Hotplate Magnetic Stirrer
Precision hotplate magnetic stirrer with ceramic platform, 5L stirring capacity, temperature control to 360°C, and external PT100 sensor for accurate solution temperature monitoring.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Neuroscience · ConductScience
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The ConductScience Hotplate Magnetic Stirrer is a precision benchtop instrument designed for simultaneous heating and stirring of solutions up to 5L volume. The ceramic working plate (180×180mm) provides uniform heat distribution across the temperature range from ambient to 360°C with ±0.1°C display accuracy. The integrated DC brushless motor delivers stable stirring speeds from 20 to 2000 rpm with ±10 rpm control accuracy.
The instrument features LED display for both temperature and speed parameters, programmable timing up to 9999 minutes, and includes a PT100 external temperature sensor (±0.6°C accuracy) for direct solution temperature monitoring. Overheating protection is adjustable between 360-400°C, providing safety for extended operation in research and analytical workflows.
How It Works
The hotplate magnetic stirrer operates on electromagnetic induction principles for both heating and stirring functions. The ceramic heating plate contains embedded resistance heating elements that provide uniform heat distribution across the 180×180mm working surface. Temperature is controlled through electronic feedback using either the built-in temperature sensor or the external PT100 probe for direct solution monitoring.
Magnetic stirring is achieved through a rotating magnetic field generated by the DC brushless motor beneath the heating plate. A magnetic stir bar placed in the sample vessel couples with this rotating field, providing continuous agitation. The brushless motor design ensures consistent torque delivery across the 20-2000 rpm range while minimizing vibration and heat generation that could interfere with temperature control.
The integrated timing function allows for automated operation up to 9999 minutes, while the overheating protection system monitors both the heating plate and solution temperatures to prevent thermal runaway conditions.
Features & Benefits
Weight
- 4.2 kg
Dimensions
- L: 13.5 mm
- W: 22.2 mm
- H: 32.0 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating Platform Size | 180×180mm ceramic plate | Entry-level models often feature smaller 135×135mm platforms | Larger surface accommodates multiple vessels or oversized glassware for batch processing applications. |
| Temperature Sensing | Dual sensing with PT100 external probe (±0.6°C accuracy) | Basic models rely on plate temperature sensing only | Direct solution temperature monitoring provides more accurate thermal control for temperature-sensitive reactions. |
| Motor Type | DC brushless motor design | Lower-cost units may use brushed motors | Brushless design reduces maintenance requirements and provides more consistent stirring performance over extended use. |
| Maximum Stirring Volume | 5L capacity | Compact models typically limited to 1-3L volumes | Higher capacity supports large-batch sample preparation and synthetic chemistry protocols. |
| Timing Function | Programmable up to 9999 minutes | Basic models may lack timing or have limited ranges | Extended timing enables automated operation for long-duration extractions and synthetic procedures. |
| Temperature Display Resolution | ±0.1°C display accuracy | Entry-level units often show ±1°C resolution | Higher resolution supports precise temperature monitoring required in analytical and research applications. |
This hotplate magnetic stirrer provides a combination of large working platform, dual temperature sensing capability, and high-capacity stirring suitable for demanding research applications. The DC brushless motor and extended timing functions support both routine sample preparation and complex synthetic protocols.
Practical Tips
Verify temperature accuracy monthly using a calibrated thermometer in a water bath, checking both plate and PT100 sensor readings.
Why: Temperature drift over time can compromise reproducibility in temperature-sensitive protocols.
Clean the ceramic surface with mild detergent after each use and inspect the PT100 probe for coating or damage.
Why: Chemical residues can create hot spots and sensor contamination affects measurement accuracy.
Start stirring at low speed before heating to establish proper vortex formation, then adjust speed as temperature increases.
Why: Proper mixing pattern establishment prevents hot spots and ensures uniform heat distribution throughout the solution.
Set overheating protection 10-20°C above target temperature and never leave high-temperature operations unattended.
Why: Safety margin prevents thermal runaway while protecting samples and glassware from excessive heat exposure.
If stirring becomes erratic, check that the stir bar is properly coupled and vessel is centered on the platform.
Why: Off-center positioning or oversized stir bars can cause coupling loss and inefficient mixing.
Allow 5-10 minutes for thermal equilibration after reaching set temperature before beginning time-critical procedures.
Why: Thermal equilibration ensures stable conditions and reproducible results in temperature-dependent protocols.
Use the external PT100 sensor for critical temperature control and position it away from the stir bar rotation path.
Why: Direct solution monitoring provides more accurate control than plate temperature, especially in large volumes.
Store the unit with the PT100 probe in a dry location and coil the sensor cable loosely to prevent wire fatigue.
Why: Proper storage extends sensor life and maintains calibration accuracy over extended use periods.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Hotplate magnetic stirrer main unit
- PT100 external temperature sensor with cable
- Power cord
- User manual and specifications
- Magnetic stir bars (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with technical support available for operational questions and troubleshooting assistance.
Compliance
References
Background reading relevant to this product:
What is the temperature uniformity across the heating plate surface?
The ceramic plate design provides uniform heat distribution across the 180×180mm working surface, though specific uniformity specifications should be confirmed in the product datasheet for critical applications.
Can the unit maintain stable stirring with viscous solutions?
The DC brushless motor provides consistent torque across the 20-2000 rpm range and can handle up to 5L water volume, though performance with high-viscosity samples depends on solution properties and stir bar coupling.
How should I use the external PT100 sensor for accurate temperature control?
Place the PT100 probe directly in the solution for real-time temperature feedback rather than relying on plate temperature, ensuring the probe tip is positioned away from the stir bar path.
What safety features protect against overheating?
The unit includes adjustable overheating protection (360-400°C) that monitors both plate and solution temperatures, automatically shutting down heating if limits are exceeded.
Is the ceramic plate compatible with all types of laboratory glassware?
The ceramic surface is chemically inert and compatible with standard laboratory glassware, though thermal shock considerations apply when using thin-walled vessels at high temperatures.
How do I optimize stirring performance for different vessel sizes?
Center vessels on the platform and select appropriate stir bar size (maximum 50mm) - typically 1/2 to 2/3 the vessel diameter works best for efficient mixing without vessel contact.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliable operation?
Regular cleaning of the ceramic surface, periodic calibration verification, and inspection of the PT100 sensor for damage or contamination are recommended for optimal performance.
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