studies
FAQ
What probe sizes are compatible with the THQ homogenizer?
The THQ accepts stainless-steel probes with diameters of 5 mm, 7 mm, and 10 mm (lengths: 75–110 mm), as well as 7 mm-diameter Omni Tip disposable or reusable plastic probes.
Can Omni Tip probes be sterilized and reused?
Yes—Omni Tip probes are designed for either single-use or multi-cycle reuse following autoclaving (121°C, 20 min) or chemical sterilization with validated agents such as 70% ethanol or 0.5% sodium hypochlorite.
Is the THQ suitable for GMP-regulated environments?
The THQ meets essential electrical and mechanical safety standards (CE, IEC 61010-1); however, full GMP compliance requires documented IQ/OQ/PQ validation, probe calibration records, and integration into a controlled change management system.
How does the Whisper Quiet™ motor technology reduce operational noise?
Whisper Quiet™ employs precision-balanced rotor dynamics, optimized magnetic circuit geometry, and integrated acoustic insulation to limit airborne noise to <65 dB(A) at 1 m distance—reducing auditory fatigue in shared lab spaces.
What is the minimum sample volume the THQ can process reliably?
With the 5 mm stainless-steel probe, the THQ achieves effective homogenization down to 0.2 mL in low-viscosity aqueous buffers; optimal reproducibility is maintained above 0.25 mL across all probe configurations.
