Stuart SSL1 Standard Orbital Shaker

Overview

The Stuart SSL1 Standard Orbital Shaker is an engineered laboratory platform shaker designed for reproducible, low-vibration orbital mixing in life science and bioprocessing workflows. It operates on the principle of controlled circular motion—generating a consistent 16 mm orbit diameter—to ensure uniform suspension, aeration, and homogenisation of liquid cultures across a wide range of vessel configurations. Its robust brushless motor architecture delivers stable rotational output from 30 to 300 rpm with minimal mechanical drift, enabling precise control over oxygen transfer rates and shear-sensitive cell handling. The unit’s compact footprint (360 × 420 × 270 mm), low acoustic signature (<50 dB(A) at 1 m), and ambient temperature compatibility (+4 °C to 40 °C) make it suitable for integration into CO₂ incubators, cold rooms, and standard benchtop environments without compromising thermal or atmospheric stability.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-controlled speed regulation ensures long-term repeatability and minimal speed deviation (<±1 rpm under load)
• Digital timer with programmable range (1–999 minutes) and audible end-of-cycle alert; optional continuous operation mode
• Low-inertia drive system with soft-start functionality minimises sample disturbance during acceleration
• Modular stainless-steel platform with integrated anti-slip rubber matting and six adjustable, rubber-coated horizontal support rods
• Tool-free platform height and tilt adjustment enables rapid reconfiguration for vessels ranging from 25 mL test tubes to 2 L Erlenmeyer flasks
• CE-marked design compliant with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SSL1 accommodates diverse vessel geometries through its adaptable rod-based mounting system. Standard configuration supports up to twelve 250 mL conical flasks, eight 500 mL bottles, six 1 L flasks, or two 2 L vessels simultaneously—ensuring efficient space utilisation in incubator environments. Optional SSL1/1 extended platform (510 × 510 mm) expands capacity to thirty 250 mL flasks or four 2 L containers at reduced maximum speed (150 rpm), maintaining mechanical integrity under higher mass loads. All materials in contact with the platform—including rubber coatings and stainless-steel rods—meet USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The device operates within ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom-compatible ambient conditions and conforms to GLP documentation standards when paired with external audit-trail-capable data loggers.

Software & Data Management

While the SSL1 operates as a standalone instrument with embedded digital controls, its operational parameters—including set speed, elapsed time, and cycle status—are retained in non-volatile memory following power interruption. For laboratories requiring electronic record retention per FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the shaker may be integrated with third-party environmental monitoring systems via analog voltage output (0–10 V) or RS-232 serial interface (available on custom-configured units). Firmware updates are performed locally using proprietary Stuart service tools; no cloud connectivity or remote firmware deployment is implemented, preserving network isolation in regulated GMP environments.

Applications

• Mammalian and microbial cell culture aeration in CO₂ incubators and environmental chambers
• Preparation of bacterial inocula and yeast propagation media under controlled agitation
• Suspension-based assay development, including ELISA plate coating and antigen-antibody binding kinetics
• Buffer equilibration, reagent dissolution, and gentle particle resuspension in QC/QA laboratories
• Long-duration fermentation studies where consistent orbital kinetics impact metabolic profiling outcomes
• Compatibility with ASTM D2510-16 (Standard Test Method for Determining Oxygen Transfer Rate in Agitated Vessels) protocols

FAQ

Can the SSL1 be operated inside a CO₂ incubator?
Yes—the unit is rated for continuous operation at temperatures between +4 °C and 40 °C and relative humidity up to 80%, making it suitable for placement inside standard CO₂ incubators without condensation or thermal derating.
Is speed calibration traceable to national standards?
Stuart provides factory calibration certificates (traceable to UKAS-accredited standards) upon request; field recalibration is supported using handheld tachometers compliant with ISO 16063-11.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
No routine lubrication is necessary—the brushless DC motor and sealed bearing assembly are maintenance-free for ≥10,000 hours of operation under nominal load conditions.
Does the SSL1 meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for clinical labs?
Yes—it complies with EN 61326-1:2013 for EMC in laboratory environments, including immunity to electrostatic discharge (IEC 61000-4-2) and radiated RF fields (IEC 61000-4-3).