VWR 3500 Orbital Shaker

Overview

The VWR 3500 Orbital Shaker is a precision-engineered benchtop laboratory shaker designed for consistent, low-shear mixing of biological and chemical samples in multi-vessel configurations. Operating on the principle of orbital motion—where the platform rotates in a horizontal circular path at a fixed radius—the instrument delivers uniform agitation ideal for cell culture maintenance, solubility studies, ELISA plate incubation, bacterial growth enhancement, and reagent homogenization. Unlike reciprocating or vortex shakers, the 3500’s orbital architecture minimizes foaming and shear stress on sensitive suspensions such as mammalian cell lines or protein solutions. Its robust aluminum-alloy chassis and brushless DC motor ensure long-term operational stability and minimal mechanical drift across extended run times. The unit is intended for ambient-temperature applications only and does not integrate heating or cooling modules.

Key Features

• Five independently configurable orbital platforms—each accommodating standard microplate formats (96-well, 384-well), flasks (up to 2 L), test tubes, or custom labware via adaptable clamps and holders.
• Precision-machined 0.75-inch (19 mm) orbit diameter ensures reproducible mixing kinetics across all platforms, supporting method transfer between labs and compliance with standardized protocols.
• Brushless DC motor drive delivers silent, maintenance-free operation with high torque consistency over time—critical for GLP-compliant routine testing environments.
• Non-programmable analog interface with intuitive rotary speed control and tactile on/off switch; designed for simplicity, reliability, and ease of validation in regulated workflows.
• UL/CSA-certified electrical architecture with reinforced grounding and thermal cutoff protection—fully compliant with IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment safety.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VWR 3500 supports broad sample compatibility across life science and quality control laboratories. It accommodates polypropylene, polystyrene, borosilicate glass, and stainless-steel vessels without risk of resonance-induced breakage. Common use cases include suspension cultures of CHO or HEK293 cells, microbial broth enrichment (e.g., E. coli, S. cerevisiae), antigen-antibody incubations, and buffer equilibration prior to HPLC or mass spectrometry analysis. While the shaker itself lacks integrated temperature control, it is routinely deployed inside environmental chambers or cold rooms where external thermal regulation is maintained per ISO 17025 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned SOPs. All mechanical components meet RoHS and REACH material restrictions, and documentation packages support audit readiness for GMP, GLP, and CAP-accredited facilities.

Software & Data Management

As a non-digital, analog-controlled instrument, the VWR 3500 does not feature embedded firmware, USB connectivity, or data logging capabilities. This design choice aligns with risk-based validation strategies in highly regulated settings—eliminating software qualification requirements under Annex 11 or FDA guidance. Operational parameters are manually set and verified using calibrated tachometers during IQ/OQ protocols. Users maintain full traceability through paper-based or LIMS-integrated run logs, where platform assignment, vessel type, duration, and operator ID are recorded per batch. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, the shaker integrates seamlessly with third-party environmental monitoring systems via dry-contact relay outputs (optional accessory).

Applications

• Cell culture expansion in T-flasks and spinner flasks under serum-free or low-serum conditions.
• High-throughput screening workflows involving 96- and 384-well microplates for drug discovery assays.
• Pre-analytical sample preparation for clinical diagnostics—including blood plasma separation, immunoassay plate washing, and nucleic acid extraction buffers.
• Quality assurance testing of raw materials and intermediates in pharmaceutical manufacturing (e.g., dissolution profile verification of excipient blends).
• Academic research in molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry where reproducibility across replicates is essential for statistical power.

FAQ

Is the VWR 3500 compatible with CO₂ incubators?
Yes—its compact footprint (W × D × H: 22.5 × 20.5 × 12.5 cm), passive cooling design, and absence of internal electronics allow safe placement inside standard humidified CO₂ incubators up to 40 °C ambient. Vessel condensation must be managed externally.
Can multiple platforms operate at different speeds simultaneously?
No—the five platforms are mechanically coupled and rotate at identical orbital frequency. Independent speed control requires separate units or higher-tier models (e.g., VWR 3750 Reciprocating Shaker).
What certifications does this model carry for international use?
The VWR 3500 carries CE marking (EU Directive 2014/30/EU EMC and 2014/35/EU LVD), UL 61010-1 (USA/Canada), and UKCA marking. Full Declaration of Conformity is provided with shipment.
Does VWR offer calibration services for this shaker?
Yes—VWR-certified field service engineers perform annual speed verification and mechanical alignment per ASTM E2500-13 guidelines. Calibration certificates include NIST-traceable tachometer reports and uncertainty budgets.
Are replacement platforms or custom clamps available?
Yes—VWR offers OEM-compatible accessories including PCR tube racks, deep-well plate holders, and magnetic stir-bar compatible inserts. Custom machining is available under NDA for OEM integration projects.