Magnetic Stirrer
A magnetic stirrer also known as a magnetic stir plate or magnetic mixer is a laboratory device used for mixing or stirring liquid samples or solutions. It typically consists of a flat or round plate made of a magnetic material, which is placed on a hotplate or a magnetic stirrer hotplate. The hotplate contains an electromagnet underneath that creates a rotating magnetic field when powered on.
A small, bar-shaped magnet called a stir bar or flea is placed inside the liquid container or breaker. The rotating magnetic field generated by the hotplate causes the stir bar to spin creating a vortex that stirs the liquid in the container. The speed of the stirring can usually be adjusted using a control knob or digital interface on the magnetic stirrer hotplate.
Magnetic stirrers are commonly used in scientific and research laboratories for a wide range of applications, including mixing reagents, dissolving solids in liquids, homogenizing samples, and maintaining consistent temperature during chemical reactions or experiments. They are often used in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and other fields where precise and controlled mixing of liquids is required. Magnetic stirrers are preferred in many cases because they are easy to use, efficient, and can be used with a wide range of container sizes and shapes.
Working Principle of Magnetic Stirrer
The working principle of magnetic stirrer involves the following steps:
- The magnetic stir bar is placed in the liquid to be stirred, and the container is placed on the stirring plate.
- The motor is powered on, generating a rotating magnetic field in the vicinity of the stirring plate.
- The magnetic stir bar or flea, which is also magnetized, reacts to the rotating magnetic field and starts to rotate on its own axis.
- As the magnetic stir bar rotates, it creates a vortex or swirling motion in the liquid, causing it to mix or stir.
- The speed of the magnetic stir bar can be adjusted using the controls on the control panel, allowing for precise control over the stirring speed.
- Once the desired stirring or mixing is achieved, the motor can be turned off, and the magnetic stir bar can be removed from the liquid.
Hotplates
A hotplate is a compact electrical device used for heating materials in laboratory glassware such as beakers, flasks, vials, bottles, and other containers. It is equipped with heating components that allow for precise temperature control. Hot plates are commonly used in scientific settings and are known for their reliability and consistency compared to gas burners. They are designed to fit on laboratory tabletops and have small footprint, making them convenient for use in research and experimentation.
Applications of Magnetic Stirrer with Hot Plate
- Chemical Synthesis
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are commonly used in chemistry laboratories for conducting chemical synthesis reactions. The hot plate provides controlled heating to facilitate the reaction, while the magnetic stirrer ensures thorough mixing of reactants, speeding up the reaction rate and improving reaction efficiency.
- Sample Preparation
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are used for sample preparation in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and other fields. They can be used for dissolving, mixing, and heating samples such as solid powders, liquids, and slurries. They are commonly used in sample preparation for techniques such as extraction, digestion, and dissolution.
- Biological Applications
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are used in biology and life sciences research for tasks such as cell culture, protein denaturation, and DNA/RNA hybridization. They are also used in microbiology for media preparation and sterilization of culture media.
- Pharmaceutical Applications
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are used in pharmaceutical research and manufacturing for tasks such as drug synthesis, formulation development, and dissolution testing of drug formulations. They are also used in quality control and quality assurance laboratories for testing the stability and uniformity of pharmaceutical products.
- Food & Beverage Industry
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates find applications in the food and beverage industry for tasks such as sample preparation, formulation development, and quality control. They are used for tasks such as dissolving ingredients, emulsifying liquids, and monitoring temperature-sensitive processes.
- Environmental Science
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are in environmental science research for tasks such as sample preparation, extraction, and digestion of environmental samples. They are used in fields such as environmental chemistry, water quality analysis, and soil analysis.
- Educational & Teaching Labs
Magnetic stirrers with hot plates are commonly used in educational and teaching laboratories for chemistry, biology, and other science disciplines. They used demonstrations, experiments, and hands-on learning activities to illustrate principles of chemical reactions, heat transfer, and mixing processes.
How to keep a Magnetic Stirrer with a Hot Plate in good working condition?
To ensure that your magnetic stirrer with a hot plate remains in good working condition and functions optimally, here are some tips to follow:
- Clean Regularly
After each use, clean the magnetic stirrer hot plate to remove any spilled or dried materials. Use a mild detergent and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
- Avoid submerging in water
Magnetic Stirrers with hot plates are electrical devices and should not be submerged in water. Use a damp cloth or sponge to clean the surface, and avoid getting water into the electrical components.
- Use appropriate glassware
Choose glassware that is compatible with magnetic stirrers and hot plates. Avoid using glassware that is too heavy or has rough edges that could damage the surface of the hot plate.
- Check for damage
Regularly inspect the hot plate and magnetic stirrer for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose parts, or frayed cords. If any issues are found, discontinue use and have the equipment repaired or replaced.
- Use proper temperature settings
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature settings and avoid excessive heat that could damage the hot plate or glassware.
- Avoid Overloading
Do not overload the hot plate with heavy or excessive materials that could strain the motor or cause the magnetic stir bar to become stuck.
- Store Properly
When not in use, store the magnetic stirrer with the hot plate in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid storing it in humid or damp conditions that could cause rust or corrosion.
- Follow Safety Precautions
Always adhere to safety guidelines, such as wearing appropriate protective gear, using the equipment on a stubble surface, and following proper electrical safety measures.
Neuation offers you an accurate, precise, and safe hotplate magnetic stirrer with features like:
- Chemical resistant ceramic coated SS top plate.
- Max stirring capacity of 10 liters.
- Heater temperature setting from ambient to 320 degree celsius with safe temperature setting up to 345 degree celsius.
- Variable speed setting from 200 to 2200 RPM in steps of 10 RPM.
- Long timers range from 1 to 999 mins & infinite mode.
- Comes with PT-1000 probe to accurately measure temperature of medium.
Check out the Neuation Website for more information.
This blog originally posted here: https://ibusinessday.com/how-to-use-a-magnetic-stirrer-with-hot-plate-2/
