Digital Reciprocating Shaker

What is the Digital Reciprocating Shaker?

A digital reciprocating shaker sets and holds stroke frequency and time precisely with a microprocessor controller. It is chosen when linear-motion methods must be reproducible, documented and transferred reliably between operators and sites.

Overview

The digital reciprocal shaker replaces analog controls with a microprocessor that sets speed to 1 stroke per minute and time precisely, holding both by closed-loop control. The display shows speed and remaining time, and some models log accumulated run time. Soft start and speed ramping reduce splashing when vessels are full, and alarms warn of overload or deviation. Platforms of 300 to 500 mm carry 5 to 15 kg at 20 to 250 strokes per minute with strokes of 15 to 40 mm. Several stored programs with different speed and time steps support automated protocols. It suits methods that must be transferred between laboratories and operators, and any procedure where a linear shear must be applied consistently.

How does it work?

A reciprocal shaker converts rotary motor motion into linear motion with a crank and slider or an eccentric link, so the platform moves back and forth along one axis. Stroke length is set by the crank radius and typically ranges from 10 to 50 mm, while speed is set in strokes per minute from about 20 to 300. The back-and-forth movement creates shear at the liquid surface and along the vessel wall, which helps with washing, extraction and mixing of viscous samples where orbital motion alone is too gentle. A guide rail or linear bearing keeps the platform straight, and a counterweight or dual-opposed platform reduces vibration. Closed-loop control holds speed against load, timers run the cycle, and clamps or trays secure vessels so they do not slide with the motion.

What are the key features?

• Microprocessor control with 1 stroke/min resolution
• Closed-loop speed and time setting
• Soft start and speed ramping
• Program storage for multi-step protocols
• Overload and deviation alarms
• Digital display of speed and time

What are the technical specifications?

A typical digital reciprocating shaker configuration offers platform size of 300×300 to 500×500 mm, stroke length of 15–40 mm, speed range of 20–250 strokes/min, load rating of 5–15 kg, speed resolution of 1 stroke/min and speed accuracy of ±1 stroke/min. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The Digital Reciprocating Shaker is used in reproducible extraction methods, method transfer between laboratories, timed washing and staining and automated multi-step protocols. Across the wider Reciprocal Shakers class, laboratories also deploy it for washing and rinsing of samples, liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extraction and staining and destaining procedures.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include IEC 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-051 and ISO 9001. Certification candidates for this model are CE, ISO 9001 manufacturing and RoHS; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Clamp or tray every vessel so it cannot slide with the reciprocating motion, and load the platform symmetrically to reduce vibration. Place the unit on a level, rigid surface with clearance for the moving platform, since reciprocal action can transmit vibration to the bench. Stay within the load rating at the working stroke and speed, and use a soft start or lower speed when vessels are full. Clean spills promptly to protect the rails and clamps. Lubricate or inspect the linear bearings and guides on schedule, check belts and fasteners for wear, and replace worn clamps that no longer hold vessels firmly.

How do I select the right Digital Reciprocating Shaker?

Select the digital reciprocal shaker when reproducible stroke frequency and timed runs matter, or when methods must be transferred. Analog units are cheaper for rough washing. In the RFQ, specify stroke, speed range and resolution, programs, alarms and load rating.

How does it compare with other Reciprocal Shakers variants?

Choose a reciprocal shaker when linear shear is wanted rather than swirling, as in washing, extraction, staining and some homogenization steps. Set the stroke length from the vessel and the shear needed, since longer strokes move the liquid more but can splash, and set the speed from the method. Match the platform and clamps to the vessels, and the load rating to the total mass at the chosen speed. Decide between a single and an opposed dual platform, where the second platform balances the first and reduces vibration. Confirm the duty cycle for long runs, and specify the timer, soft start and power supply.