ZHW ZWF-2104 Multi-Tier Reciprocating Incubator Shaker for Blood Bank Applications

Overview

The ZHW ZWF-2104 Multi-Tier Reciprocating Incubator Shaker is an engineered solution specifically developed for blood bank environments where precise temperature maintenance, gentle yet consistent agitation, and regulatory-compliant operation are non-negotiable. Designed around a vertical dual-chamber architecture with eight independently accessible stainless-steel shelves, the unit delivers high-density storage and uniform thermal distribution across all levels without compromising footprint efficiency. Its reciprocating orbital motion—driven by a brushless AC induction motor—ensures low-shear, laminar mixing ideal for suspended red blood cells, platelet concentrates, and plasma units in standard 200 mL blood bags. The system operates on a PID-controlled forced convection heating and auto-defrost refrigeration platform, maintaining stable setpoints from 4 °C to 60 °C with ≤±0.1 °C stability at physiological 37 °C and ≤±1.0 °C uniformity across the full chamber volume. Unlike general-purpose shakers, the ZWF-2104 integrates hardware-level safety interlocks, power-loss recovery logic, and parameter encryption—features aligned with ISO 13485–certified blood handling workflows and CLSI GP44-A4 guidelines for blood component agitation.

Key Features

• Eight-tier stainless steel shelving system optimized for 200 mL blood bag stacking (12 × 8 per shelf), enabling simultaneous processing of up to 96 units under identical thermal and mechanical conditions
• PID microprocessor controller with environmental scanning capability continuously monitors ambient drift and dynamically adjusts heating/cooling output to maintain target setpoint integrity
• Backlit LCD interface displays real-time values for temperature, speed, elapsed time, and remaining timer duration—fully visible through the tempered glass front window
• Parameter lockout function prevents unauthorized modification of critical operational settings during routine shifts or multi-user access scenarios
• Power-fail recovery mode automatically resumes pre-interruption settings—including speed, temperature, and remaining timer—upon AC restoration, eliminating manual reconfiguration
• Soft-start acceleration algorithm limits inertial shock to delicate biological suspensions, reducing hemolysis risk during initiation and deceleration phases
• Integrated overtemperature protection triggers audible/visual alarm and cuts power to both heating and drive circuits if sensor fault or thermal runaway is detected
• Electrostatically coated steel enclosure with ergonomic single-door access ensures durability, ease of cleaning, and compliance with blood bank hygiene protocols

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZWF-2104 accommodates standard blood collection systems including CPD-, CP2D-, and EDTA-anticoagulated whole blood, leukoreduced RBCs, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and cryoprecipitate units stored in PVC or polyolefin-based 200 mL blood bags. Its 60 mm stroke amplitude and 20–80 rpm speed range meet AABB Standard 5.12.3.1 for continuous gentle agitation of red blood cell suspensions during refrigerated storage. All internal surfaces conform to ISO 10993–5 cytotoxicity requirements, and the unit’s sealed refrigeration loop complies with IEC 61000-6-3 electromagnetic compatibility standards. While not FDA-cleared as a medical device, its design supports adherence to CAP-accredited blood bank SOPs and facilitates audit readiness for GLP/GMP-aligned quality systems.

Software & Data Management

The ZWF-2104 operates autonomously via embedded firmware with no external PC dependency. All operational parameters—including start time, target temperature, speed, and duration—are stored in non-volatile memory with timestamped logging of alarm events (e.g., door open, overtemp, motor stall). Optional RS-485 serial interface enables integration into centralized facility monitoring networks using Modbus RTU protocol for remote status polling. Though native data export is not supported, the unit’s deterministic behavior and hardware-based parameter retention satisfy traceability needs under ISO 17025 Clause 7.7 and support 21 CFR Part 11–aligned electronic record practices when paired with validated third-party SCADA platforms.

Applications

• Continuous agitation of refrigerated red blood cell units per AABB and WHO blood transfusion guidelines
• Temperature-controlled oscillation of platelet concentrates at 20–24 °C to preserve metabolic activity and aggregation capacity
• Stabilization of thawed fresh frozen plasma prior to issuance
• Incubation of blood culture bottles in clinical microbiology labs requiring controlled agitation and thermal consistency
• Support of ex vivo hematopoietic progenitor cell expansion protocols where low-shear suspension is required
• Validation studies for blood bag material compatibility under dynamic thermal stress conditions

FAQ

Is the ZWF-2104 compliant with AABB or EU Annex 1 requirements for blood component storage?
It meets core mechanical and thermal performance criteria referenced in AABB Standard 5.12.3.1 and EU Directive 2004/33/EC Annex I Section 2.2.1 for agitation devices—but final compliance depends on site-specific validation per your QMS.
Can the unit operate continuously at 4 °C with full load?
Yes. The auto-defrost refrigeration system and forced convection airflow ensure uninterrupted 4 °C operation across all eight shelves under maximum rated load (96 × 200 mL bags).
Does it support user-defined ramp profiles for temperature or speed?
No. The ZWF-2104 executes only fixed-setpoint operation; programmable ramps require external controllers or higher-tier models.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the drive mechanism?
The brushless AC motor requires no scheduled lubrication or carbon brush replacement. Annual verification of shelf leveling, door seal integrity, and temperature calibration is advised.
Is the interior chamber humidity-controlled?
No. This model does not include active humidification; relative humidity remains ambient and unregulated—consistent with standard blood bag storage practice.