Despite their apparent simplicity, lab shakers are game-changers in countless experiments. These multipurpose tools are necessary for every well-equipped laboratory that blends, mixes and agitates chemicals, substances, samples, and cell cultures.
In addition to mixing, shaker lab equipment is ideal for oxygenating samples, culturing culture microorganisms, and dissolving liquids together. These shakers are usually used in areas like chemistry, genetics, microbiology, biotechnology, molecular biology, food and beverage testing, and cell cultures.
However, which lab shaker is best for you? In this article, we have discussed lab shakers in detail, including their components, uses, and types to help you pick the best one for you.
Three Crucial Components of a Lab Shaker
The effectiveness of lab shakers depends on these three components, that are:
· Shaking Platform
This is the tray on which the sample containers are placed for mixing and blending. The tool moves swiftly in a controlled motion that creates agitation.
· Drive System
A motor powers the shaking tool to start the mixing process. It can be manual, pneumatic, or electrical.
· Motion Control
This component controls the speed, motion, and amplitude of the lab shaker. This ensures that the final result is nothing short of perfection.
How Does a Lab Shaker Work?
A lab shaker produces consistent, controllable motion to mix, blend, or agitate samples. Its working principle differs depending on the type, guaranteeing accurate results for a range of laboratory applications. However, we have explained the basics of working on these lab shakers.
Step 1: Sample Preparation
The containers that have the samples are placed on the shaking platform.
Step 2: Platform Motion
Now, the drive system activates, and the shaking platform starts moving in a circular motion.
Step 3: Agitation
The circular motion starts to create agitation that creates various samples. This can only happen if you apply the settings to the lab shaker before starting it.
Step 4: Mixing and Blending
The agitation commences the blending and mixing of the substances. This ensures uniform distribution and perfect consistency.
Step 5: Control and Monitoring
The lab shaker maintains its speed, consistency, and motion pattern for reproducible results.
Types of Lab Shakers
Different types of shakers are used in laboratories for various purposes. Here, we have discussed some crucial types.
1. Rotary Shaker
A rotary shaker is a lab shaker that mixes samples and makes compositions using rotation motion. It’s best for gentle mixing and aeration. Rotary shakers come with variable speed settings that can be customized according to the user’s needs and sample requirements. Their compact design makes them space-efficient and great for small laboratories.
2. Orbital Rotator
Orbital rotator is used for applications that require circular shaking motion. The equipment can be used for circular and shaking mixing and blending. It comes with multiple speed settings to suit every kind of composition. The orbital rotators have a compact design so that they can fit in any space easily.
3. Plate Shakers
Plate shakers are designed to mix in microplates like 96-well and 384-well plates. They offer two types of motion: orbital or linear rotator shaker. You can pick either, depending on the application. Plate shakers are compact for easy storage and usage. They function at a high speed of up to 1,500 rpm for efficient mixing. These shakers also offer various speed settings that can be used as needed.
4. Test Tube Shaker
A Test Tube shaker, also known as a lab vortex shaker, is best for mixing substances in small containers like test tubes. It has high-speed mixing up to 3000 rpm and speed settings that can be changed to suit specific requirements. Test tubes range in capacity from 1.5 ml to 50 ml (and beyond).
Comparison Table of Lab Shakers
| Shaker Type | Ideal Uses | Strengths |
| Rotary Shaker | Cell culture, microbiology, biochemistry | High-speed shaking, efficient mixing, compact design |
| Orbital Shaker | Cell culture, microbiology, biochemistry | Gentle agitation, easy to use, compact design |
| Plate Shaker | Microbiology, biochemistry, high-throughput screening | Efficient mixing, high-throughput capacity, compact design |
| Test Tube Shaker | Biochemistry, molecular biology, clinical diagnostics | Efficient mixing, high-speed vortexing, compact design |
Top Laboratory Shaker Uses and Applications
There are many uses for laboratory shakers which involve their applications as well. They are explained as follows:
1. Culture Cells in Biology Labs
Lab shakers help in culturing cells. With shakers, scientists can easily culture cells in a safe environment. They can easily study cell behavior as well.
2. Mix Reagents in Chemical Analysis
In a chemical analysis, reagent mixing is a crucial step that needs to be done in a certain way that doesn’t spoil the substances. Lab shakers, like rocker shakers, help with that step.
3. Ensure Homogeneity in Pharmaceutical Sample Preparation
Homogeneity in pharmaceutical sample preparation is a necessary measure to ensure the most accurate results. Lab shakers allow scientists to take advantage of this.
Key Features to Look for in A Lab Shaker
Some of the key features that you must look for in a lab shaker are:
1. Speed Control (RPM Range)
The first feature to look at is the speed of the lab shaker. The speed is determined by the usage and the chemical composition you need to make.
Moreover, the lab shaker should also have variable speed settings so that the mixing can be managed according to the user.
The lab shaker should also have a digital speed display that shows the exact speed at which it is operating. Lastly, it should offer preset speed settings that users don’t have to set up repeatedly.
2. Capacity
Make sure you pick a lab shaker that can accommodate multiple plates, flasks, and tubes that can be mixed at once.
Next, make sure the shaker can accommodate the size of the containers you’ll use to mix chemicals.
Lastly, consider the size of the lab shaker according to the size of your lab. It’s recommended that you get a compact one, as it will be easy to transport.
3. Shaking Motion
The next thing to consider is the motion type. What kind of motion do you want in your lab shaker? If you’re confused, then here are the three types of shaking motions:
- Orbital: It is best for gentle mixing, carrying out cell culture, and using it for microbiology.
- Rotary: Rotary works well for more vigorous mixing, especially when you’re dissolving viscous liquids.
- Vortex: Vortex is the ideal choice for intense mixing, such as small volumes of samples, or to create perfect emulsions.
4. Temperature Control Options
When it comes to chemical mixtures and compositions, it’s important to consider temperature control settings. Some applications and enzymes require proper and specific temperatures for mixing and blending.
Buying Tips – Finding the Right Lab Shaker Machine
Aiming to buy the right lab shaker? Here is a quick buying tip for you.
1. Budget and Warranty
Keeping your decided budget in mind, get a lab shaker that meets all your requirements 100% so that your purpose is fulfilled.
2. Durability
The lab shaker should be of top-notch quality and made with the best materials that will last you for years to come.
3. Customization
The lab shaker should offer full customization options that allow you to add or replace components as needed in the future.
If you’re setting up a new lab and replacing the previous shaker, contact us at NE LabSystems to learn about the lab shaker machine price, as we offer the best price that fits your budget.
Maintenance and Best Practices
Once you’ve bought a lab shaker, make sure to carry out regular maintenance to ensure that it lasts you a long time.
· Regular Cleaning and Inspection
Deep Cleaning: Lab shakers are prone to catching dust and debris build-up. To avoid that, make sure you clean the components and the shaker regularly. Ideally, do a deep clean twice a week.
Lubrication: Ensure that the moving parts are always lubricated, like the bearings and gears, so that they don’t get wear and tear sooner rather than later.
Replace Worn-Out Parts: Check the LAN shaker often and replace any worn or overused parts to ensure the smooth running of lab operations.
· Proper Calibration and Speed Settings
Calibrate your lab shaker regularly for at least 6 months. Choose a lab shaker with at least 100-1500 RPM. Make sure the speed is accurate and consistent. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for speed settings and regular maintenance.
Final Takeaway!
Lab shakers are necessary for precise and efficient experiments. Choosing the right shaker can have a big impact on the results if you’re mixing fluids or supporting important research. You are now more equipped to choose the best shaker and keep it in good condition for long-term success.
You can connect with NE LabSystems to buy the best lab shakers online—explore our website now.