WH-3 Micro Vortex Mixer
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | WH-3 |
| Price | USD 65 |
| Dimensions | Φ140 × 140 mm |
| Mixing Frequency | 2800 rpm (fixed-speed operation) |
| Weight | 2.5 kg |
| Mixing Mode | Orbital vibration for powders and liquids |
| Compatibility | Standard test tubes, culture tubes, centrifuge tubes, Eppendorf tubes, small flasks, and beakers up to 50 mL |
Overview
The WH-3 Micro Vortex Mixer is a compact, fixed-speed orbital shaker engineered for rapid and reproducible homogenization of small-volume liquid and powder samples in life science, clinical diagnostics, and analytical chemistry laboratories. Operating on the principle of eccentric orbital motion—where the cup platform rotates at a fixed 2800 rpm around a central axis—the device generates controlled vortexing action without mechanical stirring or magnetic components. This eliminates electromagnetic interference, prevents sample contamination from stir bars or external agitation sources, and ensures compatibility with sensitive assays including radioimmunoassays (RIA), ELISA, nucleic acid extraction workflows, and reagent reconstitution protocols. Its robust aluminum alloy housing and low-power DC motor support continuous-duty operation in benchtop environments under ISO 15195-accredited laboratory conditions.
Key Features
- Fixed-frequency orbital mixing at 2800 rpm—optimized for high-efficiency vortex formation in tubes up to 50 mL capacity
- Compact footprint (Φ140 × 140 mm) and lightweight design (2.5 kg) for space-constrained workstations and portable use
- Non-magnetic, non-contact mixing mechanism—ideal for magnetic-sensitive applications and sterile workflows
- Dual-mode operational stability: supports both single-tube precision mixing and simultaneous multi-tube homogenization on the same platform
- Low power consumption (<15 W) with thermal protection circuitry to prevent motor overheating during extended use
- Ergonomic cup platform with silicone-coated surface for secure tube retention and vibration damping
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The WH-3 accommodates standard cylindrical containers including 0.5–50 mL polypropylene or glass test tubes, microcentrifuge tubes (1.5/2.0 mL), culture tubes, small Erlenmeyer flasks, and separatory funnels. It is routinely validated for use in CLIA-certified clinical labs and GLP-compliant research settings where traceability and process consistency are required. While not certified to IEC 61010-1 or UL 61010B as a standalone medical device, its electrical safety profile meets EN 61326-1 for laboratory measurement equipment. The absence of moving parts beyond the motor shaft and cup assembly ensures long-term mechanical reliability and minimal maintenance requirements.
Software & Data Management
As a manually operated analog device, the WH-3 does not incorporate embedded firmware, digital interfaces, or data logging capabilities. Its operation requires no software installation, network connectivity, or user authentication—making it inherently compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for systems that do not generate electronic records. For laboratories implementing electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or LIMS integration, manual entry of mixing parameters (e.g., duration, tube type, sample ID) is supported via standardized SOP templates aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation practices.
Applications
- Rapid resuspension of lyophilized reagents and cell pellets in molecular biology workflows
- Homogenization of viscous solutions such as antibiotic stock preparations (e.g., erythromycin staining solutions) and protein buffers
- Pre-analytical mixing prior to spectrophotometric, fluorometric, or immunoassay readouts
- Uniform dispersion of particulates in suspension-based quality control standards
- Supporting sample preparation steps in ISO 11843-1-based detection limit validation studies
- Benchtop auxiliary mixing during HPLC sample injection preparation and GC derivatization protocols
FAQ
Is the WH-3 suitable for mixing hazardous or volatile solvents?
Yes—its sealed motor housing and absence of sparking components make it appropriate for Class I, Division 2 environments per NEC Article 500 when used with compatible containers.
Can the mixing speed be adjusted?
No—the WH-3 operates exclusively at a fixed 2800 rpm; variable-speed models (e.g., WH-2) are available separately.
What is the maximum recommended tube diameter?
Tubes with outer diameters up to 16 mm are securely retained; larger vessels require optional adapter rings for stable vortex generation.
Does the device comply with CE marking requirements?
It meets EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU when supplied with an IEC 60320 C8 inlet and properly grounded AC adapter.
How often should maintenance be performed?
No scheduled maintenance is required; periodic inspection of cup platform adhesion and motor ventilation slots is recommended every 6 months under daily use conditions.
