ZiQi ZTM-2500A Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer
| Brand | ZiQi |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic (China-Made) |
| Model | ZTM-2500A |
| Instrument Type | Multi-Tube Vortex Shaker |
| Timer Range | 1 s – 9999 min |
| Oscillation Frequency | 500–2500 rpm |
| Amplitude | 4 mm |
| Temperature Control | Ambient Only |
| Platform Quantity | 1 |
Overview
The ZiQi ZTM-2500A Multi-Tube Vortex Mixer is an engineered benchtop shaker designed for high-throughput sample homogenization in molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical quality control laboratories. Utilizing orbital vortex motion—where the platform rotates eccentrically at controlled angular velocity—the instrument generates consistent, turbulent mixing across multiple tubes simultaneously without requiring tube inversion or manual agitation. Unlike single-tube vortexers, the ZTM-2500A accommodates up to 50 standard-format tubes per run (e.g., 1.5 mL, 2.0 mL, or 15 mL centrifuge tubes, depending on selected foam rack), significantly reducing hands-on time and inter-sample variability. Its brushless DC motor delivers stable rotational output across the full 500–2500 rpm range, with mechanical amplitude fixed at 4 mm to ensure reproducible shear energy transfer. The system operates exclusively at ambient temperature—making it suitable for temperature-sensitive applications where thermal drift must be avoided—and integrates a rigid aluminum-alloy chassis with vibration-damping feet for long-term operational stability.
Key Features
- High-capacity mixing: Supports simultaneous vortexing of up to 50 tubes using interchangeable, chemically resistant polyurethane foam racks (Φ10–Φ29 mm).
- Precision digital control: Microprocessor-driven interface with LED display showing real-time speed (rpm) and remaining timer duration.
- Four operational modes: Continuous, timed, intermittent (programmable on/off intervals), and momentary “pulse” mode for rapid endpoint mixing.
- Wide timer flexibility: Adjustable from 1 second to 9999 minutes (166.6 hours), enabling both short burst mixing and extended incubation-compatible protocols.
- Low-noise operation: Optimized motor-mounting and balanced platform design achieve acoustic emissions below 55 dB(A) at 2000 rpm—suitable for open-lab environments.
- Modular accessory ecosystem: Includes standard Φ12 mm foam rack and tray pad; optional racks support common tube formats including 15 mL and 50 mL conical centrifuge tubes.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZTM-2500A is validated for use with standard polypropylene, polycarbonate, and glass tubes ranging from 0.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes to 50 mL conical centrifuge vessels. All foam accessories comply with ISO 10993-5 (cytotoxicity) and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU for restricted substances. While the device itself does not incorporate active temperature regulation, its ambient-only operation aligns with CLSI EP17-A2 guidelines for stability testing under non-thermostatted conditions. The unit meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment and carries CE marking for EMC and LVD compliance. No internal data logging or audit trail functionality is provided; users requiring GLP/GMP traceability must integrate external timestamped documentation practices.
Software & Data Management
The ZTM-2500A operates via embedded firmware only—no PC connectivity, USB port, or proprietary software is included or supported. All parameter settings (speed, timer, mode selection) are retained in non-volatile memory across power cycles. For laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, manual logbook entry or integration with LIMS-based electronic lab notebooks is recommended to maintain procedural accountability. Firmware updates—when released—are delivered via manufacturer-issued service bulletins and require authorized technician intervention.
Applications
- Pre-PCR nucleic acid extraction workflows requiring uniform lysis buffer resuspension across multi-well plates or tube arrays.
- Immunoassay preparation: homogenizing antigen-antibody mixtures in ELISA strip wells or microtiter plate formats (when used with compatible adapter trays).
- Cell culture maintenance: gentle re-suspension of adherent cell pellets prior to passaging or cryopreservation.
- Pharmaceutical QC: dissolution testing support, excipient blending verification, and residual solvent homogenization in stability batches.
- Environmental microbiology: even dispersion of soil or water suspensions prior to serial dilution or membrane filtration.
FAQ
Does the ZTM-2500A support temperature-controlled mixing?
No. This model operates exclusively at ambient laboratory temperature and lacks integrated heating or cooling elements.
Can I use the ZTM-2500A with 50 mL conical tubes?
Yes—when equipped with the optional ZTM-F Φ29 mm foam rack, which is specifically designed to securely hold upright 50 mL conical centrifuge tubes.
What is the maximum load capacity of the oscillating platform?
The platform supports a total mass of up to 4.5 kg, inclusive of rack, tubes, and samples.
Is calibration required before first use?
No factory calibration certificate is supplied; however, users may verify rotational speed accuracy using a certified handheld tachometer per ASTM E2877-22 (Standard Practice for Verification of Rotational Speed Devices).
Are replacement foam racks available as consumables?
Yes—ZiQi supplies all listed rack variants (ZTM-A through ZTM-G) as standalone catalog items with documented lot traceability and shelf-life labeling.
