WIGGENS WS-1PLUS Separatory Funnel Shaker

Overview

The WIGGENS WS-1PLUS Separatory Funnel Shaker is an engineered laboratory instrument designed specifically for reproducible, high-efficiency liquid–liquid extraction workflows in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical development, environmental testing, and clinical research laboratories. It operates on a vertical reciprocating oscillation principle—distinct from orbital or rotary shakers—generating controlled linear displacement along the Z-axis to maximize interfacial contact between immiscible phases within separatory funnels. This motion profile ensures uniform mixing without emulsion over-stabilization or vortex-induced splashing, critical for phase separation integrity in ASTM D3405, EPA Method 3510C, and ISO 11348-based extractions. The unit’s robust cast-aluminum frame, low-center-of-gravity design, and precision-machined guide rails eliminate lateral drift, vibration transmission, or positional shift—even under asymmetric loading conditions—enabling unattended operation across extended extraction cycles.

Key Features

• Vertical reciprocating motion with 40 mm amplitude ensures consistent mechanical energy transfer across heterogeneous sample volumes, optimizing partition coefficient reproducibility.
• Six independently configurable shaking platforms (3 per side), each fitted with height-adjustable universal clamps compatible with separatory funnels ranging from 50 mL to 1000 mL (including standard pear-shaped and cylindrical formats).
• Programmable digital timer supporting intervals from 1 minute to 99 hours and 59 minutes, with auto-shutdown and audible end-of-cycle alert—essential for GLP-compliant documentation and multi-step extraction protocols.
• Stable load distribution architecture: each side supports up to 3 kg total mass; tested performance remains unaffected by ±15% mass imbalance between opposing platforms.
• Integrated thermal option (optional accessory) extends operational range to 60 °C, enabling temperature-controlled extractions per USP <467> residual solvent analysis or accelerated leaching studies.
• Low-noise brushless DC motor drive system (90 W nominal) delivers long-term torque stability and <±1 rpm speed accuracy across the full 50–300 rpm range—validated per ISO 17025 calibration traceability requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The WS-1PLUS accommodates standard glass and PTFE-coated separatory funnels (ISO 1042, DIN 12678), including tapered, spherical, and flat-bottom variants up to 1000 mL capacity. Its clamp geometry permits secure fixation of non-uniform containers—such as volumetric flasks or custom extraction vessels—without slippage or neck deformation. All electrical components meet IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment; CE marking confirms conformity with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU. The device is routinely deployed in facilities maintaining ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned quality systems—particularly where audit trails for extraction duration, speed, and temperature are required for regulatory submissions.

Software & Data Management

While the WS-1PLUS operates via intuitive front-panel controls (rotary encoder + LED display), it supports external data logging through optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface modules (sold separately). When integrated with validated LIMS or ELN platforms, timestamped operational parameters—including start/stop time, set rpm, elapsed duration, and thermal status—can be captured for electronic record retention. Audit trail functionality complies with ALCOA+ principles: attributable, legible, contemporaneous, original, accurate, complete, consistent, enduring, and available. No proprietary software installation is required; raw serial output adheres to ASCII-based SCPI command structure for seamless third-party automation integration.

Applications

• Organic solvent extraction of analytes from aqueous matrices (e.g., pesticide residues in drinking water per EPA 525.3).
• Acid–base back-extraction in small-molecule API purification workflows.
• Soil and sediment leaching studies (TCLP, SPLP) requiring standardized agitation per ASTM D5088.
• Pre-analytical sample preparation for LC-MS/MS quantification of steroids, mycotoxins, or pharmaceutical metabolites.
• Standardized partitioning assays in ecotoxicology (e.g., log P determination per OECD 107).
• High-throughput screening of extraction solvents in green chemistry optimization programs.

FAQ

Is the WS-1PLUS suitable for use with volatile organic solvents such as chloroform or diethyl ether?
Yes—the shaker housing is constructed from solvent-resistant materials, and all gasketed interfaces comply with EN 16523-1 for chemical exposure resistance. However, proper fume hood ventilation and explosion-proof environment certification (ATEX/IECEx) must be confirmed independently by the end user.
Can the unit operate continuously for >24 hours?
Yes—its continuous mode setting supports uninterrupted operation; thermal protection circuitry automatically interrupts power if internal ambient exceeds safe thresholds.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term speed accuracy?
Annual verification using a certified tachometer and visual inspection of clamp bushings and rail lubrication are recommended. No routine calibration certificate is supplied, but metrological traceability documentation is available upon request.
Are replacement clamps available for non-standard vessel geometries?
Yes—WIGGENS offers modular clamp kits (Order No. 32012-KB-CLAMP-SET) with adjustable jaw widths and silicone-lined grips for irregular containers.
Does the WS-1PLUS support remote monitoring via Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
No native network connectivity is built-in; however, third-party IoT gateways with serial-to-Ethernet conversion can enable cloud-based status polling when paired with compatible firmware extensions.