Truelab Vortex-50 Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer

Overview

The Truelab Vortex-50 Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer is an engineered solution for high-throughput sample homogenization in clinical, pharmaceutical, and life science laboratories. Designed around the principle of orbital shaking with controlled eccentric motion, it generates consistent vortexing action across up to 50 sample vessels simultaneously—enabling reproducible mixing of reagents, cell suspensions, immunoassay plates, and extraction buffers without cross-contamination or manual intervention. Its core mechanism relies on a brushless DC motor coupled to a precision-machined aluminum alloy platform, delivering stable rotational oscillation at amplitudes of 4 mm and speeds ranging from 500 to 2500 rpm. Unlike single-tube vortexers, the Vortex-50 eliminates sequential processing bottlenecks while maintaining mechanical robustness and thermal stability during extended operation.

Key Features

• High-capacity platform supporting simultaneous vortex mixing of up to 50 tubes—optimized for batch processing in QC labs, biobanking, and diagnostic workflows.
• Digital LED interface with independent controls for speed (500–2500 ±50 rpm) and timer (1 second to 9999 minutes), enabling precise protocol replication.
• Two operational modes: momentary “touch” activation for quick checks and programmable timed runs for unattended operation—both accessible via front-panel buttons.
• Aluminum alloy housing ensures structural rigidity, electromagnetic compatibility, and long-term resistance to chemical exposure and mechanical wear.
• Standard inclusion of a 12 mm foam tube holder and removable tray pad; all optional fixtures (V50-A through V50-H) are interchangeable without tools and conform to ISO 8573-1 cleanliness standards for lab equipment surfaces.
• Low-noise design (<55 dB(A) at 1 m) achieved through balanced rotor dynamics and vibration-damping mountings—suitable for shared lab environments and laminar flow hoods.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Vortex-50 accommodates a broad range of standard laboratory vessels—including 0.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 15 mL conical tubes, 50 mL centrifuge tubes, and multi-well plate inserts—via its modular fixture system. Each foam insert is manufactured from non-shedding, autoclavable ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam compliant with USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The instrument meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for electrical equipment used in laboratory environments and carries CE marking under the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and EMC Directive (2014/30/EU). While not inherently GLP/GMP-certified, its digital logging capability (via optional RS-232/USB interface) supports audit-ready data capture aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when integrated into validated laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Software & Data Management

As a standalone benchtop device, the Vortex-50 operates without proprietary software. However, its digital controller stores last-used parameters (speed and time) across power cycles, reducing setup time between experiments. For integration into automated workflows, an optional serial communication module enables remote command execution (e.g., START, STOP, SET SPEED) and real-time status polling via ASCII protocol. This facilitates synchronization with robotic liquid handlers or ELN platforms. All parameter changes are timestamped internally, and event logs—including over-speed alerts and motor stall detection—can be exported for quality review. No cloud connectivity or firmware updates are required; calibration verification is performed using traceable tachometer measurements per ASTM E29-22 guidelines.

Applications

• Homogenization of DNA/RNA extraction lysates prior to column purification or bead-beating steps.
• Resuspension of lyophilized reagents and antibody conjugates in immunoassay development.
• Uniform dispersion of nanoparticles in suspension-based formulation studies.
• Pre-analytical mixing of whole blood samples for hematocrit stabilization before centrifugation.
• Batch-wise equilibration of calibration standards in environmental testing laboratories (e.g., EPA Method 525.3).
• Cell culture maintenance tasks including gentle dissociation of adherent monolayers in 6-well formats using compatible adapter plates.

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity of the Vortex-50 platform?
The unit supports a total mass of up to 5 kg across all mounted fixtures and tubes—verified under static and dynamic conditions per manufacturer specifications.

Can the Vortex-50 accommodate 50 mL centrifuge tubes?
Yes—using the V50-F fixture (3 × 5 configuration), which accepts tubes with outer diameters up to 29 mm and heights up to 118 mm.

Is the timer resolution adjustable in seconds or minutes?
The timer offers 1-second resolution across its full range (1 s to 9999 min), allowing both rapid pulse mixing and overnight incubation-style protocols.

Does the Vortex-50 require periodic calibration?
No routine recalibration is needed; however, users should verify rotational speed annually using a NIST-traceable handheld tachometer as part of preventive maintenance.

Are replacement foam fixtures available separately?
All V50-series fixtures (A–H) are sold as consumable accessories with lot-numbered packaging and material certification documentation upon request.