Circular/Orbital Shakers

Laboratory Shakers Circular/Orbital Shakers

Circular and orbital shakers are used in laboratories, biotechnology, and research for the circular mixing of liquids, cell cultures, and suspensions. They are suitable for use on work surfaces as well as for installation in CO2 incubators and incubation chambers. Professional customers in pharma, diagnostics, and clinics use these devices for the reproducible cultivation and homogenization of temperature-sensitive samples.

Laboratory Shakers / Circular/Orbital Shakers

Circular and Orbital Shakers for Diverse Laboratory Applications

Circular and orbital shakers generate a circular motion, which is particularly suitable for the gentle mixing of cell cultures, suspensions, and liquids. This movement ensures uniform mixing without subjecting samples to strong mechanical stress. These shakers are used in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, microbiological diagnostics, and cell culture. They are available as benchtop units and for operation in CO2 incubators and incubation chambers.

Versions for Different Areas of Application

The range includes circular shakers for operation in CO2 incubators, where the control unit and power supply are placed outside the incubator. Furthermore, high-performance orbital shakers are available, designed for extreme environments with up to 100% humidity. Models with high capacity, such as 23 kg load, cover applications with larger sample throughput. Benchtop circular shakers with separate control units are flexibly suitable for incubators and incubation chambers. The devices differ in control, capacity, and suitability for climate-controlled environments.

Use in CO2 Incubators and High Humidity

Some circular and orbital shakers are specifically designed for use in CO2 incubators. The control unit is mounted outside the incubator to avoid affecting the temperature and atmosphere inside. Models for extreme environments with up to 100% relative humidity offer corrosion-resistant materials and sealed drives. These features are important for cell culture applications where controlled temperature, CO2 content, and humidity are critical.

Capacity and Loading

The orbital shakers offered cover different loading capacities. High-performance models offer capacities of up to 23 kg and allow for the simultaneous processing of multiple Erlenmeyer flasks, Petri dishes, or culture bottles. The usable area and maximum load must be adapted to the respective sample quantity and vessel size. Analogue and digital controls allow for precise setting of speed and shaking stroke.

Control and Operation

Circular and orbital shakers are available with analogue or digital control. Analogue devices offer simple, robust operation for standard applications. Digital models allow for exact speed setting, timer functions, and, in some cases, documentation of process parameters. The separate control unit on incubator models facilitates monitoring and adjustment without having to open the incubator. This reduces disturbances to culture conditions and increases reproducibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about Circular and Orbital Shakers

The following answers assist with the selection and use of circular and orbital shakers in the laboratory.

What are circular and orbital shakers used for in the laboratory?

Circular and orbital shakers generate a circular motion and are used for the gentle mixing of cell cultures, suspensions, and liquids. Typical applications include the cultivation of microorganisms, cell lines in Erlenmeyer flasks, Petri dishes, or culture bottles, as well as the homogenization of samples in pharmaceutical research and biotechnology.

Which orbital shaker is suitable for use in a CO2 incubator?

For operation in a CO2 incubator, models with a separate control unit and external power supply are suitable. This design prevents heat generation inside the incubator and allows for control from the outside. Some devices are also designed for high humidity up to 100% to work in a corrosion-resistant manner and not impair culture conditions.

What capacity should a high-performance orbital shaker have?

The capacity depends on the number and size of the vessels as well as the sample quantity. High-performance models offer loading capacities of up to 23 kg and are suitable for multiple Erlenmeyer flasks or larger culture bottles. For high throughputs and extensive test series, devices with a large usable area and high load capacity are preferred.

What distinguishes analogue and digital controls in orbital shakers?

Analogue controls are simple and robust but offer less precision and no documentation options. Digital controls allow for exact speed setting, timer functions, and, in some cases, the recording of process parameters. Digital models are useful for applications where reproducibility and traceability are important, such as in a GMP environment.

What accessories are useful for circular and orbital shakers?

Useful accessories include holders and racks for different vessel sizes, such as Erlenmeyer flasks, Petri dishes, or culture bottles. Spring clamps and test tube racks secure the samples during operation. For use in incubators, special corrosion-resistant inserts and covers can be useful to reduce contamination and evaporation.

How do I receive a quote or advice on circular and orbital shakers?

Quotes and advice can be requested via the laboratory equipment dealer. Relevant information for the request includes: area of application, vessel types and sizes, required loading capacity, use in incubators or under normal conditions, and the desired type of control. Professional advice helps to identify the suitable model for the specific need.

What should be considered during installation in a CO2 incubator?

During installation in a CO2 incubator, the control unit must be placed outside to avoid heat generation inside. The device should be suitable for high humidity and be corrosion-resistant. Cable routing must be done in such a way that the tightness of the incubator door is not impaired. Before commissioning, the stability of the installation surface should be checked to avoid vibrations and disturbances to the cultures.