SHZ-82A Digital Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker

Overview

The SHZ-82A Digital Air-Bath Constant-Temperature Orbital Shaker is an engineered laboratory platform designed for precise, reproducible incubation of biological and chemical samples under controlled thermal and mechanical conditions. Unlike water-bath shakers, this air-bath system employs forced-air convection via a high-efficiency fan and PID-controlled heating element to achieve rapid temperature equilibration and stable setpoint maintenance across the entire working chamber. Its orbital motion—characterized by a 26 mm circular displacement—provides gentle yet effective mixing ideal for cell suspension cultures, microbial growth, enzyme assays, and biochemical reaction kinetics. The unit operates within a practical temperature range of ambient +5°C to 60°C with a uniformity of ±1.0°C, making it suitable for applications requiring moderate thermal control without condensation risk or liquid bath maintenance.

Key Features

• Digital dual-display interface showing real-time temperature and rotational speed (rpm), enabling simultaneous monitoring and independent adjustment.
• PID temperature regulation with over-temperature protection and automatic cut-off, ensuring operational safety and long-term stability.
• Brushless DC motor delivering smooth, low-vibration orbital motion from 20 to 300 rpm with consistent torque output across the full range.
• Aluminum alloy platform with non-slip rubber matting and universal clamping compatibility for flasks (50–2000 mL), test tubes, petri dishes, and microplates.
• Adjustable mechanical timer (1–120 minutes) with audible end-of-cycle alert; supports both intermittent and continuous operation modes.
• Compact footprint (approx. 450 × 400 × 280 mm) and lightweight construction (≈22 kg) facilitate integration into biosafety cabinets, cold rooms, or shared core facility benches.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SHZ-82A accommodates standard microbiological and molecular biology vessels including Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), culture tubes, deep-well plates, and custom sample holders secured via spring-loaded clamps or silicone inserts. Its air-bath design eliminates cross-contamination risks associated with water baths and supports ISO 13485-aligned workflows in quality-controlled environments. While not certified for GMP manufacturing use out-of-the-box, the instrument meets general laboratory equipment requirements per IEC 61010-1 (Safety of Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use). Temperature accuracy and repeatability are validated per ASTM E2925-21 (Standard Practice for Performance Verification of Constant-Temperature Shaking Incubators), supporting traceable calibration documentation upon request.

Software & Data Management

The SHZ-82A operates as a standalone benchtop device with no embedded data logging or PC connectivity. All parameter settings—including target temperature, speed, and timer duration—are retained in non-volatile memory after power cycling. For laboratories requiring audit trails or electronic records, external USB data loggers (e.g., HOBO UX100 series) can be mounted adjacent to the chamber to record ambient and internal temperature profiles. When deployed in GLP-compliant environments, users may implement manual logbooks aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles through controlled entry procedures and signature verification protocols.

Applications

• Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) testing per APHA Standard Methods 5210B, where consistent aeration and temperature drive microbial oxidation of organic matter.
• Maintenance of bacterial and yeast cultures during logarithmic-phase expansion prior to fermentation or transformation protocols.
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) involving broth microdilution assays requiring uniform suspension and thermal consistency.
• Plant tissue culture propagation, including callus induction and suspension cell line establishment under defined agitation regimes.
• Protein solubilization and antigen-antibody binding optimization in immunoassay development workflows.
• Environmental sample processing for soil slurry homogenization and waterborne pathogen enrichment prior to PCR or plating.

FAQ

Is the SHZ-82A suitable for sterile applications inside a laminar flow hood?
Yes—the unit’s air-bath architecture contains no open liquid reservoirs, and its front-access platform allows placement beneath HEPA-filtered airflow. Ensure external surfaces are wiped with 70% ethanol before insertion.
What is the maximum flask size supported on the single platform?
The platform accommodates one 2 L Erlenmeyer flask or up to four 500 mL flasks using optional multi-position clamps (sold separately).
Does the unit support external temperature probe input for chamber validation?
No—temperature sensing is internal only, using a calibrated NTC thermistor embedded near the platform surface. External probe integration requires third-party data acquisition systems.
Can the oscillation direction be switched between orbital and reciprocating?
No—the SHZ-82A is configured exclusively for orbital motion. Reciprocating (linear) shakers are designated under SHA-series models.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Inspect fan intake filters quarterly; clean with compressed air. Lubricate motor bearings annually per manufacturer guidelines. Calibrate temperature display biannually using a NIST-traceable reference thermometer.