How To Choose The Right Stirrer Mixer For Lab Experiments?

In laboratory experiments, many devices, apparatus, equipment etc., are used. All of them are specially designed to facilitate different tasks of an experiment. The stirrer mixer is one of the major equipment which handles the solution. It is basically used for mixing different samples to form a homogeneous mixture. There are different types of stirrer mixers available so it’s important understand all options to select the right tool for the job.

Application Of Different Types of Lab Stirrer Mixers Magnetic Stirrer

A magnetic stirrer consists of a stationary electromagnet or rotating magnet. The major principle of this instrument is to create a magnetic field. Within the magnetic field, the solution is stirred in the mixer. This device quickly spins and stirs a solution to give the perfect blend. The magnetic stirrer is mostly used in large laboratories where numerous scientific experiments take place per day. This stirrer mixes multiple solutions as per the experiment's need. A wide variety of impellers and paddles add versatility. The magnetic stirrer is available with a permanent magnet with the best features. Magnetic stirrers are best for applications like dissolving powder, blending liquids, and heat transfer.

Overhead Stirrers

The overhead mixer is also a laboratory device for mixing large volumes of samples. The best features of these stirrers it mixes, homogenize, suspend and recirculate large volumes of solutions and high-viscosity substances. The highly viscous solutions cannot be handled in a magnetic stirrer. Hence the overhead stirrer is the right alternative.

It functions best for both closed systems with round bottom flasks and open flat-bottomed vessels. In the case of closed systems, it operates under pressure and vacuum conditions. The specialized parts with unique add versatility to the overhead stirrer. Some brands of overhead stirrers can reduce the power of a certain torque is reached. Overhead stirrers are used for wetting thickening agents and mixing emulsions. These stirrers can control factors such as vortex presence or size shear and aeration better.

Factors To Consider To Choose The Right Stirrer

To choose the right chemical stirrer, you must consider some factors related based on the experiment. Choosing it isn't simple; you must undergo the factors and examine the experiment before purchasing the stirrer mixer. If you want an affordable option, the magnetic stirrers are better. It is cheaper than the overhead stirrers. But you must invest in overhead stirrers for more multi-purpose and large volume needs. Below are the factors to consider to choose the right stirrer.

• Sample Volume – For large volumes, ensure the equipment can handle it. Based on the model, overhead stirrers can handle 15–100 L volumes.
• Vessel Shape - The vessel shape or opening size is another major factor to consider. Magnetic stirrers enable mixing in closed vessels to avoid contamination. You can also make an open system with an overhead stirrer.
• The viscosity of Samples – You can provide more energy with an overhead stirrer. This is why it works better with more viscous samples. However, both magnetic stirrers and overhead stirrers have limitations to viscous sample volumes.
• Requirement Of Heat - Heat is another factor. Consider the amount of sample that will be heated to choose the stirrer mixer.
  

  With the brief detail of the applications and the factors, you can choose the right lab stirrer mixer for your experiments. It is necessary to go through the models and brands along with their specifications.

To know more about the stirrer types, you can visit SoCal BioMed's site.