The following is a detailed explanation of the usage details of the laboratory shaker, covering the operation process, parameter settings, precautions, and maintenance points:
1、 Types and Applicable Scenarios of Laboratory Shakers
Laboratory shakers are mainly divided into constant temperature shakers, oscillating incubators, decolorization shakers, and other types, suitable for experiments such as microbial cultivation, protein hybridization, and chemical staining.
-Constant temperature shaker: used for liquid culture that requires temperature control, such as bacterial and cell culture.
-Oscillatory incubator: suitable for uniform oscillation of large capacity samples, commonly used in plant tissue culture or enzyme reactions.
-Decolorization shaker: it is used for gel decolorization, antibody incubation, etc., and needs to swing steadily at low speed.
2、 Preparation before use
1. Environmental inspection
-Place on a stable and dry surface, away from electromagnetic interference (such as centrifuges or microwave ovens).
-Confirm that the power supply is well grounded to avoid the risk of electrical leakage.
2. Equipment inspection
-Check if the shaker tray is level and if the fixing clips or springs are functioning properly.
-Clean the interior to avoid residual reagents or pollutants affecting the experiment.
3. Sample preparation
-Liquid cultivation requires the use of specialized triangular flasks or petri dishes, with a capacity not exceeding 1/2 of the container (to prevent oscillation overflow).
-Solid samples need to be firmly fixed to avoid falling due to shaking.
3、 Parameter setting and operation steps
1. Temperature setting (constant temperature shaker)
-By setting the temperature through the control panel, it is recommended to set it 5-10 ℃ higher than the ambient temperature (if the ambient temperature is 25 ℃, set it to 30-35 ℃).
-Turn on the heating function and wait for the actual temperature to stabilize before placing the sample (to avoid temperature shock).
2. Adjustment of oscillation parameters
-Speed: Microbial cultivation is usually set at 150-200 rpm, and decolorization experiments are set at 30-60 rpm.
-Amplitude: Adjust according to the size of the container to ensure that the sample can be thoroughly mixed without violent collisions.
-Mode: Choose between circular oscillation (universal) or reciprocating oscillation (sensitive sample).
3. Timing and operation
-Short term experiments can be scheduled (such as 1-12 hours), while long-term cultivation is recommended to continue running and undergo regular checks.
-Avoid frequent door opening during operation to prevent temperature fluctuations or pollution.
4、 Precautions during use
1. Safety regulations
-It is strictly prohibited to operate with wet hands to prevent electric shock; If there is a burnt smell or smoke, immediately turn off the power and report for repair.
-Wear insulated gloves during high-temperature experiments to avoid burns.
2. Sample balance
-Multiple samples should be placed symmetrically with a weight difference of no more than 10% (otherwise it may cause oscillation displacement or equipment damage).
-Use foam board or silicone pad to reduce noise and vibration.
3. Pollution prevention and control
-After the biological experiment, it is necessary to wipe the tray with 75% ethanol to avoid cross contamination.
-Volatile reagents (such as chloroform) need to be sealed to prevent equipment corrosion.
5、 Daily maintenance and troubleshooting
1. Cleaning and maintenance
-Clean the residual liquid after each use, wipe the stainless steel tray with warm water, and use neutral detergent for stubborn stains.
-Check the tightness of the motor belt every month, and replace the aged belt in a timely manner.
2. Calibration and testing
-Calibrate temperature sensors and tachometers annually to ensure accuracy.
-Use standard culture medium to test the uniformity of oscillation (such as observing the mixing effect with bromocresol purple indicator).
3. Common troubleshooting
-Excessive abnormal noise: Check if the spring is loose and if the container position is offset.
-Abnormal heating: Clean the condenser dust and check if the heating tube is damaged.
-Oscillatory stop: Restart the power supply and confirm if the fuse is blown.
6、 Optimization suggestions for special experiments
1. Anaerobic cultivation: The shaker should be placed in an anaerobic tank or glove box to avoid oxygen interference.
2. Photosensitive samples: Wrap the container with tin foil or choose a shaker with shading function.
3. Low temperature experiment: equipped with ice bath or refrigeration module (additional temperature control is required below 10 ℃).
7、 Usage records and reports
-Register the parameters (temperature, speed, time) and sample status of each experiment for easy traceability of results.
-When abnormal equipment is found, record the phenomenon and contact technical personnel. Do not disassemble it by yourself.