Thermo Scientific RT Basic Series Magnetic Stirrer
| Brand | Thermo Fisher |
|---|---|
| Origin | South Korea |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Product Origin | Imported |
| Model | RT Basic Series Magnetic Stirrers |
| Instrument Type | Magnetic Stirrer |
| Maximum Stirring Volume | 2 L / 4 L / 5 L |
| Speed Range | 150–2500 rpm |
| Temperature Control | None |
Overview
The Thermo Scientific RT Basic Series Magnetic Stirrer is an entry-level, high-reliability benchtop mixing device engineered for consistent, contactless agitation of liquid samples in research, quality control, and teaching laboratories. Operating on the principle of magnetic coupling—where a rotating permanent magnet or electromagnetic drive beneath the work surface induces synchronous rotation of a PTFE- or ceramic-coated stir bar immersed in the sample—the RT Basic delivers stable rotational torque across its full speed range without mechanical wear or seal degradation. Designed for routine mixing tasks where precise temperature regulation is not required, this stirrer prioritizes operational simplicity, footprint efficiency, and long-term mechanical stability. Its solid-state drive architecture eliminates brushes and gear trains, minimizing maintenance while ensuring high reproducibility in low-to-medium viscosity applications (<1000 mPa·s). The absence of integrated heating eliminates thermal drift concerns and simplifies compliance with non-thermal GLP workflows.
Key Features
- Three platform diameter options (120 mm, 170 mm, and 220 mm) to accommodate varying vessel sizes—from small beakers (50 mL) to large cylindrical containers (up to 5 L)—while maintaining optimal magnetic coupling efficiency.
- Wide speed range of 150–2500 rpm, digitally adjustable via intuitive rotary knob with LED speed indication; speed stability maintained within ±3% across load variations up to maximum rated volume.
- Compact, low-profile chassis (height < 80 mm) optimized for space-constrained lab benches; base constructed from reinforced ABS with chemical-resistant surface finish.
- Included dual anti-slip silicone pads (black and white) provide secure placement on smooth surfaces and dampen vibration transmission during high-speed operation.
- Brushless DC motor ensures silent, low-vibration performance and extended service life (>10,000 hours MTBF); no external cooling fan required.
- CE-marked and compliant with IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment; RoHS-compliant materials throughout.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RT Basic Series supports standard laboratory glassware including borosilicate beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks, and graduated cylinders. Stir bar compatibility includes standard oval, cross-shaped, and flea-style magnets (lengths 20–60 mm), with optimal performance observed using PTFE-encapsulated bars rated for continuous operation at ≥2500 rpm. The unit is suitable for aqueous, organic, and mildly corrosive solutions (pH 2–12); however, prolonged exposure to strong oxidizers (e.g., concentrated HNO₃, KMnO₄) or halogenated solvents is not recommended due to potential elastomer degradation in internal seals. While not certified for use in explosion-proof environments, the stirrer meets general-purpose safety requirements for non-hazardous laboratory zones under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited facilities. It does not incorporate features required for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance (e.g., electronic audit trail, user authentication), making it appropriate for non-GxP documentation contexts.
Software & Data Management
The RT Basic Series operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument with no embedded microprocessor, network interface, or data logging capability. All controls are manual and locally actuated—no software installation, firmware updates, or driver dependencies are required. This design eliminates cybersecurity risks associated with connected lab devices and ensures uninterrupted operation in environments where IT policy restricts USB or Ethernet connectivity. For laboratories requiring traceable operating parameters, external validation protocols (e.g., speed verification using optical tachometer, periodic calibration per ASTM E2500-13 Annex A3) are recommended and fully supported by Thermo Fisher’s global service network.
Applications
- Routine dissolution testing in pharmaceutical QC labs (e.g., USP dissolution apparatus auxiliary mixing).
- Preparation of buffer solutions, reagent dilutions, and culture media in molecular biology and microbiology workflows.
- Homogenization of suspensions prior to filtration or centrifugation in environmental and food testing labs.
- Supporting titration setups where gentle, continuous mixing improves endpoint detection reproducibility.
- Undergraduate teaching labs requiring robust, intuitive instrumentation for kinetics and equilibrium experiments.
FAQ
Does the RT Basic Series include a heating function?
No. This model is strictly a magnetic stirrer without integrated heating elements or temperature sensing capabilities.
Can it be used with stainless steel stir bars?
Not recommended. Stainless steel bars lack magnetic permeability sufficient for reliable coupling at higher speeds; only ferrite-core or rare-earth magnet-based stir bars should be used.
What is the maximum ambient operating temperature?
The unit is rated for continuous operation at ambient temperatures between 5 °C and 40 °C, relative humidity ≤80% non-condensing.
Is calibration documentation provided with the instrument?
A factory-verified speed calibration certificate is available upon request (optional add-on); routine user verification is supported via external tachometric measurement.
Are replacement stir bars and silicone pads available through Thermo Fisher?
Yes. Genuine Thermo Scientific stir bars (Cat. No. 888500xx) and accessory pads (Cat. No. 888501xx) are stocked globally and compatible across all RT Basic platform sizes.
