Magnetic Stirrer: Know Everything About This Great Device

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Introduction

Magnetic stirrers are an indispensable piece of equipment in many scientific and research laboratories. They are used to mix and blend liquids, particularly in chemistry and biology experiments. A magnetic stirrer uses a magnetic field to create a rotating motion in a stir bar, which is placed in a liquid. This rotation creates a swirling motion in the liquid, leading to better mixing and blending of the substances.

In this article, we will take a closer look at magnetic stirrers, including how they work, their various applications, and important factors to consider when choosing the right magnetic stirrer for your laboratory needs.

The world of laboratories is really wonderful and extensive, it is a kind of fantasy that is lived in reality. Scientists work every day in different fields of science to improve our lives. To make your work much faster there are millions of devices and materials that have been created. We bring for you the top 30 of the best laboratory materials in history. Then the number thirty, the magnetic stirrer and its uses in the laboratory.

How Does a Magnetic Stirrer Work?

A magnetic stirrer consists of a base unit, a stir bar, and a container or vessel that holds the liquid to be mixed. The base unit contains an electric motor that drives a magnetic field, which in turn rotates the stir bar. The stir bar, usually made of Teflon or glass, is placed inside the container with the liquid, and the magnetic field from the base unit causes the stir bar to rotate.

The stir bar's rotation creates a swirling motion in the liquid, which helps to distribute the substances evenly throughout the liquid. Magnetic stirrers can be used with a variety of containers, from small test tubes to large beakers and flasks.

What is a magnetic stirrer?

As the name implies, it is an electrical appliance that favors the process of mixing between substances in an automated way by means of the agitation. There is no distinction of the states of the components that will form mix. Both solid-liquid or liquid-liquid can be mixed with this device easily and quickly.

Its use has reduced the risk of contamination in the products of the solutions that was a recurring error in manual mixtures. In addition to optimizing the use of time for the scientist in charge, since the time he lost mixing manually can be used in other phases of the processes.

Use of the agitator

Magnetic stirrers come in a wide variety of sizes and models, since they have been modified according to the needs of the industry. Its specific use will depend on the characteristics of what you want to shake. While its use and basic functionality is mixed by stirring.

However an outline of their method of general use.

The container or implement containing the elements to be mixed on top of the stirring plate in the equipo.Se place the magnetic stirrer inside the container.We turn on the equipment by pressing the respective power button.Select the desired stirring speed, using the controller of the equipment.Allow the solution to mix for a while certain.Slow down the computer.Turn off the stirrer with its respective button.Remove the magnetic stirrer from the container and that's it.

Part

This laboratory equipment has a fairly simple, which includes the following parts:

Stir bar: It is a magnetic bar small with a plastic cover.Stirring plate: Flat equipment cover.Rotating magnets - They are located under the stirring plate and are usually a set of electro magnets that form a circle.Electrical resistors: Arranged on the plate of stirring to generate heat to the solutions.

Operation of a magnetic stirrer

Once the equipment is turned on and the speed is regulated, the magic of electronics begins. The stirring bar is driven towards its circular motion by rotating magnets. Who under the plate agitation form a kind of electromagnetic field to direct the magnet agitator. In this way a sufficiently homogeneous mixture is obtained and well diluted solutes.

Glass does not interfere with electromagnetic fields so that most of the containers used for mixing with this equipment are of this material. Mostly beakers, flasks or volumetric balloons.

Advantages of using a magnetic stirrer

These equipment are highly quiet and efficient compared to their close rivals that employ gears. They are of long durability since they do not have parts that tend to wear or ruptura.La the stir bar is easy to sterilize and clean due to its practical size.They eliminated both manual contamination and that caused by the lubricants of their mechanical rival.

Disadvantages of using a magnetic stirrer

Its use is limited according to the dimensions who owns each equipo.La agitator bar being small in size results in almost useless in large volumes of solution. So its use is found limited to experimental portions in laboratories.Substances with high viscosity practically do not they can be mixed in low-power devices.

For all these reasons we place the magnetic stirrer in the thirtieth position of our top 30 of the best laboratory materials. It is a very useful tool, which helps to save scientists work. In addition, I modify the way of mixing solutions in laboratories. Don't miss the twenty-ninth position in the next post.

Applications of Magnetic Stirrers

Magnetic stirrers have a wide range of applications in scientific and research laboratories. Some of the common applications include:

1. Chemical Reactions

Magnetic stirrers are commonly used in chemical reactions, particularly those that require mixing of different substances. They are essential in experiments that require the mixing of reactants to create a new compound or product.

2. Biology Experiments

In biology experiments, magnetic stirrers are used to mix solutions, such as those used in cell cultures or DNA extraction procedures. They can also be used in the preparation of growth media, where accurate and consistent mixing is essential for successful experiments.

3. Analytical Chemistry

In analytical chemistry, magnetic stirrers are used in the preparation of samples for analysis, such as in titrations or pH measurements. They are also used in the preparation of calibration standards and quality control samples.

4. Food and Beverage Industry

Magnetic stirrers are also used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese. They are also used in the brewing industry for mixing ingredients during the fermentation process.

Choosing the Right Magnetic Stirrer

When choosing a magnetic stirrer, there are several factors to consider, including:

Speed range: The speed range of the magnetic stirrer should be appropriate for the type of mixing required.
Capacity: The magnetic stirrer should be able to accommodate the volume of liquid and the size of the container being used.

Material: The stir bar and container should be made of materials that are compatible with the liquid being mixed.
Heating capability: Some magnetic stirrers have a heating capability, which can be useful in experiments that require temperature control.

What is a Magnetic Stirrer Hot Plate?

A magnetic stirrer hot plate is a laboratory device that combines two functions: magnetic stirring and heating. It uses a rotating magnetic field to create a vortex in a liquid sample, causing the sample to mix or blend. The heating element of the hot plate can be used to raise the temperature of the sample. This combination of functions makes a magnetic stirrer hot plate a versatile tool for laboratory applications.

How Does a Magnetic Stirrer Hot Plate Work?

A magnetic stirrer hot plate consists of two main components: a magnetic stirrer and a heating plate. The heating plate is made of a metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, which can conduct heat efficiently. The magnetic stirrer, on the other hand, consists of a rotating magnetic field that spins a magnetic stir bar in the liquid sample. The stir bar is usually coated with a non-reactive material such as PTFE or glass.

To use a magnetic stirrer hot plate, you place the sample container, typically a beaker or flask, on the heating plate. You then place the stir bar inside the sample and turn on the magnetic stirrer. The magnetic stirrer creates a rotating magnetic field that causes the stir bar to spin and stir the sample. The heating plate can then be used to raise the temperature of the sample to a desired level.

FAQs

Q: Can magnetic stirrers be used with corrosive liquids?

A: Magnetic stirrers can be used with corrosive liquids, but it is important to choose a stir bar and container that are compatible with the liquid being used. Stainless steel stir bars are a good option for corrosive liquids.

Q: How do I clean a magnetic stirrer?

A: To clean a magnetic stirrer, first remove the stir bar from the container and turn off the base unit. Wipe the base unit and the stir bar with a clean cloth or tissue to remove any liquid or debris. If there is any residue on the stir bar, it can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry before use.

Q: What is the difference between a magnetic stirrer and a hot plate stirrer?

A: A hot plate stirrer combines the functions of a magnetic stirrer and a hot plate. In addition to stirring the liquid, it can also heat the liquid to a specific temperature. Magnetic stirrers, on the other hand, do not have a heating capability and are used solely for mixing and blending liquids.

Advancements in Magnetic Stirring Technology

Magnetic stirrers are essential laboratory tools used for mixing and heating samples in a variety of applications. Over the years, advancements in magnetic stirring technology have led to the development of more efficient and reliable stirrers with new features and capabilities. Here are some of the latest advancements in magnetic stirring technology:

Digital Controls: Many magnetic stirrers now come equipped with digital controls that allow users to precisely control stirring speed, temperature, and other parameters. Digital controls offer more accurate and repeatable results and make it easier to perform complex experiments.
Programmable Timers: Some magnetic stirrers now include programmable timers that allow users to set specific stirring and heating times. This feature is useful for experiments that require precise timing, such as reactions that need to be stirred for a specific period.
Wireless Connectivity: Advances in wireless technology have led to the development of magnetic stirrers that can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or tablet. This feature allows users to monitor and adjust stirring parameters from a distance, making it more convenient and efficient to perform experiments.
Multipoint Stirring: Some magnetic stirrers now include multiple stirring points, allowing users to stir several samples simultaneously. This feature is useful for high-throughput experiments or when multiple samples need to be stirred under the same conditions.
Safety Features: Advancements in magnetic stirring technology have also led to the development of stirrers with improved safety features. For example, some stirrers now include overheating protection, automatic shut-off features, and alarms to alert users if the stirrer is malfunctioning.
Ergonomic Designs: Many magnetic stirrers now feature ergonomic designs that make them more comfortable to use for extended periods. Features such as adjustable height and angle, large displays, and intuitive controls make it easier for users to operate the stirrer without straining their neck or back.

Magnetic stirrer manufacturers

There are many magnetic stirrer manufacturers around the world, offering a wide range of stirrers with various features and capabilities. Here are some of the top magnetic stirrer manufacturers and their websites:

IKA: IKA is a German company that specializes in laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, homogenizers, and shakers. Their magnetic stirrers come in a range of sizes and styles, from small handheld stirrers to large benchtop models. Their website is https://www.ika.com.
VELP Scientifica: VELP Scientifica is an Italian company that manufactures laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, overhead stirrers, and hot plate stirrers. Their magnetic stirrers come with various features, such as programmable stirring and temperature control. Their website is https://www.velp.com.
Thermo Fisher Scientific: Thermo Fisher Scientific is a US-based company that offers a wide range of laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, hot plates, and shakers. Their magnetic stirrers come in various sizes and styles, with features such as digital controls and wireless connectivity. Their website is https://www.thermofisher.com.
Corning: Corning is a US-based company that manufactures laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, hot plates, and stir bars. Their magnetic stirrers come in various sizes and styles, with features such as adjustable speed and temperature control. Their website is https://www.corning.com.
Cole-Parmer: Cole-Parmer is a US-based company that offers laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, hot plates, and magnetic stir bars. Their magnetic stirrers come in various sizes and styles, with features such as programmable timers and wireless connectivity. Their website is https://www.coleparmer.com.
Scilogex: Scilogex is a US-based company that manufactures laboratory equipment, including magnetic stirrers, hot plates, and overhead stirrers. Their magnetic stirrers come with various features, such as digital displays and adjustable speed control. Their website is https://www.scilogex.com.

Conclusion

Magnetic stirrers are a vital piece of equipment in many scientific and research laboratories. They are used in a variety of applications, including chemical reactions, biology experiments, analytical chemistry, and the food and beverage industry. When choosing a magnetic stirrer, it is essential to consider factors such as speed range, capacity, material, and heating capability. With the proper use and maintenance, a magnetic stirrer can provide years of reliable service in the laboratory.