Shakers, in the context of laboratory equipment, refer to devices used for agitation or mixing of samples, solutions, or substances. They are commonly used in scientific research, biology, chemistry, and other laboratory settings. Shakers provide controlled and consistent shaking or agitation motions to facilitate various applications such as mixing, extraction, incubation, or cell culture. Here's some information about shakers: 1. Types of Shakers: - Orbital Shakers: These shakers have a circular shaking motion, where the platform moves in an orbital path. They are suitable for general mixing and agitation applications. - Reciprocating Shakers: Reciprocating shakers move the platform back and forth in a linear motion. They are commonly used for applications that require a more vigorous shaking or agitation. - Rotary Shakers: Rotary shakers have a rotating motion, often used for applications that require gentle mixing or incubation of samples. - Vortex Shakers: Vortex shakers provide a vigorous swirling or vortexing motion. They are useful for quick mixing or resuspension of samples in small containers or tubes. 2. Features and Control: - Speed Control: Most shakers offer variable speed control, allowing users to adjust the shaking speed according to their specific needs. - Timer: Some shakers have built-in timers that allow users to set a specific shaking duration. - Temperature Control: Advanced shakers may have integrated temperature control capabilities, allowing for shaking at specific temperatures. 3. Platforms and Attachments: - Shakers typically include a platform or tray on which samples or containers are placed for shaking. Platforms come in various sizes and designs to accommodate different types and sizes of containers. - Certain shakers offer additional attachments or holders, such as flask clamps, tube racks, or microplate holders, to secure specific types of containers during shaking. 4. Applications: - Mixing and Blending: Shakers are commonly used for mixing or blending of solutions, reagents, or samples to ensure uniform distribution or homogeneity. - Cell Culture: Shakers are used for culturing cells in liquid media, providing gentle agitation to promote nutrient uptake and gas exchange. - Extraction and Dissolution: Shakers are employed in extraction processes to facilitate the solubility or extraction of substances from solid samples. - Incubation: Shakers with temperature control can provide a controlled environment for incubation of samples requiring specific temperature conditions. 5. Considerations: - Load Capacity: Shakers have specified load capacities, which indicate the maximum weight they can safely handle. It's important to ensure that the samples or containers being shaken do not exceed the recommended load capacity. - Stability and Security: Proper securing of containers or attachments on the shaker platform is crucial to prevent spills or accidents during shaking. - Noise and Vibration: Some shakers may generate noise or vibrations during operation, so it's important to consider the noise level and choose appropriate models for your workspace. Overall, shakers are versatile and essential laboratory equipment used for various applications requiring agitation or mixing. The choice of a shaker depends on the specific requirements of your experiments or processes, such as the type of samples, desired shaking motion, capacity, and optional features like temperature control.
