Microtip Ultrasonic Homogenizer for Small Volumes

What is the Microtip Ultrasonic Homogenizer for Small Volumes?

A microtip ultrasonic homogenizer uses a thin probe of 2 to 6 mm diameter to process 0.2 to 10 mL samples at 20 kHz. It fits microtubes and small vials used for DNA shearing, small-scale lysis and nanoparticle dispersion.

Overview

The microtip homogenizer uses a low-power generator of 50 to 300 W and a slim probe with a tip diameter of 2 to 6 mm. Because the tip area is small, the amplitude at the tip is high and the energy is concentrated in a small volume of 0.2 to 10 mL. The probe fits into 1.5 to 15 mL tubes and small beakers. Pulse control and a temperature sensor help protect samples, and some units have a foot switch. Micro probes are more fragile than larger ones and should be handled carefully. They are used in molecular biology, for lysing small numbers of cells, shearing DNA and chromatin, and breaking aggregates in nanoparticle suspensions. The small probe requires precise positioning, so a stand with a height-adjustable clamp is recommended. A sound enclosure reduces noise.

How does it work?

An ultrasonic generator converts mains power into a high-frequency electrical signal, typically 20 kHz, which drives a piezoelectric transducer. The transducer expands and contracts to produce longitudinal vibration, and a booster and a horn or probe amplify this motion to amplitudes of 20 to 200 micrometers at the tip. When the tip vibrates in liquid, alternating pressure waves form microscopic vacuum bubbles that grow and collapse violently, a process called cavitation. The collapse creates localized high temperature, pressure and shear jets, which rupture cells, break agglomerates and form emulsions. Key components are the generator, transducer, booster, probe or tip, and optional temperature sensor and sound enclosure. Amplitude, pulse mode, treatment time and probe diameter determine the energy delivered per volume. Cooling is essential because the process heats samples.

What are the key features?

• Slim 2–6 mm probe concentrates energy in 0.2–10 mL volumes
• Low-power 50–300 W generator suited to small samples
• Fits 1.5–15 mL tubes and small beakers
• Pulse control and temperature sensing protect samples
• Optional foot switch and stand with height clamp
• Sound enclosure option for quiet operation

What are the technical specifications?

A typical microtip ultrasonic homogenizer for small volumes configuration offers frequency of 20 kHz, output power of 50–300 W, working volume of 0.2–10 mL, probe diameter of 2–6 mm, amplitude of 20–100 % of max and probe material of Titanium alloy. 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 Microtip Ultrasonic Homogenizer for Small Volumes is used in DNA and chromatin shearing, small-scale cell lysis, nanoparticle dispersion in microtubes, liposome preparation and protein solubilization. Across the wider Ultrasonic Homogenizers class, laboratories also deploy it for cell lysis and protein extraction, nanoparticle and graphene dispersion and nanoemulsion and liposome preparation.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include IEC 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-051, IEC 62127-1, ISO 13320 and GB 4793.1. Certification candidates for this model are CE, RoHS and ISO 9001 manufacturing; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Always protect hearing, because ultrasonic units produce audible noise and subharmonics; use a sound enclosure or ear protection. Immerse the probe to the recommended depth and keep it centered without touching the vessel wall. Cool samples in an ice bath and use pulsed operation to limit heat, especially for proteins and RNA. Never run the probe in air, because this can damage the transducer. Inspect the tip for pitting and replace it when erosion is visible, since tip wear changes delivered power. Calibrate power output periodically with calorimetry. Clean with water or alcohol after each sample. Comply with IEC 61010-1 and local noise regulations, and use biosafety precautions because sonication can generate aerosols.

How do I select the right Microtip Ultrasonic Homogenizer for Small Volumes?

Select the microtip model when sample volume is below 10 mL and high intensity in a small volume is required. For volumes above 50 mL use a standard probe. In the RFQ, specify probe diameters, volume, pulse control, temperature sensing and enclosure.

How does it compare with other Ultrasonic Homogenizers variants?

Select an ultrasonic homogenizer by power, frequency, sample volume and format. Probe-type units deliver the highest energy density and are used for cell lysis and nanoparticle dispersion, with power from 100 to 1,200 W. Microtip probes handle volumes from 0.2 to 10 mL. Cup-horn systems treat sealed tubes indirectly and avoid aerosol and cross-contamination. Flow-through cells support continuous processing from milliliters to liters per minute. Enclosures reduce noise, which can reach 90 dB(A) or more without protection. Verify that the probe material, usually titanium alloy, is compatible with the sample, and check the availability of replacement tips. Consider pulse control, temperature sensing, amplitude stability and data logging. Ask for treatment time and energy per volume to allow method reproducibility across instruments.