Orbital Shaker

What is Orbital Shaker Machine

Orbital shaker machines are a type of laboratory equipment designed to mix, shake, and agitate samples in a circular motion. This motion is achieved through a back-and-forth movement, which is typically generated by a motor within the machine. Orbital shakers are commonly used in a variety of scientific fields, including biology, chemistry, and material science, where gentle mixing is required to ensure homogeneity of samples.

The principle behind the orbital shaker machine is relatively straightforward. A platform that holds the sample is attached to the shaker's arm, which then moves the platform in a circular motion. The orbital motion causes the platform—and thus the sample—to move back and forth. This movement is vital for experiments that require constant agitation for mixing, as it helps to ensure that all parts of the sample are evenly exposed to the shaker's motion.

These machines are particularly useful for users who need to conduct experiments that involve mixing solutions, reagents, or other substances. The gentle motion they provide can be essential for maintaining the integrity of certain delicate materials or for preventing sample sedimentation. Orbital shakers can also be employed in culturing cells in a suitable environment, where the motion aids in the growth of cell cultures.

Types of Orbital Shaker Machine

The diversity of orbital shaker machines available on Alibaba.com reflects the range of applications they serve. The following are common types:

• Rotary Orbital Shakers: Characterized by a circular shaking motion, rotary orbital shakers are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications including mixing solutions for lab experiments and dissolving samples for analytical purposes.

• Reciprocating Orbital Shakers: These shakers move in a back-and-forth motion, making them ideal for applications requiring a more rigorous shaking action such as extracting substances from solid samples or for paint mixing.

• Vortex Orbital Shakers: Employed mainly for mixing small vials or microcentrifuge tubes, these shakers create a whirling motion that is particularly useful for ensuring thorough mixing of contents with low viscosities.

• Incubating Orbital Shakers: These are designed for applications where samples need to be agitated at a constant temperature and are often used in biological research or chemical analysis where consistent incubation is key.

Each type has its specific common use cases based on the nature of the sample being processed and the environment in which it is being used.

How to choose Orbital Shaker Machine

When selecting an orbital shaker machine for business use, it is important to consider several factors based on the types mentioned above. The choice will depend on the specific requirements of your application, such as sample volume, container size, speed range, and versatility.

For businesses dealing with high-throughput sample processing tasks, a digital orbital shaker machine with a wide speed range and capacity would be most suitable. This allows for efficient handling of large numbers of samples, such as in a molecular biology lab or a pharmaceutical company.

If your business involves more delicate or precision-based shaking tasks, an analog orbital shaker machine may be more appropriate. The simplicity of analog controls can offer a higher degree of control, critical when dealing with sensitive samples or when subtle adjustments are necessary.

In industries where both efficiency and precision are paramount, such as in quality control or research and development, a programmable orbital shaker machine provides the ability to set and store precise shaking parameters. This ensures that different types of samples can be catered for within the same machine.

Material construction is another consideration; stainless steel units may offer greater durability and ease of cleaning compared to plastic models. Furthermore, for businesses looking to integrate these units into their workflow, customized features such as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) support may be beneficial.

About Orbital Shaker Machine on Alibaba.com

Alibaba.com stands out as an extensive marketplace that connects businesses with an array of industrial equipment suppliers from around the globe. When it comes to sourcing orbital shaker machines for your business needs, Alibaba.com offers an impressive selection that can cater to different applications—whether you're mixing samples in a laboratory or packaging products in your manufacturing plant.

The platform's user-friendly interface allows you to filter through options based on material, color, customized support including OEM and ODM services, as well as by specific features such as speed or capacity. This level of customization ensures that you can find an orbital shaker machine that meets your precise requirements without compromise.

Moreover, Alibaba.com's commitment to facilitating seamless trade across borders is evident through its comprehensive services such as Trade Assurance which protects your payments until delivery is confirmed. This service exemplifies Alibaba.com's dedication to quality assurance and customer satisfaction—key factors in maintaining its status as a leading B2B e-commerce platform since 1999.

Common FAQs for Orbital Shaker Machine

What is an orbital shaker machine?

An orbital shaker machine is a laboratory device that agitates liquid containers, providing a gentle yet effective mixing motion for resuspension and preparation of samples for analysis.

How does an orbital shaker machine work?

Orbital shaker machines work by placing containers on a platform that oscillates horizontally or vertically. This motion is designed to ensure thorough mixing without causing excessive stress or damage to the samples.

What are the main features to look for in an orbital shaker machine for my business?

Key features to consider include the amplitude and speed range, capacity, material quality (such as PP or stainless steel), and whether it offers customization like OEM or ODM support.

How do I determine the right size of an orbital shaker machine for my laboratory?

Consider the volume of liquid you will be working with and the size of the containers. Ensure that the platform can accommodate all your samples at once and that the shaker can handle the size of your containers.

Can I use an orbital shaker machine for cell culture applications?

Yes, many orbital shaker machines are suitable for cell culture work due to their gentle mixing action which is ideal for maintaining fragile cell structures.

Are there any safety considerations when using an orbital shaker machine in a laboratory?

Always ensure that the orbital shaker machine is used following the manufacturer's safety guidelines. This includes using the appropriate speed and amplitude settings and ensuring that the platform is balanced and securely fastened.

What types of containers can be used with an orbital shaker machine?

Orbital shaker machines can be used with a variety of container types including glass, plastic, and stainless steel. The platform should be compatible with your containers' size and material properties.

How do I maintain an orbital shaker machine?

Regular cleaning and proper storage of an orbital shaker machine will help maintain its functionality. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance guidelines.

Can I customize an orbital shaker machine to fit my specific needs?

Many suppliers offer customized solutions such as OEM, ODM, and OBM support. This allows businesses to tailor the machine's specifications to their unique requirements.

What is the difference between rocking and orbital shaker machines?

Rocking shaker machines use a see-saw motion while orbital shaker machines use a circular motion. Rocking shaker machines are better for applications requiring gentle mixing, while orbital shaker machines are more effective for vigorous mixing.

Are there any considerations for using an orbital shaker machine in a cold room or incubator?

When using an orbital shaker machine in a cold room or incubator, ensure that it is designed to operate at lower temperatures. Also consider using equipment with insulated materials to maintain temperature conditions.

What is the advantage of using a digital orbital shaker machine over an analog one?

Digital orbital shaker machines offer precise control over speed and often come with additional features like programmable timer settings and memory functions which can be beneficial for replicating specific mixing protocols.