Laboratory shakers – find manufacturers and suppliers

Laboratory shakers are devices that rhythmically move sample containers such as test tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks or microtiter plates to ensure that substances are evenly mixed or dissolved.

They are indispensable devices in biological, chemical, pharmaceutical and clinical laboratories.

Below you will find the functionality and different movement patterns of laboratory shakers, their use and precautions that should be observed when using them:

How laboratory shakers work:

The mode of operation is based on mechanical movement, which can be carried out in different movement patterns and speeds.
Depending on the type of device, the platform of the shaker moves in different directions or patterns:

1. Orbital motion:
   The platform rotates in a circular motion in one plane. This movement is ideal for cell cultures and liquid mixtures.
2. Linear shaking:
   The platform moves back and forth in a linear path. This movement is suitable for extractions or solutions that require more shear force.
3. Rocking motion (Rocker):
   The platform tilts alternately to the left and right. It simulates a slow mixing movement, which is advantageous for staining processes or sensitive cell cultures, for example.
4. 3D movement:
   A combination of circular and tilting motion that is particularly gentle and is used for sensitive biological samples such as tissue cultures.
5. Vortex movement:
   Small, high-frequency circular motion for intensive mixing of individual sample vessels, e.g. with a vortexer.

The movement is generated by an electric motor, which operates at a specific amplitude, speed and frequency depending on the type. Most modern devices allow precise control of these parameters via a digital control panel.

Use of laboratory shakers:

Laboratory shakers are used in many fields, especially when uniform mixing, suspension or incubation is required.

1. Molecular biology and cell biology:
Cell culture incubation: cell cultures require constant agitation for optimal aeration and nutrient distribution.
Protein expression: Cultivation of microorganisms such as E. coli under shaking conditions.
DNA/RNA extraction: Mixing processes in sample preparation and purification protocols.

2. Microbiology:
Fermentations: Bacterial or yeast cultures are uniformly mixed to promote cell growth.
Suspension production: homogenize cell pellets or particles in solution.

3. Chemistry:
Solvent mixing: reagents or liquids are efficiently combined.
Reactions: In chemical reactions, constant mixing can improve reaction rates and yields.

4. Diagnostics:
ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and western blots: Incubation steps during diagnostic test procedures require continuous shaking.
Blood sample preparation: Mixing blood with anticoagulants.

Precautions when using laboratory shakers:

• Secure placement of the device:
  The shaker should be placed on a stable, level and vibration-free surface.
  Ensure sufficient distance from other devices, walls or sensitive objects.
  Do not place the appliance on a rollable table or loose surface to prevent it from slipping or tipping over.
• Weight distribution and loading:
  Distribute sample containers evenly on the platform to avoid imbalances and strong vibrations.
  The maximum permissible load, including the contents of the containers, must not be exceeded.
  Containers should be closed tightly and secured with clamps, brackets or anti-slip mats if necessary.
• Use suitable containers:
  Only use suitable containers that can withstand the movement and load.
  Do not use damaged, cracked or unevenly filled tubes or bottles.
  Check liquid levels - overfilled containers can leak, leading to short circuits or contamination.
• Safe handling of hazardous substances:
  For infectious, toxic or corrosive substances: Only use tightly sealed sample containers.
  In the case of biological or chemical risks, aerosol-tight containers and, if necessary, safety covers should be used.
  Clean the shaker thoroughly after contact with hazardous substances - with protective equipment!
• Equipment operation and protective measures:
  Operation by trained personnel only.
  Read the operating instructions and observe the safety markings before commissioning.
  Do not reach onto the appliance or handle the platform during operation.
  Keep loose clothing, jewelry and long hair away - risk of reaching into moving parts.
  For incubator shakers: Take care when opening the door - hot or humid air may escape.
• Make the correct settings:
  Always increase shaking speed, time and temperature (if available) slowly.
  Never set to maximum speed immediately - risk of overloading, splashing or damage.
  Use the timer function to avoid unattended continuous operation.
• Cleaning and maintenance:
  Clean the appliance regularly with a suitable disinfectant or cleaning agent.
  Do not use aggressive chemicals or sharp tools for cleaning.
  Before maintenance or cleaning: Disconnect the mains plug.
  Have the motor, bearings, seals and drive checked regularly - preferably by a specialist service.
• Emergency measures and malfunctions:
  Train staff how to switch off the appliance quickly in an emergency.
  Draw attention to the emergency stop function (if available) and test it regularly.
  In the event of smoke, odor or electrical problems: Evacuate, de-energize and report.

Laboratory shakers are key pieces of equipment in everyday laboratory work and are used in a wide range of applications - from biological cultures to chemical reactions. Their strength lies in their controlled and uniform movement, which makes processes standardized, reproducible and efficient. Laboratory shakers are indispensable in a well-equipped laboratory - they ensure uniform mixing, optimized reactions and improved results.

Below you will find an overview of the most important criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing laboratory shakers:

When buying laboratory shakers, you should not only look at the price, but above all at the functional requirements, quality, safety and long-term economy.

• Before selecting a device, it must be clear what it is to be used for. A shaker for cell cultures has completely different requirements than one for chemical reactions or tissue preparation. Important questions are:
• What sample types and volumes are to be processed?
• How sensitive are the samples to movement, heat or vibration?
• Is constant shaking, brief mixing or a combination required?
• The type of movement must match the application:
• Orbital agitation is good for cell cultures and liquid mixtures.
• Linear shaking is used when more intensive mixing is required.
• 3D or rocking motion is suitable for particularly gentle processes such as staining.
• Vortex movement is ideal for selective, rapid mixing of small samples.
• The type of movement should be as precisely adjustable as possible to ensure reproducibility.
• A good laboratory shaker should have a wide range of shaking speeds, e.g. 50-3000 rpm, preferably infinitely variable. The amplitude, i.e. the amplitude of the movement, should also be selectable depending on the application. With sensitive samples, a slow, even movement is crucial, whereas with vortex shakers a high frequency for fast mixing is required.
• The platform must offer sufficient space for the types of vessels used - from small test tubes to large Erlenmeyer flasks or microtiter plates. Ideally, the platform can be customized using various holders, clamping devices or anti-slip mats. A modular design is advantageous if other vessel types are to be added in the future.
• A professional laboratory shaker should operate with low vibration, low noise and mechanical stability, even under high loads. The maximum load capacity should match the intended use - especially with large flasks or several samples used simultaneously.
• An incubator shaker is required for applications such as cell culture, fermentation or certain biochemical reactions. This combines movement with precise temperature control. This is important in such cases:
• Precise temperature control, e.g. 4-70 °C or higher.
• Uniform temperature distribution in the interior.
• Good insulation and low energy losses.
• A modern user interface with digital display, adjustable timer function and storable programs facilitates operation. For complex or repetitive processes, programming functions and possibly an interface for data transfer (e.g. USB, WLAN) are advantageous.
• Safety is essential, especially in continuous operation or with sensitive samples. Important aspects are:
• A non-slip platform or safety clamps.
• Overheating protection for devices with heating.
• Automatic stop when the door is open (for incubators).
• A robust housing made of corrosion-resistant material, a durable motor and high-quality bearings extend the service life. A solid construction pays off, especially for continuous use in routine applications.
• The surface should be easy to clean, especially when working with biological or infectious material. Low maintenance, easy access to moving parts and reliable customer service are key criteria.
• For medical or pharmaceutical applications, shakers should be compliant with GLP, GMP or other relevant standards. CE marking and electrical safety certificates, e.g. TÜV, ISO, are also essential.
• In addition to the purchase price, operating costs such as energy consumption, wear parts, maintenance costs and expandability should also be taken into account. A supposedly inexpensive device can become more expensive in the long term due to high wear and tear or limited usage options.

The purchase of a professional laboratory shaker requires a precise analysis of the planned application and technical requirements. Choosing the right device not only influences the quality of the laboratory results, but also the workflow, reproducibility and safety in everyday laboratory work. If you invest in a well thought-out, high-quality model, you will benefit from a reliable, durable and versatile device

Laboratory shakers can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Laboratory shakers from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.