TAITEC CS-LR High-Humidity Resistant Incubator-Compatible Reciprocal/Rotary Shaker

Overview

The TAITEC CS-LR is an engineered high-humidity resistant shaker specifically designed for integration within controlled environmental chambers—most notably CO₂ incubators and plant growth chambers—where sustained operation under ambient humidity levels up to 95% RH is essential. Unlike conventional shakers, the CS-LR employs a thermally optimized motor architecture and low-power drive electronics to minimize heat dissipation, thereby preserving chamber integrity and avoiding localized thermal gradients that could compromise sensitive mammalian or plant cell cultures. Its operational principle combines precision-controlled electromagnetic actuation with mechanical isolation to deliver stable, repeatable motion across two distinct shaking modes: reciprocal (linear oscillation) and rotary (circular orbit). This dual-mode capability enables adaptation to diverse vessel geometries—from flat-bottomed culture dishes and multiwell plates to conical Erlenmeyer flasks—without requiring hardware reconfiguration. The device operates without internal fans or venting, eliminating airflow-induced desiccation of samples and ensuring compatibility with humidified, CO₂-balanced atmospheres required for long-term cell expansion.

Key Features

• High-humidity resilience: Certified for continuous operation at ≤95% RH ±5%, validated per IEC 60068-2-30 (damp heat, cyclic) test conditions.
• Dual-mode shaking: Switch between reciprocal (ideal for adherent cell culture in dishes or plates) and rotary (optimized for suspension cultures in flasks) via integrated mechanical toggle bar.
• Thermally neutral design: Generates <0.8 W of excess heat during operation—measured at 200 rpm, 25 mm amplitude—ensuring minimal impact on chamber temperature uniformity.
• Magnetic external controller: Mountable on incubator doors for real-time status monitoring (speed, mode, timer) without opening the chamber, reducing contamination risk and CO₂ loss.
• Antimicrobial platform: SUS304 stainless steel body with KENIFINE™ surface treatment (Kobe Steel Ltd. registered trademark), providing documented efficacy against bacteria, mold, algae, and enveloped viruses per JIS Z 2801 and ISO 22196.
• Precise low-speed control: Smooth acceleration/deceleration profile maintains stability down to 15 rpm, critical for delicate primary cell lines and organoid differentiation protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CS-LR accommodates standard life science consumables including 6–24-well plates (up to four simultaneously), 100–500 mL Erlenmeyer flasks (configured via optional clamps CF-0100 through CF-0500), 15 mL centrifuge tubes (using MR-2030 rack), and custom trays (WR-3636LR). All optional racks—including double-layer WR-2030 and large-format WR-3636LR—are constructed from autoclavable polypropylene or anodized aluminum, compliant with ISO 13485 cleanroom handling requirements. The system meets electrical safety standards IEC 61010-1 (Laboratory Equipment) and EMC directive 2014/30/EU. While not intrinsically rated for Class II biological safety cabinets, its sealed construction and absence of internal air pathways permit safe use inside ISO Class 5–7 laminar flow environments when installed on vibration-damped supports.

Software & Data Management

The CS-LR operates as a standalone analog/digital hybrid instrument with no embedded firmware or network interface. Speed, mode, and timer settings are adjusted manually via front-panel controls; all parameters are displayed on a 4-digit LED readout. For laboratories requiring auditability, the magnetic controller (sold separately) provides visual indication only—no data logging. To support GLP/GMP workflows, users may integrate the CS-LR into validated environmental monitoring systems via external programmable logic controllers (PLCs) using its dry-contact relay output (available upon request). Optional accessories—including ST-2030 silicone adhesive sheets and MT-2030 universal racks—are supplied with lot-specific CoA documentation traceable to TAITEC’s Japanese manufacturing facility (ISO 9001:2015 certified).

Applications

• Mammalian cell culture in CO₂ incubators: Maintains consistent oxygenation and nutrient homogenization for HEK293, CHO, and iPSC lines without disrupting pH or humidity setpoints.
• Plant tissue culture under elevated humidity: Supports callus induction and shoot proliferation in growth chambers where condensation-prone surfaces would otherwise impair conventional shakers.
• Microbial fermentation screening: Enables parallel agitation of multiple flask formats under controlled temperature/humidity for yeast, bacterial, and filamentous fungal strains.
• Antibody production and protein expression: Facilitates scalable shake-flask bioreactor runs compatible with downstream purification validation (USP , EP 2.6.1).
• Staining and hybridization protocols: Used with WR-2030 double racks for simultaneous processing of mini-gels or membrane blots under humidified conditions to prevent drying artifacts.

FAQ

Can the CS-LR be used inside a standard CO₂ incubator without modification?
Yes—the unit is explicitly engineered for direct placement inside CO₂ incubators. Its sealed enclosure, stainless steel housing, and KENIFINE™-coated platform resist corrosion and microbial colonization under 5–10% CO₂, 37°C, and >90% RH conditions.
Is the 25 mm amplitude adjustable?
The factory default amplitude is 25 mm. A 20 mm setting is available upon special request and requires mechanical recalibration by authorized TAITEC service personnel.
What is the maximum load when using the WR-3636LR large rack?
The WR-3636LR replaces the standard platform and supports loads up to 2.5 kg at ≤300 rpm. Total system loading—including rack, vessels, and medium—must remain within the shaker’s 3 kg limit.
Does the CS-LR comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?
No—the device lacks electronic data capture, user authentication, or audit trail functionality. It is intended for research-use-only (RUO) applications unless integrated into a validated third-party data acquisition system.
Are replacement KENIFINE™-coated platforms available as spare parts?
Yes—SUS304 platforms with certified KENIFINE™ coating (Lot ID traceable) are available under part number CS-LR-PLT-KF. Re-coating services are not offered; end users must replace the entire platform assembly.