Zuofei ZRT-20 3D Orbital-Shaking Mixer
| Brand | Zuofei |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic (China-Made) |
| Model | ZRT-20 |
| Price | USD 490 (approx.) |
| Speed | 20 rpm |
| Operation Mode | Continuous |
| Motion Type | 3D Orbital + Rocking Arm |
| Housing Material | Flame-Retardant ABS |
| Amplitude | 50 mm |
| Speed Indication | Analog Scale |
Overview
The Zuofei ZRT-20 3D Orbital-Shaking Mixer is an engineered solution for low-shear, high-uniformity sample homogenization in life science and clinical laboratory workflows. Unlike conventional vortex mixers or linear shakers, the ZRT-20 employs a dual-motion architecture: a primary orbital platform rotating in a horizontal plane combined with a secondary rocking arm that introduces controlled angular oscillation. This synergistic 3D motion generates gentle yet thorough fluid displacement—ideal for delicate biological samples such as serum, plasma, antibody solutions, and pre-stained gels where foam formation, shear-induced denaturation, or tube ejection must be avoided. Its fixed 20 rpm rotational speed and consistent 50 mm amplitude ensure reproducible mixing kinetics across batches, supporting standardized protocols in Western blotting, ELISA plate preparation, staining procedures, and reagent resuspension prior to centrifugation.
Key Features
- Dual-axis 3D motion mechanism: Orbital rotation + synchronized rocking arm delivers uniform agitation without splashing or foaming.
- Flame-retardant ABS housing: Complies with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating; chemically resistant and easy to decontaminate.
- Ergonomic rubberized tray with precision-molded wells: Securely holds up to 60 × 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes, 30 × 3 mL tubes, or 21 × 15 mL conical tubes—no clamps or adapters required.
- Fixed-speed operation at 20 rpm: Eliminates variability from manual speed adjustment; optimized for low-viscosity aqueous buffers and protein-containing solutions.
- Low-vibration, ultra-quiet drive system: Operates below 45 dB(A), enabling use inside refrigerated cabinets (4–8 °C) or laminar flow hoods without acoustic interference.
- Analog speed scale: Provides immediate visual confirmation of operational status; no electronics or firmware dependencies enhance long-term reliability.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZRT-20 is validated for routine use with standard polypropylene and glass tubes (1.5–15 mL), including evacuated serum separator tubes (SSTs) and EDTA plasma collection tubes. Its gentle motion profile meets ISO 15197:2013 requirements for sample homogeneity prior to clinical analyte measurement. While not certified under FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its mechanical-only design supports GLP-compliant environments where audit trails are maintained manually. The unit conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for laboratory equipment and carries CE marking per EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD).
Software & Data Management
The ZRT-20 operates without embedded software, firmware, or connectivity interfaces—making it inherently compatible with regulated environments requiring minimal validation burden. No data logging, USB ports, or network capabilities are present. All operational parameters (speed, motion pattern, duration) are defined by physical design and user-controlled runtime via external timers. This analog architecture ensures zero risk of software obsolescence, cybersecurity exposure, or electronic drift—critical for QC labs maintaining legacy SOPs or operating under strict change control policies.
Applications
- Pre-electrophoresis mixing of protein ladders and loading buffers for SDS-PAGE and Western blotting.
- Homogenization of immunoassay reagents and conjugate dilutions prior to plate coating.
- Gentle resuspension of lyophilized antibodies, enzymes, or cell pellets without air entrapment.
- Uniform dispersion of dyes and stains in histology and cytology workflows.
- Stabilization of low-volume diagnostic samples during cold-chain transport preparation (e.g., aliquoting into cryovials at 4 °C).
- QC verification of reagent batch consistency prior to release in manufacturing settings compliant with ISO 13485.
FAQ
Is the ZRT-20 suitable for use inside a cold room or refrigerator?
Yes—the low-noise motor and absence of heat-generating electronics allow safe, continuous operation at temperatures ranging from 4 °C to 30 °C.
Can the mixing tray be autoclaved?
No. The rubberized tray is not autoclavable; however, it is compatible with 70% ethanol, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite, and isopropanol for surface decontamination.
Does the device support variable speed control?
No. The ZRT-20 operates exclusively at 20 rpm—a fixed speed selected to maximize mixing efficiency while minimizing shear stress on biomolecules.
What is the maximum load capacity of the tray?
The tray supports up to 1.2 kg distributed load when fully populated with 15 mL conical tubes; dynamic balance remains stable across all supported tube configurations.
Is calibration required or recommended?
No periodic calibration is needed. As a mechanically driven, non-feedback device, performance stability is inherent to its geartrain and bearing assembly—verified during factory testing per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures.
