P16 Orbital Shaking Platform

Overview

The P16 Orbital Shaking Platform is a precision-engineered laboratory shaker designed for consistent, low-shear orbital motion across a wide range of biological, chemical, and pharmaceutical applications. Utilizing a robust eccentric drive mechanism, the platform delivers smooth, uniform circular motion with a fixed 20 mm orbital diameter—optimized to promote efficient oxygen transfer, suspension homogeneity, and gentle cell culture agitation without foaming or shear-induced stress. Unlike reciprocating or vortex shakers, the P16 operates exclusively in orbital mode, ensuring reproducible mixing kinetics essential for standardized incubation protocols, microbial growth studies, and reagent preparation under controlled environmental conditions.

Key Features

• Stable orbital motion with 20 mm nominal throw diameter, engineered for minimal vibration transmission to adjacent equipment
• Digital speed control (30–300 rpm) with ±1 rpm repeatability and real-time LED display for precise parameter monitoring
• AC synchronous motor with thermal overload protection and brushless design for extended service life and low maintenance
• Platform surface constructed from anodized aluminum alloy—chemically resistant, non-magnetic, and compatible with standard clamps, flask holders, and microplate adapters
• Integrated leveling feet and anti-slip silicone mat ensure secure placement on benchtops; optional locking casters available for mobile lab configurations
• Compliance-ready design supports integration into GLP- and GMP-regulated workflows via optional external data logging interfaces

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The P16 accommodates diverse vessel formats—including Erlenmeyer flasks (50 mL to 5 L), test tubes, Petri dishes, deep-well microplates (96- and 384-well), and custom jigs—without requiring platform modification. Its open-frame architecture permits unobstructed access for temperature-controlled chamber integration (e.g., incubator-compatible operation between 4 °C and 60 °C when used with certified environmental enclosures). The unit conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment). While not classified as a medical device, its performance characteristics align with common validation benchmarks referenced in ASTM D7363 (Standard Practice for Evaluation of Shaker Performance) and ISO 20417 (General Requirements for In Vitro Diagnostic Devices), supporting audit readiness in regulated quality control laboratories.

Software & Data Management

The P16 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded firmware or proprietary software dependency—ensuring long-term operational continuity and compatibility with legacy lab infrastructure. All operational parameters (speed, run time, start/stop status) are locally displayed and manually set; for traceability-critical environments, users may integrate third-party data acquisition systems via analog 0–10 V output (optional accessory) or digital RS-232 interface (available upon request). When deployed in FDA-regulated settings, the platform supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through external electronic lab notebook (ELN) platforms that capture timestamped operator entries, change logs, and audit trails—provided the ELN vendor validates the input channel and maintains appropriate access controls.

Applications

• Maintenance of aerobic bacterial and yeast cultures in shake flasks for bioprocess development
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing using broth microdilution methods per CLSI M07 guidelines
• Suspension of mammalian cells during transfection or passaging protocols requiring low-shear agitation
• Homogenization of immunoassay reagents, antibody conjugates, and nanoparticle dispersions prior to characterization
• Accelerated stability testing of liquid formulations under agitated storage conditions (ICH Q5C)
• Preparation of calibration standards and QC reference materials across clinical chemistry and environmental testing labs

FAQ

Is the P16 suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?
Yes—when paired with an optional incubator-rated power cable and mounted on a compatible vibration-isolated shelf, the P16 has been validated for continuous operation at 37 °C and 5% CO₂. Ambient humidity must remain below 80% RH non-condensing.

Can the platform be calibrated for speed accuracy?
Yes. Speed verification follows ASTM D7363 Section 6.2 using a certified handheld tachometer. A calibration certificate (traceable to NPL UK) is available upon request for IQ/OQ documentation packages.

Does the P16 support programmable ramping or multi-step protocols?
No—the P16 is a single-parameter, continuous-run device. For gradient or timed-sequence shaking, integration with external programmable controllers or PLC-based lab automation systems is required.

What safety certifications does the unit carry?
It bears CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), and complies with BS EN 61010-1:2010+A1:2013 for laboratory equipment safety.